Diesel Heaters: Safe For Camper Trailers?

are diesel heaters safe for camper trailers

Diesel heaters are a popular choice for camper trailers, caravans, and RVs. They are considered safe to use, and some users even claim that they are safer than gas heaters. Diesel heaters are commonly used in the trucking industry and are also found in school buses and agricultural equipment. They are a great alternative to propane heaters, which can cause condensation and mould issues over time.

Diesel heaters are fuel-efficient, and some models can run for 24 hours on a single gallon of diesel fuel. They are also compact, hidden from view, and produce a dry, comfortable heat. The fuel and exhaust components are sealed inside the heater, and all exhaust gases are vented outside, making them safe to use and run throughout the night.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Diesel heaters can be noisy, especially during the start-up cycle, and they produce pollution as diesel is a fossil fuel. Additionally, they may not be suitable for high altitudes due to carbon build-up, and they can be expensive, with some models costing over $1000.

Overall, diesel heaters are a safe and effective way to keep your camper trailer warm and comfortable during cold weather camping trips.

Characteristics Values
Safety Diesel heaters are considered safe, as they are difficult to ignite and come with multiple safety features, such as auto-shutdown, low oil warning, and overheat prevention.
Maintenance Regular maintenance is important for diesel heaters, and it is recommended to be carried out by a qualified professional.
Installation Diesel heaters can be installed inside or outside the camper trailer, and some models come with easy DIY installation kits.
Performance Diesel heaters have superior heating performance and efficiency, and can maintain a constant temperature.
Fuel Consumption Diesel heaters have low fuel consumption, using around 0.3 litres of diesel per hour for a 2kW model, and 0.5 litres per hour for a 4/5kW model.
Noise Diesel heaters can be noisy, especially from the outside, but modern heaters come with silencers to reduce the noise.
Cost Diesel heaters are a big investment, with prices ranging from £100 to £1400 depending on the brand and power rating.
Ventilation Diesel heaters require optimal ventilation when used indoors, and it is recommended to install a carbon monoxide detector.
Altitude Diesel heaters may not be suitable for high altitudes as the pressure is lower, leading to fuel-rich combustion. Some models have built-in altitude adjustment, while others require an additional high-altitude kit.

shunauto

Diesel heaters are safe to use in camper trailers

One of the main safety features of diesel heaters is that they are vented through an exhaust pipe. The blower inside the heater draws in cool air from the cabin, circulates it with diesel to warm the air, and then distributes it back into the camper trailer. The combustion exhaust is then sent outside the vehicle through the exhaust pipe. This ensures that any gases and fumes from the heater are not released into the living space.

Another safety feature of diesel heaters is that they have a sealed combustion chamber. This means that there are no dangerous gases inside the vehicle. The fuel and exhaust components are completely sealed inside the heater, with the fuel line, combustion intake, and exhaust located underneath the RV.

Additionally, diesel heaters have a safety cut-off mechanism to prevent them from overheating, and diesel fuel is harder to ignite than petrol. They also have a carbon monoxide detector to ensure the safety of the users.

When installing a diesel heater in a camper trailer, it is important to ensure proper ventilation to prevent the build-up of carbon monoxide emissions. It is also recommended to install a carbon monoxide detector and keep the roof vent open for additional ventilation.

Overall, diesel heaters are a safe and effective way to heat a camper trailer, providing warmth and comfort during cold weather camping.

Popup Camper Living: Is It Possible?

You may want to see also

shunauto

They are more efficient than propane heaters

Diesel heaters are more efficient than propane heaters due to several factors, including the inherent properties of diesel fuel, the combustion process, and the design of diesel heaters.

Firstly, diesel fuel has a higher energy content than propane, with approximately 130,000-140,000 British Thermal Units (BTU) per gallon, compared to propane's 91,500 BTU per gallon. This means that diesel heaters can produce more heat from the same volume of fuel, making them more efficient in terms of heat output.

Secondly, the combustion process in diesel heaters is more efficient. Diesel combustion occurs at higher temperatures and under higher pressure, ensuring a more complete combustion with less wasted fuel. In contrast, propane heaters may not achieve the same level of combustion efficiency. Additionally, diesel heaters often incorporate advanced combustion chambers that optimize air-fuel mixing and complete combustion, further enhancing their efficiency.

Thirdly, the design of diesel heaters plays a crucial role in maximizing heat transfer and retention. Diesel heaters typically use high-grade materials, such as stainless steel, in the construction of the combustion chamber and heat exchanger, ensuring effective heat capture and distribution. The insulation materials used are also designed to minimize heat loss, directing heat to the intended spaces. The routing of exhaust gases is engineered to recover residual heat, further improving efficiency.

Furthermore, diesel heaters offer advantages in terms of fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness. They require less fuel to achieve the same level of heat output as propane heaters, resulting in lower refueling needs and reduced operating costs. Diesel fuel is also often less expensive than propane, making it a more economical choice.

Lastly, diesel heaters are more versatile and can operate in a wider range of conditions. They are known for their ability to function in extremely low temperatures, making them a reliable choice for cold-weather applications.

In summary, diesel heaters are more efficient than propane heaters due to their superior heat output, combustion efficiency, heat retention, fuel efficiency, and versatility in varying conditions. These factors make diesel heaters a preferred choice for heating needs in various applications, including camper trailers.

shunauto

They are commonly found in diesel-powered van builds and overland rigs

Diesel heaters are a common feature in diesel-powered van builds and overland rigs. They are a safe, reliable, and efficient way of heating your van.

Diesel heaters are a big investment but are worth it if you want to stay in your van all year round. They are simple to use and efficient, and, most importantly, will save you room and reduce weight in your van. This is because you will have a fuel line straight from the fuel tank, rather than having to store bulky gas bottles.

Diesel heaters are also very safe to operate. The waste gases used for the combustion process are safely piped and released outside the van. As long as you regularly maintain your diesel heater, you can be confident that it is safe. It is recommended that this maintenance is carried out by a qualified professional.

Another benefit of diesel heaters is that they are much easier to refuel than LPG heaters. Diesel is available at every petrol station, whereas only 10% of UK petrol stations sell LPG.

There are a few downsides to diesel heaters. Firstly, they can be quite noisy, especially from the outside. They can make your van sound like a rocket about to launch! Also, if you plan on exploring high-altitude mountains, a diesel heater is not a good choice as you will need to buy an additional high-altitude kit.

If you are building or rigging a diesel-powered van, a diesel heater is a great option to keep you warm and toasty.

Living in a Camper: A Year-Round Guide

You may want to see also

shunauto

They are easy to install with some mechanical knowledge

Diesel heaters are a great way to keep your camper trailer warm and toasty. They are a safe, effective, and efficient way of heating your van, and with some mechanical knowledge, they are easy to install.

The first step is to decide where you want to mount your heater. You will need to ensure there is enough room for the unit and that the distance between the heater and the fuel tank is not too far. You will also need to consider where you will place the control switch and thermostat for optimal operating efficiency.

Once you have decided on the location, the next step is to install a fuel pickup pipe into the top of the vehicle's diesel tank. You can do this by dropping the diesel tank and accessing the lid, or by using a spare pipe on the sender unit. Alternatively, you could use a small, separate diesel container installed inside your van.

The next step is to mount the fuel pump and run the fuel line from the tank to the heater. This will usually be along the underside of the van. You will also need to fix the heater to the floor of the van, which involves drilling holes to run the fuel hose, air intake pipe, and combustion exhaust pipe outside.

Now it's time to connect the power. Run a cable from the battery to the heater, and install the control panel. You will also need to run power and signal wiring from the heater to the control panel.

To finish up, install air ducting from the heater to different areas of the van, and don't forget to add a carbon monoxide alarm.

And that's it! You've now got a cosy camper trailer, perfect for those chilly nights.

shunauto

They are compact and can be hidden from view

Diesel heaters are compact and can be hidden from view. They are a great source of heating for caravans, camper trailers, and RVs. They are also safe to use and do not pose any serious threat, given that they are maintained properly and set up according to manufacturer guidelines.

The heaters are small and can be placed outside the caravan, with heat directed inside via a hose or pipe. This means that exhaust gases are emitted outside, and in the event of any leakage or spark, the damage can be minimised.

The heaters are also easy to install. They come with a floor mounting plate and template so you know exactly where to drill holes. They can be mounted inside or outside the vehicle, underneath the van floor.

The compact size of diesel heaters means they can be placed in small spaces. For example, the Dometic Eberspächer Airtronic D2 is more suited for small spaces, whereas the Dometic Eberspächer Airtronic D4 is for larger spaces. The D2 is also more compact and has a lower fuel consumption peak of 0.28 l/h compared to 0.51 l/h for the D4.

The Webasto Air Top 2000 STC is another compact heater that can be mounted to the outside of your caravan, inside the caravan or in the double floor. It uses minimal fuel and electrical power and has a quiet operation with a low consumption.

Diesel heaters are a great option for heating your camper trailer, especially if you are looking for something compact that can be hidden from view.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, diesel heaters are safe for camper trailers if used correctly. They have safety features such as sealed combustion chambers and exhaust pipes that direct fumes outside the vehicle. They also have automatic shut-off mechanisms to prevent overheating.

Diesel heaters are considered the best heating option for camper trailers due to their low fuel and electrical power consumption, dry heat, and safety. They are also more cost-effective than electric heaters and safer than gas heaters, which can cause condensation and mould issues.

Diesel heaters can be challenging to install without mechanical knowledge. They also produce noise pollution and contribute to air pollution, although diesel has the lowest emissions among fossil fuels. Additionally, carbon soot can build up in the heater over time.

When choosing a diesel heater, consider the size of your camper trailer and the climate conditions you'll be using it in. Opt for a heater with a higher kilowatt rating if you have a larger trailer or plan to use it in colder temperatures. Also, consider whether you want a plumbed or non-plumbed heater and the altitude capabilities of the heater.

To ensure the safety of your diesel heater, follow the installation instructions carefully. Additionally, install a carbon monoxide detector in your camper trailer and consider keeping a roof vent open for ventilation. Regularly clean the heater per the manufacturer's recommendations to prevent carbon soot buildup.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment