Staying cozy in your campervan during the fall and winter seasons can pose a challenge, so if you have a trip planned outside of summer, it’s a good idea to invest in a new campervan heater.
This article addresses all your queries about campervan heaters and which one will suit you and your van the best.
What type of heater is most suitable for my camper?
Before selecting a new heater for your van, consider the type of fuel it will be powered by. You have options like gas, petrol, diesel, electric, or wood.
The heating system should be compatible with your van. For instance, if you opt for a diesel heater, it’s beneficial if your camper runs on diesel to avoid installing an additional diesel tank. Similarly, electric heating is only feasible if you have access to a mains power supply as using a vehicle battery to power the heater will quickly drain it.
The primary varieties of campervan heaters
The main types of campervan heaters include:
1. Gas campervan heaters
A gas-operated campervan heater could be a viable option. If you already have gas-powered appliances like a stove or fridge, you will have the fuel readily available onboard.
It’s important to note that campervans with gas heaters need to comply with more safety regulations compared to those with other heating systems.
Not all gas heaters are suitable for enclosed spaces, so it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications before making a purchase.
Proper installation of the heater is crucial to prevent gas leaks and harmful fumes. Additionally, installing a carbon monoxide detector in the van and ensuring the batteries are functioning is highly recommended for your safety.
Grasshopper Leisure offers a wide range of gas campervan heaters to choose from.
2. Petrol and diesel campervan heaters
If a gas heater is not suitable for your motorhome, there are several alternatives like petrol and diesel heaters. A petrol heater can be utilized if your campervan has a petrol engine, while a diesel heater is suitable for a diesel van as it can be connected to the main fuel tank in each scenario.
A burner powered by petrol or diesel heats a heat exchanger, and the warm air is circulated through the vehicle by a fan. One benefit of petrol and diesel heaters is the easy availability of fuel almost anywhere, whether at home or abroad. Each time you refuel your campervan, you are also refilling your heater.
If you’re interested in a diesel or petrol campervan heater, Butler Technik offers a diverse selection.
3. Electric campervan heaters
For those who prefer eco-friendly options, an electric heater could be a suitable choice as it does not produce CO2 emissions. However, electric heaters are generally more expensive to operate than gas, diesel, or petrol heaters.
Electric heaters operate on 230 Volts mains power and are not particularly energy-efficient. Even with a built-in electric supply inverter in your van, powering the heater for an extended period would quickly deplete your battery.
Therefore, an electric campervan heater is only practical if you consistently stay at campsites with electric hook-ups.
Another advantage of electric heaters is the nearly instant heat source they provide. Opting for a heater with a fan ensures efficient circulation of heat throughout the van.
Propex offers a variety of electric campervan heaters to choose from.
4. Wood burning heaters
Wood burning heaters are gaining popularity in the camper community. They are the oldest and most traditional heating method.
You’ll need a wood burner that is compact enough for a campervan yet capable of providing sufficient heat. Wood as a fuel source is inexpensive and sustainable, and you can even gather free fuel by cutting up fallen wood with an axe or saw.
There are many affordable wood burning heaters available, and Vesta Stoves offers a great selection.
Safety: top priority with campervan heaters
Safety is paramount when installing any campervan heater, and if possible, the installation should be carried out by a qualified professional.
Heaters must be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and safety kits including a carbon monoxide monitor and fire alarm are highly recommended. For wood burning heaters, having a fire extinguisher and fire blanket is advisable as well.
There should also be sufficient distance between the stove and other objects in the campervan to minimize the risk of radiating heat causing a fire.
Additional considerations for campervan heaters
Installing a campervan heater without ensuring your van is adequately insulated would be ineffective. Just like in a home, heat can escape through the roof and windows, so consider heavy curtains or secondary glazing in the living area of your van, as well as a layer of foam insulation for the roof.
For more helpful information on motorhome and campervan ownership, check out our FAQ section from experienced campers.
Looking for campervan insurance?
For comprehensive campervan insurance, it’s advisable to consult a specialist broker like Adrian Flux, who offers a range of tailored campervan insurance options, including insurance for your camping gear through our personal possessions cover. Contact us at 0800 369 8590 or schedule a callback at your convenience.
