Caravan Gas Heater vs Diesel Heaters: Which One Is Right for You?

Updated on: December 2024

Which type of caravan heater is right for you? That is the question that many people ask themselves when they are deciding which type of heating system to install in their vehicle. There are two main types of heaters: gas heaters and diesel heaters. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it can be not easy to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we will outline the pros and cons of both types of heaters so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your caravan or RV.

Caravan Diesel Heaters

Caravan diesel heaters are a great way to keep your caravan warm during the colder months. They work by providing a steady stream of hot air, which circulates around the caravan and keeps the temperature at a comfortable level.

Caravan diesel heaters are usually located in the front of the caravan, near the door. This allows you to have direct access to the heater to adjust the settings as necessary.

Diesel heating is an excellent option for those looking for an efficient and reliable way to heat their caravan. Keep in mind the size of your caravan, the fuel consumption rate, and the installation process when making your purchase. And be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance.

Caravan diesel heaters are safe to use, and they are often used in conjunction with other heating methods, such as electric blankets or space heaters. Using a caravan diesel heater can extend your camping season and enjoy your caravan all year round.

The Advantages of Caravan Diesel Heaters

• Accessible fuel source: One of the advantages of using a diesel heater is that you have a fuel source that is easy to find. Especially if your campervan is a diesel vehicle, the heater can get its fuel from the vehicle’s tank.
• High efficiency:  Diesel heaters are a great choice because they are very efficient. This means that they don’t use as much fuel as other types of heaters.
• Safe to use: Diesel heaters are also safe to operate. They come with a number of safety measures, such as an automatic shut-off feature. Caravan diesel heaters are recognized for their efficiency when it comes to heating.
• Easy installation: The installation process for a diesel heater is quite flexible. This type of heater does not require you to install an additional flue, unlike gas heaters, it can be installed in various locations without too much difficulty or complexity
• Caravan preheating: Diesel heaters are perfect for those who want to save energy and money by heating their caravans before arriving in freezing areas.
• Zero humidity/condensation: Diesel heaters are a great choice when you want to remain dry and comfortable. They don’t produce any humidity or condensation that gas models often do, which means they stay cleaner for longer periods of time!

The Disadvantages of Caravan Diesel Heaters

• Requires a diesel fuel tank: If you have gas-powered appliances, you will need a diesel fuel tank to use a diesel heater. You don’t need to worry if you can use your vehicles fuel tank.
• Expensive: A diesel heater can be quite expensive to buy, but it may be worth it because of its fuel efficiency. Keep this in mind when deciding if a diesel heater is a right choice for you.
• Noisy operation: If you want to make sure your noise is minimised, select high-quality units and install them properly.

Our Diesel Heater Picks

Truma Combi D6 Diesel Heater / Hot Water System Kit

The Truma Combi D 6 is the perfect solution for those who want their caravan to be warm but don’t have enough space. It is an air heat and also heat water.

This diesel air heater can put out more heat than the other heaters on the list, reaching 6kW and heating water in around 20 minutes.

The extra heat means that the unit’s fuel consumption is slightly higher. But even though it uses more fuel, it is still efficient because it produces heat for both hot water and heating.

The large heat source makes this heater great for bigger caravans or motorhomes. It can also heat multiple rooms at once, which is perfect for those who like to travel with family or friends.

This diesel heater also comes with a handy remote control so that you can adjust the temperature from anywhere in the caravan.

The Truma Combi D diesel heater is a great option for anyone who wants a reliable and powerful diesel heater. It is perfect for larger caravans or motorhomes and can heat multiple rooms at once.

Webasto 12V Diesel Heater Single Outlet with Ducting

The Webasto diesel heater is a great option for anyone looking to stay warm and cozy on chilly days. This heater features a powerful diesel engine and can quickly and efficiently heat any space, no matter how large or small. 

The heater has a few unique features that make it stand out from the rest. It does not just warn your caravan but also dehumidifies air to keep things cool and dry to help prevent mould from growing inside your van. Additionally, the digital controller makes it easy to set and monitor the temperature.

As with the other Webasto heater, this one is also quite expensive. However, it is worth the investment if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line diesel heater.

The parts used by this heater to keep you warm are a little more efficient than other heaters. It will only take around 1 litre of diesel for 5-6 hours of use.

The diesel heater installation kit is an excellent way to ensure you’re never without heating in your camper van. This includes everything from the controller to a 60 mm ducting house with an air outlet and heater brackets. All this comes in one convenient package!

Overall, if you are looking for a reliable diesel heater that will keep you comfortable all year round, then the Webasto 12V diesel heater is definitely worth considering.

How to Choose a Caravan Diesel Heater

Size and weight: Diesel heaters come in a range of sizes. Choose one that’s appropriate for the size of your caravan. If you have a smaller caravan, you might want to consider a more compact unit to save on space.

Fuel consumption: Be sure to check the fuel consumption rate before making your purchase. A higher consumption rate means you’ll need to fill up your tank more often, which can be costly in the long run.

Installation: Make sure that you understand the installation process before making your purchase. Some units can be installed quite easily, while others might require professional help.

Caravan Diesel Heater Maintenance

Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to maintaining your caravan diesel heater. This will help to ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently. Some of the things you can do to keep your heater in good condition include:

• Cleaning the filter regularly
• Checking the fuel lines for leaks
• Bleeding the air out of the fuel lines
• Getting the heater serviced regularly

Caravan Gas Heaters

A caravan gas heater is a device that uses gas as a fuel source to generate heat. Caravan gas heaters are commonly used in recreational vehicles, such as RVs, trailers, and campers, to provide warmth during colder months. They are also used in boats and other watercraft.

Caravan gas heaters come in a variety of sizes and designs, and they can be powered by different types of gas, including propane, natural gas, and butane.

Some models are fueled by liquid petroleum gas (LPG). Caravan gas heaters typically have one or more burners that produce heat when the gas is ignited. The heat generated by the burner is then circulated throughout the space by a fan or blower.

Gas heaters can be used to heat an entire RV or trailer, or they can be used to target specific areas, such as the bedroom or bathroom. Some models come with thermostats that allow the user to set and maintain the desired temperature.

Gas heaters typically run on either 12-volt DC power or 120-volt AC power. Most 12-volt DC models can be powered by the RV’s battery, while 120-volt AC models require an external power source, such as a generator or shore power.

Caravan gas heaters are an efficient and convenient way to keep your RV or trailer warm during the colder months. They are also relatively easy to use and maintain.

The Advantages of Caravan Gas Heaters

• Setup is already in place: With gas appliances such as a cooker and fridge already installed, it is easy to add a gas heater.
• Uses an independent fuel source: A gas heater doesn’t rely on your diesel tank, so you don’t need to worry about finding a service station close by.
• Quiet operation: The gas heaters in this article are some of the quietest models available. They’re perfect for those who want to keep their home noise levels down and won’t disturb anyone else around them!
• Cheaper upfront costs:  While the initial purchase price of a gas heater is cheaper than a diesel one, you need to factor in the cost of installation and running costs.

The Disadvantages of Caravan Gas Heaters

• Strict regulatory requirements: Installing a gas is not an easy or straightforward task. Gas need to be installed by a licensed gas fitter in order for safety purposes, which means that if you don’t have any infrastructure set up already, then this will cost money and require an additional gas heater flue installed.
• Increased demand for gas supply: Gas heaters are becoming more energy-efficient, but if you’re camping in an area with limited gas bottle refill stations, you need to be careful.

How to Choose a Caravan Gas Heater

You need to consider a few factors before choosing a caravan gas heater. These include:

Size: The size of the heater will determine how much heat it can generate and the area it can heat. Choose a size that is appropriate for the space you want to heat.

Fuel type: Gas heaters can be powered by different types of fuel, including propane, natural gas, and butane. Some models are fueled by liquid petroleum gas (LPG). Choose a fuel type that is available in your area.

Power: Gas heaters typically run on either 12-volt DC power or 120-volt AC power. Most 12-volt DC models can be powered by the RV’s battery, while 120-volt AC models require an external power source, such as a generator or shore power. Choose a power source that is available and convenient for you.

Thermostat: Some caravan gas heaters come with thermostats that allow you to set and maintain the desired temperature. This is a handy feature to have if you want to be able to control the temperature of the space you’re heating.

Price:  Gas heaters vary in price, depending on the size, features, and brand. Choose a heater that fits your budget and needs.

Caravan Gas Heater Maintenance

Here are a few tips for using and maintaining your caravan gas heater:

Read the manual: Before using your caravan gas heater, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help you understand how to operate the heater safely and properly.

Inspect the heater regularly: Inspect the heater for signs of damage or wear. If you notice any problems, contact a qualified technician to repair or replace the parts as necessary.

Keep the area around the heater clean: Make sure to keep the area around the heater clean and free of debris. This will help prevent accidents and ensure that the heater operates properly.

Store the heater safely: When not in use, store the heater in a safe place, such as a storage locker or shed. This will help protect it from damage and keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Before Buying Your

When choosing between a gas heater and a diesel caravan heater, answer these questions:

What temperatures will you experience on your trip? You’ll want to consider the temperatures you’ll experience on your trip when deciding between a gas heater and a diesel caravan heater.

How much space do you need to heat? Gas heaters are a great option for people who need to heat a small space. They are smaller and lighter than diesel heaters, which makes them easy to transport and install. Gas heaters are also cheaper upfront than diesel heaters, and they are typically quieter than their diesel counterparts. However, gas heaters have strict installation requirements

How big is your vehicle? If you have a small vehicle, you might not have enough space to store a diesel heater. Diesel heaters are larger and heavier than gas heaters, so they take up more space.

What’s the available space for installation? If you have a small vehicle, you might not have enough space to install a diesel heater. Diesel heaters require more space for installation than gas heaters.

What’s your budget? Gas heaters are typically cheaper upfront than diesel heaters. However, you’ll need to factor in the cost of fuel when considering your budget.

Do you already have a diesel fuel tank or gas installed? If you have a diesel fuel tank or gas installed, you might want to consider a heater that uses the same type of fuel. This can simplify things and help you avoid having to purchase and store multiple types of fuel.

Once you have answers to these questions, you can start narrowing down your options and choosing the best heater for your needs. If you’re still not sure which type of heater is right for you, consult