The Different Types of Heaters for Caravans
Updated on: November 2024
A caravan heater is an essential item for any traveller, providing warmth on cold nights and helping to dry out damp clothing. There are various types of heaters available on the market, each with its own unique set of features.
The most common type of caravan heater is the gas heater, which runs on either propane or butane. Gas heaters are relatively inexpensive to operate and easy to use, but they can be dangerous if not installed correctly.
Another type of caravan heater is the electric heater, which uses power from the caravan’s electrical system to generate heat. Electric heaters are more expensive to run than gas heaters but can be safer and easier to install.
Finally, there are also diesel heaters available, which run on diesel fuel. A diesel heater is relatively expensive to run, and produces a large amount of heat and is very convenient.
Types of heaters for caravans
The different types of heaters for caravans are important for a few reasons. Heaters provide a way to keep your caravan warm and comfortable during the winter months.
They also can extend your camping season by keeping the inside of your caravan at a comfortable temperature when the outside temperature drops.
Three main types of heaters are commonly used in caravans: gas heaters, electric heaters, and diesel heaters.
Caravan Diesel Heaters
Many caravans now come fitted with a diesel air heater, which offers a more efficient and economical way of heating up your home on wheels. Diesel heating is significantly cheaper than gas, and the heater will generate enough warmth to heat up an entire caravan.
Typically, these heaters run off a small diesel tank with a fuel pump that can be easily refilled, making them a convenient option for long-term use. Diesel heaters produce minimal fumes when a proper system is in place to ensure you and your passengers aren’t in danger from diesel fumes.
However, it is important to note that diesel heaters require adequate ventilation, so make sure to open a window or door when using one. A diesel heater can provide years of reliable warmth for your caravan with a bit of care and attention.
Pros Of A Diesel Caravan Heater
- Already have a fuel source – If you have a diesel car, the heater can get fuel from the vehicles fuel tank.
- Extremely efficient – Caravan diesel heaters are a type of heater that is very efficient and uses less fuel.
- Flexible Installation – Diesel units have an exhaust that goes out the bottom of the car instead of a pipe that goes out the wall. This means the installation can be more flexible, and you don’t need a qualified tradie.
- Pre-warm the van – You can use a diesel heater while you’re driving to warm up the inside of the caravan before you arrive.
Cons Of A Diesel Heater:
- Needs a diesel fuel tank – It may be more expensive if you don’t have a diesel fuel tank.
- Cost more than gas heaters – Diesel heaters can be expensive for some people, but they are worth the cost because they are more efficient in the long run. This means that they are a good option for larger vans.
- Noisier than gas heaters – If you want to reduce noise issues, choose a quality unit and make sure it is installed correctly.
Caravan Gas Heaters
Gas heaters can be used to heat up a caravan. It is placed inside the caravan, and the flame is set to heat up the van. The advantages of using a gas heater over other heating methods are that there is no need for an external power source, it is more efficient and produces less condensation.
Gas heaters typically use either propane or butane as their fuel source. One of the benefits of using a gas heater is that they’re relatively inexpensive to operate. Additionally, most gas heaters come with a built-in thermostat so that you can control the temperature easily.
When using gas heaters, you should make sure that there is plenty of ventilation. This is because the flame can produce fumes that can be harmful if you breathe them in.
Pros Of Gas Caravan Heaters:
- The gas setup can be ready – If you have a gas cooker, water heating system, and fridge, the gas is already installed.
- Runs separately from the engine – Runs off gas bottles
- Very quiet – The fan is the only thing that makes noise. Allowing you to operate it late at night without disrupting your sleep.
- Cheaper than diesel – They are more affordable upfront.
Cons Of Gas Caravan Heaters:
- Regulations – Before choosing a gas heater for your van, make sure a licensed gas fitter can install it following the safety regulations; for example, the gas heater flue can only be installed in specific locations.
- Higher demand on gas supply – If you’re in a rural area and have limited gas refill options, putting more demand on your gas supply could be a problem.
Electric Heaters
Anyone who has ever tried to heat up a caravan with an electric heater will know that it is not the most efficient way to do things. The heater will use a lot of electricity, and it will take a long time to heat up the caravan. There are other ways to heat up a caravan that are much more efficient.
However, electric heaters have a few advantages that can make them worth considering. For one thing, they are far safer than gas or diesel heaters. Additionally, because they don’t use any kind of fuel.
While they may not be the most efficient option, electric heaters do provide a lot of conveniences, as they are incredibly easy to install and operate. So if you’re looking for a heater that is reliable, safe, and relatively convenient to use, then an electric heater may be the right choice for you.
How to choose the right heater for your caravan
When you’re choosing a heater for your caravan, there are a few things you need to take into account. The first thing to consider is the size of your caravan. You need to make sure that the heater is big enough to heat up your caravan.
You also need to think about the type of fuel that the heater uses. Gas heaters are the most common type of heater, but they’re not always the most convenient. If you’re looking for a more efficient, economical option, then a diesel heater may be better.
Additionally, you need to consider the level of ventilation in your caravan. All heaters need adequate ventilation, but some require more than others. Gas heaters, for example, need to be used in a well-ventilated space.
Finally, you need to decide how much you’re willing to spend on a heater. Heaters can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to find a heater that fits your budget without compromising on quality or safety.
Some popular brands of heaters for caravans include Truma, Camec, and Webasto. These are all reputable brands that produce reliable and efficient heaters for use in a caravan. So if you’re looking for a high-quality caravan heater, then it’s worth considering one of these brands.
Size of your caravan
One of the first things to consider when choosing a heater for your caravan is the size and layout of your vehicle. Heaters are available in several different sizes. If you’re looking for something compact that will easily fit into some corner of your caravan, then a small heater should do the job. However, if you have a large caravan with plenty of space to heat up, then you might want to consider buying a larger heater that will provide more heating for your entire vehicle.
Another factor to consider when choosing a heater is the layout of your caravan. If you have a caravan with multiple rooms, then you might want to consider buying more than one heater so that each room can be heated separately. This way, you can keep the temperature in each room at a comfortable level without wasting heat in rooms that are not being used.
Level of ventilation
When choosing a caravan heater, you will need to know the level of ventilation that you need. Different heaters require different levels of ventilation in order to work effectively and efficiently. For example, diesel heaters are often used without a venting system because they have built-in fans that can circulate the warm air around your caravan.
Budget
Diesel caravan heaters can vary significantly in price, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. Once you know how much you’re willing to spend, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect heater for your needs.
Safety and installation tips: Gas heaters for caravans should always be installed by a licensed gas fitter to ensure that they are adequately ventilated and working safely. Some heaters will require regular maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing the filters, so it’s important to keep up with this in order to prevent any safety risks or malfunctions.
The Benefits of Using a Heater in Your Caravan
There are many benefits to using a heater in your caravan. One of the most obvious benefits is that it will keep you warm on those cold winter nights. But there are other, less obvious benefits as well.
Another benefit of using a heater in your caravan is that it can help to reduce condensation. Condensation is a significant problem in caravans, as it can lead to mould and mildew. By using a heater, you can circulate the air and reduce the level of condensation.
Additionally, a heater can help to dry out wet clothes and towels.
How do Diesel Heaters For Caravans Work?
Diesel heaters for caravans work by burning diesel fuel to generate heat. The heat generated is then used to warm the air in the caravan, making it more comfortable to live in.
Diesel heaters are a popular choice for caravan owners because they are relatively efficient and inexpensive to operate.
They also have the advantage of being able to run off of the same fuel that powers the camper vans engine, so there is no need to carry extra fuel or propane. Diesel heaters typically have low and high settings, which can be adjusted depending on how much heat is needed.
Some models also come with a thermostat, which helps to keep the temperature consistent. In order to use a diesel heater, caravan owners need to make sure that their vehicle has enough ventilation.
This is because diesel fuel produces harmful fumes when it burns, so it is important to ensure enough airflow to dissipate the fumes.
Caravan owners should also be aware of the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and make sure that their heater is installed properly to avoid these dangers.
