Camper Heaters
A good heater makes the difference between enjoying winter in your van or having a miserable time. Diesel air heaters are the most popular option in the camper world because they use the same fuel as your vehicle and are very efficient. Propane alternatives also exist. Here we compare the most common options so you can choose the best fit for your build.
Comparison
| Option | Type | Price | Weight | Performance | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese Diesel Heater (Vevor/Hcalory style 2-5kW) | Generic Diesel | $90 - $220 | 5 kg | Tight budgets and people with basic mechanical skills | |
| Webasto Air Top 2000 STC (2kW) | Premium Diesel | $1,000 - $1,500 | 6 kg | Those who demand total reliability and travel frequently in winter | |
| Eberspacher Airtronic D2 (2.2kW) | Premium Diesel | $1,050 - $1,600 | 5.5 kg | Professional installations and high-end RVs | |
| Propane Heater (Propex HS2000 style) | Propane | $450 - $750 | 3.5 kg | Gas-powered vans or those who already have a propane setup for cooking |
Chinese Diesel Heater (Vevor/Hcalory style 2-5kW)
Generic Diesel
- Unbeatable price: from $90 with a complete installation kit
- Uses the same diesel from your van's fuel tank
- Sufficient power (2-5kW) to heat any van
- Large online community with installation tutorials and upgrades
- Variable build quality, some models fail within the first year
- Louder than premium brands, especially during startup
- No official technical support, repairs are DIY
- Possible diesel smell if combustion is not properly tuned
Webasto Air Top 2000 STC (2kW)
Premium Diesel
- Industry-leading brand, used by RV manufacturers worldwide
- Quiet operation and precise temperature regulation
- Proven reliability: 10+ year lifespan with basic maintenance
- Official service network across North America and Europe
- High price: $1,000-$1,500 not including professional installation
- Professional installation can add $300-$500 extra
- OEM replacement parts are expensive compared to generics
- 2kW may not be enough for large vans like Sprinter 170 Extended
Eberspacher Airtronic D2 (2.2kW)
Premium Diesel
- German engineering quality on par with Webasto, another industry leader
- Smart controls with digital thermostat and optional remote
- Very low consumption: 0.03-0.06 gal/h of diesel depending on power level
- Reliable start even at temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C)
- Price similar to Webasto: $1,050-$1,600 without installation
- Requires certified professional installation to maintain warranty
- Diagnostics require manufacturer-specific software
- Appointment availability at official shops can be limited in peak season
Propane Heater (Propex HS2000 style)
Propane
- Doesn't require diesel fuel system, runs on propane gas
- Very lightweight: only 7.7 lbs, the lightest heating option
- Clean warm air, no diesel fuel odors
- Ideal for gas-powered vehicles that don't have diesel available
- Requires a propane tank, adding weight and taking up space
- Tank must be refilled or replaced periodically
- Requires ventilation and carbon-monoxide safeguards appropriate to the installation
- Less efficient than diesel in terms of cost per heating hour
Best for...
Best value
Chinese Diesel Heater (Vevor/Hcalory style)
Best overall
Webasto Air Top 2000 STC
Best for small vans
Propane Heater (Propex HS2000 style)