Why a Reliable Heating System is Important in a Van Conversion
If you’re planning on living or traveling in a van, you’ll quickly realize that the temperature inside can become unbearable without the proper heating system. This is especially true during winter months or colder climates. Not only can it be uncomfortable to live in a cold van, but it can also be dangerous for your health.
Hypothermia and other cold-related illnesses can occur quickly in extreme temperatures. That’s why having a reliable heating system in your van conversion is crucial.
It will keep you warm and comfortable throughout your journey and ensure your safety. Plus, it will allow you to enjoy van life all year round.
The Different Types of Diesel Heaters Available
When it comes to choosing the right heating system for your van conversion, there are several options available. One of the most popular choices among van lifers is diesel heaters.
Diesel heaters work by burning diesel fuel to produce heat that’s blown into the living space of your van through ducts or vents. They’re reliable, efficient, and easy to use.
Plus, they don’t require electricity to operate, which makes them perfect for off-grid living. There are three main types of diesel heaters available in the market: Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater, Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater, and Planar 2D/44D Diesel Heater.
Each type has its own unique features and benefits that make them suitable for different types of vans and lifestyles. In the following sections of this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at each type of diesel heater so that you can choose which one is best suited for your needs.
Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater
Description and Features
The Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater is a compact heating system that is ideal for van conversions. It has a maximum heat output of 2kW, which makes it suitable for smaller spaces like a van. The heater is designed to operate quietly, making it perfect for use in situations where you want to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
One of the key features of the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater is its ability to operate in altitudes up to 7,500 feet. This feature makes it ideal for those who travel at higher elevations or who live in areas with high altitudes.
The heater also comes equipped with an automatic altitude compensator that adjusts the fuel-air ratio depending on the altitude level. This results in optimal combustion and reduced emissions.
Advantages and Disadvantages
There are several advantages to using the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater in your van conversion. Firstly, this heater has a low power consumption rate which means you can run it off your vehicle’s battery without worrying about draining it quickly.
Another advantage of this heater is its compact size, making it easy to install even in small spaces. The temperature can be easily adjusted through a thermostat control unit that comes with the heater.
However, one disadvantage of this diesel heater is its cost compared to some other options on the market. Installing it may require professional help which can also add costs.
Installation Process and Cost
Installing the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater requires basic mechanical skills but may require professional help if you are not familiar with electrical wiring systems. You will need to purchase additional components such as fuel lines, exhaust pipes, mounting brackets and wiring harnesses. The cost of the heater itself is around $1,200, but additional parts can cost anywhere between $300 to $700 depending on where you purchase them.
Professional installation costs may add another few hundred dollars depending on the experience of the installer and other factors like location and complexity of the installation. Overall, if you are looking for a reliable diesel heater that is easy to install and operate in your van conversion, the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater is a great choice.
Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater
Description and Features
The Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater is a widely popular choice for van conversions due to its compact size and heating capacity. With a heat output of 7,500 BTU/hour, it’s capable of quickly warming up small to medium-sized spaces. This heater is equipped with advanced electronic controls that maintain a consistent temperature in the van without requiring constant adjustments.
One of the standout features of this heater is its low noise level, making it an ideal option for those who value peace and quiet. The Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater also has a high-temperature safety limit that ensures safe operation and prevents overheating.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The biggest advantage of using the Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater for van conversions is its compact size, which makes it easy to install in tight spaces. It’s also more fuel-efficient than some other diesel heaters on the market, which can save money in the long run.
However, one potential disadvantage is that this heater requires regular maintenance to prevent clogs or buildup. The installation process can be more complicated than other heaters as well since it requires additional wiring.
Installation Process and Cost
Installing the Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater involves mounting it securely on a flat surface inside the van, connecting fuel lines to an external tank or vehicle fuel system, running power wires to the battery or fuse box, and installing ducting to route warm air into the living area. The cost of installation varies depending on whether you choose to hire a professional or do it yourself.
Professional installation can range from $500-1000, while DIY installation may only cost around $200-400 if you have all necessary tools and materials on hand. However, it’s important to note that improper installation can lead to safety hazards and equipment malfunctions.
The Planar 2D/44D Diesel Heater – A Compact and Efficient Option
If you’re looking for a diesel heater that is both compact and efficient, the Planar 2D/44D is a great option. This Russian-made heater has quickly gained popularity in the van conversion community due to its excellent value for money.
The Planar 2D is the smaller version of the two, with a max power output of 2 kW, while the larger Planar 44D can output up to 4 kW. One of the standout features of this heater is its compact size.
Both versions have small and lightweight combustion units, making them easy to fit into tight spaces in your van. Despite their small size, they are still able to efficiently heat a moderate-sized van interior.
Another advantage of choosing the Planar heater is its low noise level during operation. As anyone who has spent time in a small space knows, a noisy heating system can quickly become irritating.
The Planar’s quiet operation ensures that it won’t disturb your peace and quiet. The installation process for this diesel heater is also relatively simple compared to some other options on the market.
However, if you’re not confident with DIY projects or unfamiliar with electrical wiring and plumbing connections, it’s recommended to have a professional install it for you. The cost of installation will depend on where you live and how much work needs to be done but expect it to be around $200-$500 depending on your location and complexity of installation.
While there are many advantages to using this diesel heater for your van conversion project, there are also some potential disadvantages worth noting. One thing to consider is that replacement parts may not be as easy to find as they are for other brands such as Webasto or Espar – especially in more remote areas.
Additionally, because this heater originates from Russia, technical support may be limited in certain countries. Overall, the Planar 2D/44D is a budget-friendly option that is worth considering if you’re looking for a compact and efficient heating solution for your van conversion project.
Comparison between the three diesel heaters
Price Comparison
Price is always a factor when making a purchase, and diesel heaters for van conversions are no exception. The three heaters we are comparing vary in price, with the Planar 2D/44D Diesel Heater being the cheapest and the Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater being the most expensive. The Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater falls in between these two in terms of price.
However, it is important to consider that cost is not everything when it comes to purchasing a heater for your van conversion. You should also consider factors such as efficiency, noise level, and maintenance requirements.
Efficiency Comparison
Efficiency is another important factor to consider when comparing diesel heaters for van conversions. All three of the heaters we are comparing have high efficiency ratings, but there are some differences between them.
The Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater has an impressive 90% efficiency rating, while both the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater and Planar 2D/44D Diesel Heater have an efficiency rating of around 80%. It’s worth noting that these ratings can vary depending on external factors such as temperature and altitude.
Noise Level Comparison
When you’re living in a van full-time, having a noisy heater can be quite unpleasant. Luckily, all three of the heaters we are comparing have relatively low noise levels.
The Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater is known for being one of the quietest diesel heaters on the market, with a noise level of just 25 decibels at its lowest setting. Both the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater and Planar 2D/44D Diesel Heater have slightly higher noise levels at around 30 decibels.
Maintenance Requirements Comparison
It’s important to consider the maintenance requirements of each diesel heater. All three of the heaters we are comparing require some level of maintenance, but some are more high-maintenance than others. The Espar Airtronic D2 Diesel Heater requires a yearly service and replacement of certain parts every 2-3 years.
The Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Diesel Heater also requires a yearly service, but it has a longer lifespan for its parts. The Planar 2D/44D Diesel Heater is known for having low maintenance requirements and long-lasting parts, making it a good option for those who prefer minimal upkeep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diesel Heaters for Van Conversions
How much fuel do these heaters consume?
The amount of fuel a diesel heater consumes depends on the heater’s BTU rating and the outside temperature. Generally, diesel heaters consume around 0.04-0.14 gallons of diesel per hour.
The higher the BTU rating, the more fuel it will use to heat up your van. However, you can control the fuel consumption by adjusting the thermostat and reducing heat loss by insulating your van properly.
How long do they last?
The lifespan of a diesel heater depends on many factors such as usage frequency, maintenance, and installation quality. Typically, these heaters can last anywhere from 5-15 years with proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning of the combustion chamber, air filter replacement, and inspection of electrical connections are some of the ways to ensure its longevity.
Are they safe to use inside a van?
Yes! Diesel heaters are safe to use inside a van when installed correctly with good ventilation systems in place. Modern diesel heaters come equipped with safety features such as overheating protection and CO (carbon monoxide) detectors to ensure that they don’t pose any risks to human health or safety.
Conclusion
Choosing the best diesel heater for your van conversion is an important decision that requires careful consideration of all factors involved such as cost, efficiency, noise level, installation process etc. While each heater has its own set of advantages and disadvantages mentioned in this article above, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to selecting a heater for your specific needs. Therefore, before making any final decisions about which diesel heater is best suited for your van conversion project make sure you have done enough research on all available options in order to make an informed choice that will serve your needs well into the future. In the end, the right diesel heater can make a huge difference in making your van conversion comfortable and enjoyable regardless of the weather conditions or outside temperature.