Diesel Heating for RVs: Keeping Warm on the Road

A heating solution in your RV can make travelling much more comfortable when you're on the road during these colder months. Here, we look at a diesel heating option.

Why Diesel Heating Is a Popular RV Heating Solution

You'll find during the early days of diesel vehicles and heating they were originally designed to pre-heat a vehicle's engine in Europe's sub-zero climates. These designs were later enhanced with heat exchangers, which then enabled an economical, warm and safe heating solution to be brought to the market. As with most things, technology improved over time … and this heating solution was eventually extended to the boating industry before finally making its way to caravans and campers. 

Within the Australian market, heating demands continue to grow because of an increased number of RV manufacturers. There's also been competition within the sector which has led to improved manufacturing techniques and lower costs. So it's made the diesel heating solution more affordable. These manufacturers remain keen to work with the ever-growing RV industry and they continue to improve their designs and tailor their solutions accordingly. With some clever diesel heating designs now available, manufacturers make a range of products that are used in the OE and aftermarket arenas. This is good news for those looking to retrofit a diesel heater into their RV. The kits can be fitted as a DIY project over a couple of days, which results in considerable savings when you do it yourself. 

Diesel heater kit

Key Components of a Caravan Diesel Heater Kit

Diesel and Storage

The beauty of a motorhome is you may already have diesel on board the vehicle and it's just a matter of gaining access to that supply. On the other hand, a caravan will need to have an additional tank added (that's certainly not a big issue, but is something that needs to be factored in).

Pump 

There needs to be a pump that delivers the diesel to the heating unit. The pump is designed and calibrated to deliver the required quantities by using a 'displacement dosing-style' pump.

Hosing 

A correctly designed hose that won't break down is used to carry and deliver the diesel fuel to the heater.

Heater Unit 

This is the heart of the heating solution, with the type and the manufacturer varying. 

Exhausting

Mufflers and exhaust-style pipes are used to remove the combusted exhaust gases.

Electronic Controls

Small microprocessors are used to control the system. Signals are then sent to the supply pump, the heater unit and the fan module; which controls the diesel supply, and the heat energy generated.

Wiring Harnesses

Wiring is used to connect all the components and carry the 12 volt power from on-board batteries to operate pumps and valves.

Ducting and Outlets

Ducting is used in a variety of ways to supply fresh air to the heater's combustion chamber. A different style of duct is used to take ambient air within the RV to the heater unit. Additional ducting is then used to distribute the heated air to locations inside the RV. Once installed, the diesel heating system is a complete standalone unit and only requires connection to a 12 volt power supply via house batteries. Having the ability to heat your RV's cabin air regardless of your location is a huge advantage. 

There needs to be a pump that delivers the diesel to the heating unit. The pump is designed and calibrated to deliver the required quantities by using a 'displacement dosing-style' pump.

Things to Consider When Installing Diesel Heating in Your RV

As we all use our RVs differently, the lifestyle we choose can have some bearing when it comes to selecting your heating solution. Here are a few things to help you weigh up the options if you're thinking about installing diesel heating:

• - You need to have space in your RV for the heater unit.

• - Diesel heaters don't have compliance issues, unlike other heating products that require venting and have clearance requirements.

• - Allow for the extra weight required in your RV for an additional fuel source.

• - You have some flexibility for locating the diesel tank on your RV.

• - Refuelling is available wherever diesel fuel can be bought.

• - Diesel heating is economical to run.

• - Diesel heating doesn't consume capacity to operate other RV appliances.

• - Kits can be bought to suit an aftermarket installation by a competent DIY installer.

• - Purchase the kit from specialists in the business with a proven track record. Confirm they offer a comprehensive warranty and have service agents throughout Australia.

• - Review the manufacturer's amperage consumption on your batteries, as they're not all the same.

• 

• Economical RV Heating Without the Hassle

  With the heating solutions available for RVs nowadays, there's certainly no need to let cold weather restrict your travel just to the warmer months. 

  And when an RV diesel heating installation can be completed over a weekend, you can be off on your next adventure in no time … staying warm as toast!

Category: Features
Written: Sun 01 June 2025
Printed: June, 2025
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