Quick Comparison: Top Picks
| Product | Price | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Espar D4 Air Heater | £349.99 | 4.7 | Best diesel |
| Wynne Diesel Heater 800W | £89.99 | 4.5 | Best budget diesel |
| Truma S 4006 Gas Heater | £199.99 | 4.6 | Best gas heater |
| Dometic 900W Electric Heater | £129.99 | 4.4 | Best electric |
| Olimpia Splendid Oil Heater | £149.99 | 4.3 | Best oil heater |
Detailed Reviews
1. Espar D4 Air Heater — £349.99
Rating: 4.7/5
The Espar D4 is the gold standard in diesel air heaters. At £349.99, it is a significant investment but it can heat a full-size Transit Custom in under 15 minutes. Remote control via WiFi is a premium touch.
2. Wynne Diesel Heater 800W — £89.99
Rating: 4.5/5
The Wynne 800W diesel heater is the budget champion at £89.99. It is 80% as effective as the Espar at 20% of the price. The built-in thermostat is reliable and the exhaust system is straightforward to install.
3. Truma S 4006 Gas Heater — £199.99
Rating: 4.6/5
The Truma S 4006 uses LPG gas rather than diesel. At £199.99, it is the ideal compromise for those who already have gas for cooking but want dedicated heating. Ultra-quiet operation is a standout feature.
4. Dometic 900W Electric Heater — £129.99
Rating: 4.4/5
The Dometic electric heater is the perfect choice for UK van lifers who camp at powered campsites frequently. At 900W, it uses less power than a kettle and delivers consistent heat output.
5. Olimpia Splendid Oil Heater — £149.99
Rating: 4.3/5
The Olimpia oil heater is the most consistent heater. Oil retains heat longer than air, so the temperature stays comfortable even when the cycling off. At £149.99, it is perfect for larger vans.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
Key factors when choosing van heating:
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Heat source — Diesel heaters (Espar, Wynne) are the most efficient for UK winters. Gas heaters (Truma) are quieter but use LPG.
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Wattage — 5kW is sufficient for a Transit Custom. Higher wattage heats faster but uses more fuel.
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Control method — WiFi-controlled heaters let you pre-warm the van from bed. The Espar D4 app is excellent for this.
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Installation — DIY diesel heaters cost £90 vs £400+ for Truma units. Both are reliable but professional installation is recommended for gas.
FAQ
Diesel or gas heater for a campervan?
Diesel heaters are more efficient (using diesel from any UK station) but gas heaters are quieter. The Wynne diesel at £89.99 is the best budget option, while the Truma gas at £199.99 offers premium performance. For most UK winters, a 5kW diesel heater is sufficient for a Transit Custom.
How much fuel does a diesel heater use per night in a campervan?
A 5kW diesel heater uses approximately 0.2-0.3 litres of diesel per hour. Over an 8-hour night, that is 2-2.5 litres, roughly £3.50-£4.00 per night. A Transit Custom diesel tank (70L) would last 30+ nights at this rate.
Conclusion
For UK winters, the Wynne Diesel Heater at £89.99 is the best value, delivering reliable heat at a fraction of the Espar's price. The Truma S 4006 at £199.99 is the best gas option. Either choice will keep you warm during even the coldest UK winters.
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