Propex HS2000 Gas Heater Review
The Propex HS2000 is the most popular gas-powered blown-air heater in UK campervan builds. Here is the honest review after installing and living with one for 18 months.
Specs
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Output | 2kW (adjustable down to 1kW) |
| Fuel | LPG (Propane or Butane) |
| Power draw | 0.8A fan, 2.5A startup |
| Noise | 38dB (quiet) |
| Size | 345 x 220 x 175mm |
| Weight | 4.2kg |
| Price | £580-650 |
| Gas consumption | 90g/hour at full output |
Installation
It is not a plug-and-play job. You need:
- A gas drop-out vent in the floor (building regs)
- 50mm ducting from the heater to each outlet
- A gas-safe or qualified installer if you are not confident with gas work
- 12v DC supply (it draws 2.5A briefly on ignition)
- A combustion air intake from outside (required) The install took me 4 hours in a SWB Transit, routing ducting under the units. The hardest part was the external intake and drop-out vent.
Living With It
What I like:
- The heat is clean and dry — no diesel smell
- The thermostat works accurately (±1°C)
- Silent enough to sleep through at low setting
- Runs on the same gas bottle as your cooker
- No electrical load on the leisure battery (unlike diesel heaters with glow plugs) What I do not like:
- It goes through gas. A 6kg Calor bottle lasts about 55 hours of continuous use at 2kW. That is 3-4 winter nights.
- The fan noise at high setting is noticeable in a small van
- Cold spots in the van if you do not route ducting carefully
- The price is steep compared to Chinese diesel heaters
Propex vs Diesel Heater
| Factor | Propex HS2000 | Chinese Diesel Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £600 | £80-150 |
| Fuel | LPG (clean) | Diesel (smelly startup) |
| Electrics | 0.8A fan | 8-10A glow plug startup |
| Noise | 38dB | 42-48dB (pump clicking) |
| Safety | Gas-safe certified | No CE mark |
| Reliability | Excellent | Hit and miss |
| Heat quality | Dry, warm | Can be oily on startup |
Verdict
If you have the budget and want a heater that works every time without fuss, the Propex HS2000 is the best gas heater for UK campervans. If you are on a tight build budget, a £100 Chinese diesel heater with a proper installation will keep you warm — just expect more noise and the occasional fault.
