Ask Our Experts

The choice between gas and diesel heating for a caravan or motorhome depends on various factors, including your specific needs, preferences, and circumstances. Here are some key points to consider:

Gas Heating 
Fuel: LPG gas heating is a very common heating system in caravans or motorhomes, a fuel that is widely available and is convenient and simple to refill.

Positioning: Determine the best location for the heater within the caravan or motorhome, they are not intended to be installed under the vehicle. It should be placed in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials, electrical components, and other appliances. Ensure there is enough space around the heater for proper air circulation. Air from the cabin must be able to travel from the cabin to the heater inlet without restriction.

Installation: Gas heating systems are relatively easy to install and may require less modification to your vehicle compared to diesel systems. LPG heaters gas piping, and connections need to be installed by a qualified gas fitter. At the end of the installation, they can supply you with a gas compliance certificate for the appliance.

Ducting: Keep the ducting runs as short as possible, minimise bends and keep the number of outlets to a minimum. There are manufactures recommendations on multiple outlets ducting configurations that do not overload the heaters capacity.

Electrical Wiring: LPG heaters require an electrical power supply to operate the fan and ignition process. The placement of the heaters control panel and or remote room temperature sensor can affect the heater operational performance.

Running Costs: Gas heating systems can be cost-effective depending on the cost of gas in your area. However, gas prices can vary, so it's essential to consider ongoing fuel expenses.

Cold Conditions: Using LPG in very cold conditions can present several challenges, primarily related to the properties of propane and butane, which are the main components of LPG. In extremely cold temperatures, the vaporization rate of LPG decreases. Cold temperatures can also cause a drop in the pressure of LPG within the gas cylinder. This can affect the flow rate and performance of appliances, particularly those that rely on a steady supply of gas at a certain pressure.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep the heater running safely and efficiently. Clean or replace filters, inspect vents, and exhaust pipes for obstructions, and check for signs of wear or corrosion. Utilise vent covers when the heater is not in use or when you are travelling. Mason bees building nests in vent or exhaust tube is a common problem in NZ.

Water and Air: There are products that run on LPG that can heat cabin air as well as water. These are compact in design and can be installed under a seat.
            

Diesel Heating
Efficiency: Diesel heating systems are known for their high efficiency and can provide excellent heating performance. Factors that may affect performance may be the amount of insulation in walls, floor, and roof. The type/size of windows and blinds, windscreen covers can also contribute to heat loss from the vehicle.

Professional Installation: While it is possible to install a diesel heater yourself, it's often recommended to have it installed by a professional technician who has experience with these systems. They can ensure that the installation is done correctly and safely, minimizing the risk of any potential issues.

Fuel Availability: Diesel fuel is widely available, making it convenient for long journeys or remote locations where gas may be less accessible.

Installation: Installing a diesel heating system sometimes requires more space and modifications to your vehicle compared to gas systems. However, once installed, they can be relatively low maintenance.

Fuel Supply: Ensure that you have easy access to a suitable diesel fuel supply for the heater. Most modern vehicle have a fuel pick-up built into the fuel sender; model specific or universal fuel pick-up are available.

Electrical Wiring: Diesel heaters require a strong electrical power supply to operate the fan and ignition process. The placement of the heaters control panel and or remote room temperature sensor can affect the heater operational performance.

Ducting: All heaters have a “heater rating”, that is the total length of ducting the heaters fan blow hot air down. Keep the ducting runs as short as possible, minimise bends and keep the number of outlets within the heater rating. Often the area to be heated is small so multiple outlets are not required. Waste heat from ducting runs in seat fronts or through hanging locker can be used to keep linen warm/dry or as a shoe drying area.

Running Costs: While diesel heating systems may have higher upfront costs, they can be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you're traveling frequently or living in your caravan or motorhome for extended periods.

Safety Features: Name brand diesel heaters have many built in safety features such as temperature sensors, flame sensors, and automatic shutdown in case of overheating or other issues. Error codes are displayed in the heater controller or as light flashes.

Water and Air: There are products that run on diesel that can heat cabin air as well as water. These are compact in design, these can be installed under a seat, under the vehicle or in the engine bay.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your diesel heater operating safely and efficiently. The best maintenance for a diesel heater is a 30 min run on high once a month.

Ultimately, the best heating option depends on your particular needs, budget, and preferences. It's essential to research and compare different heating systems, considering factors such as fuel availability, installation requirements, running costs, and efficiency to make an informed decision. Talk to Rob or one of the RV Supplies team, who have a wealth of expertise in heating, to find the right heating system to suit your requirements.