What Size Diesel Heater Do I Actually Need? 

2kW heaters are ideal for small vans, pop-tops, or well-insulated caravans up to around 6 metres.

4-5kW heaters suit large spaces, full-height very large caravans, motorhomes, Canvas Camper trailers with a large annex or setups with poor insulation or multiple heat outlets.

The 5kW “Adjustable” Claim

Some budget 5kW heaters claim to be “adjustable down to 1kW or 2kW.” That’s misleading.

• • They can reduce fan speed and fuel rate, but:
  • They don’t run as clean or efficient at low output.
  • Carbon buildup is more likely as you will mostly run them on low.
  • Temperature regulation is poor as they tend to produce too much heat and over shoot the set temperature.

A proper 2kW unit is usually the best choice. It's quieter, more efficient, and doesn't need constant high-speed operation to keep clean. 

Main Diesel Heater resellers in Australia (where to buy a Diesel Heater)

• Everything Caravans: Authorised Autoterm Distributor and retailer with accessories and spares.
• CaravanMods: Stockist of Autoterm heaters and parts. 
• Caravans Plus: Offers Autoterm heaters for various applications. 
• Coast to Coast RV: Everything Caravans Distribution Partner for Autoterm heaters

Webasto:

• Caravan RV Camping: Offers Webasto heaters with installation kits. 
  
• Outback Equipment: Stocks Webasto diesel heaters and parts. 
  
• MyGenerator: Offers Webasto heaters with installation kits. 
  
• Retropower: Stocks Webasto diesel heaters and parts. 

Eberspacher:

• Everything Caravans: Offers Eberspacher diesel heaters and accessories.
• Dieselheat: Specialist in Eberspacher heaters with installation support. 
  
• Modular Wholesale: Supplies Eberspacher Airtronic 3 heaters. 

• Lifestyle Equipment: Imports Belief diesel heaters. 
• Dieselheat: Also imports Belief heaters with support and parts. 
• Caravan RV Camping: Stocks Belief diesel heaters and accessories. 

• AU Focus Store: Importers site with full product range. 
• Born to Roam: AU Focus heaters 2nd brand with installation support. 
• Award RV Superstore: Offers AU Focus diesel heater kits. 
• Carac: Stocks AU Focus heaters and accessories. 

Generic Chinese Heaters:

• eBay Australia: Wide range of budget diesel heaters from various sellers. 

Official websites for major diesel heater brands

Autoterm (formerly Planar)  Website: autoterm.com
Overview: European-made heaters known for reliability, performance and value.

Webasto     Website: webasto.com
Overview: German-engineered heaters offering quality and reliable operation.

Belief   Website: beliefparkingheater.com
Overview: Cost-effective heaters offering a balance between price and performance.

AUFocus   Website: aufocus.com.au
Overview: Australian brand offering rebranded chinese diesel heater kits.

If you want reliability, safety, quiet operation and long-term use:

Buy: Autoterm Air 2D or 4D
Why: Proven in harsh conditions (artic circle, cold, altitude, dust).

• Enjoy the peace of mind with accessible support and spare parts readily available from Everything Caravans and other trusted suppliers.
• Proper diagnostics, clean burning, CE-certified.
  
• A remarkable service life of 10,000 hours offers exceptional value for investment, standing testament to outstanding durability.

Why Not: Though one of the newest entrants among the big 3 European brands in Australia, the Autoterm heaters have already forged a reputation for unmatched quality over their six years in the market

Autoterm has best balance of price, performance, and reliability. Buy Now

If you want to pay more Experience Excellence with Webasto Air Top.

Buy: Webasto Air Top
Why: Indulge in the luxury of German engineering, combined with the exquisite performance of Webasto Air Top heaters.

• Local Support from German Parent Company
• Despite its well-documented reliability, the heater's shorter service life of 2,000-4,000 hours is a consideration for those calculating long-term value.

Why Not: Well developed and reliable but short service life for price.

Webasto's brand reputation makes it a choice you can trust. Buy Now

If you want to pay even more Discover Premium Comfort with Eberspacher Airtronic.

Buy: Eberspacher Airtronic 
Why: Revel in the seamless blend of powerful performance and low-noise operation with the latest Eberspacher Airtronic models, a choice tailored for those who value refinement.

• Benefit from the robust network of importer and dealers providing exceptional support, augmenting your premium purchase experience
  
• While the price might be high for a reduced service life of 2,000-6,000 hours, the brand's legacy of quality assures you of a solid and reliable investment.

Why Not: Price is quite high for reduced service life - a solid choice still.

Once the go-to premium brand in Australia, Eberspacher continues to epitomize luxury, making it a sound investment for discerning customers.  Buy Now

Achieve Quality Heating on a Budget with Belief 2kW or 4kW.

Buy: Belief 2kW or 4kW
Why: Enjoy the balance of cost-effectiveness and quality with Belief heaters, recognized for superior quality control compared to generic eBay options.

• Benefit from easier access to parts and repairs, thanks to local resellers/importers who provide support, reducing downtime and enhancing convenience.
• The service life of 3,000-5,000 hours offers substantial value, making it an economical yet reliable choice.

Why Not: While the controllers may not match the quality of premium counterparts, they imitate well-known designs.

Initial smokiness during start-up shouldn't deter you from considering Belief a solid budget-friendly option, although surpassed by the premium Autoterm.

Opt for Affordable Efficiency with AUFocus Heaters.

Buy: AUFocus
Why: Take advantage of excellent local support throughout the warranty period, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free ownership experience.

• Installation simplicity makes AUFocus heaters an attractive choice over complex eBay variants.
• Ensure to operate with proper ventilation and a CO alarm for safe and reliable use.
• Enjoy a service life of 2,000 hours, making it a viable option for budget-conscious individuals.

Why Not: While some specifications might not meet top expectations—like the exhaust and air intake—the competitive price and functional design make AUFocus a worthy consideration. Ideal for those seeking the cheapest working option. Buy Now

What Not to Buy - Warning: Avoid These Heater Options for Your Safety.

• Steer clear of anything listed as “8kW” as these specifications are often misleading and fake. Such units may not deliver the promised performance, leading to potential safety hazards
• Avoid no-name heater kits from platforms like eBay or Amazon, especially those lacking customer reviews. They often suffer from poor quality control and unreliable performance.
• Units lacking proper exhaust sealing or quality clamps should be avoided to prevent dangerous leaks and inefficiencies in heating performance.
• Be cautious of eBay-style heaters rebranded without a clear business address or phone contact. A lack of accountability and support could lead to unresolved issues and dissatisfaction.

Ensure proper ventilation and always use a CO alarm when operating any heater to prevent potentially life-threatening accidents or health risks.

In conclusion, Everything Caravans has over 18 years of experience in the diesel heaters market. As a major service agent for Eberspacher in Melbourne, and with nine years of experience importing Chinese Diesel Heaters, as well as six years as the distributor for Autoterm, we are a trusted authority.