Choosing the right heater for a side-by-side (SxS) depends on vehicle power, mounting space, fuel type, and whether you need cab heat, engine/compartment protection, or a portable solution. The table below summarizes five practical options for SxS owners, from dedicated UTV cab heaters to compact propane units and plumbing accessories that simplify installations.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| JEGS Auxiliary UTV Heater | 12V Electric Cab Heater | 28,000 BTU Equivalent, 260 CFM, 3-speed fan |
| VEVOR 8KW Diesel Air Heater | Diesel-Fueled Air Heater | Portable 8kW, Bluetooth & CO Alarm, 12/24V |
| Mr. Heater MH4GC 4000 BTU Golf Cart Heater | Propane Radiant Heater | Wind-Resistant Burner, ODS & Tip-Over Switch |
| Aitkeswk Cab Heater Y Fittings | Heater Hose Adapter | Aluminum Y-Fitting For 1″ To 5/8″ Heater Hoses |
| Xtreme Heaters Portable Space Heater | Electric Portable Space Heater | Low Profile, Tip-Over Protection, Quiet Operation |
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JEGS Auxiliary UTV Heater 12V Assembly
The JEGS Auxiliary UTV Heater is designed for enclosed or semi-enclosed cabins where electrical power from the SxS battery can support heating. It advertises a high heat output equivalent and a strong airflow at 260 CFM, driven by a three-speed motor to distribute warm air through dual front vents.
Key attributes listed include a compact design for tight installations and a mounting-ready form factor for UTVs, tractors, trucks or vans. The unit operates on 12V electrical systems and emphasizes quick warm-up for small cabins.
Installation considerations: ensure your SxS battery and charging system can supply sustained current for the heater. Wiring, mounting brackets, and vent routing should be planned to minimize heat loss and prevent interference with vehicle controls.
VEVOR 8KW Diesel Heater 12V/24V All In One
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The VEVOR 8KW Diesel Heater is an integrated diesel air heater suited for applications where propane or 12V-resistive heating isn’t preferred. It supports both 12V and 24V inputs, making it compatible with many SxS electrical systems when a DC supply or portable power station is used.
Notable features include an 8kW output with high combustion efficiency, a built-in CO alarm, overheat protection, and a leak-proof fuel cap. Control options include a Bluetooth app and remote/display for temperature and runtime management. The unit claims low fuel consumption and rapid heating for larger enclosed spaces.
Practical notes: diesel heaters require fuel plumbing, exhaust routing, and secure mounting. The built-in safety features are advantageous in small vehicles, but professional installation or careful adherence to instructions is recommended to avoid exhaust and CO risks.
Mr. Heater F242010 MH4GC 4000 BTU Golf Cart Heater
The Mr. Heater MH4GC is a compact propane radiant heater originally designed for golf carts but often adapted for UTV and SxS applications that can safely carry a small propane cylinder. It offers 4,000 BTU radiant heat and a run time up to 5.5 hours depending on propane cylinder size.
Safety features: an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) and a tip-over switch reduce CO exposure and accidental operation. The model also includes a wind-resistant burner for use while in motion on trails where airflow could affect combustion.
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Installation and use notes: this unit is best for supplemental spot heating (driver/passenger) rather than whole-cab climate control. Ensure secure mounting and ventilation, and follow propane storage and handling guidance for vehicle use.
Cab Heater Y Fittings 1 Inch To 5/8 Hose Adapter
The Aitkeswk Cab Heater Y Fittings are aluminum hose adapters used when splitting heater hoses to feed additional vents or route hot coolant to auxiliary heater cores. These fittings are tailored for SxS/UTV heater plumbing where hose diameter changes are required.
Features include corrosion-resistant aluminum construction and a kit with hose clamps for straightforward, tool-light installation. The adapter supports conversion from 1-inch to 5/8-inch hoses, commonly needed when adding secondary heater cores or redirecting flow to passenger vents.
Installation considerations: proper hose sizing, clamp torque, and coolant system bleeding are critical. Use high-quality hoses rated for engine coolant and ensure the vehicle’s cooling system has sufficient circulation when adding extra heater load.
Xtreme Heaters Portable Space Heater For Boats & RVs
The Xtreme Heaters Portable Space Heater is an electric plug-in option intended for small cabins, RVs, and enclosed vehicle spaces. It emphasizes a low-profile design that draws air from the top, allowing placement against walls or on carpeted surfaces while maintaining a stable base and tip-over switch.
This model targets quiet operation and basic space heating rather than high-output HVAC replacement. The unit is useful for short stints of supplemental warmth or to reduce fogging on cold mornings when power is available.
Power considerations: ensure the SxS’s electrical system or a portable power source can safely supply the heater’s current draw. For many SxS owners, this type of heater is best used with campsite shore power or while the vehicle is stationary with an auxiliary battery system.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Heater For Your SxS
Selecting the best heater involves trade-offs between power, fuel source, installation complexity, and safety for small, often open-cabin vehicles. Below are the primary considerations and perspectives to help match a heater to your SxS use case.
Heat Source And Fuel Type
- 12V Electric Heaters (e.g., JEGS) are convenient for cab heating without combustible fuel but demand significant battery/charging capacity. They are best for short runs or vehicles with upgraded electrical systems.
- Diesel Air Heaters (e.g., VEVOR) provide strong, continuous heat and are fuel-efficient for long durations. They require fuel plumbing, exhaust and intake routing, and more complex installation.
- Propane Radiant Heaters (e.g., Mr. Heater) are simple, offer spot warmth, and run independently of battery power. They require safe propane storage and awareness of ventilation and CO risks.
- Electric Portable Heaters (e.g., Xtreme) are ideal when shore power or a robust auxiliary battery is available; they are easy to move but limited by power availability.
Output, Airflow, And Coverage
- Match heater output to cabin size. High CFM and higher BTU/kW values move heat faster through a cabin; however, distribution matters—ducts, vents, and blower placement affect perceived warmth.
- Spot heating vs. whole-cabin heating: compact radiant units provide immediate comfort for driver/passenger areas, while in-line heaters and diesel units can heat larger enclosed spaces if ducted properly.
Electrical Capacity And Wiring
- Confirm your SxS’s battery, alternator, and wiring can support continuous current draw for 12V heaters. Consider upgraded alternators, secondary batteries, or a high-output DC-to-DC converter if planning frequent use.
- For diesel heaters with 12/24V control electronics, verify safe wiring, fusing, and routing to avoid voltage drop or thermal issues.
Installation Practicalities
- Space constraints: measure footwells, dash cavities, and under-seat compartments to plan mounting and duct routing.
- Hose fittings and plumbing: use adapters or Y-fittings (like the listed aluminum kit) when integrating with existing heater hoses or adding vents.
- Exhaust and combustion air: combustion heaters require sealed exhaust routing to the outside and a reliable fresh air supply to prevent CO accumulation.
Safety Features And Regulations
- Look for ODS (oxygen depletion sensors), tip-over switches, CO alarms, and overheat protection, especially for combustible-fuel heaters.
- Follow local regulations regarding onboard fuel storage and exhaust routing. Adequate ventilation and periodic checks for leaks or exhaust blockages are essential.
Durability And Environment
- Consider exposure to dust, water, and vibration typical of off-road use. Choose components rated for vehicle mounting and, where applicable, marine or RV environments.
- Ceramic igniters and cast aluminum housings (in diesel heaters) increase longevity. Corrosion-resistant fittings help with coolant-based heater add-ons.
Maintenance And Serviceability
- Combustion heaters require periodic fuel line and nozzle inspections. Electrical heaters should have accessible wiring and replaceable fans or motors.
- When adding heater plumbing or cores, plan for bleed valves and easy access to prevent air locks and ensure heater performance.
Comparison Perspectives
- Budget/DIY Friendly: Propane radiant units and basic electric portables are easiest to install with minimal modification.
- Performance/Continuous Use: Diesel air heaters provide sustained high output suited for extended cold-weather work or camping trips.
- Integrated Cab Comfort: 12V auxiliary heaters with ducts and vents offer a balance of controlled airflow and direct cabin integration but require solid electrical planning.
- Plumbing Add-Ons: Y fittings and hose adapters enable leveraging engine coolant heat via auxiliary cores, which is efficient but needs careful system integration.
Use the above considerations to weigh installation complexity, power availability, and the type of heating required—spot warmth, full-cabin comfort, or engine/compartment protection—before selecting a heater for your SxS.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.