Choosing the right heater for a camper depends on power source, installation, space, and safety. Below is a quick comparison table of five well-suited options for different camper setups, then detailed product sections and a buyer’s guide to help match features to your needs.
| Product | Type | Power Source | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX | Portable Propane Radiant | Propane | Reliable indoor-safe radiant heat, lightweight |
| LF Bros 5KW Diesel Heater | All-in-One Diesel Air Heater | Diesel (12/24V + 110V adapter) | Versatile power options, continuous heating for larger spaces |
| HCALORY 8KW 12V Portable Diesel Heater | Portable Diesel Air Heater | 12/24V + 110/220V | Compact toolbox design, APP control, altimeter-rated |
| RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K (Heat Pump) | Rooftop AC With Heat Pump | 110-120V | Low amp draw, quiet, ducted/non-ducted options |
| BZW RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU | Rooftop AC With Heat Pump | 110-120V | 15K BTU cooling + 12.5K heat pump for 4-season use |
Content Navigation
- Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX
- LF Bros 5KW Diesel Heater All-In-One
- HCALORY 8KW 12V Portable Diesel Heater
- RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K Ducted Or Non-Ducted
- BZW RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU With Heat Pump
- Buying Guide: How To Pick The Best Camper Heater
- 1. Power Source And Availability
- 2. Heating Method And Effectiveness
- 3. BTU Output And Space Size
- 4. Installation Complexity And Mobility
- 5. Safety And Ventilation
- 6. Fuel Consumption And Running Costs
- 7. Noise And Comfort
- 8. Cold-Weather Performance
- 9. Controls, Monitoring, And Convenience
- 10. Regulatory And Practical Considerations
Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX
Type: Portable propane radiant heater. Heat Range: 4,000–9,000 BTU suitable for up to ~225 sq. ft.
This unit uses infrared/radiant heat that warms objects and people directly, rather than the whole room air, which can feel efficient in small camper spaces. The built-in Piezo igniter allows matchless startup. Safety features include an improved tip-over safety switch that engages audibly when the unit is disturbed.
- Best For: Small to medium campers or when quick, portable warmth is needed.
- Considerations: Requires safe ventilation practices and proper propane handling; radiant heat warms occupants more than ambient air.
LF Bros 5KW Diesel Heater All-In-One
Type: All-in-one diesel air heater. Output: Estimated 4,700–17,000 BTU (5 kW). Power: 12V/24V plus included 110V transformer for plug-in use.
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The LF Bros unit is designed for continuous heating in larger campers, garages, and workshops. It supports multiple voltages and includes remote control and an LCD display for setup and monitoring. The spec sheet highlights operation in extreme cold down to -40°F and relatively low fuel consumption per hour.
- Best For: Campers needing a robust, continuous heating solution and those who want plug-in flexibility.
- Considerations: Installation may require routing exhaust and securing fuel; diesel heaters produce combustion byproducts and need proper venting.
HCALORY 8KW 12V Portable Diesel Heater
Type: Toolbox-style all-in-one diesel air heater with built-in 6L tank. Output: Up to 8 kW, supports 12V/24V and AC dual power.
This model emphasizes a compact, transportable design and improved combustion efficiency via enlarged vents and aluminum body. It lists features for automatic temperature control, reduced exhaust temperature, and an APP control option. The unit claims low fuel use and is rated to work at high altitude.
- Best For: Travelers who want portability and mixed power options in RVs, trucks, or campers.
- Considerations: As with all combustion heaters, ensure secure installation and exhaust routing; verify local regulations for onboard fuel heaters.
RecPro RV Air Conditioner 15K Ducted Or Non-Ducted
Type: Rooftop AC unit with heat pump option. Capacity: 15,000 BTU cooling. Power: 110–120V with low amp draw design.
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The RecPro unit is positioned as a four-season rooftop solution for campers that require both cooling and supplemental heating. It offers low amp draw for off-grid or generator setups, durable construction for road use, and quiet operation. Available in ducted or non-ducted configurations to match interior distribution preferences.
- Best For: Campers seeking integrated rooftop climate control with minimal generator or solar strain.
- Considerations: Rooftop installation requires cutout, mounting, and electrical hookup—best handled by a technician if unfamiliar with RV roof work.
BZW RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU With Heat Pump
Type: Rooftop AC unit with integrated heat pump. Cooling: 15,000 BTU. Heating: 12,500 BTU heat pump function.
The BZW unit provides 4-season comfort by combining strong cooling capacity with a heat pump for supplemental warmth. Its low amp draw makes it suitable for solar or generator-dependent campers. The design focuses on durability and aerodynamic profile for long-term rooftop use.
- Best For: Campers wanting a single rooftop unit for both cooling and heating with energy-efficient operation.
- Considerations: Heat pumps provide supplemental heat but are less effective at extreme cold than combustion heaters; evaluate climate and winter needs.
Buying Guide: How To Pick The Best Camper Heater
Choosing a camper heater requires balancing heating performance, fuel and power options, installation complexity, ventilation needs, and safety features. Below are key factors and comparison perspectives to guide a decision.
1. Power Source And Availability
Propane (portable units like the Mr. Heater) offers quick, on-demand heat without electrical hookup, useful in boondocking. Diesel heaters draw fuel from the vehicle or built-in tank and provide continuous heat with low electrical draw. Electric/Heat Pump Rooftop units require 110–120V and are ideal when shore power, generator, or adequate solar is available.
2. Heating Method And Effectiveness
Radiant Heaters warm people and surfaces directly and can feel warmer faster in small spaces. Forced Air Diesel Heaters heat air and circulate it throughout the camper, better for whole-cabin warmth. Heat Pumps are energy-efficient for mild cold but less effective in severe low temperatures.
3. BTU Output And Space Size
Match advertised BTUs to your camper size. Portable radiant units are suitable for smaller floor plans; 5–8 kW diesel heaters serve larger vans and trailers; 15,000 BTU rooftop units combine cooling and supplemental heating for mid to large campers. Consider insulation and intended lowest temperature when sizing.
4. Installation Complexity And Mobility
Portable heaters require minimal installation but may need CO monitoring and ventilation. All-in-one diesel units are easier than split diesel setups but still require proper exhaust routing and secure mounting. Rooftop units require roof cutout and sealing—professionally installed units reduce leak risk.
5. Safety And Ventilation
Combustion heaters (propane, diesel) produce exhaust—proper ventilation, sealed exhaust, and carbon monoxide detectors are mandatory. Look for tip-over switches, overheat protection, and certified indoor-safe labels for portable propane models.
6. Fuel Consumption And Running Costs
Diesel heaters typically offer low hourly fuel use and long run times from small tanks. Propane consumption varies by BTU setting. Rooftop heat pumps consume electrical power—assess generator, inverter, or solar capacity to estimate operating costs and runtime.
7. Noise And Comfort
Rooftop units and diesel heaters vary in noise level; many manufacturers advertise low dB operation. Radiant propane heaters can be remarkably quiet. If sleeping comfort is a priority, check reported noise levels and fan behavior at low speeds.
8. Cold-Weather Performance
For freezing climates, diesel heaters and well-insulated rooftop heat pumps rated for low ambient operation are preferred. Heat pumps lose efficiency in deep cold; combustion heaters remain effective but require combustion exhaust management.
9. Controls, Monitoring, And Convenience
Remote controls, LCD displays, thermostatic control, timers, and app connectivity add convenience. Consider whether you want onboard thermostatic control or manual adjustment. Remote and app features help when the heater is installed out of easy reach.
10. Regulatory And Practical Considerations
Check local and campground rules for propane and diesel heater use inside campers. Ensure installation follows manufacturer guidance and that detectors (CO, smoke) are present and functioning. For rooftop units, confirm your roof’s structural suitability and warranty implications.
Comparison Summary: Use portable propane heaters for quick low-cost warmth and easy portability; choose all-in-one diesel heaters for long-run continuous heat with low power draw; pick rooftop heat pumps for integrated four-season climate control when you have reliable electrical supply.
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.