Best Truck Bunk Heaters for Trucks, RVs and Vans

Finding the right truck bunk heater means balancing power, fuel type, noise, and installation. The table below summarizes the five selected heaters covered in this guide so you can compare core features at a glance.

Product	Fuel / Voltage	Output	Controls
General Components Bison 2000A Gasoline Air Heater	Gasoline / 12V DC	0.9–2 kW	Digital Controller
JEABONG 8KW Diesel Air Heater (JB-018)	Diesel / 12V DC	8 kW	LCD + Remote
VEVOR 8KW Diesel Heater All-In-One	Diesel / 12V DC	8 kW	LCD + Remote
HCALORY 8KW Portable Diesel Heater (Toolbox)	Diesel / 12V/24V & AC	8 kW	App + Remote + LCD
OBAKL 8KW Diesel Heater Aluminum Housing	Diesel / 12V DC	8 kW	Built-In Sensor Controls

General Components Bison 2000A Gas Heater

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The General Components Bison 2000A is a gasoline 12V forced-air heater intended for cab and bunk heating in trucks, RVs, boats, and cabins. Its rated output ranges from 0.9 kW to 2 kW, suitable for smaller bunks or supplemental heat in mid-sized cabs.

Key listed features include quiet operation, rapid warm-up, and low energy consumption—the unit reportedly uses as little as 0.03 gallons of gasoline and draws 1.2–2.4 amps on 12V DC. The package includes a digital controller for temperature management and claims an easy installation process. A manufacturer warranty period is noted, which may be relevant for long-term use or commercial applications.

JEABONG 8KW Diesel Air Heater

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The JEABONG JB-018 is an 8 kW diesel air heater designed for trucks, RVs, trailers, and boats. It operates from 12V and offers fast heating—manufacturers state it can increase interior temperature within ten minutes and also preheat engines and defrost windows.

Features include an LCD controller with fault display, remote control, and automatic altitude adjustment up to 5,000 meters. The controller incorporates protection functions that cut power on certain faults. The listed operating temperature range spans extremes, supporting use in very cold climates. These characteristics make it suitable when higher heat output and altitude performance are priorities.

VEVOR 8KW Diesel Heater All-In-One

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VEVOR offers an all-in-one 8 kW diesel heater that requires minimal installation, suited for portable or semi-permanent setups. The unit includes a built-in fuel tank option (5 L) for temporary, on-site heating without hardwiring to a vehicle fuel system.

Key features list rapid heating via an aluminum heat exchanger, low noise operation, and a remote plus LCD for control. Fuel consumption is provided as a range with claims of multi-hour runtime from the built-in tank. The product is presented as an option for those seeking a mix of portability and higher heating capacity for cabins, campers, and trucks.

HCALORY 8KW Portable Diesel Heater

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HCALORY provides a toolbox-style portable 8 kW diesel heater with a built-in 6 L tank, handle, and multiple power options (12V/24V DC and 110V/220V AC). The enclosure emphasizes durability and mobility for installers or users who require a transportable heating solution.

Notable features include an upgraded aluminum heat exchanger, smoke venting improvements, and app control plus remote for modern connectivity. Listed fuel consumption rates and automatic temperature regulation aim to reduce overheating and save fuel. The compact design targets users who need both portability and robust heating without complex installation.

OBAKL 8KW Diesel Heater Aluminum Housing

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The OBAKL 8 kW diesel heater features an all-aluminum housing for corrosion and oxidation resistance, designed for harsh and humid environments. The unit is positioned for high-reliability, with claims of sustained performance in heavy-duty use.

Technical features include rapid heating to warm spaces of about 20 square meters within 10 minutes, built-in temperature sensors for overheat protection, and a plateau/high-altitude version that adjusts air-fuel ratios up to roughly 18,045 feet. These specifications make it relevant if altitude compensation and durable construction are required.

Buying Guide: How To Choose A Truck Bunk Heater

Selecting a bunk heater requires matching heater characteristics to your vehicle, climate, and use case. This guide covers the key purchase considerations to compare models objectively.

Fuel Type And Availability

• Diesel vs Gasoline: Diesel heaters (most 8 kW models) integrate easily with diesel trucks and RVs and often provide higher heat output and longer runtime. Gasoline options like the Bison 2000A suit gasoline-powered vehicles or where gasoline is more accessible.
• Built-In Tank vs Vehicle Fuel Supply: All-in-one units with built-in tanks provide portability and simple installation but limit runtime. Integrating to the vehicle fuel tank offers longer operation without refilling.

Power, Heat Output, And Coverage

• kW Rating: Higher kW (e.g., 8 kW) equals faster, larger-space heating for trucks, RVs, and cabins. Low-output units (0.9–2 kW) are intended for small bunks or supplemental warmth.
• Space Size: Match heater output to the interior volume. Manufacturers often list recommended square footage—use this as a guideline but factor in insulation and external temperature.

Voltage And Electrical Draw

• 12V vs 24V: Most truck bunk heaters run on 12V. For larger commercial trucks with 24V systems, ensure compatibility or choose a unit rated for both voltages.
• Electrical Consumption: Look at amp draw for blower and pump to ensure your battery or alternator can support operation, especially during extended idle periods.

Installation Complexity And Space

• All-In-One Units: Lower installation time and fewer plumbing connections. Practical for portable use or temporary setups.
• Integrated Systems: Units that tie into vehicle fuel and exhaust require more installation time but provide permanent, less maintenance-heavy operation.
• Physical Fit: Verify dimensions and vent routing to ensure the heater fits available bunk compartments or mount points.

Controls, Connectivity, And Safety

• Control Options: Digital displays, LCD controllers, remote controls, and app connectivity provide varying convenience levels. Consider how you prefer to set temperature and timers.
• Safety Features: Look for fault display, automatic shutoff on errors, overheat protection, and altitude compensation if you will operate at high elevations.

Altitude Performance

If you operate in mountainous regions, altitude compensation is critical. Some controllers automatically adjust fuel-air ratios up to specified heights to maintain reliable ignition and efficient combustion.

Noise Level And Comfort

Noise is often cited for bunk living. Review product specs and user feedback for blower and pump noise. Low-noise pumps and insulated housings reduce disturbance during sleep.

Fuel Consumption And Runtime

• Consumption Rates: Compare listed fuel consumption ranges to estimate nightly runtime. Higher efficiency reduces refueling frequency and operating cost.
• Tank Capacity: For portable units, built-in tank size directly affects uninterrupted runtime.

Durability And Materials

Aluminum housings and corrosion-resistant components are beneficial in harsh, saline, or humid environments. Check manufacturer claims for material durability and protective coatings if exposure to elements is expected.

Warranty And Support

Warranty length and available technical support matter for long-term ownership. Commercial users may require robust warranty and accessible parts or service networks.

Comparison Perspectives

• Best For Portability: All-in-one units with handles and built-in tanks are easiest to move and set up temporarily.
• Best For Continuous Use: Systems tied to vehicle fuel and installed with dedicated exhaust are better for sustained overnight or multi-day operation.
• Best For High Altitude: Models listing altitude modules or plateau versions offer more reliable performance in mountainous regions.
• Best For Low Power Draw: Smaller gasoline or low-kW units can be more efficient where battery capacity is limited.

Practical Installation And Maintenance Tips

• Plan exhaust and intake routing to avoid cabin fumes; use approved venting components and install per manufacturer guidelines.
• Regularly inspect fuel lines, electrical connections, and combustion chambers for soot or build-up; follow maintenance schedules.
• Test heaters before extended trips to verify proper operation, controller response, and lack of abnormal noises or error codes.