Ameer Randolph
Diesel heaters are a popular choice for those seeking an efficient and cost-effective heating solution, especially in vehicles. They are known for their low fuel consumption, with some sources stating that they use very little fuel. The fuel consumption of a diesel heater depends on various factors, including the heater's power, the ambient temperature, and the insulation of the space being heated. This article will explore the fuel usage of diesel heaters, highlighting their benefits and considerations for optimal usage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel Consumption | 0.11-0.51 L/H (0.029-0.135 Gal/H) |
| Fuel Consumption (lowest setting) | 100ml of fuel per hour |
| Max Burn Rate | Refer to data sticker on the driver's door B pillar |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Fuel Pump | Oil pump that controls fuel inlet for 100% combustion |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.5-10L |
| Fuel Cost | $8.40 per gallon |
| Fuel Additives | Anti-gelling additives required in cold temperatures |
| Battery Usage | Low when running, high during startup |
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What You'll Learn
- Fuel consumption rates: 0.11-0.51 L/H, varying by heater power and settings
- Fuel type: Diesel heaters use the same fuel as diesel vehicles
- Fuel pump: Controls fuel inlet for complete combustion
- Fuel additives: Anti-gelling additives are needed in cold temperatures
- Fuel tank: A small, separate diesel tank may be needed
Fuel consumption rates: 0.11-0.51 L/H, varying by heater power and settings
The fuel consumption rate of diesel heaters varies depending on the heater's power and settings, typically falling within the range of 0.11-0.51 litres per hour (L/H). This variation in fuel usage is influenced by several factors, including the ambient temperature, insulation of the space, and the desired temperature setting.
For example, a 2kW diesel heater in an insulated van might consume around 100ml of fuel per hour when set to the lowest temperature setting. This equates to approximately 10 hours of heating per litre of fuel. On the other hand, a higher setting or a less insulated space may result in a higher fuel consumption rate, such as 0.3 litres per hour or more during the startup phase.
The combustion temperature of diesel heaters remains consistent regardless of the temperature setting. However, the time required to reach the desired temperature varies. In milder ambient temperatures, setting the heater to a low temperature may cause it to switch off before reaching full operating temperature. Therefore, in warmer months, it may be necessary to set the heater to a higher setting to ensure it reaches the desired temperature.
It is worth noting that diesel heaters are known for their fuel efficiency, often requiring a minimal amount of fuel to operate. Additionally, diesel heaters tend to burn cleaner than gasoline heaters, resulting in less soot buildup, especially at higher elevations. However, in extremely cold temperatures, diesel fuel can solidify into a gel, impacting the heater's fuel pump performance. This issue can be mitigated by using anti-gelling additives in the diesel fuel.
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Fuel type: Diesel heaters use the same fuel as diesel vehicles
One of the biggest advantages of diesel heaters is that they use the same fuel as diesel vehicles. This is a great advantage for people who already have diesel vehicles, as they don't need to purchase a different type of fuel for their heater. Diesel heaters are also known to burn cleaner, producing less soot, which can clog up the heater, especially at higher elevations. This makes them a popular choice for those looking for an efficient and low-maintenance heating option.
Diesel heaters are known for their fuel efficiency, with some users reporting a low fuel consumption rate of 0.11-0.51 litres per hour or 0.029-0.135 gallons per hour. This means that a 10-litre tank of diesel fuel can last for up to a week when used on the lowest setting. The exact fuel consumption will depend on various factors, including the outside temperature, the insulation of the space being heated, and the desired temperature setting.
It is worth noting that diesel fuel can solidify into a gel at extremely cold temperatures, which can affect the functioning of the heater's fuel pump. This issue can be mitigated by using anti-gelling additives in the diesel fuel. Additionally, diesel heaters use minimal battery power when maintaining a temperature but can drain the battery during the startup phase.
When it comes to fuel consumption settings, it is more economical to leave the heater running and adjust the heating level up and down, rather than switching it off and restarting it. This is because the heater consumes more fuel during the startup phase. Overall, diesel heaters are a cost-effective and efficient heating option, especially for those who already use diesel fuel for their vehicles.
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Fuel pump: Controls fuel inlet for complete combustion
Diesel heaters are popular among those who live in vans or similar vehicles, especially during winter. They are known to burn cleaner, producing less soot, which is a common issue with gasoline heaters. This is particularly advantageous at higher elevations.
The fuel consumption of a diesel heater varies depending on factors such as the heater's settings, the outside temperature, and the insulation of the vehicle. According to a user on Reddit, a 5kW diesel heater with an oil pump that controls the fuel inlet for complete combustion has a fuel consumption rate of 0.11-0.51 L/H or 0.029-0.135 Gal/H. This user also mentions that a 10-litre tank can last them about a week when used every night on the lowest setting.
Another user with a 2kW diesel heater in an insulated van mentions that the lowest setting uses 100ml of fuel per hour, resulting in 10 hours per litre or approximately 30-38 hours per gallon (based on an American gallon of 3.8 litres).
It is worth noting that the heater's combustion temperature remains the same regardless of the setting, with the variation being in the time taken to reach the desired temperature. Therefore, it is more economical to maintain a constant temperature rather than switching the heater off and restarting it, as diesel heaters use a lot of battery power during the startup phase to heat up the glow plug.
Additionally, in extremely cold temperatures, diesel fuel can solidify into a gel, causing the heater's fuel pump to malfunction. This issue can be addressed by adding anti-gelling additives to the diesel.
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Fuel additives: Anti-gelling additives are needed in cold temperatures
Diesel heaters are known for their low fuel consumption. A 2kW heater in an insulated van can use as little as 100ml of fuel per hour on its lowest setting. On full power, the heater can use around 0.3L of fuel per hour, with a higher consumption during the startup phase.
While diesel heaters are fuel-efficient, diesel fuel does have its drawbacks, especially in cold temperatures. Diesel fuel contains wax, which is liquid at normal temperatures. However, when temperatures drop, the wax crystals drop out of suspension, solidify, and stick together, leading to clogged fuel lines and filters. This can cause engines not to start and even result in costly repairs.
To prevent these issues, anti-gelling fuel additives are essential. These additives lower the freezing point of diesel fuel, reducing the likelihood of it solidifying in cold temperatures. They work by lowering the cold filter plugging point (CFPP), which is the lowest temperature at which fuel can pass through a specific filter. By dispersing the wax crystals, anti-gelling additives prevent them from clogging fuel lines and filters, improving cold-temperature performance.
Several anti-gelling additives are available in the market, such as Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Winter Anti-Gel and Fuel Ox™ Cold Charge. These additives are designed to improve the winter operability of diesel fuel and prevent fuel thickening or gelling. They also enhance the fuel's detergency, stability, lubricity, and cetane number, resulting in improved engine power and responsiveness.
It is recommended to start using anti-gelling additives when temperatures approach freezing (32°F or 0°C). The amount of additive required depends on the temperature, with lower temperatures necessitating a higher proportion of additive. By following the instructions on the bottle and adding the specified amount to the fuel tank before refuelling, you can ensure effective protection against fuel gelling in cold weather.
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Fuel tank: A small, separate diesel tank may be needed
If you're considering a diesel heater, you may need to install a small, separate diesel tank. This is particularly relevant if your vehicle runs on gasoline. For example, the Chinese Diesel Heater (CDH) comes with a small 2.5-gallon diesel fuel tank, but some users have chosen to install a larger 5-gallon tank. This separate tank ensures the heater has access to the fuel it needs.
The size of the tank you require will depend on the frequency and duration of your diesel heater usage. Some users report that a 10-litre tank can last them around a week when used on the lowest setting every night. Others have calculated that a 2kw heater on its lowest setting in an insulated van consumes 100ml of fuel per hour, resulting in a consumption of 38 hours per gallon.
It's important to note that diesel fuel can solidify into a gel at extremely cold temperatures, which may impact the function of the heater's fuel pump. This issue can be mitigated by using anti-gelling additives in the diesel. Additionally, some users have noted that the shape and installation orientation of the tank can impact the usable volume of fuel.
When considering the fuel consumption of diesel heaters, it's worth mentioning that they use very little fuel. Some sources claim that the exact amount is so negligible that it's not worth worrying about. However, it's important to consider the impact of the fan on battery drain, as well as the potential nuisance of noise and exhaust smell when used in close proximity to others.
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Frequently asked questions
Diesel heaters are known to use very little fuel. The exact amount depends on the heater's setting and the outside temperature. For example, a 2kw heater in an insulated van on its lowest setting uses 100ml of fuel per hour, or 38 hours per gallon.
Diesel heaters are more fuel-efficient than gasoline heaters. They burn cleaner, producing less soot, which can clog the heater, especially at higher elevations.
In very cold temperatures, diesel fuel can solidify into a gel, causing the heater's fuel pump to malfunction. This can be prevented by adding anti-gelling additives to the diesel.
It is more economical to leave the diesel heater running and adjust the heating level up and down, rather than switching it off and restarting it.
