Diesel Heater Installation Notes

This blog post provides insights into 22 essential precautions for installing heaters, ensuring optimal functionality for 8-10 years.

Discover the 22 Notes for Diesel Heater Installation

Historically, a limited number of skilled technicians and service providers were engaged in the installation and maintenance of diesel heaters. However, with the growing demand for diesel heaters, a multitude of new manufacturers have entered the market. Today, even smaller establishments and diesel heater users have the ability to carry out installations and maintenance.

 

Numerous compact motorhome manufacturers and suppliers of camper van, truck, and boat components show keen interest in offering diesel heaters, recognizing their suitability for such vehicles. However, being relatively new to the diesel heater market, these companies often lack technicians with the requisite expertise to comprehend the intricate workings of diesel heaters.

These businesses encounter various potential challenges stemming from improper diesel heater installations, leading to customer complaints. Nevertheless, achieving a correct installation for a diesel heater is not overly complex. Even a standard auto mechanic with sufficient experience can carry out the installation correctly, ensuring the diesel heater functions optimally. This article has been crafted to provide you with an in-depth understanding of diesel heaters, making the installation process straightforward.

Having thoroughly examined a majority of top-tier diesel heaters available in the market, the team at Chinese Diesel Heater Insight, in collaboration with myself, has compiled a comprehensive list of 22 tips for heater installation. These guidelines are designed to assist you in overcoming common challenges that customers often encounter during the installation process. Let’s begin!

1. Selecting the Placement Site for the Diesel Heater Unit

Usually, forced air heaters are affixed in stable positions within camper vans, trucks, and motorhomes. Simply ensure that the diesel heater is securely mounted in an upright position, and it will operate efficiently, boasting low fuel consumption.


Vertically Positioned Diesel Heater

Nevertheless, if you are involved in the sale of boat parts or operate a boat repair business, the installation of a forced air heater for your clients would require a 90-degree rotation. In such instances, it is crucial to be mindful of orienting the fuel inlet upwards when the forced air heater is rotated. This ensures complete combustion of the fuel in the combustion chamber.


Correct Boat Installation: Fuel Inlet Positioned Upward 

Ensure that the forced air heater’s oil inlet is not facing downward during installation on a boat. Facing the inlet downward poses a risk of diesel fuel spillage onto the floor, creating a potential fire hazard.


Incorrect Installation: Fuel Inlet Positioned Downward

Alternatively, you may consider employing an L-shaped stainless steel mounting plate. This option enables the proper upright installation of the forced air heater, even when mounting it on a boat.

L-shaped stainless steel mounting plate

2. Considerations for Securing the Diesel Heater Unit

The diesel air heater comprises a housing crafted from either plastic or aluminum, along with a heater core. After installation, it becomes necessary to rotate the impeller of the diesel air heater.


Following the installation process, manually rotate the impeller.

However, you may encounter a situation where the impeller is not moving smoothly. In such instances, it indicates that the diesel air heater housing may have shifted during the securing process, causing it to interfere with the motor impeller.

Fortunately, resolving this issue is a straightforward process. Simply loosen the four screws located at the bottom of the diesel air heater. Adjust the housing’s position as needed, and then tighten the screws securely. This simple adjustment will effectively resolve the problem.

3. Guidelines for Installing Parking Heater Cables

Initially, the cable may appear to be a relatively inconspicuous component of the diesel air heater. While it might seem that merely connecting it is sufficient for proper functionality, this assumption is a significant misconception.


Be Mindful of Cable Installation Details

Failure to carefully address the installation of cables and wires for the parking heater may lead to interference with electromagnetic waves emitted by other electrical devices in close proximity, potentially causing operational malfunctions. Additionally, improper installation may result in the emission of electromagnetic radiation from the parking heater, impacting nearby equipment.

Key Considerations:

  1. Ensure the correct connection of the parking heater power cord to the positive and negative terminals of the battery.
  2. Verify that the power cord for the diesel heater has an appropriate length. Some manufacturers, particularly those from China, may attempt to cut costs by supplying an excessively short zero wire for the power cord, making it challenging to connect to the battery.


Uniform Power Cord Length

It’s important to note that attempting to use an alternative wire to extend the zero wire to reach the power supply is not advisable. Directly connecting the two wires may lead to interference with the diesel air heaters. The recommended solution is to replace the entire wire. It is crucial not to attempt to separate the zero or fire wire of the heater, as doing so could result in various errors caused by electromagnetic interference, rendering the air heater unusable.

4. Excessive Length of Heater Cable


Managing Excessive Cables

Surplus cables should be appropriately coiled and secured in place. Upon completing the installation of air heaters, it may become apparent that the remaining power cord is excessively long. In such cases, coiling it up and securing it in place is the correct procedure. Any other approach may lead to electromagnetic wave interference.

5. Considerations for Air Heater Power Cord Connection

Guidelines for Air Heater Power Cord Connection

Typically, the positive wire in the power cord of most heaters (and other devices) is identified by the color red, while the negative wire is colored black. Naturally, it is imperative to connect the red cable to the positive terminal of the battery and the black one to the negative terminal.

While this might seem straightforward, failure to adhere to this connection protocol can result in improper heater functionality, severe damage, and the potential for a short circuit that could lead to the burning of the main control panel.

Hence, it is crucial to pay close attention to these instructions.

6. Optimal Placement for Mounting the Control Panel

Placement of Control Panel for Diesel Heaters

In the market, diesel heaters typically come with two types of control panels, one featuring a temperature sensor and another without it. The design with the sensor facilitates the detection of the temperature within the compartment. In contrast, the alternative heater type incorporates a temperature controller positioned at the air intake of the heater’s cooling fan, rather than within the control panel.

When installing a control panel with a built-in temperature sensor, careful attention should be given to its location and height. It is advisable to ensure that the heater’s air outlet does not directly face the control panel. Placing the control panel in front of the air outlet may inadvertently activate the temperature sensor, causing the heater to cease operation before achieving the desired temperature inside the cabin.


Optimal Positioning of the Control Panel

It is advisable not to mount the heater’s control panel too high. Given that hot air is lighter than cold air, situating the control panel too close to the roof or ceiling could result in the surrounding air being the first to warm up. Consequently, the sensor inside the control panel may activate the heater prematurely.

Conversely, placing the control panel too low can lead to the accumulation of cold, denser air around the sensor, causing it to run for an extended duration. This not only elevates the cabin temperature excessively but also consumes more fuel.

The most favourable location for the control panel is halfway up the height of the cabin. When installed at this height, the heater operates optimally, achieving the highest fuel efficiency.

7. Recommendations for Initial Use of the Diesel Heater

Upon completing the installation of the air heaters, allow the oil pump to operate before initiating the heater. Starting the heater directly could lead to the presence of air in the fuel delivery system, resulting in improper startup and the display of an error code.


Disconnect the Tubing

To mitigate this issue, upon completing the heater installation, disconnect the fuel line from the diesel heater inlet and initiate the heater in “auto pump mode.” This action enables the fuel pump to activate and expel any excess air present. Once you observe fuel flowing from the disconnected fuel line, reconnect it to the heater inlet. Subsequently, you can commence the diesel heater, and it will operate under normal conditions.

8. Guidance on Selecting an Appropriate Location for Diesel Heater Cooling Air Inlet

Guidance on Selecting an Appropriate Location for Diesel Heater Cooling Air Inlet (Air Intake, Cold air Return)

Common Oversight in Tubing Installation for Diesel Heater Cooling Air Intake

A frequent error observed during the installation of the tube in the diesel heater’s cooling air intake systems is the orientation that directs the air from the exterior and pushes it into the interior of the compartment, forcing the air over the heat exchanger. The correct configuration requires the air to flow from the inside to the outside, not vice versa.


Maintain a Gap of 20 cm / 8 inches Between the Heater Air Inlet and the Wall

The diesel heater functions by heating the air within the compartment and enabling its circulation. However, due to the outward airflow, it is imperative to ensure that the heater is positioned at a distance of at least 20 cm / 8 inches away from any wall.

9. Insights on Installing the Diesel Heater Fuel Pump Inlet

Concerning the installation of the oil pump inlet, a prevalent error involves turning it in the incorrect direction. If the oil pump with the oil inlet faces downward, it will not function as intended, resulting in uneven operation.


Incorrect Fuel Pump Installation Orientation

If the fuel pump is turned downward, it will fail to discharge oil at a consistent frequency, leading to noise. Additionally, an improper orientation of the inlet can contribute to the accumulation of carbon in the heater’s combustion chamber.


Proper Fuel Pump Installation Orientation

Moreover, when the pump outlet is oriented downward, there is a risk of fuel flowing out if the check valve malfunctions, even when the pump is not operational, posing a potential hazard.

 

Appropriate Fuel Pump Installation Orientation

Hence, position the pump with the discharge port facing slightly upward or in an upright position. This arrangement ensures that the fuel exiting the pump maintains adequate pressure, facilitating efficient atomization.


Proper Fuel Pump Installation Orientation

However, if space constraints prevent mounting the fuel pump in a tilted position, a horizontal installation is also viable.

10. Appropriate Space Between the Fuel Pump and the Main Engine

We suggest maintaining a distance of 60-100 cm (1.87 ft – 3.28 ft) between the fuel pump and the central unit.


Separation Between the Fuel Pump and the Heater Unit

When the distance is too short, the fuel pressure from the pump can be excessively high, leading to irregular combustion sounds. Moreover, an inadequate distance may cause an overflow of unburned fuel, contributing to carbon buildup and potential fuel leakage through the exhaust port.

On the other hand, having the fuel pump too far from the main heater poses issues as well. If the distance exceeds 1 meter (3.28 feet), insufficient fuel pressure may occur, resulting in uneven combustion and an undesired reduction in heating output.

11. Factors to Consider when Installing a Fuel Filter

The primary role of a fuel filter is to prevent impurities in the diesel fuel from obstructing the oil pump and disrupting the proper functioning of the diesel heater.


Placement of Fuel Filter, Fuel Pump, and Main Engine

An issue arises when certain automotive maintenance firms lack familiarity with diesel heaters, leading to employees who may not be adept at properly installing the fuel filter, resulting in operational problems.


Fuel Filter Outlet and Inlet

Position the fuel filter at the inlet of the fuel pump, as this is the sole location that enables effective filtration, preventing contaminants from obstructing the pump. During the installation of the diesel filter, meticulous attention should be given to the direction of fuel flow, ensuring that the filter outlet is connected to the fuel pump’s inlet.

12. Selection of the Exhaust Pipe for Diesel Heaters

When selecting the exhaust pipe for diesel heaters, it is crucial to prioritize a specific criterion – noise. Optimal sound deadening can be achieved by utilizing a flexible spiral exhaust pipe.


Flexible Exhaust Pipe

During the operation of the diesel heater, the combustion of diesel fuel takes place in the combustion chamber. This process involves the mixing of diesel vapor and air, ignited by the electric glow plug. The combustion air is introduced into the combustion chamber in the form of a spiral airflow, ensuring thorough mixing with the diesel vapor. However, the high-speed entry of the spiral airflow into the combustion chamber can generate significant noise, which is a primary contributing factor to the noise levels observed in certain diesel heaters.


Standard Diesel Heater Exhaust Pipe

As the combustion of diesel vapor takes place within the chamber, the accompanying noise travels along with it, exiting through the combustion exhaust alongside the fumes. The noise, along with the fumes, is then expelled from the combustion chamber through the combustion exhaust vent.

Comparison between high quality Flexible Exhaust Pipe and Conventional Exhaust Pipe

However, in the case of a heater equipped with a spiral exhaust pipe, the unique spiral structure effectively mitigates the transmission of sound waves. This design significantly reduces the noise output, making the selection of a spiral exhaust pipe a noteworthy consideration.

13. Guidelines for Selecting the Exhaust Port

For a secure attachment of the exhaust pipe to the diesel heater’s exhaust port, it is essential to employ a spiral exhaust pipe connection. The diesel heater directly links to the combustion exhaust pipe, featuring an aluminum outlet and a stainless steel exhaust pipe. The connection is upheld by an exhaust pipe clip to firmly fasten it to the exhaust port.


Spiral Connection of Exhaust Pipe

Nevertheless, users may encounter issues where exhaust pipes occasionally detach from the top of the diesel heater while the vehicle is in operation. This occurrence is attributed to several diesel heater manufacturers utilizing unthreaded ports, lacking sufficient friction to secure the exhaust firmly in the exhaust port.


Smooth Connection of Conventional Exhaust Pipe

For this reason, it is advised that diesel heater manufacturers, retail outlets, and customers opt for an exhaust pipe featuring a spiral connection. This specific type of connection is crucial for securely maintaining the diesel heater exhaust system in place.

14. Choosing the Material and Construction of the Exhaust Pipe

The combustion system of a diesel heater operates independently. The combustion exhaust pipe is positioned beneath the vehicle, constantly exposed to corrosive substances and changing weather conditions. Therefore, the exhaust pipe must exhibit excellent corrosion resistance, and, for this purpose, most exhaust pipes are constructed using 304 stainless steel.


Construction of High-Quality Exhaust Pipe

Moreover, the limited space constraints at the bottom of the heater necessitate the exhaust pipe to possess excellent bending properties. A spiral exhaust pipe is crafted from multiple layers of stainless steel sheets, overlapped and extruded. This construction facilitates optimal flexibility and reduces installation time.

15. Alignment of Exhaust Port and Spiral Exhaust Pipe

During the installation of the diesel heater’s exhaust pipe, careful consideration should be given to the orientation of the exhaust port. Avoid horizontal installation or positioning the exhaust port facing upwards. Horizontal installation exposes the exhaust port to external winds, potentially directing airflow into the combustion chamber through the exhaust pipe. Such wind interference can disrupt the operation of the combustion chamber and may even lead to the escape of the combustion flame.


Coolant Heaters with Exhaust Port Facing Down

When diesel undergoes combustion, a minimal amount of water vapor is generated, which can condense on the walls of the exhaust pipe, forming droplets. While this is a small quantity, if the exhaust port faces upwards, the water droplets may accumulate inside the exhaust pipe. In colder temperatures, the water could freeze, leading to a reduction in the exhaust pipe diameter and impacting the combustion performance of the diesel heaters.

Therefore, it is advisable to ensure that the entire exhaust pipe maintains a slight downward tilt. This configuration facilitates the drainage of water droplets from the diesel heaters through the exhaust pipe.

16. Selecting the Clamp for the Exhaust Pipe

The exhaust pipe clamp is another component of diesel heaters that holds more significance than initially apparent. The effectiveness of the clamp plays a crucial role in securely fastening the exhaust pipe in position.


Robust Stainless Steel Exhaust Pipe Fastener

During vehicle movement, encounters with bumps are inevitable, making the clamp the sole element responsible for firmly securing the pipe in its position. Therefore, it is crucial to employ a clamp with robust clamping force. A heavy-duty exhaust clamp ensures the secure mounting of the pipe to the diesel heaters.


Applications of Exhaust Pipe Fasteners

Given that the diesel heater’s exhaust system is situated externally, subjected to various corrosive substances, it becomes essential to employ stainless steel for exhaust clamps, as well as screws and nuts, to prevent decay and rust.

17. Optimal Placement for Muffler Selection

It’s a common error for users to install the muffler at the extremity of the exhaust pipe. However, this positioning is suboptimal, as the muffler may not effectively attenuate the noise from the exhaust pipe.


Placement of Exhaust Muffler

For optimal sound suppression, it is advisable to install the muffler in the midpoint of the exhaust pipe. Hence, we suggest that manufacturers of diesel air heaters provide two lengths of the spiral exhaust pipe – short and long.


Utilize Exhaust Pipes of Varied Lengths

Additionally, the exhaust pipe should incorporate a protective covering at its end. This safeguard helps prevent insects from entering the diesel air heater, especially during the summer months when the diesel heaters are not in operation and inhibits nesting inside the combustion chamber.


Attach a safeguard to the outlet of the exhaust pipe.

18. Guidelines for Installing the Exhaust Muffler

You may have observed that the exhaust muffler features a small opening. This aperture facilitates the drainage of condensation droplets generated during the combustion of diesel. To ensure effective drainage, it is essential to position the muffler with the hole facing downward during installation.


Orientation of the Exhaust Muffler

It’s important to be aware that certain exhaust mufflers lack a drainage hole. These mufflers are not completely sealed. To facilitate the discharge of water droplets, it is necessary to install the muffler in an upright position, allowing the water to pass through the openings in the muffler.

19. Precautions During Oil Tank Installation

Numerous manufacturers of diesel heaters opt for a fuel tank made of white plastic. However, this choice is less than ideal. Ultraviolet rays can readily permeate the white plastic, reaching the diesel fuel within the tank. Prolonged exposure of the diesel fuel to UV rays results in fuel degradation, leading to blockages in the air heater’s fuel delivery system, filter, pump, and the heater’s fuel inlet.


Black UV-Resistant Plastic Fuel Tank

In the case of utilizing a transparent white oil tank, it is crucial to install it in a location where direct sunlight won’t reach it. Additionally, contemplate incorporating a cover for the fuel tank to further mitigate UV damage.


Stainless Steel Fuel Tank

If feasible, consider selecting a black plastic fuel tank, or even better, opt for a stainless-steel tank. These materials offer enhanced protection to the fuel inside the tank, preventing deterioration.


White Translucent Fuel Tank

Additionally, contemplate selecting a tank equipped with a locking mechanism. This feature serves to deter mischievous neighbors from tampering with the tank and also acts as a deterrent against theft.


Fuel Tank Security Mechanism

Challenges Associated with Placing the Fuel Outlet at the Tank’s Bottom

Numerous manufacturers advise installing a fuel outlet at the tank’s base, creating a direct connection to the fuel delivery line—an uncomplicated and user-friendly installation approach. However, this method presents notable drawbacks:

A. Risk of Diesel Leakage Given that the fuel tank is constructed from plastic, and the outlet is typically made of aluminum or iron, mounted beneath the oil tank, accidental impacts can lead to deformation of the outlet, resulting in fuel leakage.

Resolution: To mitigate this risk, a small hole is perforated in the gas cap, allowing the standpipe to enter the fuel tank through this aperture, preventing any fuel leaks.

B. Contaminant Ingestion by the Fuel Pump Diesel fuel may contain impurities, underscoring the importance of positioning the fuel tank standpipe with a gap at the tank’s bottom. Maintaining a 2 cm (3/4 inch) space between the tank’s bottom and the standpipe enables contaminants within the diesel fuel to settle at the tank’s base. This preventive measure ensures that these impurities are not drawn into the fuel pump, averting potential clogs and sustaining proper pump functionality.

20. Factors to Consider When Installing the Fuel Tank Standpipe

The installation of the fuel tank standpipe typically takes place on the upper section of the vehicle’s fuel tank. There is a prevailing misconception among some individuals that perforating holes in the vehicle’s fuel tank can cause damage. However, it’s important to clarify that drilling holes does not impact the integrity of the tank in any way.


Standpipe for the Fuel Tank

Ensure that during the installation of the fuel tank standpipe, a gap of over 2 cm (3/4 inch) is maintained between the standpipe and the bottom of the fuel tank. This precautionary measure prevents the suction of settled substances from the tank’s bottom, averting potential clogs in the fuel pump.

21. Considerations for Intake Filter Installation

The intake filter functions to purify the air entering the combustion chamber of the diesel heater, effectively eliminating dust and other impurities. Additionally, it serves as a preventive measure against carbon accumulation within the heater.

The locations of the combustion exhaust gas outlet and the combustion air inlet are diametrically opposed

The air that enters the combustion chamber of the diesel heater traverses through the minuscule openings in the filter. This not only eliminates contaminants but also contributes to the quieter operation of the diesel heater. Consequently, many manufacturers refer to this component as the “intake air muffler” instead of a filter.

When installing the intake air filter, it is advisable to position it at a distance from both the heater’s combustion exhaust pipe and the vehicle’s exhaust. This strategic placement ensures that the intake air filter remains clear of the exhaust systems, preventing the inadvertent intake of exhaust gas into the combustion chamber. Such precautions are crucial to avoiding complications in the combustion process.

22. Remote Control Precautions

Each diesel heater is matched with a specific remote control and control panel during the manufacturing process. While certain remotes are equipped with batteries upon purchase, others may require separate acquisition and installation. It is imperative to verify that the correct remote control is utilized for the corresponding heater model, as attempting to interchange remotes among different diesel heaters is not compatible.

Conclusion

After delving into the extensive array of 22 tips provided above, you’ve gained comprehensive insights into diesel heater installation and selecting the accompanying air heater accessories. Whether you’re a diesel heater dealer, a vehicle service technician specializing in diesel heater installations, or simply a customer, this article equips you to effortlessly install a diesel heater.

When installed correctly, a high-quality diesel heater is designed to operate seamlessly for 8-10 years. Maintenance involves starting the air heater every two months, allowing the fuel and combustion system to function for at least 15 minutes. That’s all it takes for optimal performance.

For those considering a diesel heater purchase, we recommend opting for Vevor diesel heaters. These heaters feature automatic altitude adjustment, ensuring optimal functionality at altitudes below 11,000 feet above sea level. Vevor diesel air heaters boast a heat output ranging from 8,500 to 20,000 BTU per hour, ideal for effectively heating vans. Experience warm, fresh air even in cold weather by installing Vevor diesel heaters in your cabin.

I trust that this article has been informative, providing you with valuable tips on diesel heaters. If you found it helpful, feel free to share it with others who may benefit, especially those with diesel heaters mounted on their vehicles. Should you have any inquiries about Vevor diesel heaters or any related topics, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for taking the time to read!

K.Morris

4 thoughts on “Diesel Heater Installation Notes

  1. Thank you for this article. With a few exceptions, it was very clear and easy to understand.

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