Multi-Fuel Stove vs Diesel Heater in a Campervan
The truth is that both systems work very well in campervans, and the best choice often depends on how you travel and what type of heating you prefer.
Diesel heaters are very convenient. They provide quick heat at the press of a button and are great for warming the van quickly, especially first thing in the morning.
Multi-fuel stoves, on the other hand, produce a different type of heat. Because the stove body radiates warmth, it gradually heats everything inside the van rather than just the air. Walls, bedding and furniture all warm up, which creates a much cosier environment.
| Feature | Multi-Fuel Stove | Diesel Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Type | Radiant heat from the stove body that warms the whole van | Blown hot air through vents |
| Warmth in the Van | Heats everything including walls, furniture and bedding | Warms the air but surfaces can still feel cool |
| Atmosphere | Real fire, cosy glow and gentle warmth | Functional heating without the visual atmosphere |
| Fuel | Wood or coal briquettes | Diesel from the vehicle tank |
| Electricity Required | No electricity needed once the fire is lit | Requires power for fans, pump and controls |
| Noise | Silent apart from the sound of the fire | Usually some fan and pump noise |
| Cooking | Stove top can be used to heat water or cook simple meals | Not designed for cooking |
| Warm-up Time | Takes a little time to get the fire going | Heats the van quickly |
| Best For | Cold weather, cosy evenings and longer heating | Quick heat, milder weather or early mornings |
Why we actually use both
In our own van we actually run both systems.
The diesel heater is great for those times when it isn’t quite cold enough to light the stove, or first thing in the morning when you want an extra five minutes in bed before getting up. However, we’ve found that the diesel heater can use a surprising amount of power. Even with 1450w of solar on the roof and a 600amp battery bank, we can only run the diesel heater for around two days before the batteries start running low — which isn’t ideal during British winters when sunshine can be in short supply.
The multi-fuel stove is what really warms the whole van though. Once it’s running, the heat spreads through everything rather than just warming the air, so the van feels properly cosy. It’s also perfect for putting a kettle on top and making a cup of tea while the van warms up.
For us, having both gives the best of both worlds depending on the weather and the situation!