Start with the cold nights you actually expect. A campervan used mainly on campsites with a hookup has different heating choices from one that regularly stays off-grid. List where you park, how long you stay, the likely outside conditions and where wet gear will dry before comparing equipment.
Compare the power or fuel you can rely on
Ask how much electrical supply is available on your usual pitches and what else will run at the same time. For off-grid use, ask a competent installer about equipment intended for the vehicle, including its fuel, electrical demand and any space it needs. Include the demand during start-up and while running. Think about whether you can refill the fuel or recharge the battery during the trip.
Walk through the layout on a cold evening
Mark where you sit, where the bed is and where the outlets or heater controls would go. Look for routes that become blocked when a cupboard door opens or a bag lands on the floor. A heater cannot make wet clothes disappear. Leave a place to hang them with suitable ventilation. Keep any required ventilation and inspection points clear.
Make safety part of the choice
Use equipment intended for the space and follow the installation instructions. Have fixed combustion equipment assessed and fitted by a qualified professional as appropriate. The fire service's campervan safety guidance explains carbon monoxide precautions and why outdoor combustion appliances should stay outside. Ask the installer where alarms and service access should be located.
Frequently asked questions
Is the same heater right for hookup and off-grid travel?
Compare the dependable energy source on each trip and how you will heat the space overnight. Choose with those conditions in mind.
Should I decide where the heater goes after fitting the furniture?
Plan it beforehand. The equipment, clearances and service access can change where drawers or bench panels fit.
For the next step, read our conversion kit compatibility checklist. Include the heat source and service clearances when discussing your layout. Start your NEVAN layout enquiry.
