For larger vans, sleeper cabs and boats that need a type-approved 4 kW heater with a wide turndown. The M3 D4L that replaces it costs the same and draws less power.
Amazon $1,675The Espar Airtronic M2 D4L is the better diesel heater overall, rated 3.4 to 3.2. The Espar Airtronic M2 D4L leads on power draw. The Espar Airtronic M2 D4L costs $174.99 less ($1,675 vs $1,849.99).
For motorhomes and boats with long, branching duct runs that a standard 4 kW heater can not push through. Otherwise the D4L is cheaper and draws less power.
Amazon $1,849.99Prices were last checked October 30, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Espar Airtronic M2 D4L for power draw (up to 42 W running vs up to 65 W running).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every split diesel heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Espar Airtronic M2 D4L | Espar Airtronic M2 D4R |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.4/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value 25% | 11 $419 per kW ($1,675, 4 kW) | 8 $462 per kW ($1,849.99, 4 kW) |
| Type approval 20% | 100 type approved (ECE R122) | 100 type approved (ECE R122) |
| Controls and safety 15% | 65 holds a set temperature, automatic altitude, timer; no CO sensor | 65 holds a set temperature, automatic altitude, timer; no CO sensor |
| Power draw 15% | 40 up to 42 W running | 0 up to 65 W running |
| Warranty 15% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) |
| Low setting 10% | 92 down to 0.9 kW | 92 down to 0.9 kW |
Specifications
| Espar Airtronic M2 D4L | Espar Airtronic M2 D4R | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat output (maker) | 4 kW | 4 kW |
| Lowest output | 0.9 kW | 0.9 kW |
| Fuel burn | 0.11 to 0.51 L/h | 0.11 to 0.51 L/h |
| Build | Split (installed) | Split (installed) |
| Power | ||
| Supply | 12V | 12V |
| Running draw | 6 to 42 W | 6 to 65 W |
| Starting draw | 100 W | 100 W |
| Controls and safety | ||
| Thermostat | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic altitude | Yes, to 9,840 ft | Yes, to 9,840 ft |
| App | No | No |
| Timer | Yes | Yes |
| Remote | No | No |
| CO shutoff | No | No |
| Type approval | ECE R122 | ECE R122 |
| Build | ||
| Dimensions | 14.8 x 5.5 x 5.9 in | 14.8 x 5.5 x 5.9 in |
| Weight | 9.9 lb | 9.9 lb |
| Released | 2018-07 | 2018-07 |
