A quieter 5 kW split heater with a thermostat and plateau mode for van and RV builds, at a premium over basic kits.
Amazon $449.99The LF Bros Split Pro 5kW Diesel Heater and the Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater are evenly matched, rated 2.8 and 2.7. The Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater costs $360 less ($89.99 vs $449.99).
A cheap app-controlled split heater for DIY van and RV installs, though Hcalory publishes few specs for this 5 kW version.
Amazon $89.99Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
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 | LF Bros Split Pro 5kW Diesel Heater | Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.8/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 25% | 50 no credible heat rating (neutral score used) | 50 no credible heat rating (neutral score used) |
| Type approval 20% | 0 no type approval published | 0 no type approval published |
| Controls and safety 15% | 72 holds a set temperature, timer | 70 holds a set temperature, app, timer; no automatic altitude |
| Power draw 15% | 50 power draw not published (neutral score used) | 50 power draw not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 15% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
| Low setting 10% | 50 lowest setting not published (neutral score used) | 50 lowest setting not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| LF Bros Split Pro 5kW Diesel Heater | Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat output (maker) | 5 kW | 5 kW |
| Fuel tank | 10 L | 10 L |
| Build | Split (installed) | Split (installed) |
| Power | ||
| Supply | 12V | 12V/24V |
| Controls and safety | ||
| Thermostat | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic altitude | - | No |
| App | - | Bluetooth |
| Timer | Yes | Yes |
| Type approval | None published | None published |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 9.2 lb | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Released | - | 2025-08 |
