LF Bros Split T3 5kW Diesel Heater
#25 in SplitFull review
A basic 5 kW split kit for truck, RV and boat installs, with a timer but no thermostat.
Amazon $189.99$189.99
The LF Bros Split T3 5kW Diesel Heater is the better diesel heater overall, rated 2.9 to 2.7. The Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater wins on controls and safety. The Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater costs $90 less ($99.99 vs $189.99).
Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater
#33 in SplitFull review
A cheap app-controlled split heater for DIY van and RV installs, though Hcalory publishes few specs for this 5 kW version.
Amazon $99.99$99.99
Prices 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 Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater for controls and safety (holds a set temperature, app, timer; no automatic altitude vs timer; fixed levels only).
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 T3 5kW Diesel Heater | Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.9/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 25% | 87 $38 per kW ($189.99, 5 kW) | 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% | 43 timer; fixed levels only | 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 down to 1.4 kW | 50 lowest setting not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| LF Bros Split T3 5kW Diesel Heater | Hcalory HBU1S 5kW Diesel Heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat output (maker) | 5 kW | 5 kW |
| Lowest output | 1.4 kW | - |
| Fuel burn | 0.18 to 0.53 L/h | - |
| Fuel tank | 10 L | 10 L |
| Build | Split (installed) | Split (installed) |
| Power | ||
| Supply | 12V | 12V/24V |
| Controls and safety | ||
| Thermostat | No | Yes |
| Automatic altitude | - | No |
| App | - | Bluetooth |
| Timer | Yes | Yes |
| Type approval | None published | None published |
| Build | ||
| Dimensions | 14.9 x 5.6 x 5.9 in | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Released | - | 2025-08 |