A bargain split heater kit for a van, truck or camper install, with app control and a thermostat. Expect about 3.5 kW of heat, not 8.
Amazon $99.99The Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater is the better diesel heater overall, rated 3.2 to 2.7. The Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater leads on controls and safety. The JEABONG JB-016 8kW Diesel Heater costs $9.99 less ($90 vs $99.99).
A bare bones split heater for DIY installers in the mountains who want automatic altitude adjustment at the lowest price. The short warranty and missing specs make it a gamble.
Amazon $90Prices 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 8kW Split Heater for controls and safety (holds a set temperature, app, timer; no automatic altitude vs automatic altitude).
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 | Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater | JEABONG JB-016 8kW Diesel Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 25% | 96 $29 per kW ($99.99, 3.5 kW); 8 kW claimed, more than its fuel burn can supply | 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% | 70 holds a set temperature, app, timer; no automatic altitude | 60 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 0.2-year warranty |
| Low setting 10% | 67 down to 1.2 kW (from its lowest fuel burn) | 50 lowest setting not published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater | JEABONG JB-016 8kW Diesel Heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat output (maker) | 8 kW claimed (about 3.5 kW from its fuel burn) | 8 kW |
| Fuel burn | 0.15 to 0.44 L/h | - |
| Fuel tank | 10 L | - |
| Build | Split (installed) | Split (installed) |
| Power | ||
| Supply | 12V/24V | 12V |
| Controls and safety | ||
| Thermostat | Yes | - |
| Automatic altitude | No | Yes, to 16,400 ft |
| App | Bluetooth | - |
| Timer | Yes | - |
| Remote | Yes | - |
| Type approval | None published | None published |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 20.9 lb | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | 0.2 years |
| Released | 2025-09 | - |
