Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater
#10 in SplitFull review
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 $99.99$99.99
The Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater is the better diesel heater overall, rated 3.2 to 2.9. The Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater leads on controls and safety. The Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater costs $23 less ($99.99 vs $122.99).
Sunster SH W8
#28 in SplitFull review
A low cost split heater kit for a van, truck or RV that wants WiFi control and a big tank. Treat it as about a 4 kW heater, not 8 kW.
Amazon $122.99$122.99
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 8kW Split Heater for controls and safety (holds a set temperature, app, timer; no automatic altitude vs automatic altitude, app; no CO sensor).
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 | Sunster SH W8 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Value 25% | 96 $29 per kW ($99.99, 3.5 kW); 8 kW claimed, more than its fuel burn can supply | 91 $33 per kW ($122.99, 3.7 kW); 8 kW claimed, more than its fuel burn can supply |
| 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 | 57 automatic altitude, app; no CO sensor |
| Power draw 15% | 50 power draw not published (neutral score used) | 53 up to 36 W running |
| Warranty 15% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
| Low setting 10% | 67 down to 1.2 kW (from its lowest fuel burn) | 0 down to 2.1 kW (from its lowest fuel burn) |
Specifications
| Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater | Sunster SH W8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat output (maker) | 8 kW claimed (about 3.5 kW from its fuel burn) | 8 kW claimed (about 3.7 kW from its fuel burn) |
| Fuel burn | 0.15 to 0.44 L/h | 0.26 to 0.46 L/h |
| Fuel tank | 10 L | 10 L |
| Build | Split (installed) | Split (installed) |
| Power | ||
| Supply | 12V/24V | 12V/24V |
| Running draw | - | 36 W |
| Starting draw | - | 120 W |
| Controls and safety | ||
| Thermostat | Yes | - |
| Automatic altitude | No | Yes, to 18,050 ft |
| App | Bluetooth | Bluetooth/WiFi |
| Timer | Yes | - |
| Remote | Yes | Yes |
| CO shutoff | - | No |
| Type approval | None published | None published |
| Build | ||
| Noise | - | 35 dB |
| Dimensions | - | 15.0 x 5.5 x 6.7 in |
| Weight | 20.9 lb | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Released | 2025-09 | 2026-08 |