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 3.0. The Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater leads on controls and safety. The VEVOR ZM8001 8kW Diesel Heater costs $16.09 less ($83.90 vs $99.99).
A bare-bones split heater for DIY installs in trucks, RVs and boats on a tight budget. Real output is closer to 3 kW than 8.
Amazon $83.90Prices 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 holds a set temperature; 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 | VEVOR ZM8001 8kW Diesel Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 25% | 96 $29 per kW ($99.99, 3.5 kW); 8 kW claimed, more than its fuel burn can supply | 96 $28 per kW ($83.90, 3 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 | 38 holds a set temperature; no CO sensor |
| 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% | 67 down to 1.2 kW (from its lowest fuel burn) | 50 down to 1.4 kW (from its lowest fuel burn) |
Specifications
| Hcalory HBU1S 8kW Split Heater | VEVOR ZM8001 8kW Diesel Heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat output (maker) | 8 kW claimed (about 3.5 kW from its fuel burn) | 8 kW claimed (about 3 kW from its fuel burn) |
| Fuel burn | 0.15 to 0.44 L/h | 0.18 to 0.37 L/h |
| Fuel tank | 10 L | 10 L |
| Build | Split (installed) | Split (installed) |
| Power | ||
| Supply | 12V/24V | 12V/24V |
| Controls and safety | ||
| Thermostat | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic altitude | No | No |
| App | Bluetooth | No |
| Timer | Yes | - |
| Remote | Yes | Yes |
| CO shutoff | - | No |
| Type approval | None published | None published |
| Build | ||
| Noise | - | 75 dB |
| Dimensions | - | 14.88 x 5.55 x 7.09 in |
| Weight | 20.9 lb | 11.9 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Released | 2025-09 | - |
