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 rates 2.9 among split diesel heaters; the maXpeedingrods 5KW Self-Powered Heater rates 2.6 among all in one ones. The LF Bros Split T3 5kW Diesel Heater costs $310 less ($189.99 vs $499.99).
maXpeedingrods 5KW Self-Powered Heater
#34 in All in oneFull review
For tents, ice fishing and remote cabins with no battery to spare. You pay a large premium for the self-powered design, and the controls are basic.
Amazon $499.99$499.99
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.
Scores side by side
These two sit in different type classes (split and all in one), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own type peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | LF Bros Split T3 5kW Diesel Heater | maXpeedingrods 5KW Self-Powered Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.9/5 | 2.6/5 |
| Value 25% | 87 $38 per kW ($189.99, 5 kW) | 30 $132 per kW ($499.99, 3.8 kW); 5 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% | 43 timer; fixed levels only | 22 basic; 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 | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) |
| Low setting 10% | 50 down to 1.4 kW | 50 down to 1.4 kW (from its lowest fuel burn) |
Specifications
| LF Bros Split T3 5kW Diesel Heater | maXpeedingrods 5KW Self-Powered Heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat output (maker) | 5 kW | 5 kW claimed (about 3.8 kW from its fuel burn) |
| Lowest output | 1.4 kW | - |
| Fuel burn | 0.18 to 0.53 L/h | 0.17 to 0.48 L/h |
| Fuel tank | 10 L | 3.7 L |
| Build | Split (installed) | All in one |
| Power | ||
| Supply | 12V | 12V |
| Controls and safety | ||
| Thermostat | No | - |
| Automatic altitude | - | No |
| App | - | No |
| Timer | Yes | - |
| Remote | - | Yes |
| CO shutoff | - | No |
| Type approval | None published | None published |
| Build | ||
| Dimensions | 14.9 x 5.6 x 5.9 in | 41 x 26.5 x 28 cm |
| Warranty | 1 year | - |