Webasto, Eberspächer and AUTOTERM all manufacture established diesel air heaters suitable for campervans, motorhomes and commercial vehicles.

The best choice is not automatically the most expensive heater.

For many campervan owners, the decision can be simplified as follows:

• Webasto is a strong premium choice for customers who value a widely recognised vehicle-heating brand, established support and a broad range of installation options.
• Eberspächer is another premium option with advanced controls, diagnostics and dedicated heater models for campervans and larger motorhomes.
• AUTOTERM often provides the best balance between the cost of a budget heater and the support available with the more expensive premium brands.

All three can provide effective and reliable heating when the heater is correctly specified, installed and maintained.

A poor installation can make even an expensive heater noisy or unreliable. Equally, a properly selected and professionally installed mid-priced heater may suit a campervan perfectly.

Quick Comparison

The equipment supplied in individual kits varies. A heater advertised at a lower price may not include the controller, ducting, external mounting box, fuel pickup or every component required for the intended installation.

Compare complete installations rather than the heater body alone.

Is There a Clear Winner?

There is no single heater that is best for every campervan.

Our broad view is:

AUTOTERM is likely to be the strongest value choice for many standard campervan installations. Webasto and Eberspächer remain excellent premium choices where brand recognition, advanced controls, dealer support or a particular vehicle-specific installation kit is important.

The decision should also take account of:

• Van size
• Insulation
• Interior layout
• Available mounting space
• Number of warm-air outlets
• Duct length
• Expected outside temperatures
• Electrical system
• Installation budget
• Availability of local servicing
• Intended length of ownership

The correct heater and installation arrangement matter more than choosing a brand based solely on reputation.

Which Models Are Being Compared?

Each manufacturer produces several heater models, so comparing brands without identifying the relevant output range can be misleading.

For a small or medium-sized campervan, the commonly considered models include:

• Webasto Air Top 2000 STC
• Eberspächer Airtronic S3 D2L
• AUTOTERM Air 2D

For larger panel vans and motorhomes, options include:

• Webasto Air Top Evo 40 or Evo 55
• Eberspächer Airtronic M3 D4R or related M3 models
• AUTOTERM Air 4D

The Webasto Air Top 2000 STC operates between approximately 0.9kW and 2kW. The Eberspächer Airtronic S3 D2L operates between approximately 0.85kW and 2.2kW, while the AUTOTERM Air 2D is a 2kW-class heater.

The small difference between a maximum output of 2kW and 2.2kW should not determine the decision by itself. Van size, insulation and hot-air distribution will have a greater effect on how the complete system performs.

Read our 2kW vs 4kW diesel heater guide for more detailed sizing advice.

Webasto Diesel Heaters

Webasto is one of the best-known names in vehicle heating.

For campervans, the compact Air Top 2000 STC is commonly considered for smaller and medium-sized vehicles. Larger options include the Air Top Evo 40 and Air Top Evo 55, which provide outputs of up to 4kW and 5.5kW respectively.

Advantages of Webasto

Established manufacturer support

Webasto has a network of dealers and service centres through which customers can seek technical support, repairs and warranty assistance.

This can be particularly valuable for:

• Factory-style conversions
• High-value campervans
• Customers travelling for extended periods
• Commercial vehicles
• Owners planning to keep the vehicle for many years

Webasto advises customers to approach the original dealer or an authorised service centre when technical or warranty support is needed.

Compact 2kW heater

The Air Top 2000 STC is compact and can be installed internally, beneath the vehicle or within a raised floor where the installation and selected kit permit it.

Webasto offers different kit levels. Its basic version includes the heater and fuel pump, while its RV packages may include installation materials and different controller options.

This illustrates why quotations must be compared carefully. Two businesses may both advertise the same heater but supply different controllers and installation components.

Larger-heater options

For large campervans and motorhomes, Webasto offers the Air Top Evo 40 and Evo 55.

These are designed for applications requiring more output and can be installed internally or beneath the vehicle using appropriate kits. Standard altitude adjustment on the range is stated as up to 2,200 metres, with certain versions capable of operating at higher altitudes.

Controller options

Depending on the selected heater and kit, Webasto controls can range from simple rotary operation to programmable or connected controls.

Customers should check whether the advertised price includes the desired controller rather than assuming a digital control is standard.

Possible Disadvantages of Webasto

The main drawback is cost.

The heater, controller and vehicle-specific installation components can make a complete Webasto system considerably more expensive than a lower-cost alternative.

Some systems may also require manufacturer-specific diagnostic equipment or approved support for internal faults.

That does not make Webasto poor value. It means the benefits of the premium system need to matter to the customer.

Who Should Choose Webasto?

Webasto may be the best option where:

• You want a widely recognised premium heater brand.
• Dealer and service support are major priorities.
• The vehicle has a suitable Webasto-specific kit.
• You want a factory-style installation.
• You need a 4kW or 5.5kW heater for a large vehicle.
• You are comfortable paying more for the equipment.

Eberspächer Diesel Heaters

Eberspächer is another established vehicle-heating manufacturer and a direct competitor to Webasto.

Its current Airtronic range includes compact heaters for vans and larger models developed for motorhomes and installations with more complex warm-air ducting.

Airtronic S3 D2L

The Eberspächer Airtronic S3 D2L is the main small diesel air heater in the current range.

Its published output is approximately 0.85kW to 2.2kW, with a maximum electrical consumption of 28 watts during normal rated operation and published fuel use of approximately 0.1 to 0.27 litres per hour, depending on output.

This makes it broadly comparable with the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC and AUTOTERM Air 2D.

Airtronic M3

The M3 range includes higher-output options suitable for larger vehicles.

The Airtronic M3 D4R recreational model provides approximately 1.05kW to 4kW of heating output. Eberspächer describes the recreational version as suitable for motorhomes with longer or more complicated hot-air ducting.

That could make it appropriate where heat needs to reach:

• A main living area
• A rear bed
• A washroom
• A garage
• Separate sections of a coachbuilt motorhome

The final ducting design still needs to remain within the manufacturer’s requirements.

Advantages of Eberspächer

Advanced controller options

The EasyStart Pro controller includes timer functions, an integrated temperature sensor and diagnostic information for the user and workshop.

Eberspächer also offers connected controls through EasyStart Web on compatible installations.

This may appeal to customers who want more control than a basic rotary dial provides.

Diagnostic capability

Current Airtronic systems support manufacturer diagnostics and parameter assignment using Eberspächer’s EasyScan system.

This does not guarantee that every general campervan workshop can carry out every repair, but it provides a structured route for supported diagnostics through suitably equipped businesses.

Campervan and motorhome kits

Eberspächer publishes specific kit options for internal and external motorhome installations, as well as certain vehicle-specific applications.

Its UK recreational vehicle information includes kits for the Ford Transit Custom and aftermarket options for several common van manufacturers.

A vehicle-specific kit can simplify component selection, although it does not remove the need for careful installation planning.

High-altitude capability

The Airtronic 3 range offers automatic altitude adjustment up to 5,500 metres on applicable versions.

Most UK campervan owners will never need this capability. It may matter to customers planning regular travel through mountainous parts of Europe.

Possible Disadvantages of Eberspächer

Like Webasto, Eberspächer is a premium product.

A complete heater, controller and installation kit can cost significantly more than an AUTOTERM or budget installation.

The range and part numbers can also appear complicated to customers buying their own system. Internal, external, commercial and recreational kits may contain different components.

It is better to agree the heater and installation arrangement before purchasing.

Who Should Choose Eberspächer?

Eberspächer may be the best option where:

• You want a premium heater with advanced controls.
• Diagnostic support is important.
• You need a dedicated recreational 4kW heater.
• The installation requires longer or more involved ducting.
• A vehicle-specific kit is available.
• High-altitude travel is part of your plans.
• You prefer the EasyStart controller system.

AUTOTERM Diesel Heaters

AUTOTERM, previously commonly associated with the Planar name, occupies a useful position between very low-cost heaters and the premium Webasto and Eberspächer systems.

Its common campervan models are the AUTOTERM Air 2D and Air 4D.

AUTOTERM Air 2D

The Air 2D is a compact 2kW heater intended for smaller spaces, including campervans.

AUTOTERM publishes fuel consumption of approximately 0.10 to 0.24 litres per hour depending on output. It also offers a Tight Space version with a shortened, adjustable outlet casing for restricted installation areas.

The tight-space design may help in a difficult position where bending the hot-air duct sharply near the heater would otherwise restrict airflow.

AUTOTERM Air 4D

The Air 4D provides up to 4kW of output and is aimed at medium-sized interiors and compartments.

It can be considered for large panel vans, motorhomes and installations where the 2D would not provide enough output.

AUTOTERM states that both the Air 2D and Air 4D include integrated high-altitude capability up to 4,200 metres in the current versions.

Advantages of AUTOTERM

Strong value for a supported brand

AUTOTERM generally costs less than an equivalent Webasto or Eberspächer package while still offering:

• Recognised heater models
• Published technical documentation
• Replacement components
• Controller options
• Technical support
• UK supply
• Structured warranty arrangements

This makes it attractive to customers who do not want an unbranded heater but cannot justify the cost of the most expensive systems.

Complete standard kits

AUTOTERM states that its standard Air 2D and Air 4D kits include the heater, fuel-system components, wiring harnesses, intake, exhaust, silencer, fuel pump and associated fitting parts.

Additional components may still be required for the actual vehicle, mounting position and ducting arrangement.

Controller choices

Compatible options include:

• Mini Control
• Push Control
• Comfort Control
• QSTART modem and smartphone control

The available operating modes depend on the selected controller.

Extended warranty through certified installation

AUTOTERM states that its air-heater warranty can extend to three years or 2,000 operating hours where the installation is registered by a certified AUTOTERM service.

Customers should confirm the applicable warranty before purchasing or booking. An installation by a general workshop should not automatically be assumed to qualify for the manufacturer’s extended terms.

Possible Disadvantages of AUTOTERM

AUTOTERM does not carry the same level of consumer recognition as Webasto or Eberspächer.

Some buyers may place greater value on having one of the long-established premium names fitted to a high-value motorhome.

The installer and local support available may also matter more than the theoretical national support network. A heater is easier to own when there is a competent business nearby that understands the particular model.

Who Should Choose AUTOTERM?

AUTOTERM may be the best option where:

• You want a supported branded heater without the highest equipment cost.
• You need a straightforward 2kW or 4kW system.
• You want a choice of practical digital controls.
• High-altitude operation is useful.
• Long-term parts availability matters.
• You want to avoid the uncertainty of an unbranded heater.
• Overall value is more important than having the best-known badge.

Which Heater Is Quietest?

It is difficult to name one brand as the quietest in real-world campervan use.

Manufacturer descriptions commonly refer to quiet operation, but heater noise is heavily affected by the installation.

Common sources of noise include:

• Fuel-pump ticking
• Pump vibration transferred into furniture
• Air rushing through undersized ducting
• Restricted warm-air outlets
• Sharp duct bends
• Combustion intake noise
• Exhaust noise
• A heater repeatedly changing output
• The heater being mounted beneath the bed
• Thin furniture panels acting as a sounding board

A premium heater with a poorly mounted fuel pump may be more irritating than a less expensive heater installed carefully.

Noise should therefore be considered when choosing:

• Heater location
• Pump position
• Pump mounting
• Duct diameter
• Outlet position
• Intake silencer
• Exhaust silencer
• Controller operating mode

Do not choose a heater based on a single online video. Phone microphones, heater output, mounting and background noise make direct comparisons unreliable.

Which Heater Uses the Least Diesel?

The compact heaters from all three manufacturers use relatively small amounts of fuel once running.

Published figures for the 2kW-class models are broadly similar:

These figures come from the respective manufacturers and depend on operating output.

The difference is too small to choose a heater on fuel consumption alone.

Real use will depend more heavily on:

• Outside temperature
• Insulation
• Van volume
• Window area
• Thermostat setting
• Door opening
• Duct design
• Heater sizing
• How long the system spends at high output

Improving insulation or choosing the correct output may save more fuel than selecting one brand over another.

Which Heater Has the Best Controls?

This depends on what the owner wants.

For simple operation

A basic rotary or compact controller may be perfectly adequate.

It reduces complexity and allows the user to start the heater and adjust its output without working through multiple menus.

For programmable heating

All three brands offer more advanced controller choices, depending on the heater and installation package.

Useful functions may include:

• Temperature setting
• Timers
• Power mode
• Thermostatic mode
• Ventilation mode
• Error-code display
• Remote starting
• App control

For integration and diagnostics

Eberspächer has particularly strong published control and diagnostic options through EasyStart and EasyScan.

Webasto also offers digital and connected control products, together with manufacturer diagnostics through supported workshops.

AUTOTERM’s Comfort Control offers a useful range of operating modes and timers at a generally lower system price.

The best control is one the owner understands and will use correctly. An expensive connected controller adds little value where the customer only wants to turn the heater on before bed.

Does the Heater Brand Affect Installation Cost?

Yes, but the heater brand is only one part of the cost.

A complete diesel-heater quotation can include:

• Heater
• Controller
• Vehicle fuel pickup
• Fuel pump
• Fuel line
• Wiring
• Fuse protection
• Mounting plate
• External enclosure
• Intake
• Exhaust
• Silencer
• Hot-air ducting
• Outlets
• Heat protection
• Furniture alterations
• Labour
• Testing and commissioning

Webasto and Eberspächer equipment will normally sit toward the higher end of the market.

AUTOTERM will often reduce the equipment cost while retaining manufacturer support and available components.

Read our guide to campervan diesel heater installation costs for a full breakdown of the factors affecting the quotation.

At WeConvert, diesel heater installation labour starts from £399, with the heater and installation materials charged separately.

Should You Buy the Heater Before Contacting an Installer?

Usually, no.

Speak to the proposed installer before purchasing so they can check:

• Heater output
• Voltage
• Kit contents
• Controller
• Mounting arrangement
• Fuel connection
• Duct diameter
• Exhaust length
• Intake components
• Warranty conditions
• Vehicle compatibility
• Support for customer-supplied equipment

Buying the wrong kit may not save money.

A low advertised price could apply to a heater body and pump without the controller or installation kit needed for a campervan.

WeConvert may consider installing a customer-supplied heater where it is complete, suitable and supported by clear instructions. We reserve the right to decline damaged, incomplete or unsuitable equipment.

The customer remains responsible for the product warranty where the heater was purchased independently.

What About Cheap Unbranded Diesel Heaters?

A very low-cost diesel heater may provide useful heat, and many owners use them successfully.

However, the decision is not purely about whether the heater operates when first installed.

Consider:

• Warranty support
• Replacement parts
• Controller quality
• Technical documentation
• Error-code information
• Fuel-pump quality
• Supplied wiring
• Exhaust components
• Long-term repair options
• Product consistency
• Insurance expectations

A budget heater can still require the same labour to mount, connect, wire, duct and commission as a branded one.

When professional installation represents a substantial part of the total cost, fitting a supported heater may provide better long-term value.

That does not mean every campervan needs the most expensive system. It means the heater should be selected as part of the complete installation rather than bought solely because it is cheap.

Our Verdict

Best overall value: AUTOTERM Air 2D or Air 4D

AUTOTERM is likely to be the most sensible branded option for many campervan owners.

It provides a clear step up from an unbranded heater without automatically moving into the highest equipment-price category.

The Air 2D should suit many correctly insulated small and medium-sized campervans. The Air 4D may be more appropriate for larger spaces, subject to proper sizing.

Best premium all-round option: Webasto

Webasto is a strong choice for customers wanting a recognised premium manufacturer, an established service network and a broad range of vehicle-heating products.

The Air Top 2000 STC remains a logical 2kW-class choice, while the Evo range supports larger vehicles.

Best for advanced control and motorhome applications: Eberspächer

Eberspächer is particularly attractive where the customer values its EasyStart controls, supported diagnostics, vehicle-specific kits or the 4kW recreational Airtronic M3.

It is a strong premium option for larger or more sophisticated installations.

The most important choice: the installer and installation design

None of these heaters will perform at its best if:

• It is incorrectly sized.
• The electrical supply has excessive voltage drop.
• The fuel pump is badly mounted.
• The intake or exhaust is poorly routed.
• The warm-air duct is restricted.
• The heater cannot be serviced.
• The exhaust is positioned near an opening.
• The van is poorly insulated.
• The owner disconnects the power during shutdown.

The right heater is the one that suits the vehicle, budget and intended use and can be installed properly in the available space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AUTOTERM as good as Webasto?

AUTOTERM offers a credible supported alternative to Webasto and may provide better value for many standard campervan installations.

Webasto has stronger general brand recognition and an established service network. The better choice depends on the customer’s budget, required support and vehicle.

Is Eberspächer better than Webasto?

Neither brand is universally better.

Both manufacture premium vehicle-heating systems. The decision may depend on the required heater output, controller, installation kit, local dealer support and installer experience.

Is AUTOTERM cheaper than Eberspächer?

AUTOTERM equipment will often cost less than an equivalent Eberspächer package.

The final installed difference depends on the controller, mounting kit, ducting, fuel connection and labour.

Which diesel heater is best for a VW Transporter?

A correctly selected 2kW-class heater will commonly be considered for a well-insulated VW Transporter-sized campervan.

Possible options include the Webasto Air Top 2000 STC, Eberspächer Airtronic S3 D2L and AUTOTERM Air 2D.

The available seat-base space, intended mounting position and existing conversion must be checked before choosing.

Which heater is best for a Citroën Relay, Peugeot Boxer or Fiat Ducato?

The answer depends on the van length, roof height, insulation and layout.

A 2kW heater may be sufficient in many properly insulated panel-van conversions, while a 4kW system may be considered for larger interiors, colder use or more extensive ducting.

Do not select a 4kW heater solely because the vehicle is a large panel van.

Can these heaters be mounted beneath the vehicle?

Certain models and installation kits permit external or underfloor mounting.

The heater must be protected using a suitable arrangement and installed according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

External mounting can increase the cost because it may require an enclosure, brackets and longer service runs.

Can you repair Webasto, Eberspächer and AUTOTERM heaters?

WeConvert can assess suitable existing diesel-heater installations and identify external problems involving wiring, fuel supply, intake, exhaust, ducting or installation quality.

Some internal repairs, warranty work and manufacturer-specific faults may need an approved service centre or specialist diagnostic equipment.

Visit our campervan and motorhome fault-finding page for more information.

Diesel Heater Installation in Blackburn and Lancashire

WeConvert installs selected Webasto, Eberspächer, AUTOTERM and suitable customer-supplied diesel air heaters at our workshop in Darwen, near Blackburn.

We work with campervans and motorhomes from:

• Blackburn
• Darwen
• Accrington
• Burnley
• Rossendale
• Bolton
• Chorley
• Preston
• Wider Lancashire
• The surrounding North West

We assess the van, proposed heater position, fuel supply, electrical system and required ducting before recommending an installation.

We do not automatically recommend the most expensive brand. The aim is to specify a heater that suits the vehicle and how it will actually be used.

Request a Diesel-Heater Quote

To request a quotation, send us:

• Vehicle make, model and year
• Wheelbase and roof height
• Interior photographs
• Details of the insulation
• Existing leisure-battery information
• Preferred heater brand, if any
• Details of any heater already purchased
• Proposed installation position
• Your postcode
• How you intend to use the van

Contact WeConvert to discuss your campervan or motorhome diesel-heater installation.

Installation labour starts from £399, with the heater and installation materials charged separately.