There’s something uniquely special about winter travel in a motorhome or caravan. Crisp mornings beside a misty lake, quiet camping spots without the summer crowds, and the comfort of retreating indoors after a day exploring New Zealand’s popular winter spots all add to the appeal.
But when temperatures begin to drop, having the right heating setup on board quickly changes from a luxury to an essential part of comfortable RV travel. Heating expert Rob Ferguson from RV Supplies shares his knowledge.
Modern heating systems have evolved dramatically in recent years, with both gas and diesel options now offering efficient, compact and surprisingly sophisticated solutions for caravans and motorhomes of every size.
Choosing the right system, however, depends on how you travel, where you travel, and the level of comfort you want to achieve during the colder months.
Gas Or Diesel: Which Is Right For You?
For many RV owners, the biggest question is whether to choose gas or diesel heating. Both systems have their strengths, and the right answer often comes down to personal preference and intended use.
Gas heating remains a popular choice for both caravans and motorhomes. LPG systems are widely available across New Zealand and are relatively straightforward to refill, making them a convenient option for many travellers. One of the biggest advantages of modern gas systems is the ability to combine cabin heating and hot water into a single compact unit, saving both space and weight inside the vehicle.
Systems such as the Truma Combi range are designed to efficiently warm the living area while simultaneously heating water, making them especially practical for compact motorhomes and caravans. Smaller vehicles can also benefit from lightweight gas heaters like the Truma VarioHeat, which are designed specifically for tighter spaces.
Diesel heating, meanwhile, has surged in popularity among RV travellers seeking strong performance and economical long-term operation. European-designed systems such as the AUTOTERM Air Series have become increasingly common throughout the New Zealand RV market thanks to its efficiency, reliability and low fuel consumption.
Diesel heaters draw fuel directly from the vehicle’s diesel supply or from a dedicated auxiliary tank, removing the need to carry separate gas bottles solely for heating purposes. For travellers spending extended periods on the road or regularly venturing into colder regions, diesel systems can provide excellent ongoing efficiency.
Why Diesel Heating Continues To Grow
One of the biggest advantages of modern diesel heaters is how little fuel they actually consume. Compact 2kW systems can use as little as 0.1 litres of diesel per hour at lower settings, while still providing more than enough warmth for many caravans and smaller motorhomes.
The European-manufactured AUTOTERM Air Series, available in both 2kW and 4kW configurations, has been designed specifically for mobile applications including motorhomes, caravans, boats and commercial vehicles. These heaters are engineered to provide quick and effective heat with minimal noise, while also incorporating features such as integrated high-altitude functionality and smartphone control options.
Sizing, however, is critical. Bigger is not always better when it comes to heating. While many owners assume they need the largest heater possible, installers often find a smaller system can comfortably heat a surprisingly large space when the vehicle is properly insulated.
As a general guide, insulated RVs require significantly less heating capacity than poorly insulated ones. Ducting layout, outlet placement and overall airflow also play a major role in how efficiently a heater performs.
Installation Matters More Than Many Realise
Right: The Truma Combi range
Ask almost any heating specialist and they’ll tell you the same thing – the quality of the installation can be just as important than the heater itself.
Poor ducting design, undersized wiring, restricted airflow and incorrect fuel system installation can all dramatically reduce performance and reliability. Many heating issues stem not from the appliance, but from shortcuts taken during installation.
Keeping ducting runs short and simple is one of the most important factors. Excessive bends or overly complicated outlet layouts can restrict airflow and lead to overheating issues. Experts also recommend avoiding too many closable vents and ensuring at least one outlet always remains open.
Electrical supply is another key consideration for diesel systems. Diesel heaters require strong battery voltage during startup, particularly while the glow pin ignites the combustion process. Using appropriately sized wiring and quality connections is essential to reliable operation.
For gas systems, certified installation by a qualified gas fitter is vital, both for safety and compliance. Proper ventilation, secure gas connections and regular servicing all contribute to safe and efficient operation.
Winter Comfort Beyond Just Heat
Modern RV heating systems are about more than simply warming the cabin. Many units now integrate water heating, thermostat controls, programmable timers and multiple operating modes designed to maximise comfort while minimising fuel use.
Some diesel systems can maintain steady temperatures without constantly cycling on and off, while others include ventilation-only modes for improved airflow during warmer conditions. Smartphone integration is also becoming increasingly common, allowing users to remotely control temperatures from inside or outside the vehicle.
Noise reduction has improved considerably too. Earlier generations of diesel heaters were often criticised for pump ticking and fan noise, but newer systems have become significantly quieter and more refined.
Maintenance Keeps The Warmth Flowing
Like any appliance, regular use and maintenance are the keys to longevity.
One of the most common mistakes RV owners make is leaving diesel heaters unused for long periods, particularly over summer. Heating specialists recommend running diesel heaters on high for around 30 minutes each month to keep components clean and operating correctly.
Keeping vents clear, checking ducting, monitoring battery health and servicing systems regularly all help ensure reliable winter performance.
For travellers planning cold-weather adventures, investing in the right heating setup can completely transform the RV experience. Whether it’s a compact gas solution for occasional weekends away or a powerful diesel system for full-time touring, modern heating technology now allows travellers to comfortably extend their adventures well beyond summer.
Because when the temperature drops outside, few things feel better than stepping back into a warm, cosy motorhome at the end of the day’s adventures.
