What a Professional Diesel Heater Installation Should Look Like

Sometimes the professionals don't get it right first time, Chris from Misura Ltd found out the hard way.

This article is not intended to serve as a step-by-step installation guide. Instead, it uses a real-world example to highlight the importance of proper installation methods and using the correct components. 

At Butler Technik, we supply genuine Eberspacher and Webasto diesel and petrol auxiliary heaters, replacement parts, and servicing support. While we do not carry out installations ourselves, we regularly support refurbishment projects by supplying the right products and technical advice when necessary.

Award Winning Installation

Recently, one of our customers reinstalled the heating system in an RV after the installation from factory (we suspect) had created a series of overheating issues. Kris had identified that restrictive airflow to the heater was the main cause, the heater was running as expected when the side locker was left open. Upon further investigation several aspects of the existing setup did not reflected the standard expected from a professional heater installation, Kris was determined to apply the level of detail and perfection he applies to his award-winning construction business (Misura Ltd) to make sure that his luxury RV was all comfort, no headaches.

After some initial discussion with us to support the fault finding and share thoughts on the current installation setip, we supplied the required components for the project, we were fortunate that Kris, whilst carrying out the work, documented the process and shared photographs of the installation.

With their approval, we are showcasing this project as an example of how careful planning, quality components, and attention to detail can transform what appears to be an unrealiable heater to a safe, tidy, and professional installation.

The Problems with the Previous Installation

Once the original installation was inspected, several issues became apparent. Some of the ducting had been taped together rather than secured using the correct fittings, sections of the warm air duct had been covered with foam insulation that was not temperature rated for this type of application, and there was no air flow through the space that the heater was drawing air in from.

While these shortcuts may appear to work in the short term, they can lead to a range of problems over time. Poor duct connections can reduce heater efficiency by allowing warm air to escape, lack of ventilation can cause the heater to cook and overheat, and unsuitable insulation materials may deteriorate when exposed to normal operating temperatures. In this case, parts of the foam insulation had already started to break down and melt.

A pro installation is about more than appearance. Using the correct components improves reliability of the heater, comfort for the user, simplifies future maintenance, and ensures the heating system operates safely and efficiently.

A Professional Auxiliary Heater Installation

The finished installation demonstrates the difference that careful planning, quality components, and attention to detail can make. By replacing worn and poorly installed original RV builder parts and correcting the issues found in the original setup, Kris has created a tidy, well-routed heating system that reflects the professional standard of his own workmanship.

Correctly fitted ducting, purpose-made Maxitherm insulation wraps, and securely mounted components all contribute to an installation designed to perform efficiently and reliably, while also making future maintenance easier.

We would like to thank Kris for allowing us to share this project, which serves as an excellent example of what a well-executed diesel heater installation should look like. He recognised that luxury RV builders are not necessarily heater installation experts and made several improvements that will help protect and prolong the life of the heater.

Many of the genuine Eberspächer and Webasto parts used in installations such as this are available through the Butler Technik online store. While we do not offer installation services, our team is always happy to provide technical support and help customers identify the correct parts for their heating systems.

Thank you for sharing this project with us, Kris (www.misuraltd.co.uk).