Can This Diesel Heater Keep me Warm OFF-GRID All Night?

Diesel Heater Installation and Battery Testing for Off-Grid Truck Camper

This video documents the process of testing and installing a diesel heater in a truck camper to provide off-grid overnight warmth. It also evaluates a Power Queen 125 amp-hour battery used to power the heater.

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Key Lifestyle and Off-Grid Tips

• Prepare for extreme temperature swings when camping; daytime heat can quickly drop at night.
• Use a high-capacity battery (125 Ah Power Queen) tested for full capacity to ensure a reliable power supply.
• Employ solar panels and a charge controller for sustainable battery charging (two 400W panels mentioned).
• Use modular, secure DC power connections such as Anderson Power Pole connectors and lever nuts (“wiggos”) for easy, safe wiring.
• Keep exhaust venting outside the camper to maintain indoor air quality and safety.
• Plan for some ventilation (e.g., slightly open doors or windows) to manage heat and exhaust safely.
• Avoid modifying new vehicles (like cutting holes for vents) until after warranty periods end.

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Battery Testing Routine

• Battery state of charge monitored via Bluetooth app.
• Full battery drain test conducted at 10 amps to confirm 125+ amp-hours capacity.
• Battery performed slightly above rated capacity, indicating good condition.
• Power consumption estimates suggest the battery can run the heater for about two weeks at 8 hours per night with power to spare.

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Diesel Heater Highlights and Usage

• Heater outputs up to 8 kW of heat, more than sufficient for a truck camper.
• Runs on diesel fuel; the user opts for off-road diesel to avoid road tax.
• Easy fuel filling without disassembling the unit.
• Power consumption fluctuates between approximately 3.5 to 7.5 amps (about 40–90 watts), mostly driven by the fuel pump and fan.
• Quiet operation, quieter than a typical RV furnace.
• Includes a small display showing temperature (in Celsius) and Wi-Fi connectivity, though no clear app support was found.
• Heater has a self-cleaning cycle on shutdown; recommended to let it finish before unplugging.
• Comes with exhaust muffler, clamps, and mounting hardware; exhaust pipe setup recommended with muffler at the end for better design.
• Some confusion about the included AC power supply design, which outputs 12V DC on a standard AC plug, potentially misleading users.

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Installation and Safety Notes

• Use proper DC connectors and secure wiring to prevent shorts or sparks.
• Monitor heater exhaust temperatures (can exceed 300°F) and ensure safe venting.
• Keep an eye on display codes and troubleshoot using the manual’s fault codes.
• The heater’s display is hard to read due to angle and lighting, which is a common complaint.

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Upcoming Content Tease

• The next video will cover installing and testing a composting toilet in the camper.
• Focus will be on a practical, rough-and-ready camper build aimed at sleeping comfort rather than luxury.

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Notable Products and Locations

• Power Queen 125 Ah battery with Bluetooth monitoring app.
• Whip Pro diesel heater (noted as Tiffany blue color).
• Anderson Power Pole connectors and lever nuts (“wiggos”) for DC wiring.
• Benson Fuel (local diesel supplier encountered during fueling).
• Two 400W solar panels (brand not specified) for battery charging.

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Overall, the video provides practical insights into powering and heating an off-grid camper using a tested battery and a diesel heater, emphasizing safety, efficiency, and simplicity in installation and operation.