ChuBu Diesel Heater 2KW/5KW/8KW 12V-24V Portable Diesel Air Heater with Muffler, Remote Control, LCD Monitor, Fast Heating Defrost Defog for Campers, Truck, RV, Boat, Garage

I recently purchased the 8KW model to heat my garage during the cold Montana winters, ensuring that my workspace remains warm enough for projects while also preventing freezing. Below is my detailed feedback on the unit’s performance, assembly, and usability.The Positives:- This heater operates efficiently, particularly on lower settings, making it highly fuel-efficient. The large fuel tank is a significant advantage over compact all-in-one models.- Assembly was straightforward, though users will need to determine their own mounting and exhaust routing solutions, as the unit is not self-contained.- The value is excellent—I was able to apply a $30 coupon, bringing my final cost to just $80.- In terms of heating performance, it effectively warms my 450 sq. ft. garage from the low 30s to 50°F within two hours on setting 6 out of 10. After reaching a comfortable temperature, I can lower it to setting 2 to maintain approximately 55°F.- The hidden settings menu can be accessed using the code 1234.- To switch to Fahrenheit, press and hold the down arrow for about three seconds before starting the heater.Areas for Improvement:- The instruction manual is not well-translated, though it generally conveys the basics.- The noise level is average—the blower fan is noticeable on higher settings but relatively quiet on lower ones. The fuel pump emits the characteristic diesel heater ticking sound, which may bother some users, but I personally don’t find it disruptive. The included rubber mount helps reduce noise but could be improved further, possibly by enclosing the unit.- This model takes up more space than compact units, but its flexibility in mounting is a plus. The larger fuel tank is particularly beneficial.- Priming the unit is not intuitive. Users need to press the up arrow until the screen changes, then enter the desired interval for the pump to run. I had to crack open the fuel filter to break the airlock and initiate fuel flow.- Included hardware is exclusively short self-tappers. Plan on needing some other fasteners and adhesive/sealant.Challenges and Considerations:- Remote Pairing: The process is not clearly explained in the manual. To pair, press the up button and the settings button on the controller (attached to the unit) simultaneously to enter pairing mode. Then, press the power and OK button on the remote at the same time until pairing is successful. This must be done before starting the heater.- Stated vs. Actual Power Rating: According to both the manual and the hidden settings menu, this unit is classified as a 5KW model (P1H2) rather than an 8KW model. From what I have read, the difference between 5KW and 8KW models is minimal, aside from the 8KW version sometimes running richer. While this has not caused issues for me, it does raise concerns about the accuracy of product specifications.- Fuel Line Issues: The soft rubber fuel line (labeled as the “short fuel line” in the manual) is too short. I barely managed to install it by mounting the tank directly behind the unit and utilizing every millimeter of the line. I recommend purchasing additional clear yellow tubing to simplify installation. Additionally, the included hard plastic “long fuel line” is too small to fit over any of the fittings, rendering it unusable.Overall, this heater offers excellent value and performance despite some challenges with instructions, installation, and fuel line length. I appreciate the product’s efficiency and heating capability, but clearer documentation and more accurate specifications would go a long way. I plan to eventually add an afterburner controller for additional features and will update this review at that time.

Excellent! Based on multiple diesel heater installs. Most people who have issues with diesel heaters are because they install them incorrectly. The fuel pump needs to be at the proper angle and the fuel lines need to be done correctly to prevent air bubbles. You also need to make sure the power wires, if ran longer distances are a large enough gauge. One issue I had with a previous heater was the factory fuel filter cracked but this wasn’t obvious, so it was pulling air into the line (this causes a flame out and throws a code). If you’re pulling diesel from “above” the bottom of the tank, in most cases you don’t even need the filter. This unit was a replacement for my previous, used in a motorhome for approximately 3500 hours. The fan bearings were going out. With this unit, I’ve noticed it auto adjust for altitude, ramps up and down at a slower pace (this is nice). Per research, it seems they’ve refined the algorithm for leaning the fuel to prevent long term soot inside the burn chamber. Read the instructions carefully. The RF remote is excellent, but I needed a magnifying glass to read the tiny instructions. Also note that many people incorrectly install their heaters (at risk of CO poisoning). They are extremely safe if installed properly. The bottom of the unit with the fuel line, exhaust line, should be installed through the mounting plate on the floor. So, if the exhaust leaks, all the fumes (and CO) go below your vehicle. The fuel lines should also be zip tied away from the exhaust pipe. Pictures posted by others with the bottom exposed to their living space are dangerous. Do some research before installing. I’ve also installed an expensive Wabasto heater, it only lasted 1.5 years. The value here is excellent!

We use this style heater on our farm in Alaska production is not constant. In what you get in the box. In addition product failed in the first 12 hrs of use. Pushes exhaust back through the fuel line and destroys the pump. We keep extra pumps on hand as typically with this style of heater it is the weak point. Replaced pump and had the same results. Not even sure I want to take the effort to open it up and rebuild it. Ordered the exact same unit 5 months ago and came with different controller and sub components.