Propane vs Diesel

[mxracer317]

I'm building out an enclosed hunting trailer, and I'm looking for feedback from anyone who has camped at higher elevations using either propane or diesel heat sources.

Most of my camping locations are typically less than 8000' feet, but I don't want to get in a situation where I go to a new place at a higher elevation and find out that the propane is struggling or won't burn due to lack of O2.

I've read that you can install high-altitude kits for propane heating...

Just want to do it right the 1st time. Thanks in advance!

 

[mtmuley]

Never used a diesel heater, but they look like they might be a great option. Even in a tent if done right. mtmuley

 

[ccc23454]

Diesel 1000%

 

[mxracer317]

Diesel 1000%

Tell me why? I'm leaning towards diesel too.

 

[ccc23454]

Tell me why? I'm leaning towards diesel too.

It's cheaper, safer, easier, fuel lasts longer and has no maintenance other than charging battery. Just takes a little mechanical ability to build system and set it up. I plan to build a new bigger trailer in next year or two and already know how I am building 2 diesel heaters into design. Current setup (first diesel setup) is unbelievabley efficent and effective.

Fyi: Current setup is about 5 years old, flawless!

 

[Scott85]

I’d say diesel but I’m not sure since my battery pack didn’t have enough ass from the 15amp 12volt plug.

 

[jimh406]

Propane loses pressure with lower temps which can affect appliances. Diesel gels if you don’t have a Winter additive.

Diesel can be easier to find.

 

[Bigjay73]

Propane at 8000 ft is good down to about -45* if my math is correct. Yes, it loses pressure, but you only need to maintain a certain pressure, usually around .5 psi for a heater to work

 

[Forkyfinder]

Those diesel heaters are awesome. Know of a few people that use them - easy/cheap and less safety concerns.

 

[Borny1]

Diesel. I just bought a Chinese Hcalory for $150 and it is amazing. Way more heat and much smaller form factor. I believe it autocorrects for elevation since it is an input on the app that comes with it. It burns so clean I run it for a couple hours in my 3car garage without exhausting outside. Zero exhaust smell once warmed up.

 

[mtmuley]

Those diesel heaters are awesome. Know of a few people that use them - easy/cheap and less safety concerns.

Yep. I don't care if there are a dozen detectors, I will not sleep with a propane heater on in an enclosed space. mtmuley

 

[Deez Nutz]

I have a diesel heater in my enclosed trailer. I would do it again.

 

[grizzly63]

I used Hunter Diesel heaters in my arctic tents. Never had any airflow problems. You cannot escape smelling that stinking diesel smell if you are handling it. Compound that with a need for a battery to power it and thats a loser in my mind. Propane for me. Tents or truck. I leave windows open for ventilation. Everything has a trade off. If you have good enough sleeping bags, you don't need heat. But if you enclose the space, you'll condensate the hell out of it with your breath.