Estimate heating demand from interior volume, temperature difference and insulation level.
Thermal comfort begins with insulation, interior volume and temperature difference, not only with the power of the heater.
How to use the figure
This is a heating-load estimate, not automatic heater selection. In a small camper, a greatly oversized heater may switch on and off too frequently. In cold weather or with poor insulation, an undersized heater can leave the interior too cold.
Windows, thermal bridges, door openings, altitude and actual ventilation change the result.
The calculator estimates heating load, not a specific heater model. Manufacturers publish minimum/maximum heat output, airflow, electrical draw and fuel consumption: check all of these against your actual installation.
This tool provides an initial comparison using volume, temperature difference and insulation category, not a detailed heat-loss calculation.
Formula used by this tool
The algorithm uses P ≈ volume × temperature difference × insulation coefficient ÷ 20. The selected coefficient is a heuristic; it is not a measured U-value or certification of the installation.
Reproducible example
For 10 m³, a 25 °C temperature difference and coefficient 60, the simplified demand is 750 W. The suggested heater range is separate guidance. This does not prove that a particular heater can maintain the temperature in every van.
Data that changes the decision the most
Use actual interior dimensions and temperatures for your route, not just your home location. Windows, thermal bridges, ventilation, open doors and wind exposure can change heat loss without changing volume. Use the comfort planner to compare these factors.
Compare complete equipment
Check the model's minimum and maximum heat output, modulation, electrical draw at startup and in operation, fuel, ducts and altitude limits. High maximum output alone does not guarantee stable operation at low demand.
When is a more specific calculation necessary?
For severe cold, large glazed areas or an unusual installation, have a specialist check heat loss and installation design. This result does not size exhaust, combustion-air intake, ventilation or protective devices.
