High quality diesel heaters are not sold with fuel tanks so you can choose the ideal tank to suit your needs. We’ve outlined a few of the key factors you’ll need to consider when deciding which is the right fuel tank for your RV or boat.
What capacity fuel tank do I need?
- Mid-sized Caravans/RVs: Most 2.2kW air heaters consume around 100 to 150mL of diesel per hour. A 10L tank is usually sufficient, providing around 50 hours of operation for most mid-sized RVs.
- Larger Caravans/RVs: If your RV is larger, or if you are using a 4kW heater or a diesel hot water system, consider a 15L, 20L, or dual 10L tank.
- Small Motorhomes/Vans: If you’re not using the vehicle’s fuel, a 5L tank might suffice to save space.
- Underfloor Tanks: You may want to use an underfloor tank to save space. All underfloor tanks have 15L capacity.
Should my tank be bolted on or removable?
- Fixed Tanks: Tanks fixed outside the caravan or RV save internal space. However, they require the whole vehicle to be taken to a service station for refilling, unless you carry separate jerry cans with you.
- Removable Tanks: These can be removed and taken to the service station to be filled, which is convenient when camping long-term in one location.
Where should I install my tank?
Fixed tanks
- Bolted on a bracket or toolbox on the draw bar.
Removable tanks
- In the front boot, tunnel boot or front toolbox.
- Inside, under the bed or in a cupboard. (Should be in a splash box).
Fixed tanks can be bolted on the rear, but this is not ideal as the back of the vehicle will bounce around on rough roads and fuel can splash past the breather.
Does the quality of the tank matter?
Avoid Low-Quality Clear Tanks: Some cheap tanks are flimsy and not UV-protected, so they crack after sun exposure. They allow sunlight into the diesel, allowing mould and algae to grow. This will ultimately damage or block your heater fuel pump.
Can I use a jerry can as a fuel tank?
If you already carry diesel jerry cans, consider converting one to a fuel tank to avoid carrying an extra tank. We offer a DIY kit to help you do this.
We’ve set out some of the pros and cons of the different diesel heater fuel tank types below.
Tank
Use/Install Locations
Pros and Cons
Most common tank for caravans.
Installs easily in front boot, tunnel boot or under bed or cupboard (less preferred).
Pros
- Removable with self-sealing disconnects
- Comes with splash box
- Compact, fits well in front boot
- Easy to install
Cons
- Takes up space inside
Good for small vans. Fits well under bed or cupboard.
Pros
- Removable with self-sealing disconnects
- Has splash box with lid
- Compact, fits well in front boot
- Easy to install
Cons
- Takes up space inside
- Small capacity – only good for small vans
Very common tank for caravans. Can be installed on draw bar, rear bumper (not preferred) or bolted to a toolbox.
Pros
- Bolts outside, saving space
- Quick to install on a toolbox
Cons
- Can’t be removed to refill
- Sometimes needs specific bracket to mount
Great for larger vans with space under the floor, as saves space inside.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Saves space inside
- Lockable
- Easy to install
Cons
- Needs clear space next to the chassis
Great if you have a jerry can holder already installed, or for setups that will use more diesel.
Good for off grid and tiny homes.
Pros
- Fits in standard jerry can holder
- Extra capacity for bigger heaters or hot water heater
- Has disconnect fittings so can be easily removed to refill
Cons
- If installed outside, must upgrade to metal disconnects to prevent UV degradation
Can be handy if you want a removable tank but can’t accommodate the 10L Easy Fit.
You can transport fuel in the vehicle, then plug in tank when at camp.
Good for off grid and tiny homes.
Pros
- Has disconnect fittings so can be easily removed to refill
Cons
- Does not fit a standard jerry can holder (smaller base)
- If installed outside, must upgrade to metal disconnects to prevent UV degradation
Turn an existing jerry can into a fuel tank.
Pros
- You can use a jerry can you already have and save carrying an extra fuel tank
Cons
- You have to make it yourself!
Turn any 10L or 20L Pro Quip jerry can into a fuel tank with this custom cap assembly.
Pros
- No installation needed.
- Quick disconnects included.
Cons
- If installed outside, must upgrade to metal disconnects to prevent UV degradation
If you’d like more information, contact us or visit our fuel tank product page.
