We offer tips and tricks to resolve any problems that you have with your Chinese Diesel heater.

Disclaimer: Before beginning any repair or maintenance work on a Diesel heater, you should satisfy yourself that you are competent to do so, as the consequences of doing so without the necessary skills can be highly dangerous.

Error Codes

Error code	Issues
E00	No errors
E01	Low voltage – The source battery (or other power supply) does not have enough voltage. Recharge or replace the battery. The battery should be healthy with at least 11.8 volts whilst constantly under load.
E02	High voltage – The voltage from the source battery (or other power supply) is over the permitted level, reduce the voltage to 12 volts or 24 volts, as appropriate.
E03	Glow plug fault. Check the glow plug lead and replace if necessary. The error can also be flagged due to input low voltage.
E04	Fuel pump disconnected. Check the lead to the fuel pump, check that the connector is properly clicked in place. The error can also be flagged due to input low voltage.
E05	Overheating. Check that the air intake vent is not restricted at rear of heater. Check that the operation of the fan is not impeded. Ensure that the heat outlet vent(s) is not blocked / restricted. Check that heating duct has not been crushed, therefore restricting air flow.
E06	Fan motor fault – this is normally caused by low voltage.
E07	Communication between controller and heater broken, check lead and connection plug. The error can also be flagged due to input low voltage.
E08	Low fuel level or excessive air within the fuel lines. Refuel the vehicle main tank or the separate tank for the diesel heater, as appropriate, If fitted, check the diesel heater fuel filter is full of fuel. Check that the fuel pipe and the connections for it will not allow air to be introduced. The unit may need to be restarted a number of times to clear the error. The error can also be flagged due to input low voltage.
E09	Temperature related. Check the temperature sensor cable is fitted correctly, particularly if two pins push into a 3-pin socket. Check the cable is not broken. Check the sensor head is located flush the the bodywork or the burner housing and any fitted locator spring is correctly locked. Ensure that the fan wheel is able to spin without ANY contact with the plastic cowling.
E10	One or more of the above error codes and the unit has been restarted a number of times without success. Also, ensure that the exhaust pipe is not blocked with an object, or a build up of soot. Remember, if the heater (and vehicle) has stood for a while, small rodents may have made themselves a new home !

Frequently asked questions

Q. Can I use exhaust paste to seal the connection of the exhaust pipe to the heater outlet port?

A. Firstly, the exhaust outlet port from the heater should be outside of the vehicle’s accommodation unit. A small amount of exhaust paste used on motor vehicle exhaust systems can be used, as well as the originally supplied clamp. Avoid using more exhaust paste than is necessary. Product recommendation –> HERE

Q. Is there a silent fuel pump upgrade or modification?

A. The below video shows you an idea or two that you may wish to try. Webasto sell a near silent genuine pump, but the cost of buying one is almost as much as a complete Chinese Diesel heater.

Q. Can the combustion air intake pipe be routed inside the campervan, or is there a warning that I should be aware of?

A. The intake pipe pick up and it’s hose should be outside of the vehicle. In certain circumstances of heater malfunction, exhaust gases can be passed through to the intake pipe, which if located inside the campervan would release Carbon monoxide (and other gases) into the living parts of the vehicle.

Q. Can I use Red Diesel to run my Chinese Diesel heater?

A. Yes. Red diesel is a form of agricultural diesel that is infused with red dye, unlike road “white diesel”. Other than this superficial colour difference, the diesel itself is essentially the same as standard road diesel.

Q. Do I need a Carbon Monoxide alarm?

A. Absolutely, this is of paramount importance, regardless of the heater purchase price, the brand of your heater unit, or whether the main body of the heater unit is mounted inside or outside of your vehicle. You may need more than one Carbon Monoxide alarm. Always buy an alarm that is suitable. Product recommendation, which visually shows you the level of Carbon Monoxide within the air — HERE

Q. Will the Diesel heater work at high altitude?

A. While ensuring it stays outside of the accommodation unit, you should try to keep your intake hose length as short as possible, with as few tight bends as possible, for maximum air flow,

Q. Can I run the Diesel heater on vegetable oil?

A. People have not had a lot of success burning vegetable oil, without first mixing some Diesel in with it.