When it comes to choosing a bunk heater, there
are a wide variety of options that range in function and purpose. With various
add-ons and options, your choices quickly expand to a confusing amount. This is
a quick list of things to consider when choosing which bunk heater is
best for your particular uses.
- Size
A bigger bunk heater is not always better. When
space is limited, a small but powerful bunk heater can be perfect to fit under
the passenger seat of a cab and provide heat that extends to the bunk. Compact
technology can also be pricier, and so if your bunk has extra space for a
larger heater, A large bunk heater may fit your budget better. A larger heater
can also typically heat larger spaces more efficiently or heat smaller spaces
in less time - saving you fuel and getting your bunk warm easier.
2.
Output
For comfort heating solutions, the output is the
most important element. A bunk heater’s output not only dictates how large of a
space it is capable of heating but also how quickly. A bunk heater that doesn't
have a high enough output may never heat a large space, although this is
typically a problem when using a heater in a cargo area that isn’t powerful
enough. Some bunk heaters also have variable settings, meaning they produce
different outputs at low, medium, high, and maximum fuel consumption. The
ability to choose the output of your bunk heater makes them more useable in
various weather conditions. A bunk heater without these settings will
frequently be turned on and off to achieve the right consistent temperature.
3.
Consider an Engine Heater
When considering bunk heaters, most operators
think of an air heater that outputs hot air directly into the cab and bunk. However,
most Espar engine heaters also function as cab and bunk heaters by venting
excess air through the vehicle's ventilation, into the bunk. Purchasing an
engine heater that also functions as a bunk heater saves fuel costs with a
single heater, and also maximizes limited storage space in the cab by placing
the heater near the engine rather than in the cab. If the primary purpose of
your bunk heater is to keep your space warm before departure, and an engine
heater may combine two necessary jobs into one.
4.
Maintenance
Every bunk heater will require some form of
professional maintenance at some interval, but there are also things to
consider that will reduce maintenance costs, and you should think about your
ability to do them on a regular basis. Bunk heaters are often kept healthy
during the colder months because they are ran regularly. However, most
operators do not run their bunk heater during the spring and summer, which
leads to dust build-up that can significantly degrade the function of your
heater come fall and winter. Heaters should be run occasionally during the
hotter months to keep them clean, so a bunk heater with variable heat options
means the bunk heater can run without dramatically overheating your bunk.
A bunk heater is a smart
investment for anyone who spends significant time in their cabin, and choosing
the right heater with the right functions can be a serious cost-saver and
improve the quality of your daily workflow.
