This is a very practical vehicle auxiliary device, especially popular in cold climates. Below, I will provide a comprehensive explanation of its working principle, main functions, core advantages, applicable scenarios, brand selection, and installation precautions.

1. What is a water-heated parking heater?

A water-heated parking heater, also known as a fuel heater or liquid heater, is a heating device that operates independently of the vehicle’s engine. It burns the vehicle’s own fuel (diesel or gasoline) to heat the engine coolant. This heat is then exchanged to provide warm air to the vehicle interior and preheat the engine.

2. Working Principle (Simplified Version)

Think of it as a “small, independent boiler.” The working principles are as follows:

1. Fuel Pump Combustion: A small amount of fuel is drawn from the vehicle’s fuel tank and ignited within its own combustion chamber.

2. Coolant Heating: The heat generated by the combustion is transferred to a heat exchanger, heating the engine coolant flowing through it. 3. Circulation and Cooling:
Preheating the Engine: Heated coolant circulates through the engine cooling system, warming the engine block and oil, making it easier to start in cold temperatures.
Heating the Interior: Simultaneously, the heated coolant flows through the vehicle’s heated radiator (a small water tank). When you turn on the interior blower, cold air is blown through this heated radiator, transforming into warm air and delivering it to the cabin.
4. Independent Operation: The entire process is managed by the heater’s own control unit, eliminating the need to start the engine and consuming only a small amount of battery power for the pump and fan.

III. Main Functions and Core Advantages

1. Preheating the Engine:
Protecting the Engine: Prevents severe wear and tear caused by cold starts (according to statistics, over 70% of engine wear and tear comes from cold starts). Preheated engine oil flows better and provides adequate lubrication.
Easy Starting: In extremely cold weather, a preheated engine starts instantly, eliminating the hassles of difficult starts and battery drain.

2. Provides a warm cabin when parked:
Comfortable rest: Long-distance drivers, truck drivers, outdoor workers, and others can enjoy a warm cabin while parked, saving fuel while ensuring a comfortable and safe rest.
No idling required: Traditionally, idling the engine for heating not only increases fuel consumption (about 1-3 liters/hour at idle), but also creates carbon deposits and increases emissions. A parking heater consumes only about 0.1-0.3 liters of fuel per hour.

3. Windshield defrosting/defogger:
Turning on the heater before departure can completely melt frost and snow from the windows, saving significant cleaning time and improving driving safety.

IV. Applicable Vehicles and Target Audiences

Vehicles: This feature can be installed on almost any vehicle, but is particularly effective on diesel vehicles (which are more difficult to start in cold temperatures). It is commonly used on trucks, buses, RVs, construction machinery, and private cars.
Target Audiences:
* Drivers living in cold northern regions.
* Truck and freight drivers who frequently travel long distances. * Enthusiasts of road trips and outdoor camping.
* Any car owner looking to improve winter comfort and protect their vehicle.

V. Installation and Usage Precautions

1. Professional Installation: Installation involves the oil, water, electrical, and exhaust systems and must be performed by professional technicians. Improper installation can lead to inefficiency, malfunctions, and even safety hazards (such as carbon monoxide leaks).
2. Exhaust Safety: The heater’s exhaust pipe must be properly routed to the exterior of the vehicle, away from the air intake and windows, to prevent exhaust fumes (including carbon monoxide) from entering the vehicle.
3. Power Consumption: Although power consumption is much lower than starting the engine, it’s still important to monitor the battery charge during extended use (e.g., for several hours) to ensure the vehicle can start properly.
4. Regular Maintenance: Like all equipment, regular maintenance is required, such as cleaning carbon deposits from the combustion chamber and checking the filter, to ensure optimal operating condition and longevity.

1. Rated Voltage :  12V/24V (Can be customized according to your needs)
2. Power :  10KW/12KW/16.3KW/17KW/30KW/35KW  (Can be customized according to your needs)
3. Fuel Consumption :  About 1.76L/Hour
4. Ambient Temperature :  -40°~80°
5. Product Weight :  About 8.3KG
6. Fuel Usage : Diesel

Accessories List

Schematic

The structure and working principle of bus and truck water heaters:
1. Rotating Component: A DC motor is located in the center. A combustion fan and atomizer are mounted on one end of the motor shaft, while an oil pump is mounted on the other end. These components are housed within an aluminum connector.
2. Combustion Chamber: The combustion chamber is welded from a heat-resistant aluminum alloy. It consists of a main combustion chamber and an afterburner. A deflector is installed at the front of the main combustion chamber to create air vortexes. The glow plug for ignition is inserted into the main combustion chamber.
3. Water Jacket: This is a sandwich jacket welded from heat-resistant steel plates. It contains radially distributed fins to improve heat exchange efficiency. The water jacket is the heat exchange component.

A water-heated parking heater is an investment that can greatly enhance your winter driving experience and protect your vehicle. It addresses the two major pain points of “cold start wear” and “heating with the engine off,” combining protection, comfort, and economy.

If you live in an area with cold winters and value vehicle protection and driving comfort, installing a reliable, high-quality water-heated parking heater is a wise choice.

Website：

www.greatcarheater.com （English）