Diesel Heaters NI Troubleshooting Guide


This troubleshooting guide is designed to help you identify and resolve common issues with your diesel heater. While many problems can be easily fixed, it’s important to remember that faults caused by improper use will incur a charge. By following this guide, you can ensure your heater operates efficiently and effectively while minimizing the risk of costly repairs. Additionally, 

Common Error Codes:
The most frequently encountered codes are E08 and E10, which indicate multiple failed start attempts.

Error Codes Summary

E00:** No error detected.

E01:** Under voltage - battery power is insufficient; please recharge.
E02:** Over voltage - voltage exceeds the permitted level; reduce to 12V.
E03:** Glow plug fault - check connections and replace if necessary; may be due to low voltage.
E04:** Fuel pump disconnected - verify the connection to the fuel pump is secure; check connector is clicked in place.
E05:** Overheating - ensure air intake is clear, check that the fan is unobstructed, and verify that the heating duct isn’t crushed or blocked.
E06:** Fan motor fault - typically caused by low voltage.
E07:** Communication error between controller and heater - check lead and connection plug.
E08:** Low fuel or air in the fuel lines - refuel your vehicle and check that the fuel filter is filled if installed.
E10:** One or more of the above errors with multiple unsuccessful restart attempts.

FUEL SUPPLY

E08 signals a lack of fuel, which can arise from several factors:

1 Is your fuel tank above ¼ full (on level ground)?**
2 Have you been below ¼ full since your last heater use?**
3 Has it been over a month since you last operated your heater?**

If questions 1 or 2 apply, refill your vehicle's fuel tank and attempt to restart your heater 2-3 times to draw fuel through. In some cases, the system may not self-prime. If this is the case, you’ll need to manually bleed the air from the fuel system by following the manual pump instructions in your user manual (available under the support section on our website).

If question 3 applies, stale fuel may be present in the fuel lines, requiring the manual pump procedure. The heater may still fail to start if the atomization filter is clogged, necessitating a service for resolution.

Important Note: Only use red or white diesel or kerosene as fuel. Using used engine oil will cause significant damage to the heater and lead to coking, resulting in severe performance issues.

If you store fuel in plastic containers, be aware that condensation can form inside the tank, leading to the growth of diesel bug. Look for brown spots on the tank, which can indicate contamination. This type of fuel will not ignite, making it crucial to ensure that your fuel is clean and free from any contaminants.

BATTERY POWER (E01 or E10)

Insufficient battery power can hinder your heater from starting. This issue is easily rectified if your vehicle is equipped with a B2B charger or a Voltage Sensitive Relay (VSR).

Diesel heaters typically draw around 10 amps during startup and shutdown. Start your vehicle, then check the voltage on the heater controller, not elsewhere. As you start your heater, observe this voltage. If it drops below 11.4V, the power supply to your heater is inadequate for a successful start. Solution: Provide additional power! If power isn’t being delivered, this could indicate a fault with the B2B, VSR, or the battery itself.

PROPER USE AND COOL DOWN

With the heater turned off, inspect your exhaust. Insert a finger into the exhaust and ensure you touch all sides. If your finger comes out covered in black soot, it’s likely that the heater is 'coked' and will require servicing. Note that this service will incur a charge due to improper usage.

Important: Before disconnecting power from the heater, it’s crucial to allow it to go through a proper cool-down process. Failing to do so can damage the main ECU, leading to costly repairs.

While exhausts can be lengthened, a maximum of 1.5 meters is recommended. Additionally, exhausts should not be run through old radiators in an attempt to reclaim heat, as this can lead to further complications.

Conclusion

By following this troubleshooting guide, you can address many common issues with your diesel heater. If you encounter persistent problems please email our team on [email protected] including any photos that may help. Our team at Diesel Heaters NI is here to support you and ensure your heater operates at its best. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional advice or service.

Remember: A suitable carbon monoxide alarm should always be fitted. If one isn't installed, do not use the heater until it is properly fitted.