As you know, the quality of the cabin heater is domestic cars leaves much to be desired. And if on passenger cars you can put up with this problem, but not on commercial transport. After all, sometimes you have to transport goods over long distances. Some are working on the finalization of the standard stove, but the result does not exceed expectations. Most right choice - installation of autonomy. It is also installed on the Gazelle. Well, let's take a look at what this element is and how to install it.
Only fuel oil is not ecological. First of all, because of the low comfort of use. As an additional heat source, this is an expensive solution due to the fact that in any case it is necessary to use a basic heating system. Another reason we do not recommend this solution is its low environmental rating. Wood is a renewable fuel, but uncontrolled combustion gases are highly polluted. It is also impractical to clean the fireplace, throw ash and, above all, keep the fireplace warm.
In addition, take care of the timber supply, order and take delivery, and store the fuel somewhere. The time for burning wood in the fireplace is very limited, so there is a danger of significant cooling of the building, while there is no household. An additional disadvantage is relatively limited - no turbine assembly, maximum 4-5 m - hot air distribution. However, it is worth remembering that the fireplace heater works as an additional source of heat. When there is mechanical ventilation, the fireplace heating system interacts with the mechanical ventilation, where heat from the fireplace is indirectly distributed through the ventilation duct system and is used to heat the outside air, which must be discharged into the room.
Characteristic
An autonomous heater (or in the language of drivers "hair dryer") is a device used to heat the cab, as well as the engine. In the latter case, "hair dryer" is called pre-heater... The autonomy itself is a small device measuring 25 by 20 centimeters. Installed in the cabin or in the engine compartment. Is separate, autonomous engine... Usually runs on diesel. But some put gas autonomy on the Gazelle. Additionally, a timer is located in the cabin, thanks to which the device is programmed. On expensive models of the "Webasto" type, the launch can be done from the key fob, remotely. The heater is powered by on-board network 12 or 24 volts. Fuel for combustion is taken from a tank or from a separate container (usually a small, 10-liter plastic tank). Thus, when the mixture is burned, heat energy is generated, which is then sent to the passenger compartment. In this case, the car engine itself can be turned off. Autonomy is a parking heater and works regardless of the standard stove or motor. By the way, the exhaust gases are led out through separate pipes. Thus, the driver receives clean and warm air in the passenger compartment.
Remember: when the air heater heats up, it often exceeds the sintering temperature of the dust. At home, you will feel the characteristic, uncomfortable smell of polluted air. An increase in the supply air temperature at high temperatures causes a large amount of air to overheat and also increases the feeling of discomfort.
Unfortunately, a water-jacketed fireplace heating system, unfortunately, requires an open system - an open expansion vessel, which can further complicate and complicate the operation of the entire system. This makes it difficult not only to design it without overstating, but also to control the entire system.
Varieties
Autonomy on the Gazelle can be different. There are several types of these heaters:
- Dry.
- Wet.
A dry autonomous system is a cheaper option for a heater. However, this "hair dryer" lacks the function of engine heating. It is not connected to the internal combustion engine cooling system. Therefore, during operation, heats only the interior or the cabin. Reviews say that this type of autonomous system is not suitable for diesel cars... Therefore, it is reasonable to install it only on a Gazelle with motors ZMZ and UMP. Although some bet on Cummins. In this case, however, the system will not be preheated. It is more difficult for the engine to start in cold weather.
The solution of fireplace heating as the only heating system in the house can be successfully used in holiday homes and country houses. The grounding heat pump is a modern, technologically advanced device, the share of which in thermal buildings around the world is constantly growing. This allows you to heat a residential building using the heat from the energy stored in the ground. The earth is a kind of battery that collects solar energy. The heat pump uses this energy and uses the thermodynamic physical processes that take place in the device to transfer heat to the heating system.
Wet autonomy
They are installed mainly on heavy trucks. Their peculiarity is that they interact with the coolant (hence the so characteristic name) of the engine. During operation, heat is generated to heat not only the cab, but also the motor itself.
Experienced motorists know how hard it is to start diesel engine In fact, not only diesel fuel is thickening, but also oil. Crankshaft it is very difficult to turn around in such conditions. An autonomous heater can raise the engine temperature up to 40 degrees Celsius. This is a significant plus for diesel cars.
It only needs a small amount of electricity, not producing exhaust gases in this or any other environmentally harmful products. The ground-based heat pump is characterized by: - \u200b\u200bthe possibility of a significant reduction in the investment costs of the heat pump by installing a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery.
Its installation is simpler than a ground pump: there is no vertical probe, and the outdoor unit is removed from the air, collecting the accumulated heat from it. Taking this energy and using the thermodynamic physical processes taking place in the device, it transfers heat to the heating system. It only requires a small amount of electricity to create no fumes or any other unpleasant byproducts. They are characterized by: - \u200b\u200bvery low operating costs, - comparatively low investment costs. - very high environmental performance, - maintenance-free, intuitive operation, - complete independence from gas prices or other suppliers. - no need to install a chimney, - easy to install in every home, - the ability to significantly reduce investment costs during installation mechanical system ventilation with heat recovery. - very convenient to use.
Manufacturers
The main manufacturers of wet autonomous vehicles:
- "Webasto".
- "Ebershpreher".
Additionally, the systems can be equipped with a GSM module with the ability to program the start of an autonomous unit. But the trouble is that the cost of such heaters starts from 50 thousand rubles. And if for truck tractor like "Volvo" is a small expense, then for a low-tonnage "Gazelle" - a significant waste of funds. In addition, the volume of the cabin is different for them. And "Webasto" mainly produces autonomous units for 2-3 kilowatts. As practice has shown, one and a half kilowatts of energy is enough for the Gazelle. The question arises: which autonomous system to choose?
Electric heating is characterized by low investment costs, very high comfort and a high level of service. The disadvantages are complete dependence on power supplies and very high operating costs. Acceptable as basic heating, but also supportive.
The ecology of electricity depends on how it is produced. If 100% of the electricity was generated by wind, water or the sun, it could be called ecological. Unfortunately, we know that currently most of the electricity produced in Poland is produced from coal or lignite, and this is hardly an ecological solution. Therefore, we judge it as ecological.
"Planar"
This is the Russian analogue of Webasta. For "Gazelle" the autonomy from the 2D series is ideal. Reviews note that this model perfectly heats the cabin at -30 degrees. The initial cost of such a heater is 22 thousand rubles. 
Additionally, the model can be equipped with a GSM modem. If this autonomous system is installed on a Gazelle with a diesel engine, it should be understood that this "hair dryer" is dry and is not a preheater. Nevertheless, the device does an excellent job with its main function - cabin heating. The autonomy installed on the Gazelle has the following technical characteristics:
- The maximum power is 1.8 kilowatts.
- Fuel consumption - 240 milliliters per hour.
- The volume of heated air is 75 cubic meters per hour.
- The fuel used is diesel.
- Rated power supply - 12 or 24 V.
- The start mode is manual.
- The total weight is 10 kilograms.
Equipment
The Planar 2D package includes:
- Heater.
- Fuel tank for 7 liters.
- Remote Control.
- Fittings, hoses and fasteners.
The autonomy is installed on the Gazelle with your own hands or in a service center. 
It is recommended to carry out installation in specialized workshops. If the installation is done by hand, you automatically void the warranty. Fortunately, those who are engaged in the sale of such heaters, and make the installation. You can put a "hair dryer" right on the spot. It takes no more than four hours in time. The installation cost does not exceed five thousand rubles. Below we will look at how the installation is done.
How to install an autonomous system on a Gazelle?
First you need to decide on a place. Where is the installation of an autonomous system usually carried out on a Gazelle? It is often hidden under the passenger double seat. Therefore, it must be taken out. This seat is mounted on four studs with bolts. We need a 10 wrench (preferably with a ratchet). Do not forget to put all the washers and nuts in a separate box and take the seat out. 
The chair is moderately light, so you can handle it alone. Next, we fold back part of the floor upholstery and drill several technological holes. They must correspond to the outer diameter of the pipes that go to the fuel supply and exhaust gases. Then we connect the tank. It can be placed between the cab and the booth - this is the cleanest place. But make sure that after installation, normal access to the filler neck is provided. 
Next, we lay the fuel hoses and, threading them through the created holes, we connect them to the autonomy. Now the electrical part remains. It is necessary to supply "plus" and "minus" from the battery. The wires are laid under the floor. Near the gearshift lever there is a joint of the floor covering - we draw a cord between it. It is brought out to the battery through a small hole in the lower right part of the cab. If you look from the side of the engine compartment, it will be located immediately behind the battery (slightly higher and hidden by an elastic band). The timer is connected according to the scheme, which is indicated in the instruction manual. The block itself is brought up and attached to the back wall (between the driver's and passenger's seats). If you have a sleeping bag installed, you will need a corrugation at least two meters long. It is important that it is heat-resistant: the air from the autonomy is very hot, and the plastic can melt. We connect the corrugation through the splitter and pull it onto the sleeping bag. A hole of the corresponding diameter is made in the roof. The corrugation is laid at the right edge of the passenger seat. This is how the autonomous system is installed on the Gazelle. All that remains is to install the standard seat in place and fix it on the same nuts.
Conclusion
So, we found out how the autonomous system is installed on the Gazelle and what this element is for. An autonomous heater is a very useful thing for truck... With it, you will forget the eternal problems with a regular stove, since the power of the "hair dryer" will be enough for the eyes.
If the weather is cold outside, it is only natural that the first desire when getting into the car is to get warm. When the interior heating mode is violated, it becomes uncomfortable for both passengers and car parts. Subzero temperatures have a negative effect on the nodes in which the fluid circulates (this also applies to the power unit). Autonomous heaters make it possible to adjust the microclimate in the car, avoid breakdowns and increase the comfort for passengers. Standard interior heating is often effective only when driving, and while stationary, most of the heat simply flies away to warm the outside air.
Purpose
At the risk of spending several hours in the cold, many do not think about the possible consequences. In fact, the engine cools down in a couple of hours, and the interior is even faster. So that later repair of stand-alone devices is not required, most manufacturers advise contacting professionals for installation. But, if you have certain experience and relevant skills, you can install such a device with your own hands.
Heating from a running engine is provided in all passenger cars and commercial vehicles... However, for the presence of heat during long-term parking, the most effective option is to install an autonomous heater. In order to correctly and effectively ensure their installation and operation, you should study the types of units, their characteristics and capabilities.
Types and types of heaters for cars
Autonomous heaters for cars are of three types:
- Air models.
- Oil options.
- Heaters are liquid type.
In addition, the devices are subdivided according to the principle of nutrition. As such, electricity (12 and 24 volts), gas, diesel fuel or gasoline. Combined variations are also available.
Independent interior heaters are used to maintain optimum temperature regime... Their peculiarity is that they can function without running engine... There are several modes of operation: standard ventilation and air intake from outside. An external thermostat or a built-in timer is responsible for monitoring the operation. Autonomous heaters provide comfortable conditions for passengers, long-distance drivers, operators of special equipment.
Air modifications
Such devices are focused on warming up the inner part. vehicle (cabins, trunk, passenger compartment). The air mixture in such heaters passes through the heating element and is fed back.
Thanks to the regulator, the driver can economically use battery power and fuel resources, depending on the required temperature and weather conditions outside. Air heater salon is a traditional fan heater, working on the principle of a hair dryer. Popular manufacturers: Planar, Webasto, Belief.
Liquid-oil version
Such autonomous heaters are more functional, they heat first power unit, and then - the internal equipment of the machine. This design simplifies the process of starting the car even in sub-zero temperatures.
Liquid heaters are controlled remotely or by pre-programming for a specific operating mode. The most popular manufacturers of the considered devices: "Binar", Webasto, Eberspacher.
Interior gas heaters
Autonomous gas heaters differ from their "counterparts" in that they run on liquefied gas. The main advantage of the structures is simplicity of execution, independence from other power sources, and safety. This heater does not discharge the battery.
Also, the products of gas combustion do not poison passengers, but are discharged outside, which provides environmental safety, regardless of the duration of use of the equipment. The unit operates on the principle of air circulation in a car. Heat transfer is carried out by natural convection of air masses. A more intensive mixing is provided by an additional fan, which does not have a very high power.
Automotive gas heaters do not cause problems during operation, they are not equipped with rotating elements, which ensures high reliability and safety indicators.
Machine gas heater device
Autonomous heaters for gas vehicles are a block of pipes placed inside a larger diameter element. Clean air enters through some parts, other pipes are designed to remove exhaust gases.
Thanks to this design, the air in the cab and the passenger compartment is not burned out, while the heat remains. The device in question does not depend on the performance of the machine, and in the event of a breakdown of the engine or battery, it can provide heat to the driver and passengers.
Pros of gas heaters:
- Long service life (about 15 years).
- Reasonable price due to lack of electronics.
- The presence of a climate control unit, which is found in most modern devices, which guarantees the selection of the optimal temperature regime.
- Independence from car resources (adaptability to work in different conditions).
- Possibility of power supply of the unit from containers of different volume.
It is worth noting that autonomous gas heaters can be turned on while driving and on a muffled vehicle. To activate the device, you just need to open the gas supply, and to stop working, use the appropriate toggle switch.
Autonomous interior heater for 12 volts
Not so long ago, the predominant part of electric heaters for a car interior was equipped with heating coils. Recently, the lion's share of such devices is made of ceramics. The advantages of the device include the following aspects:
- Conservation of oxygen and no dehumidification effect.
- The ability to interact with a 12/24 V battery.
- Fast heating and good heat dissipation.
- Economical, protection against overheating, compactness and ease of maintenance.
An autonomous heater of 12 volts has a mass of no more than a kilogram, which makes it easy to move it to the right place. The cost of such models is quite high, however, if you wish, you can choose a modification according to your preferences, taking into account the quality characteristics of the device.
Some models and brands
An autonomous interior heater for 12 volts is made by several world-famous manufacturers. Some of them with brief characteristics fixtures are presented below:
- The Calix Slim Line 800W brand is a very powerful device with high power indicators, capable of quickly warming up the car interior. The heater is equipped with a regulator, which makes it possible to adjust the microclimate in accordance with weather conditions. The device has high safety characteristics and is equipped with thermal protection against excessive overheating.
- ZNICH PFJ - interior heater passenger caroperating from 12 and 24 volts. The device is focused on compact salons. Its advantages are the ability to adjust the temperature, ease of installation, compactness and durability.
- Among independent heaters for trucks the products of the Airtronic company are in great demand. Particularly popular are the D2-D5 models, which are distinguished by good power, the ability to provide heat to cars of various sizes, and even small yachts.
To power the device, a voltage of 12/24 V is required, they have reasonable price and high quality characteristics.
Diesel option
Consider the features and principle of operation that an autonomous diesel interior heater has. According to consumer reviews, it can be equipped with various additional functionality (timer, regulator or pre-trigger device). In practical terms, such a product is considered one of the best. The unit allows you to warm up the inside of the vehicle in a few minutes.
The heater is a device consisting of the following elements:
- A block with a combustion compartment, which is one of the main components in the operation of the device.
- The presence of a separate fuel line makes it possible to connect to a common line or work autonomously, regardless of the activation of the power unit.
- Exhaust system that provides the outlet of exhaust gases.
- In addition, the heater is equipped with clips for mounting it in the engine compartment.
The control unit can be remote or tumbler. Additional elements are included in the package, taking into account the modification of the product.
Gasoline car heater
Autonomous diesel and gasoline heaters have a similar design, efficiency and operating principle. In the considered embodiment, the power source is gasoline. Such a device in a modern design allows you to reduce the load on the battery. The heater consists of the following parts:
- Air intake system.
- Thermal sensor and regulator.
- Air mixture blower.
- Controller.
- Fuel pump, switch.
- Additional elements (timer, fasteners, etc.).
The advantages of a gasoline heater include the possibility of autonomous operation for several hours, reduced noise level, rapid heating of the air in the cabin, durability and high resistance of parts to wear.
Installation and repair of autonomous heaters
For the installation of the devices in question, it is better to contact the specialists. But, having certain skills and desire, it is quite possible to install the unit yourself.
To do this, follow the instructions:
- Decide on the optimal installation site for a car heater.
- Laying main pipelines and cables, depending on the modification of the device.
- Carry out the electrical connection to activate the control. It is advisable to place the unit itself in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. An unloaded circuit protected by a fuse can be used for connection.
- Route the air ducts to the passenger compartment from the device using the standard stove elements.
- Check the tightness at all joints.
After the installation of the auxiliary heater is completed, it is necessary to check its functionality. It is advisable to do this before starting the full assembly. engine compartmentby turning on all the provided modes and comparing the indications with the instructions for use.
Operational nuances
So that the repair of autonomous heaters does not turn into a frequent action, it is necessary to take into account some points when using them:
- When purchasing the device in question, you need to study the features of its operation and installation. In addition, the required and available indicators of power and other parameters should be compared.
- Each time the system is activated, it is required to check its operability. If there is a leak or other defects - immediately contact a repair specialist.
- Check its performance. Make sure that there are no leaks or any damage. Leakage of filler can lead not only to failure of the heater, but also to carbon monoxide poisoning of passengers or the driver.
- Do not try to constantly select the maximum heating mode when turning on. Excessively dry air is harmful to the body, it will be necessary to ventilate the cabin more often, which does not help save resources.
Conclusion
An autonomous heater, the price of which mainly depends on the principle of operation and modification, must be selected depending on the interior equipment of the car and the expected area for heating. The device can be purchased from 20 to several hundred dollars.
The best option would be to equip the vehicle with an integrated heating system. Air devices will allow you to evenly heat the interior, liquid and gas appliances will process the fuel unit, remove the load from the battery and will not freeze even if the power unit is stalled.
