Eberspacher has been keeping people warm since 1865, when Jakob Eberspacher opened a small tinsmith's workshop in Esslingen, Germany. What started with watering cans and gutters turned into something far more significant. By the 1930s, the company had shifted focus to the automotive sector, developing both exhaust systems and vehicle heating solutions during the global economic crisis. That move into thermal management laid the groundwork for what Eberspacher does today. The business remains family-owned after 160 years, with direct descendants of the founder still involved, which explains the long-term thinking that runs through everything they make.
The motorhome and campervan market represents a core focus for Eberspacher's climate control systems. Their Airtronic and Hydronic ranges provide diesel-powered heating that runs independently of the engine, meaning you can heat your living space without idling the vehicle or draining the leisure battery excessively. These systems suit full-time motorhomers who travel year-round, weekend campers who need reliable heat in spring and autumn, and van conversion enthusiasts who want professional-grade equipment. The fuel-operated heaters draw from your existing diesel tank, which makes them practical for off-grid use where mains hookup isn't available. Commercial vehicle operators also use Eberspacher systems in HGVs, plant machinery, and marine applications, though the recreational vehicle sector has driven much of their recent product development.
Eberspacher targets people who take their camping seriously enough to invest in proper climate control. Their products aren't the cheapest option on the market, sitting above budget alternatives from less established brands. The systems require professional installation in most cases, particularly for the Hydronic water heating units that integrate with existing plumbing. Annual servicing is recommended after roughly 2,000 hours of use, and the heat exchanger needs replacing after 10 years, which adds to the total cost of ownership. But the reliability is well-documented, with some units still running after two decades. The company holds a strong position in OEM supply, providing heating systems to major motorhome manufacturers across Europe. Their control units now offer programmable timers and smartphone connectivity through the EasyStart system, bringing older technology into line with what modern users expect.