Which Bunk Heater Is Right for You? BISON 2000A or 5000A?
https://youtu.be/8jPVhHZSKnw
We review and compare two General Components bunk heaters—the BISON 2000A and 5000A. The 2000A is compact, efficient, and ideal for small spaces, while the 5000A is larger, more powerful, and better for big interiors or extreme cold. Both are fuel-flexible, quiet, durable, and work without engine idling, but the choice comes down to efficiency versus maximum heating performance.
Transcript
Imagine this: It’s 2 a.m., you're parked on the side of a snowy mountain pass, and the temperature inside your cab is dropping fast. Your engine’s off to save fuel, but now you're relying on one thing to keep you warm—a bunk heater. The only question is: Will it hold up?
In today’s video, we’re putting two heavy hitters to the test—the BISON 2000A and the BISON 5000A heater kits from General Components. These are two of our most popular heaters for the trucking industry in Canada and we’re going to compare them side by side to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Product Introduction
Infront of me, I’ve got both models: the BISON 5000A and the BISON 2000A. Each heater kit comes fully equipped right out of the box. You get a pre-assembled wiring harness with high-quality connectors, durable fuel lines complete with couplings and clamps, and air ducting that’s ready to go. The kits also include a mounting plate, along with all the necessary screws, straps, and hardware needed for installation. The 5000A kit steps things up a notch by including multiple air outlets and high-efficiency ducting, plus a reinforced mounting plate that adds extra stability—making it a great choice for larger installations. Meanwhile, the 2000A kit is designed to be compact and straightforward, with a single outlet that's ideal for tighter spaces.
Now let’s take a closer look at how they perform.
Heating Power & Applications
When it comes to heating capacity, the BISON 2000A delivers 2 kilowatts, or about 6,800 BTUs, of forced air heating. That’s plenty of power for warming up truck sleepers, compact RVs, and other small spaces. It’s efficient, consistent, and well-suited for smaller spaces where maintaining a comfortable temperature is essential.
On the other hand, the BISON 5000A brings significantly more power to the table, generating 5 kilowatts, or around 17,000 BTUs. This model is designed to handle much larger vehicles. If you’re dealing with a bigger interior or frequently face extremely cold environments, the 5000A is the better option for delivering fast, full-coverage heat.
Fuel Flexibility & Efficiency
Both the 2000A and the 5000A are built with versatility in mind. They’re compatible with diesel, kerosene, or gasoline fuels, giving you the flexibility to match your current setup without having to modify your fuel system. They’re also available in both 12V and 24V versions, so they’ll integrate smoothly with whatever electrical system your vehicle is using.
Another major advantage is their no-idle operation. These heaters warm your space without the need to run your engine, helping reduce fuel usage, minimize emissions, and save money over time. In terms of fuel consumption, the 2000A is incredibly efficient, using only 0.03 to 0.06 gallons per hour. The 5000A, despite being more powerful, still manages to stay efficient with a usage rate between 0.07 and 0.16 gallons per hour. So whether you're focused on staying green, extending your range, or keeping fuel costs low, both units perform admirably.
Altitude Performance
Adding to that, If you travel through mountainous regions or operate at higher elevations, you'll appreciate that both heaters include automatic altitude adjustment. This means the system self-regulates to maintain performance and efficiency at elevations up to 5,000 meters, or about 16,400 feet. Whether you're Hauling through the Rockies or driving the coast at sea level, you won’t experience a drop in heating performance.
Noise Levels & Power Draw
Both models are designed with quiet operation in mind. They provide consistent warmth without the annoying hum or drone that can ruin a peaceful rest or a quiet evening on the road. In terms of electrical consumption, the BISON 2000A draws between 1.2 to 2.4 amps at 12V, or half that at 24V. It’s a great option if you're trying to conserve battery life, especially when off-grid.
The BISON 5000A, with its higher heat output, naturally requires more power—drawing between 1.25 and 7.92 amps at 12V. It’s a bit more demanding, but the trade-off is the extra heating power and coverage it provides. So, if power consumption is a major consideration, the 2000A has the advantage. But if heating performance is your top priority, the 5000A is more than worth the extra draw.
Build, Size & Installation
Both heaters are built to handle rugged conditions. They're designed to be durable, weather-resistant, and easy to install with all components included. The difference lies in their size and weight. The BISON 2000A is compact and lightweight, coming in at just 5.73 pounds and measuring a little under 13 inches in length. It's ideal for installations where space is limited and weight matters.
The BISON 5000A, in contrast, is larger and more robust. It weighs around 13 pounds and stretches nearly 17 inches in length. It requires more space, but with that added size comes a more powerful motor, better airflow, and enhanced heat distribution. If you have the room for it, the 5000A delivers a more comprehensive heating solution.
Final Verdict
So, which one is right for you?
If you’re heating a smaller space like a truck cab or compact RV and want something light, efficient, and easy to install, the BISON 2000A is a fantastic option. It provides reliable warmth, draws less power, and won’t take up much space.
But if you’re dealing with larger interiors, harsher climates, or need faster and stronger heating performance, the BISON 5000A is the better pick. It offers significantly more heat, can serve multiple zones or outlets, and holds up exceptionally well in demanding environments.
Either way, both of these models from General Components are built with quality, longevity, and user comfort in mind.
Conclusion
Stay warm, travel safe, and I’ll catch you in the next video.
