Remote Control Options for Espar Heaters Installed on Excavators

[MikePhua]

Espar Heaters and Their Role in Cold Climate Operations
Espar heaters, manufactured by Eberspächer Group in Germany, are widely used in heavy equipment to preheat engine coolant or cabin air without running the main engine. These diesel-fired auxiliary heaters are especially valuable in cold regions, where starting a frozen engine can lead to wear, fuel inefficiency, and downtime. Excavators equipped with Espar heaters can be pre-warmed before operators arrive, improving comfort and readiness.
There are two main types of Espar heaters:

• Air heaters: circulate warm air into the cab
  
• Coolant heaters: warm the engine block and hydraulic systems
  

Both types can be installed on excavators, dozers, and trucks, and are typically controlled via onboard timers, manual switches, or remote interfaces.
Can You Control an Espar Heater from Your Phone
Yes, remote control via smartphone is possible—provided the heater is equipped with the appropriate interface. Eberspächer offers a solution called EasyStart Web, which allows users to control their heater from anywhere using a mobile app or browser. This system uses cellular connectivity to communicate with the heater’s control unit, bypassing the limitations of short-range remotes or hardwired timers.
Key features of EasyStart Web include:

• Start and stop commands via app
  
• Programmable heating duration
  
• Status feedback (e.g., heater on/off, fault codes)
  
• GPS location tracking (optional)
  
• Multi-user access for fleet management
  

To enable this functionality, the heater must be paired with a compatible EasyStart Web module and have access to mobile data. Installation requires integration with the heater’s control harness and may involve firmware updates.
Installation Considerations and Compatibility
Not all Espar heaters come pre-equipped for remote control. Older models may lack the necessary digital interface or wiring architecture. Before purchasing a remote module, verify:

• Heater model and generation (e.g., Airtronic D2, Hydronic D5)
  
• Control unit compatibility (some older analog units may not support digital modules)
  
• Power supply stability and fuse ratings
  
• Cellular coverage in the operating area
  

Installation should be performed by a certified technician or dealer familiar with Eberspächer systems. Improper wiring can lead to heater faults, battery drain, or communication errors.
Field Use and Operator Benefits
Remote control of Espar heaters offers several practical advantages:

• Preheating the cab before shift start improves operator comfort
  
• Reduces idle time and fuel consumption by avoiding cold starts
  
• Allows fleet managers to activate heaters across multiple machines remotely
  
• Enhances safety by ensuring defrosted windows and warm hydraulic fluid
  

In northern climates, operators often arrive at job sites before sunrise. With remote activation, the excavator can be warmed and ready, reducing delays and improving morale.
Anecdote from the Upper Midwest
A contractor in Iowa retrofitted his excavator with an Espar air heater and later added the EasyStart Web module. During winter months, he would activate the heater from his phone while still at home, ensuring the cab was warm by the time he arrived. He noted that the system paid for itself in reduced idle time and improved productivity. He also used the app to monitor heater faults and schedule maintenance alerts.
Alternative Control Methods
If cellular remote control is not feasible, other options include:

• Hardwired digital timers with programmable start times
  
• RF remote controls with limited range (typically 100–300 feet)
  
• Manual switches mounted in the cab or engine bay
  
• CAN bus integration with machine telematics (on newer models)
  

Each method has trade-offs in terms of cost, complexity, and convenience. For single-machine owners, a timer may suffice. For fleet managers, remote access via phone offers superior flexibility.
Recommendations for Remote Heater Integration
To successfully implement remote heater control:

• Choose a heater model with digital control compatibility
  
• Install the EasyStart Web module with proper wiring and antenna placement
  
• Ensure reliable cellular coverage at job sites
  
• Use the mobile app to test and calibrate heating cycles
  
• Monitor battery voltage and heater diagnostics regularly
  

For machines stored in remote yards or job sites, consider pairing the heater with a solar charger or auxiliary battery to prevent power drain.
Conclusion
Controlling an Espar heater from your phone is not only possible—it’s increasingly practical for operators working in cold climates. With the right hardware and setup, excavators can be preheated remotely, improving efficiency, comfort, and uptime. As technology evolves, remote integration will become standard in heavy equipment, turning cold starts into warm welcomes.