Webasto Rheostat Vs Webasto Smartemp Control 2.0

Which Temperature Control should you use for your Webasto Heater?

When you buy a Webasto heater you have to also make a decision on how you intend to regulate the air in your mobile work space. There are two types of Webasto temperature control systems that regulate heat in the cabin or cargo space of your vehicle. 


  1. Standard Webasto Rheostat
  2. Webasto Smartemp Control 2.0 (programmable/automatic)

 At Virginia Mobile Air Conditioning we carry the Webasto Rheostat and the Webasto Smartemp Control 2.0, but which one should you use? Did you know that Webasto heaters were designed to save you money and are the best when it comes to conserving gas and diesel? 

We suggest looking at the Webasto Smartemp Control 2.0 because it gives you the ability to set your heat temperature and on/off times via programmable automation with pre-settings. By regulating the heat with a programming system you can maximize fuel savings because your Webasto heater is controlled automatically instead of manually. The rheostat knob on the other hand only allows you to control the temperature manually. Although extremely dependable, the manual operation of the rheostat controller is not capable of the extreme precision required to gain any additional fuel savings while heating your vehicle. Both the Webasto Rheostat and Webasto Smartemp Control can be paired to Webasto air heaters. 


When it comes down to it you as a buyer for Webasto Heater Controls you fit into 2 categories:

  • You are choosing the Rheostat because it is cheaper than the Smartemp Control 2.0. You are simply looking for a way to regulate heat and do not need the automated functions offered by the more complex controllers. 
  • You are choosing the Smartemp Control 2.0 because you are looking to modernize the method of regulating the air in your vehicle. You want the convenience of instant on/off functions and the option of programming run times. The easy to read digital display and simple programming will be the perfect fit for your custom Webasto installation.


Webasto Rheostat Description Chart:

webasto rheostat

Fuel Type:

Gas or Diesel 

Voltage: 

12v and 24v

Part Type:

Manual Temp Control Knob

Use With: 

All Airtop Air Heaters

Webasto Part #:

5010068A

Advantages: 

Simple Use and Functionality

Disadvantages: 

Does not have automatic heater start and end times. 




Webasto Smartemp Control Kit Description Chart: 

webasto smartemp control 2.0


Fuel Type: 

Gas or Diesel 

Voltage: 

12v or 24v

Part Type: 

Automatic/Programmable

Use With: 

All Airtop Air Heaters

Webasto Part #: 

5010628 For 2000 ST Series air heaters

5013700 For 2000 STC Series air heaters

Advantages: 

Programmable start and end times which leads to additional convenience.

Disadvantages: 

As a user you have to have technological literacy to operate this device. 


Webasto has a global presence with a focus on tailoring products to specific geographical markets. Over the years Webasto has developed and produced many different controllers for their heaters. Some controllers have been developed with specific design elements and functions intended for specific markets that are not suitable or practical for other markets. With the proliferation of E-Commerce it is possible to purchase a controller that is not intended for use in your geographic area. As a rule of thumb it is best to purchase from an Authorized Webasto Distributor based in your same country.