Otis Singleton
If you're planning to travel in your RV during the winter, you'll want to know how to keep warm. Most RVs come with a furnace, and there are a few different types to choose from. Electric heaters are great if you have access to electrical hookups, but if you're camping off-grid, a propane heater might be a better option. Some older models of travel trailers may have had furnaces that didn't require electricity, but these are rare nowadays.
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What You'll Learn
Electric vs. propane furnaces
Electric and propane furnaces are two options for RV and home heating. They have distinct advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on various factors, including budget, location, efficiency, and dependability.
Electric Furnaces
Electric furnaces are ideal for homes or RVs without existing gas lines, as they are generally safer, quieter, and healthier than gas furnaces. They eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and produce no flue loss. Additionally, they are more affordable to buy and install, with an average cost of $835 for the unit, compared to $2,100 for a gas furnace. However, they may have higher operating costs than gas furnaces. Electric furnaces are rated at 100% efficiency, but they must draw heat from outside air or the ground, making them less efficient in extremely cold temperatures. They also have a shorter lifespan, typically lasting 14 to 30 years, and may encounter issues like low airflow and leaky ducts.
Propane Furnaces
Propane furnaces offer high performance and efficiency, making them suitable for cold climates. They are rated at 95% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency), indicating their ability to convert fuel to energy effectively. Propane is a widely available, high-energy fuel that can quickly warm up a space. Additionally, propane furnaces operate independently of electrical power, making them ideal for off-grid camping or areas without electricity. They have an average lifespan of about 20 years and can last longer with proper maintenance. However, propane prices are rising, and local energy costs can impact the overall affordability of propane furnaces.
Both electric and propane furnaces have their advantages. Electric furnaces are initially more affordable, safer, and healthier, while propane furnaces offer higher efficiency, better performance in cold weather, and independence from electrical power. The decision should be based on specific needs, budgetary constraints, and the availability of energy sources in the area.
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Pros and cons of each type
Electric RV furnaces require electricity to work, while propane furnaces do not. Propane furnaces are familiar and reliable, with users simply setting the thermostat to their desired temperature and waiting for the gas to do the rest. This technology has been tried and tested over the years to be safe and effective. Propane is a high-energy fuel that provides excellent heating performance, making it effective at quickly warming up the RV even in cold weather. Propane furnaces are also good for boondocking as they operate independently of electrical power. The fuel is also widely available at gas stations, RV parks, and some hardware stores, making it convenient to refill during travels.
However, in contrast to their gas-powered counterparts, electric RV heating systems are clean-burning and operate on peak efficiency. They are also usually cheaper to run, although this depends on the specific regulations of the RV site. Some sites provide power for free, while others charge an incremental cost per day. Electric furnaces are also very specialized in the area they heat, meaning users don't need to waste energy warming their entire cabin when heat is only needed in one specific area.
Propane furnaces, on the other hand, are notoriously inefficient. They send lots of heat outside and eat through propane quickly. They also add moisture to the air, which can lead to condensation issues in colder weather.
Some older travel trailers had gravity furnaces that did not require electricity. Heat simply radiated out of the front panel. These furnaces were very quiet but had to be lit manually and were not very efficient.
Overall, both types of furnaces have their pros and cons, and the best choice for an individual will depend on their specific needs and circumstances.
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How to maintain an electric furnace
Electric furnaces are a great way to keep your RV warm and comfortable during winter. They are safe and effective, but they do require regular maintenance to function efficiently and prolong their lifespan. Here are some detailed instructions on how to maintain an electric furnace:
Know Your Furnace
Understanding how your electric furnace works is essential for proper maintenance. Familiarize yourself with the different components, such as the thermostat, blower motor, heating elements, and air filters. This knowledge will help you perform basic maintenance and identify any potential issues.
Regular Cleaning and Inspections
Schedule a thorough cleaning and inspection of your electric furnace at least twice a year, preferably once in the fall before the heating season and once in the spring. Use a vacuum with a long attachment to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the access panels, motor, and fan. Wipe the fan blades with an anti-static cloth if they are accessible. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and prevents dust and debris from impeding airflow.
Change Air Filters
Changing the air filters regularly is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of your electric furnace. Dirty air filters can restrict airflow, causing the blower units to work harder and reducing the lifespan of your furnace. Replace the air filters every three months, or more frequently if you use your furnace extensively. New air filters will help maintain clean air circulation and prevent the spread of harmful particles such as dust, pollen, mould, and allergens.
Maintain Optimal Humidity
If you have a whole-house humidifier connected to your electric furnace, proper maintenance is essential. Aim for an indoor humidity level between 30% and 50% to prevent the growth of mould and mildew. Clean your humidifier at least once a month to prevent the build-up of mould and dirt, which can spread to your ductwork. Depending on the type of humidifier, you may also need to replace the filter monthly.
Inspect for Common Issues
Keep an eye out for common issues with electric furnaces. Check the heating elements for any signs of wear, corrosion, or cracks. If you notice any problems, contact a professional for repairs. Additionally, ensure your thermostat has fresh batteries and can maintain its programmed settings. If your thermostat is malfunctioning, an HVAC professional can help calibrate it for efficient operation.
Annual Professional Maintenance
In addition to your personal maintenance routine, it is advisable to have a qualified technician perform an annual inspection of your electric furnace. They will check for blockages, inspect the heat exchanger and blower, lubricate moving parts, perform electrical checks, and address any potential safety hazards. This proactive approach can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
By following these maintenance steps, you can ensure your electric furnace runs efficiently and effectively, providing warmth and comfort during those chilly winter months. Remember, regular maintenance not only prolongs the lifespan of your furnace but also helps minimize repair costs and energy bills.
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How to maintain a propane furnace
Travel trailer furnaces can run on propane or electricity. Propane furnaces operate independently of electrical power, allowing their use even in areas without electricity.
Firstly, it is important to note that propane burns safely, but a blocked or leaking propane furnace can become a fire hazard and emit toxic fumes. Therefore, regular maintenance is critical to ensure the safety and longevity of your propane furnace. It is recommended to schedule a maintenance check-up before the winter, as you would not want to be left with a faulty furnace in the cold weather. A well-maintained furnace will also be more efficient, saving you money on propane.
You can identify a propane furnace by listening for a fan and then a flame lighting when the furnace starts up. An electric heater, on the other hand, will not have a flame.
When maintaining a propane furnace, it is important to leave the more complex tasks to a qualified technician or HVAC professional. They will be able to identify and fix any issues with the heat exchanger, blower motor, inducer motor, burners, and flame sensors. For example, a dirty flame sensor can lead to misfiring or failure, which a technician can resolve. Similarly, a malfunctioning limit switch, which shuts off the burner, can be dangerous and requires immediate attention from a qualified RV technician.
Some maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners. For example, you can vacuum the burners and furnace base to remove any dust, dirt, or debris. However, do not attempt to clean the furnace igniters, as these are extremely dangerous parts.
Overall, regular maintenance of your propane furnace will ensure its efficiency, safety, and longevity.
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How to calculate propane usage
Most travel trailers use propane furnaces, which also require electricity to run the circuitry, thermostat, and blower fan(s). Some older trailers had gravity furnaces that didn't require electricity, but these are now rare.
To calculate propane usage, you need to know the BTU (British Thermal Units) rating of your furnace, the capacity of your propane tank, and the outside temperature. Propane containers can only be filled to 80% of their total capacity, so you need to calculate the actual capacity of your tank. For example, if your tank's advertised capacity is 60 pounds, the actual capacity will be 48 pounds (60 x 0.8 = 48).
Once you know the total BTUs in your propane tank, you can divide this by the BTU usage of a specific appliance to estimate how long you can power that appliance. For example, if your tank holds 14 gallons of propane (53 litres), you would multiply 14 x 91,502 = 1,281,028. If the total BTU demand of your stove, water heater, and space heater is 43,800 BTUs, you would divide 1,281,028 by 43,800, which gives you the number of hours you can run those appliances.
The amount of propane consumed by an RV furnace also depends on the size of the furnace, the size of the RV, how well it is insulated and sealed, and the temperature setting on the thermostat. A smaller 20,000 BTU/hour furnace will use about 1/4 gallon of propane per hour of continuous use, while a larger 30,000 BTU/hour furnace will use about 1/3 gallon per hour. In colder weather, the BTU hourly capacity can be reduced by 50% or more, so you will use up propane more quickly.
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Frequently asked questions
Travel trailer furnaces can run off electric, propane, or catalytic heaters.
Electric heaters are great for saving money if you're camping somewhere with electrical hookups included in the camping fee. However, they can be expensive if you're running them off a battery.
Propane furnaces are good for boondocking as they don't require electricity. They are also widely available at gas stations, RV parks, and hardware stores. However, they are notoriously inefficient, eat through propane quickly, and can cause condensation and moisture issues.
Catalytic heaters, like Buddy Heaters, don't require electricity and run on low-pressure propane. They are also safe as they have a safety shut-off valve to prevent accidental fuel discharge.
If your furnace runs on propane, you should hear a fan kick on and then the flame light. Electric heaters do not have a flame.
