Umair Gaines
RV furnaces typically run on propane, with most models using a flame fed by propane and forced out through vents by a blower fan. However, electric RV furnaces are available as an alternative, offering a way to stay warm without burning propane, which can be expensive and produce fumes. Electric furnaces also have lower electrical load requirements compared to propane furnaces, which consume battery power to run the fan that distributes the heat.
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What You'll Learn
Electric vs. propane furnaces
The majority of RV furnaces run on propane. Propane furnaces do need electricity for ignition and to power vent fans, but they can be used without electric hookups, making them perfect for boondocking. However, electric RV furnaces are available as an alternative. These climate control systems can keep your RV warm and cosy without burning expensive and fume-emitting propane. They can also be cheaper and more efficient to run.
There are several factors to consider when choosing between an electric or propane furnace. Firstly, propane furnaces consume less electrical power compared to electric furnaces, which is advantageous for RVs with limited battery capacity. Propane furnaces also provide uniform temperatures throughout an RV due to their built-in duct system. However, some people might prefer more localized heat, in which case an electric furnace could be a better option.
Another consideration is the space required for propane tanks, which can be a hassle to refill or exchange. Propane combustion also produces carbon monoxide and water vapour, so proper ventilation and carbon monoxide detectors are necessary for safety. On the other hand, electric furnaces may be more stable in terms of pricing, as electricity prices are regulated in almost every state and do not fluctuate as wildly as fossil fuel prices.
In terms of upfront costs, electric furnaces are generally less expensive to buy and install than propane or gas furnaces. Electric furnaces also tend to last longer, with a lifespan of 20 to 30 years compared to 15 to 20 years for propane furnaces. However, propane furnaces are more economical and efficient to run than electric furnaces. National fuel prices from the U.S. Department of Energy show that the cost of electricity is more than twice the cost of propane. Additionally, propane furnaces can provide 24/7 customer service and support, which may not be available from large power companies.
Ultimately, the decision between an electric or propane furnace for your RV depends on various factors, including local energy costs, the size of your RV, and your personal preferences for heat distribution.
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Propane furnaces and electricity
Propane furnaces are the most common type of RV furnace. They do not run on electricity alone, but they do need electricity for the ignition and to power vent fans. A 12-volt house battery can be used to run these functions. Propane furnaces are also advantageous for RVs with limited battery capacity, as they consume less electrical power than electric furnaces.
Some RV owners opt for electric furnaces, as they are cheaper and more efficient to run, and they don't emit fumes. However, electric furnaces may not be sufficient on very cold days. Additionally, electric heaters can consume a good bit of electricity and may not last very long, depending on the size and type of the battery bank.
For residential use, propane furnaces are also a popular option, especially in rural areas where there isn't an infrastructure of natural gas lines. Propane furnaces are considered clean-burning, and they have a higher heating capacity in BTUs (British Thermal Units) per cubic foot than natural gas. They are also more affordable to purchase and install compared to electric heat pumps and ground source heat pumps. Propane furnaces have higher Energy Star efficiency level requirements and a smaller carbon footprint than most other systems.
One drawback of propane furnaces is the need for a propane tank, which can take up space and incur additional costs for regular deliveries. Propane gas is typically higher in cost than natural gas and fuel oil. However, selecting a high-efficiency propane furnace with variable-speed blowers and multiple heating stages can help mitigate these costs.
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Electric heaters
Most RV furnaces run on propane, which is perfect for boondocking as it can be used without electric hookups. Propane furnaces do, however, need electricity for ignition and to power vent fans, and this can be supplied by a 12-volt house battery.
If you want the best of both worlds, there are also hybrid gas/electric heating systems available, such as the RV Comfort Systems Hybrid Gas/Electric heating system. This system combines the reliability of gas heating with the convenience of electric power, allowing you to switch between the two as needed.
It's important to note that electric heaters can consume a significant amount of electricity, so it's essential to consider the size and type of your battery bank when deciding between propane and electric heating options.
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RV furnace fuel options
There are two main types of RV furnaces: electric and propane. The vast majority of RV furnaces run on propane, which is used to heat the rig. Propane furnaces only require electricity for the ignition and to power vent fans, so they are perfect for boondocking. A simple 12-volt house battery will allow you to run these functions. However, propane combustion produces carbon monoxide and water vapour, so proper ventilation and carbon monoxide detectors are necessary safety measures. The cost of propane can also be high, and it can be a hassle to refill or exchange tanks.
Electric RV furnaces are available as an alternative, and they are increasingly popular. They can be cheaper and more efficient to run, and they don't produce fumes. However, they can consume a lot of electricity, which may be an issue for RVs with limited battery capacity.
There are other options available for heating your RV, such as an electric fireplace, a hydronic heating system, or a diesel hydronic heating system. Some RVs have two or more sources of heat, such as a furnace and an A/C unit with a heat pump or heat strip option. If you're looking for a more luxurious option, the Truma VarioHeat is a compact, luxury RV furnace that operates silently and efficiently.
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RV furnace and battery life
The majority of RV furnaces are propane, although electric furnaces are available. Propane furnaces do need electricity for the ignition and to power vent fans, but this can be provided by a simple 12-volt house battery. If you are boondocking for more than one night, it is recommended to have at least two 12-volt batteries and a solar setup or generator for recharging.
The length of time an RV battery will run a propane furnace depends on several factors, including the size and type of the battery, the outside temperature, the desired inside temperature, and the insulation of the camper. For example, a 12-foot popup camper with two 27 deep cycle batteries can run the heater for four nights at outside temperatures of 26-32 degrees Fahrenheit, with the inside temperature set to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. On the other hand, a 29-foot camper with a 29-foot battery lasted only 6-8 hours in similar outside temperatures, with the inside temperature set to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Electric heaters for RVs are also available, but they consume a significant amount of electricity and may not last long, depending on the battery bank. Some RV owners use a small, inexpensive electric heater with a fan to save gas, but this requires a backup LP tank in case of emergencies.
To calculate how long an RV battery will run a furnace, you need to determine the power usage of the furnace fan and the amp-hours of the battery. However, this calculation does not account for other devices that may be drawing power, as well as external factors like temperature, battery condition, and battery type. Therefore, the calculation may not be entirely accurate.
It is important to note that discharging a lead-acid battery below 50% in cold weather can lead to freezing, accelerate wear, and reduce the total number of usable cycles. Additionally, the ability of a lead-acid battery to accept a charge decreases as the internal temperature drops, making recovery more challenging after a deep discharge.
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Frequently asked questions
RV furnaces typically run on propane. However, electric RV furnaces are available as an alternative.
Propane furnaces can be used without electric hookups, making them ideal for boondocking. They also provide uniform temperatures throughout the RV.
Electric furnaces are cheaper and more efficient to run, and they don't produce fumes.
