As temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, it’s time to start thinking about keeping warm this winter, especially if you plan to take the RV out for a cold-weather camping trip.
Winter camping offers relief from mosquitoes and an air conditioner that runs non-stop with enjoyable brisk hikes, sledding, and plenty of other outdoor activities. But, once the sun starts to set, you will want a warm place to return to after playing outside. Sure, a campfire or cozy blanket can do the trick, but when it gets too cold inside the RV, an electric heater could be the answer to keep Jack Frost from nipping at your nose.
Here are four reasons you may want to consider an electric heater for an RV this winter season.
1. Can heat a small space quickly
RV in the winter | Michal Fludra via Getty Images
Electric heaters are affordable and warm up a small space rather quickly. Most RVs are less than 400 square feet and don’t require a lot of air circulation to heat the living area of the trailer. Within several minutes, you can feel the chill leave the air, returning your camper to a comfortable temperature.
According to Camping World, there are several options for electric heaters that are suitable for an RV. Ceramic electric heaters are readily available and are a good option for heating a small space quickly. They utilize a small fan for circulating heat but are typically louder and consume more energy than other electric heaters.
An infrared heater is more expensive but does not use a fan for circulating heat, emitting electromagnetic waves that warm the furniture, flooring, and walls of the room instead of the air.
Oil-filled radiant electric heaters quickly provide consistent heat, keeping your RV space at a constant temperature. This type of electric heater is often slender in design and on wheels, making it easy to move around as needed.
2. Save money on propane
Most modern RVs are equipped with a built-in furnace that operates on propane. While these units are efficient and great for keeping warm, they can prove expensive. With rising fuel costs, you can burn up quite a bit of cash trying to keep the propane tank full.
Using an electric heater as an alternative heating source will keep you warm and your wallet intact. Since electric hookups are usually included in the overnight fees for a camping spot, you won’t need to spend additional money on heating costs.
3. Portable and easy to move
An electric heater for an RV is a good option because the units are typically small, lightweight, and easy to move around. All you need is a power source to run an electric heater, and its ease of portability makes it simple to move to any part of the trailer where you want extra warmth.
RV Life advises the heat generated from portable electric heaters is direct, so “you need to be careful to avoid placing them near paper or fabric that could catch on fire.”
4. Does not take up a lot of space
Most electric heaters cost less than $100 and are powerful, considering their small size. Not only are they compact enough to fit on top of a table or nightstand, but they can also be easily stored away when not used.
Drivin’ & Vibin’ recommends keeping an electric heater in your RV for drastic temperature changes, saying, “you’ll never have to worry about an unexpected chill leaving you chilled to the bone, no matter where your RV takes you.”