Buyers Guide

Alternative Heat Sources For Your RV

By Emily Lawrence

Although most RVs are equipped with heating and A/C systems, these can drain power or use fuel if they're constantly left on. That's why it's important to consider some alternative heat sources.

One of the best options for RVers is portable space heaters. These are ideal for heating up small enclosed spaces.

Portable Space Heaters

Smaller RVs can get away with one space heater. The three main types of heaters that work well for RVers are electric, oil, and radiant heaters.

Portable Space Heaters

These produce ambient heat, so there is a lower fire risk with these models. They operate by heating up a store of oil within the heater, then radiating the warmth outward.

Portable Space Heaters

Oil

These models tend to be a bit larger and resemble radiators, so you'll need to find a good place to keep them.

Portable Space Heaters

Oil

Radiant heaters can run on propane or other types of gas and can get very hot very quickly.

Portable Space Heaters

Radiant

Unfortunately, radiant heaters are a pretty serious fire hazard. Buy units that that will shut down if they're knocked over or start overheating. 

Portable Space Heaters

Radiant

In addition, keep them away from flammable materials like curtains, books, carpets, etc.

Portable Space Heaters

Radiant

A great low-energy solution that can help you stay warm is an electric blanket. These don't use much power at all, but they will keep you nice and toasty all night long.

Heating Blanket

Even if they aren't always on, the extra layer will help. They are also quite safe and don't create the same fire hazards that space heaters do.

Heating Blanket

Finally, some travelers have found that a wood-burning stove helps their RV stay nice and toasty once the temperatures drop.

Wood Stove

It gives you a nice place to cook, plus it acts as a low-energy alternative heat source. Wood fires are nice and warm, and they can quickly heat up a small space like an RV.

Wood Stove

There are several downsides to this method, though. -Wood smoke can spread throughout your RV.

Wood Stove

-You'll need to feed the fire with wood constantly. -A live fire inside an RV is much more dangerous compared to an electric or propane heater.

Wood Stove

A solar air heater is a device that uses sunlight to heat and circulate air through an RV. It typically consists of a solar panel, blower, and distribution system.

Solar Air Heater

A solar air heater can be constructed out of many types of materials. Click learn more or swipe up to learn how to make one for your RV

Solar Air Heater

Get an in-depth look and product recomendaitons in the full article Camper Report.