Heating
All but the most basic foldup trailer will have a furnace to provide warmth. For the most part, such furnaces will keep an RV comfortable in all but the coldest temperatures. RV owners who plan on doing a lot of winter camping in colder climates may opt to purchase an upgrade winter package for their RV. This package will provide better insulation in the RV, helping the furnace work more efficiently to keep you comfortable.
The most common heating system found in newer RVs is a propane-powered, forced-air furnace. It works in the same manner as the furnaces found in many homes. Propane is burned to heat the air in the furnace, and a fan then blows the heated air into the interior of the RV through vents placed throughout the RV. Most often, these systems are thermostatically controlled.
This type of heater does require both propane (for the heat) and some electricity (for the fan). Before going starting out on a winter trip, check that your propane tanks are full.
ALERT
If you smell gas or if your gas-powered devices are not working properly (they should burn with a blue flame), shut them off and check for leaks. Mix a solution of very soapy water and apply it to all gas fittings (connections); if you see a bubble forming there is a gas leak. Turn off the gas from the propane tanks and get the rig to your RV service center ASAP.
Try to be conservative in your use of propane to avoid running out before the trip is over. Propane will also be used for cooking and water heating. If you are not camping with hookups, the furnace fans will be running off the RV battery. You may find your battery runs down quickly if you have the temperature up too high and the fan is running often. Layering with warm clothing, sealing any leaks that may cause drafts, and adding extra insulation to the window coverings can help conserve energy. If you are winter camping, try to camp in a spot that is open and not shaded. Let the sun provide free solar energy for heat, rather than using up your propane and batteries.
Modern RV heaters are very efficient and safe. They are vented to the outside air, keeping them safe and free of problems from carbon monoxide. Part of your routine maintenance should include checking to see that all vents are free of debris for proper venting of deadly gases.
Additional heating sources can be used in your RV, but use them with caution. Electric strip heaters and ceramic strip heaters are safe if not knocked over or allowed to touch flammable items like curtains and bedding. These heaters use electricity that will quickly deplete batteries if you are not hooked up to shore power.
ALERT
Never use gas or catalytic heaters in your RV. They are very dangerous in a closed environment, as they produce large amounts of deadly carbon monoxide that can sicken and kill quietly and quickly. The potential for fire is also much higher with these heaters, even if there is proper ventilation.
