Heating A Camper Van Or RV With Electric Heat
Why limit your travels to mild climate destinations when you can see more of the world in comfort, with the addition of an electric wall heater built into your Camper Van or RV.
Many people are familiar with propane heaters options available for Camper Vans, but these units burn expensive and fume-emitting propane. Even if you have a propane system installed, an electric unit can be installed as an inexpensive secondary unit for when you have full-service hookup at a campground.
In most cases, electric is actually cheaper and more efficient to run, as many campgrounds offer a flat rate for full-service hookups, including electric, so it makes sense to save the propane for when your rolling down the road and enjoy the luxurious warmth and convenience of electric heating when electric service is available.
photo credit: @drewandjenn
Why not just use a wood stove or propane?
Wood or propane heat sources require more work to maintain. Everyone loves a wood-burning stove, but logistics of getting wood, preparing it and waiting for a wood stove to heat up, take significant time every day. And don’t forget the period maintenance or clean up required. Pile propane might be necessary when you’re on the move, nothing is easier than plugging in and getting instant heat from an electric heat source after a long day of driving.
photo credit: @drewandjenn
Benefits of Electric
Unlike gas-powered units, electric wall heaters product clean, dry air with zero local emissions and operate on peak efficiency. And since some campgrounds actually include free power with your reservation fees, it can add up to big savings. Other site may charge an incremental electric service fee per day, but these small service fees likely would be significantly less than cost of propane for the weekend.
In addition, electric heaters are zone based, so you won’t waste energy warming your entire van when you only need the heat in one specific area.
photo credit: @drewandjenn
Electricity at Public Campsites
Most public campsites will offer electric hook-ups of some sort. Check the campground’s site map to find the location, but they are typically easily spotted on wooden posts right at your site. The typical electrical setup is with a 30 amp RV plug or twist-lock 120 volt input.
The most common amperage available at such campsites are 30A and 50A. Some may also have an extra 15 amp 120 volt plug, which is similar to the outlets you use at home. So it i important to setup your Camper Van with a compatible service plug. And it is important to note that Campsites may have specific regulations, so check with the management office before plugging in.
photo credit: @drewandjenn
photo credit: @drewandjenn