Accessing Your Camper Heater: A Step-By-Step Guide

There are many ways to heat a camper van, and the best option for you will depend on your budget, the climate you're travelling in, and your energy source.

If you're looking for a heavy-duty heater, you might want to consider a gasoline or diesel air heater. These compact units are usually placed under a seat and require a small amount of power to be routed to them. They can, however, be expensive, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, and may require professional installation.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you could try a wood-burning stove, an electric heater, or even just extra insulation and some warm blankets.

Whatever option you choose, staying warm in your camper van is achievable!

Insulation

Insulating your campervan is a key step in most van conversions. Insulation is one of the very first steps in the process, and there is plenty of debate about what types of insulation and methods are the best for vans.

The purpose of insulation is to slow the transfer of heat. Typically, people think of insulation as retaining warmth when it's cold outside, but it also slows the heat from getting into your van on a hot day. Insulation only slows the transfer of heat; eventually, the cold or heat will catch up to you.

There are three types of heat transfer: conduction, radiation, and convection.

• Conduction is when heat transfers through solid objects that are in physical contact.
• Radiation is when heat transfers through electromagnetic waves without a medium.
• Convection is when heat transfers through the physical movement of a liquid or gas.

The R-value of insulation is a standardised system for measuring a material's thermal conductivity. R-value is given 'by inch', meaning that you need an inch of thickness to achieve that R-value from a given material. R-value is only achieved under near-perfect circumstances or laboratory conditions.

When insulating your campervan, you should consider the following:

• Thermal bridging: A thermal bridge is a weak point in your insulation that allows heat transfer. Most commonly in a campervan, it's caused by poor insulators (like metal or wooden ribs) on the inside of the van's structure.
• Moisture and moisture barriers: A moisture (or vapour) barrier is a waterproof layer that is meant to keep moisture out of your insulation. However, with a van's shape being so irregular, it's nearly impossible to create a perfect vapour barrier. Thus, it may have the opposite effect of trapping moisture in, instead of keeping it out.
• Off-gassing, VOCs, and sensitivity: Many types of insulation are made from materials that off-gas chemicals or VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Foam insulations, in particular, may have chemicals that slowly leach out over time, known as 'thermal drift'.
• Sheep wool: Sheep wool is probably the best all-natural product for insulating a campervan conversion. It has a respectable R-value, manages moisture well, is fire-resistant, pest-resistant, non-toxic, eco-friendly, and easy to work with. It also absorbs VOCs from the air, so it can actually improve air quality.
• 3M Thinsulate: Thinsulate is a synthetic thermal and acoustic insulation made of polyethylene fibres. It doesn't absorb moisture but allows it to pass through so it won't get trapped against the walls. It is non-toxic and doesn't off-gas. It's quite easy to work with, requiring just a pair of scissors to cut the batts to the sizes needed.
• Closed-cell spray foam: Spray foam has the highest R-value on this list at 6.4 per inch, and it absorbs no water. However, to truly do an entire van with spray foam, it's highly recommended to get it done by a professional installer.
• Polyiso foam board: Polyiso foam boards are a very popular product for insulating a campervan. Besides spray foam, it has the highest R-value of anything on this list. Polyiso is sold in 4'x8' sheets, just like plywood. Its rigidity can be a positive or a negative, depending on the space you're trying to insulate.
• XPS foam board: XPS foam board is readily available and has pretty good insulating properties. It's barely cheaper than Polyiso, has a lower R-value, and uses ozone-damaging HFCs in manufacturing.
• Hemp wool: Hemp Wool, made by Hempitecture, is a great eco-friendly and vegan insulation. It has an R-value on par with sheep's wool and EPS. It's non-toxic, biodegradable, and manages moisture well. The major strike against Hemp Wool is that it has a Class-E fire resistance rating (which is about the lowest possible rating).

Portable heaters

Mr. Heater Buddy Heaters

Mr. Heater offers a range of portable propane heaters that are perfect for camping. Their heaters are known for their safety features, such as auto shut-off and tip-over protection. The Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy Heater is a popular choice, providing indoor-safe heating for up to 225 square feet. It offers adjustable heat settings and sturdy construction for durability. You can find Mr. Heater Buddy Heaters on Amazon, with prices ranging from $54 to $113.

Lasko Ceramic Portable Space Heaters

Lasko ceramic heaters are compact and versatile, making them ideal for RVs and campers. They feature adjustable thermostats and efficient ceramic heating elements. The Lasko 754200 model is a great option, priced affordably at around $38. For a more feature-rich option, consider the Lasko 5160 Ceramic Tower Heater, which includes a remote control, digital display, and oscillation for widespread heat distribution. This model is priced at around $67.

Dyson AM09 Fan Heater

The Dyson AM09 Fan Heater is a premium choice for RV and camper heating. Its bladeless design and advanced features make it stand out. It offers precise temperature control, remote control, and oscillation for even heat distribution. While it comes at a higher price point of around $454, its innovative design and performance have made it a popular choice among RV enthusiasts.

Honeywell HCE200W UberHeat Ceramic Heater

The Honeywell HCE200W UberHeat Ceramic Heater is a compact and reliable option. Its small size makes it easy to place in limited spaces, and it offers two heat settings with an adjustable thermostat for personalized comfort. This heater also includes overheat protection for safe operation. You can find this Honeywell heater for around $35, making it a budget-friendly choice.

Vornado MVH Vortex Heater

The Vornado MVH Vortex Heater utilizes Vortex technology to provide consistent and even heat distribution. It features an adjustable thermostat and a safety shut-off feature for peace of mind. Its compact size and powerful performance make it an excellent choice for RV owners. The Vornado portable heater is priced at approximately $60.

Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater

The Dr Infrared Heater combines infrared and convection heating systems for versatile and efficient warmth. It offers dual heating modes (low and high) and includes a remote control and built-in thermostat for convenience. This heater also has an auto energy-saving mode to optimize power consumption. Priced at around $121, it offers advanced heating technology and energy efficiency.

OPOLAR Ceramic Space Heater

The OPOLAR Ceramic Space Heater is perfect for smaller RVs and campers. It features oscillation for even heat distribution and tip-over protection for safety. The adjustable thermostat and timer function provide added convenience. This heater is affordably priced at around $40.

Pelonis PH-19J Pisa Tower Portable Ceramic Space Heater

The Pelonis PH-19J Pisa Tower heater is a space-saving option, ideal for limited spaces in RVs and campers. It features oscillation for widespread heat distribution and an adjustable thermostat for personalized comfort. Its sleek and modern design adds style to your RV while keeping it warm. The Pelonis heater is available for around $55.

Comfort Zone CZ707 Personal Heater/Fan

The Comfort Zone CZ707 is a compact and budget-friendly option, priced at only $29. It offers dual heat settings (low and high) and includes a fan-only mode, making it useful all year round. The overheating protection feature ensures safe operation. Its small size makes it perfect for tight spaces in RVs.

Optimus Infrared Quartz Heater

The Optimus Infrared Quartz Heater provides instant radiant heat, quickly warming up your RV. It features an adjustable thermostat and a tip-over safety switch for automatic shut-off. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to move and store in your RV. The Optimus heater is priced at around $50.

COSTWAY Oil-Filled Radiator Heater

The COSTWAY Oil-Filled Radiator Heater offers quiet and efficient heating for your RV. It provides three heat settings and includes a built-in handle for easy transportation. The thermal shut-off feature adds safety by turning off the heater if it reaches a certain temperature. This heater is available for around $40.

Broan-NuTone 6201 Big Heat Portable Heater

The Broan-NuTone 6201 heater is a durable metal heater suitable for both outdoor and indoor use in your RV. It features a built-in adjustable thermostat to maintain your desired temperature. Additionally, it includes an automatic shut-off feature for safety. This heater is a great value at approximately $40.

Other Options

In addition to these portable heaters, there are other ways to keep your camper warm. Consider insulating your camper with reflective insulation for windows and vents, or using a wood-burning stove like the Cubic Mini Stove. You can also invest in heated blankets or electric blankets/sheets, but these will require a power source. Remember to always follow safety guidelines when using heaters and keep flammable items away.

Electric heaters

There are a few different types of electric heaters for campers, including:

• Ceramic heaters: These small space heaters use electricity to heat a heating element and then a fan to push air over the element to warm it. The warm air is then blown out into the camper.
• Radiant heaters: These heaters use electricity to create heat within the heater, often by heating oil, and then radiating that heat out into the surrounding area. They are quiet but may not warm the air as much as ceramic heaters.
• Heat pumps: These pull heat from the outside air and carry it into your camper. They can only work in temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

When choosing an electric heater for your camper, consider factors such as the size of your camper, the climate you'll be camping in, and your power source. Additionally, always follow safety guidelines when using any heating device.

To turn on an electric heater in your camper, follow these general steps:

• Ensure the hot water tank is filled with water.
• Locate and remove the access panel for the hot water heater, usually outside your camper.
• Find the on/off switch for the water heater, typically in the bottom left corner of the panel.
• Refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions, as each brand and model may vary.

Remember to always exercise caution when using any heating device in your camper to prevent accidents or fires.

Propane heaters

There are two main types of propane heaters: ducted and space heaters. Ducted heaters are well-known, durable, and well-made but are also very expensive. Space heaters, on the other hand, are less expensive and include both electric and propane heaters. Propane space heaters are better for boondockers and use less fuel than a big RV furnace. However, they will not keep your pipes and tanks warm, so they are more likely to freeze in super cold weather.

When using a propane heater, it is important to ensure that you have proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of dangerous gases. You should also be aware of moisture buildup if you opt for a propane-powered space heater, as they produce wet heat. Over time, this moisture will build up and condense, potentially leading to the growth of moulds and mildews.

Some popular propane space heaters for RVs include:

• Lasko CD09250 Ceramic Portable Space Heater
• Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy
• Camco Olympian Wave 8 Gas Catalytic Heater
• Lasko 755320 Ceramic Space Heater

If you are looking for a ducted propane heater, the Suburban and Atwood models are good options. However, they are also very expensive, and most RV owners will have to pay for a professional installation.

To save money, you may want to consider insulating your camper instead of using a propane heater. You can do this by sealing any open holes in your RV with caulk or weather stripping, installing an RV skirt to insulate the undercarriage, and upgrading the insulation in your floor, ceiling, and walls.

Wood stoves

Types of Wood Stoves

There are a variety of wood stoves available for campers, including free-standing and wall-mounted options. When choosing a wood stove, consider the size of your camper and the amount of space you can dedicate to the stove. Smaller campers may require a mini wood stove, such as the Cubic Mini Wood Stove, which is less than a cubic foot in size and designed for spaces up to 200 sq. ft. Larger campers or RVs may accommodate bigger stoves like the Cubic "Grizzly" or the Dwarf 4kw. If you have a slide-out in your camper, you'll also need to consider the weight of the stove and ensure it doesn't exceed the manufacturer's requirements.

Installation

Installing a wood stove in your camper requires careful planning and attention to safety. Here are some key considerations:

• Clearances and Heat Shields: Wood stoves require certain clearances from combustible materials. Typically, you'll need a horizontal clearance of 20 inches in all directions and a vertical clearance of 30 inches. You can reduce these clearances by using heat shields, which are recommended for maintaining safe distances between the stove and nearby combustible surfaces.
• Chimney and Flue: Wood stoves need a chimney or flue system to vent combustion gases. Most installations involve cutting a hole in the roof for the flue to exit, and it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper installation of the flue pipe. The chimney should follow the 3-2-10 rule, meaning it needs to be 3 feet above the roof penetration or edge, or 2 feet above any part of the structure within 10 feet, whichever is higher.
• Air Intake: Wood stoves require a source of fresh air for combustion. Some stoves have an air inlet hookup that can be connected to an external source, helping to prevent drafts and ensure efficient burning.
• Wall Exits: While less common, it is possible to install a wood stove with a wall exit. However, this may require additional clearances and could extend further from the side of your camper.

Maintenance and Safety

• Fuel: Wood stoves typically burn wood, charcoal, or pressed fire logs. It's important to use dry wood to ensure efficient burning and minimise smoke.
• Ash Disposal: Regularly remove ash from the firebox to maintain the stove's performance. Have a safe plan for disposing of hot ash, such as using a metal container.
• Carbon Monoxide Detector: Install a carbon monoxide detector in your camper to monitor for dangerous gas buildup.
• Chimney Maintenance: Inspect and clean your chimney or flue regularly to remove any creosote buildup, which can be a fire hazard.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Self-sufficiency and natural fuel source.
• Cozy atmosphere and real fire experience.
• Efficient heating and moisture elimination.

Cons:

• Maintenance and tending the fire can be time-consuming.
• Chopping, storing, and drying wood can be labour-intensive.
• Carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and soot emissions need to be managed.

Frequently asked questions