Activating Your Camper's Heating System: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to turn on heat in camper

Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the RV lifestyle, knowing how to turn on the heat in your camper is essential for a pleasant camping experience. Different campers have different heating systems, and understanding how to operate yours is crucial. Some common methods for heating your camper include using a furnace, a heat pump, or your vehicle's heater. Knowing the specifics of your camper's heating system will ensure you stay warm and toasty during cold-weather adventures.

Characteristics Values
Camper heating system types Furnace, Heat pump
Furnace fuel Propane
Heat pump fuel Propane or electricity
Heat pump energy efficiency More energy-efficient than furnaces, especially in milder temperatures
Thermostat location Wall in the living area
Thermostat functions On/off switch or button, up and down buttons to set temperature, "Heat" or "Furnace" mode
Troubleshooting Check propane level, inspect thermostat for error codes, listen for blower fan, be aware of burning oil smell
Additional methods without electricity Vehicle's heater, portable gas heater, vented furnace, insulation, hot water bottle

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Locate the thermostat

To locate the thermostat in your camper, you'll first need to identify the type of heating system installed. Most campers are equipped with either a propane, gas, or diesel heating system, and the thermostat will typically be located nearby.

If your camper has a propane furnace, the thermostat is usually mounted on a wall close to the furnace. It may be in the main living area or a hallway, and it will likely have a digital display with temperature controls. The thermostat controls the furnace by turning it on and off to maintain the desired temperature. It may also have additional features like a timer or fan speed control.

For campers with gas or diesel heating systems, the thermostat is often located in a similar position, mounted on a wall near the heater. Some gas heaters use a portable propane heater, which may have a built-in thermostat or temperature control knob. Diesel heaters, on the other hand, typically have a wired thermostat that allows you to set a minimum desired temperature.

Once you've located the thermostat, you can adjust the temperature settings to your preference. Keep in mind that different heating systems may have specific instructions for operation, so it's always a good idea to refer to the user manual for your particular camper's heating system.

If you're having trouble locating the thermostat, it's worth checking the camper's manual or contacting the manufacturer for guidance. Additionally, if your camper has a more complex heating system, such as a hydronic or radiant electric heating system, the thermostat may be part of a more integrated control panel. In such cases, understanding the specific heating system and its components will help you locate the thermostat more effectively.

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Turn on the thermostat

Turning on the thermostat is a great way to keep your camper warm, especially if you are camping in a cold climate. Here are some detailed instructions on how to turn on the thermostat and maintain a comfortable temperature in your camper:

Step 1: Check Your Camper's Heating System

Before turning on the thermostat, it is important to understand the heating system in your camper. Most campers, motorhomes, and RVs come equipped with a furnace that uses propane gas for heat and 12V power to regulate and monitor the temperature. Some campers may also have an electric heating system. Identify the type of heating system in your camper and ensure you have the necessary fuel or power source available.

Step 2: Locate the Thermostat

The thermostat in your camper is typically located in a central area, such as the living room or main cabin. It is usually mounted on a wall at a comfortable height for easy access and adjustment. Once you have located the thermostat, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Set Your Desired Temperature

Adjust the thermostat to your desired temperature setting. The thermostat will communicate with the heating system to maintain the desired temperature inside the camper. Depending on the model of your thermostat, you may be able to set a specific temperature or choose from pre-set heating levels.

Step 4: Ensure Proper Ventilation

When using any type of heating system, especially propane or gas heaters, it is crucial to ensure proper ventilation in your camper. Open a window slightly or use roof vents to allow for air circulation and prevent the buildup of dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide. Always follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your heating system.

Step 5: Monitor the Temperature

After setting your desired temperature, allow the heating system to run for a while and monitor the temperature inside the camper. Adjust the thermostat as needed until you reach a comfortable temperature. Keep in mind that factors such as insulation, weather conditions, and the size of your camper can impact how long it takes to reach and maintain the desired temperature.

Step 6: Maintain the Heating System

To ensure the efficient and safe operation of your camper's heating system, perform regular maintenance. This includes checking and replacing batteries, cleaning or replacing air filters, and ensuring proper ventilation at all times. Refer to your heating system's user manual for specific maintenance instructions.

By following these steps, you can effectively turn on the thermostat and control the temperature in your camper. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the specific heating system in your camper.

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Set the desired temperature

Setting the desired temperature is an important step in turning on the heat in your camper. After locating and turning on the thermostat, you can adjust the temperature to your preferred level of warmth. Most thermostats will have up and down buttons that allow you to set the temperature. You can increase or decrease the temperature until you reach a comfortable level for your camper.

Different thermostat brands may have specific instructions, so it's always a good idea to refer to your camper's owner's manual for detailed instructions. For example, if you have a Dometic thermostat, use the "Mode" button to cycle through the settings until you reach the "Heat" option. Then, use the up and down buttons to adjust the temperature accordingly. Similarly, for Coleman Mach thermostats, turn the dial to the "Heat" setting and then use the up and down buttons to set your desired temperature.

It's worth noting that the temperature inside your camper can also be influenced by factors such as insulation and window coverings. Proper insulation can make a significant difference in maintaining a comfortable climate, so consider adding extra layers of insulation if needed. Additionally, covering your windows can help retain heat and prevent cold air from entering your camper.

By following these steps and adjusting the temperature to your preference, you'll be able to create a cosy and enjoyable environment in your camper, even during cold weather adventures.

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Select the Heat or Furnace mode

Once you've located the thermostat, turned it on, and set your desired temperature, it's time to select the "Heat" or "Furnace" mode. This will activate your camper's heating system, so make sure you've completed the previous steps before proceeding.

Different thermostat models have different ways of selecting the heating mode. Here are some common examples:

  • Dometic Thermostats: Use the "Mode" button to cycle through the settings until you reach "Heat".
  • Coleman Mach Thermostats: Turn the dial directly to the "Heat" setting.
  • RV Products Thermostats: Press the "Mode" button repeatedly until the "Heat" icon is displayed.

If you're unsure about how to select the heating mode on your thermostat, consult your camper's owner's manual for detailed instructions specific to your model. It's important to refer to the manual because the specifics may vary depending on the brand and model of your thermostat.

After selecting the heating mode, you may also want to adjust the fan speed to control how quickly heated air circulates throughout your camper. This step is optional but can help you customize your comfort level.

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Adjust fan speed

Adjusting the fan speed in your camper is an important part of optimising your heating system. The blower fan circulates heated air throughout your camper, and if it's not running at the optimal speed, it can reduce the effectiveness of your heating.

There are two types of fan motors found in campers: PSC (Permanent Split Capacitor) and ECM (Electrically Commutated Motor). PSC motors are the most common and run at a constant speed, while ECM motors are more energy-efficient and can be set to run at different speeds depending on the load and thermostat settings.

To adjust the fan speed on a PSC motor, you will need to refer to the colour-coded wires. Typically, black is for high speed, blue is for medium speed, and red is for low speed. However, it's important to refer to your manual, as these colour codes can sometimes vary. By connecting or disconnecting the speed wires, you can control the fan speed.

ECM motors often have dip switches that need to be adjusted to control the fan speed. These motors offer more flexibility, allowing for smaller adjustments to be made to the fan speed.

It's important to note that adjusting fan speed requires specialised knowledge of fan motors and wiring. Attempting to do this yourself could void your warranty and cause serious damage if not done correctly. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a certified HVAC technician to adjust your fan speed.

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Frequently asked questions

You can heat your camper without electricity by using a propane or gas heater, your vehicle's heater, a mounted vented furnace, or a wood-burning stove.

Electric heaters are the easiest and most convenient option for heating your camper. They are lightweight, safe to use indoors, inexpensive, and emit no smell or CO2. However, they draw a lot of power, so it is recommended to use them when you have electric hookups available.

A diesel air heater is the cheapest option. It is a secondary furnace unit that can be installed in your camper and runs off the diesel fuel housed in your camper's fuel tank.

Wood stoves are the best option for heating your camper without propane or electricity. They require scrap wood and paper to generate heat.

It is important to ensure that your camper is well-insulated to retain heat. Seal any holes or cracks, install a skirt to insulate the undercarriage, and upgrade the insulation if needed. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, especially when using propane heaters.

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