Most RVs and campers are equipped with a propane-powered furnace that provides heat to the interior of the vehicle. This propane-powered heating system is a common and efficient way to keep the camper warm, especially during cold weather conditions.
Understanding Propane Heating in Campers
Propane is a popular fuel source for RV and camper heating systems due to its high energy density and portability. The propane furnace in a camper typically uses a forced-air system, where a fan circulates the heated air through a series of ducts and vents throughout the camper’s interior.
Propane Furnace Specifications
- Propane furnaces in RVs and campers typically range from 35,000 BTU to 40,000 BTU in output capacity.
- The furnace is fueled by propane stored in an onboard tank, which is usually a 20 lb or 30 lb tank.
- Propane weighs approximately 4.25 lbs per gallon, and each gallon of propane contains around 91,500 BTUs of energy.
Calculating Propane Furnace Runtime
To determine how long a camper’s propane furnace can run on a full tank, you can use the following formula:
(Size of propane tank / 4.25) x 91,500 BTUs / size of BTU furnace = total continuous hours of use
For example, a 20 lb propane tank contains approximately 4.7 gallons of propane. Using the formula:
(4.7 gallons / 4.25) x 91,500 BTUs / 40,000 BTU furnace = 10.75 hours of continuous use
However, it’s important to note that this calculation assumes the furnace runs continuously at full capacity. In reality, the furnace will cycle on and off based on the temperature setting and the ambient temperature, which can extend the runtime of the propane tank.
Other Propane-Powered Appliances
In addition to the furnace, campers may also have other propane-powered appliances, such as:
– Refrigerator
– Stove/Oven
– Water heater
These appliances will also consume propane from the onboard tank, so it’s essential to consider their usage when calculating the overall propane consumption and runtime.
Alternative Heating Options
While propane is a common and efficient heating source for campers, there are also other heating options to consider:
Portable Propane Heaters
Portable propane heaters can be a great alternative to the built-in furnace, as they don’t require any battery power to operate. These heaters are compact and can effectively heat the interior of a camper, but they don’t provide any heating for the plumbing or other systems.
Electric Space Heaters
Electric space heaters can be a good option for campers who prefer electric heat or want to conserve propane. However, these heaters can be power-hungry and may drain the camper’s battery bank quickly, especially if used for extended periods.
Electric Oil Space Heaters
Electric oil space heaters are another alternative that can provide consistent, efficient heating without the need for propane or significant battery power. These heaters can be run off a generator, making them a viable option for campers who want to conserve both propane and electricity.
Conclusion
In summary, the heat in a camper does indeed run off propane, with the majority of RVs and campers equipped with a propane-powered furnace system. Understanding the technical specifications and burn rate of the propane furnace can help campers better manage their propane usage and plan for their heating needs. While propane is a common and efficient heating source, exploring alternative heating options can also be beneficial, depending on the camper’s specific needs and preferences.