While most caravans come with a built-in heating system, it can be quite costly to repair if it breaks down. Furthermore, if your caravan doesn’t have a built-in heating system, you’ll need to find an alternative solution to keep you warm during your camping trips.
This is where this article comes in handy, as we’ll explore various types of caravan heaters that can be used as an alternative heating solution for your caravan.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read More
We’ll discuss the benefits and features of each type of heater, as well as what to consider when choosing one.
Whether you’re looking to replace your broken heating system or looking for an additional heating source, this article will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Touring Caravan Heaters – Is Gas or Electric Best
Touring caravan heaters can either be powered by gas or electricity. When deciding which type of heater to choose, you’ll need to consider your camping location and power source.
If you’re staying at a caravan site with unmetered electric via the sites electric hook up, an electric heater would be the most cost-effective option as you won’t need to worry about running out of gas.
Electric heaters are also quieter, produce no fumes, and require less maintenance than gas heaters.
On the other hand, if you’re off-grid, gas heaters are a better option as they don’t rely on electricity to function.
Gas heaters can be powered by either propane or butane gas and are highly efficient in heating small spaces quickly.
They’re also easy to use and install, making them a popular choice for caravanners who enjoy off-grid camping experiences.
Overall, when choosing between gas and electric heaters for your touring caravan, you should consider your camping needs, power source availability, and personal preferences to determine the most suitable option for you.
Touring Caravan Heaters Buying Guide
When purchasing a caravan heater, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Price: Set a budget for your caravan heater and look for a model that provides good value for money. It’s worth investing in a quality heater that will be durable and efficient in heating your caravan, rather than opting for the cheapest option.
- Weight: As a caravanner, you’ll want a heater that’s lightweight and portable, making it easy to move around and store away when not in use. A lightweight heater won’t add significant weight to your caravan, which can affect your towing performance.
- Physical size: The physical size of the heater is also a crucial factor to consider, especially if you have limited space in your caravan. Make sure to measure the available space in your caravan and compare it with the heater’s dimensions before making a purchase.
- Power output or wattage: The power output or wattage of the heater determines how much heat it can produce. However, it’s essential to note that anything above 2000 watts may trip the electric hook up on the caravan site, so make sure to check the wattage limits of the site you plan to visit.
When it comes to features, here are a few key things to look for:
- Variable temperature control: A heater with variable temperature control allows you to adjust the heat output to your desired temperature. This feature provides more control and comfort during your camping trips.
- Thermostat: An adjustable thermostat automatically regulates the heater’s temperature, ensuring your caravan stays at a comfortable temperature without the need for constant adjustment. The adjustable thermostat is ideal at night when you may want a slightly lower temprature.
To summarise, when purchasing a caravan heater, consider factors such as price, weight, physical size, power output or wattage, and features such as variable temperature control and a thermostat.
Investing in a quality, lightweight, and efficient heater with useful safety features, can make a significant difference in your camping experience, providing you with a comfortable and hassle-free heating solution for your caravan.
Additionally, be mindful of the wattage limits of the caravan site you plan to visit to avoid tripping the electric hook up.
What kind Of Electric heater should I buy
If you’re looking to buy an electric heater for your caravan, there are several types to consider, including:
- Halogen heaters
- Fan heaters
- Oil-filled radiators
- Convector heaters
- Plug-in heaters
Each of these types has its own pros and cons, and we’ll take a closer look at each of them later in this article.
When choosing a heater for your caravan, it’s important to consider factors such as energy efficiency, noise level, size and weight, and heating performance.
Ultimately, the best heater for your caravan will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Halogen Heaters – The Red light could be an issue!
Halogen heaters are a popular choice for caravans due to their energy efficiency and instant heat production. They are also lightweight and compact, making them easy to move around and store in a small space.
They are ideal for small to medium-sized caravans and can provide a comfortable amount of warmth without using too much electricity.
However, it’s worth noting that they can produce a bright red glow which may send out the wrong message to other caravanners.
Fan Heater – Great Caravan Heater For Larger Caravans.
Fan heaters are another popular option for caravans due to their ability to distribute heat quickly and efficiently.
A Fan Heater is also lightweight and portable, making them easy to move around and store. Fan heaters are particularly useful for larger caravans, as they can heat up a room quickly and effectively.
However, they do tend to be noisy as caravan heaters and use a lot of electricity, which can be an issue if you’re on a site with metered electric.
It’s worth considering these factors before choosing a fan heater for your caravan.
Oil Filled Radiators May be Too Heavy for touring caravans
A popular choice as caravan heaters, due to their energy efficiency and silent operation. They use oil as a heat reservoir to produce heat, which provides a steady, gentle warmth that can be ideal for night-time use in cold weather.
They are also typically the most efficient type of heater, making them a good choice for caravanners who want to save on energy costs.
However, they can be quite heavy and bulky, which may make them less portable than other options. It’s worth considering the size and weight before choosing one for your caravan.
Convector Heaters
Convector heaters are another type of portable electric heater that can be suitable for caravans. They work by circulating cool air up through a heating element, which then rises and warms up the surrounding area.
Convector heaters are generally lightweight and compact, making them easy to move around and store. They are also usually quiet and energy-efficient, making them a good choice for caravanners who want to save on energy costs.
However, they can take a while to warm up a room and may not be as effective as other types of heaters for larger caravans.
It’s worth considering the size of your caravan and your heating needs before choosing a convector heater.
Plug in Heaters
Plug-in heaters are the simplest and most affordable type of portable electric heater. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to transport and store.
Plug-in heaters are ideal for providing a quick blast of heat in a small space, such as a bathroom or bedroom.
While they may not be the most effective choice for larger caravans, you could use several plug-in heaters strategically placed around your caravan to create an even spread of heat. They are also easy to use, with no complicated controls or settings to worry about.
However, it’s worth noting that they are generally less energy efficient than other types of heaters, which can make them less cost-effective over the long term.
Pros Of Gas Caravan Heaters
Gas heaters have several advantages over other types of heaters when it comes to touring caravans. Here are some of the pros of using a gas heater:
- Off-grid heating: Gas heaters can be used off-grid or in the event of a power outage, making them a reliable choice for heating your caravan in remote locations.
- Portability: They are typically smaller and lighter than larger electric heaters, such as oil-filled radiators. This makes them easy to move around and store, which is particularly useful in a caravan where space is limited.
- Awnings: They work well in awnings, providing an additional source of heat if you are using your caravan as a base for outdoor activities.
- Compatibility with other electrical appliances: If you are using lots of other electrical appliances in your caravan, such as a TV or kettle, a gas heater can be a better option than an electric heater. This is because the combination of other electric items coupled with an electric heater could trip out the electric, whereas a gas heater operates independently.
Carbon monoxide poisoning
When using a gas heater in your caravan, it’s essential to also use a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced by gas heaters and other combustion appliances.
Inhaling high levels of carbon monoxide can lead to serious health problems, including brain damage or even death.
Here are some reasons why you should use a carbon monoxide detector with your gas heater:
- Safety: A carbon monoxide detector will alert you if there are high levels of carbon monoxide in your caravan, giving you time to evacuate and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Compliance: Many caravan parks and campsites require the use of carbon monoxide detectors with gas heaters to ensure the safety of all guests.
- Ease of use: Carbon monoxide detectors are easy to install and use. They are battery-powered, so they don’t require an electrical outlet, and they can be placed on a tabletop or mounted on the wall.
Remember, a carbon monoxide detector is not a substitute for proper maintenance and installation of your gas heater.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and have your heater serviced regularly to ensure it is operating safely and efficiently.
Best heater for caravan – Our choice
No products found.
I’m lucky enough to have Alde wet heating in my current caravan, which provides a comfortable and consistent heat throughout.
However, in my first caravan, I had no built-in heating system, and I had to rely on a 2000w convector heater to stay warm during colder months.
If I were in the same situation today, I would opt for a different approach.
Instead of one large portable heater, I would use several smaller plug-in heaters to provide a more even spread of heat throughout the caravan.
In particular, I would choose four 500w plug-in heaters instead of one 2000w convector heater.
Servral low wattage heaters would provide the same total power output, but spread the warm air more evenly and use up less space in the caravan.
Due to the lack of plugs in older caravans you would also need to unplug one portable heater in order to plug in another appliance like a microwave.
This would be ideal to prevent overloading the power supply.
This approach would be especially useful if I were staying on a caravan site with unmetered electricity, as it would help me to avoid tripping the electric hook-up with large, power-hungry portable heaters.
Overall, it’s important to consider your heating options carefully and choose the best solution for your individual needs and circumstances.
Address
Caraman
33 Aintree Way, Dudley, DY1 2SL
Phone 01384 660150
Hours of Operation
| Sunday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Monday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–8 pm |