Changing heat pump to heat strip

rgatijnet1 wrote:
Doug, So you are saying that the RV AC units are the latest technology available and that there is no possible way that their efficiency could not be improved.
A split system still has the same components that operate the same way. A change in compressor and gas would improve things.

The technology for AC AND HP on RV's has been the same for over 20 years. HP, on RV's just came into being in the late 1990's. The COST is a big factor on redesign. There is updated technology's for various Heating and Cooling systems, like variable speed pumps and motors, but RV's are a different animal. I can buy a very efficient variable speed Swimming Pool pump for almost $1300, that will save electricity. BUT, I replace mine with a $175 pump. I just cannot justify that 10 times the cost to save a minimal amount of electricity. Now, If I was building a new pool, then I would splurge on the higher cost pump. Multiply the RV HP's by MILLIONS, installed on new units and COST becomes a big factor. Doug

By the way I don't have a Coleman with a heat strip instead I have
Penquin II heat pumps and I use small elect heaters .

The OP asked a reasonable question and deserved reasonably truthful
answers

Here is what Coleman has to say about their A/C with a heat strip .

( You can count on the Mach 15 for reliability. All-copper tubing and gas-flux brazed joints ensure durability and long life for your RV air conditioner.Add the optional Heater Assembly, and you will have 5,600 BTUs of heat for cool-weather outings . )

It says 5600 BTUs of heat, thats 5100 more than the 500 mentioned earlier .
5600 BTUs no matter how cold it is

Now with my limited knowledge I believe a heat pump works by collecting heat
from outside and transfering it inside .
So less heat outside less heat inside .
Can it really be that simple ?

THe only way I'd even consider switching a heat pump for heat to heat strips.

For one thing... A/C's on RV's tend to be roof mount. I want A/C's on the roof as that is the hottest part of the RV.. but for heat I want it down near the floor. Heat pumps DO have advantages that make 'em worth it. but if I'm going to use resistive heat (Electric heat strips) I want 'em near the floor where my space heaters sit...

NOTE: most RV's are not wired to support space heaters. I added heavy duty wiring to mine just for that 12ga wire feeding 15/20 amp outltes wire bent around a tightened screw.. NOT the uni-box **** the factory put in.

I only worked in RVHVAC for a couple of years, and I am in with Ductape.

Matt

Just buy a space heater and plug it in. Same result.

Doug, So you are saying that the RV AC units are the latest technology available and that there is no possible way that their efficiency could not be improved.
A split system still has the same components that operate the same way. A change in compressor and gas would improve things.

rgatijnet1 wrote:

gbopp wrote:

msturtz wrote:
Heat pumps move heat (more efficient) heat strips create heat by electrical resistance (less efficient - more expensive)

I've always read that electrical resistance is the most efficient heat.
But, also the most expensive.

Nope, a heat pump is more efficient that resistance heat. Unfortunately the makers of RV heat pumps are stuck in the 1990's. With the new gases available, and newer technologies, residential heat pumps are still very efficient down to zero and below outside temperatures. Maybe at some time the makers of RV heat pumps, and AC units, will start making their units to be as efficient as the residential units.
Here is a link to one unit that still operates down to -13F. Low temperature heat pump

Sorry, you are comparing BIG Apples and Oranges. RV units are self contained and MUCH smaller in size. They also are NOT split systems like the link you provided. Notice that the Chinese do not state BTU's. Doug

gbopp wrote:

msturtz wrote:
Heat pumps move heat (more efficient) heat strips create heat by electrical resistance (less efficient - more expensive)

I've always read that electrical resistance is the most efficient heat.
But, also the most expensive.

Nope, a heat pump is more efficient that resistance heat. Unfortunately the makers of RV heat pumps are stuck in the 1990's. With the new gases available, and newer technologies, residential heat pumps are still very efficient down to zero and below outside temperatures. Maybe at some time the makers of RV heat pumps, and AC units, will start making their units to be as efficient as the residential units.
Here is a link to one unit that still operates down to -13F. Low temperature heat pump

mc.cc wrote:
Has anyone changed a roof air heat pump to a heat strip?

I’ll ask ... Why do you want to do this?