Forum Discussion

MamaCharlton's avatar
MamaCharlton
Explorer
Sep 04, 2013

Newbie needs advice

We have a new heritage glen 5th wheel with a bunk house. We are moving it for the first time and will also spend the winter in the North, so I have a few questions.

1- how much do I need pack up? or can I just leave our things in the cabinets as is?
2- we have single pane windows on which I have put a reflective film to help with the summer heat, however what can I do in winter to help with heat loss?
3- our underbelly is enclosed, so do I need to worry about tank heaters? If so, can I self install?
4- suggestions for making it nice and toasty inside would be appreciated, especially the bunk house where our 2 and 4 yr old kids sleep.

We will be at a full hookup campsite in WI, and I know it can be very cold!
  • Alley_Fox's avatar
    Alley_Fox
    Explorer
    Sep 04, 2013
    Buy or make the foam bolsters that fit snugly into the roof vents. Walmart has them for about $9USD. Get some good electric space heaters to keep areas where you spend the most time warm. Minimize the number of times you open the door if possible. If you have slideouts, roll them in whenever there's no one in the RV for long periods. Of course, when you extend them again, you will pull in cold outside air.
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Sep 04, 2013
    We travel most every week....so the only things we 'pack up' are the items that sit out on counter tops.

    Single pane windows......open the shades during full sun.
    Then close shades when sun is no longer shining thru window. Some bubble insulation between shades and glass will help retain heat...same for roof vents.
    Enclosed under belly helps BUT you need some source of heat to tanks/valves. You may have a duct from furnace. Otherwise......skirting with couple 100W bulbs
    Use ceramic space heaters to supplement furnace......still need to run furnace especially IF heat duct goes to enclosed under belly. PROPANE.....see about having a local company set up a 100# bottle....cold temps/high propane usage
    Keep your fresh water tank full.....insulate/heat tape your water hose and drain line.

    And everybody gets a new warm/toasty sweater.....footsie PJ's.....lap blankets (snuggies) and sheep-lined slippers

    Best of luck!

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