Electric space heaters

pianotuna wrote:

My favorite heat source is electric heated carpets.

I like the concept but they are relatively low-wattage per square foot. The size that would fit in a van or small RV would be 300W or less. Maybe I could fit 2 of them in.

Bumpyroad wrote:

pianotuna wrote:
Heat strips are useful down to about 40 f. If it is cold than that the air conditioner fans don't like it.

also, the semi warm air from the AC fan does not feel hot when it blows on you.
bumpy

Agree, wasted energy. Any small space heater a better choice!

Jerry

pianotuna wrote:
Heat strips are useful down to about 40 f. If it is cold than that the air conditioner fans don't like it.

also, the semi warm air from the AC fan does not feel hot when it blows on you.
bumpy

Heat strips are useful down to about 40 f. If it is cold than that the air conditioner fans don't like it.

Bumpyroad wrote:

coolmom42 wrote:
I've always just used the basic little cube style heaters. They go to 1500 watts and 2 different fan speeds.

Don't use them with an extension cord or plug strip. Check that the tip-over cutoff works. Set them in a place where they wont' get pushed against anything cloth or plastic. They are perfectly safe.

I will add, don't set them on the floor next to the bed as they can scorch a circle on the blanket when/if it comes in contact. :)

bumpy

Sounds like the voice of experience! I always make sure they are on a hard surface away from combustibles, both in the RV and at home.

Curly2001 wrote:
I was also thinking about a heat strip in the A/C. We had an old Terry that had a heat strip and it was really good. Was old enough that we didn't have duct work but came out of the bottom of the A/C unit. Took the chill off and you didn't run the furnace. Do they still make them?
Curly

since they put out so little heat, much is lost if you have to heat up ductwork, etc. of limited value.
bumpy

I was also thinking about a heat strip in the A/C. We had an old Terry that had a heat strip and it was really good. Was old enough that we didn't have duct work but came out of the bottom of the A/C unit. Took the chill off and you didn't run the furnace. Do they still make them?
Curly

Lots of discussion here. :h

I only use ceramic heaters that have a tip over switch, easy to check to make sure it works.

Also have added separate wiring and plugs that hook up to the 15 amp outlet on the pedestal.

How easy is that?

pianotuna wrote:
Hi,

I would avoid digitally controlled heaters. If the power "blips" they may turn off.

thanks, I didn't think of that.
but at least they wouldn't blink "12:00" :)
bumpy

Bert,

I have a thermostatically controlled 600 watt heater in my waste tanks enclosure. They are under the bed, so I'm not too concerned about insulation.

I do have a heated mattress pad--and highly recommend them for cold winter nights. My battery bank is sufficient to run them all night.

From a TC point of view, yes insulation under the mattress may be useful. One would have to make sure that the surface didn't drop below the dew point.