There are many BOV’s to choose from, the most common are converted Utility/Work Vans, Pick-up trucks and RV’s, either a trailer or motorhomes. One of the biggest issues with all of then is having a safe way to heat the interior. In a cold climate it becomes a serious issue, nothing I can think of is worse than being wet and chilled to the bone all day and all night.
The commonly used propane catalytic heaters have several issues, one being the humidity they create while burning propane is so bad the walls of your BOV are wet sometimes to the point of dripping, that dampness is also in your clothes, blankets and mattress. Another is you must have a window partially open to let oxygen in the BOV, kind of defeats the purpose of the heater. Still, another is they are either on-or-off so trying to maintain a comfortable temperature is not possible by their design.
I recently came across a Hot Air Heater that resolves all the issues. It is propane fired, has a thermostat you can set to your temperature liking, is relatively inexpensive and uses very little propane and 12-volt electricity. It uses outside air for combustion and exhaust making it very safe and efficient.
This heater is called “Propex HS2000”. Cost about $500.
Manufacturers Link:
A user demo video link:
Specifications:
Average propane consumption = 5 ounces per hour
Heat Output = 6,483 BTU’s (equivilent to a 1,900 watt electric heater)
Voltage = 12 volts
Current Consumption = 1.9 amps continuous running and .04 amps standby
Air Throughput = 60 CFM
Fuel = Propane
An 8.6-pound cylinder of continuous use = 27.5 hours of heat
A 29-pound cylinder of continuous use = 91 hours of heat
These are continuous running amounts. Once the inside temperature is reached and the furnace is cycling about 50% of the time to maintain the space temperature the propane and 12-volt current should be reduced by about 50%.
These are continuous running amounts. Once the inside temperature is reached and the furnace is cycling about 50% of the time to maintain the space temperature the propane and 12-volt current should be reduced by about 50%.
Mike,
ReplyDeleteVery interesting! I'm going to have my husband check this heater out further since we have an RV. It also sounds like it would be great for outside in the barn when working in there.
I wanted to let you know I came across a deal at Sam's Club yesterday on solar panels. Coleman 100 watt, 12 volt crystalline solar panel with 8.5 AMP charge controller $99.91, regular price per $140.00. I picked one up for hubby to piddle with, and see if he can charge several things in the barn and RV.
Hi Sandy,
DeleteTo give you a comparison to the heat output this unit it is equivalent to a 1,900 watt electric heater. Most of us have a 750/1500 watt milk-can heater where you can feel the amount of heat a 1,500 watt heater puts out. This unit puts out a 1,900 watt equivalent, plenty warm for a Van or about a 25 foot RV.
What a deal on the solar package!
Does that work in both low and high humidity areas ?
DeleteSeems to be a good way to keep a small room warm enough for humans and/or animals in case of a power outage in a blizzard. More oxygen in a room than a vehicle but still keep a window cracked just in case.
Anon, humidity has no affect on the heater output or operation.
ReplyDeleteNo need to crack a window as it is a closed system like an RV furnace or home gas furnace.