The cold has now set in, but you still want to travel? You’re absolutely right! Motorhome holidays are not limited to the summer holidays. Why deprive yourself of discovering new destinations just because temperatures are dropping? However, your vehicle needs to be prepared for the cold so that you can enjoy an unforgettable holiday. So don’t wait any longer to discover our best tips to keep your motorhome warm in winter!
Choose the right heating
There are several types of heater you can install in your converted vehicle (if you haven’t already). Your choice will depend on your budget, the size of your vehicle and how you intend to use it.
- Water heating
This type of heater heats a coolant that is then distributed over a circuit. The advantage of this type of heater is that it can be connected to a water heater, so you can enjoy hot showers in winter!
- Heating combined with a water heater
This heater works on a forced-air system, which quickly warms up the motorhome’s cell, combined with a water heater integrated into the heater. This type of heating is quite expensive, but is one of the most efficient.
- Gas heating
Gas heating is also widely used to heat recreational vehicles. However, there are two types of gas heater: forced-air gas heaters and convector gas heaters. Forced-air heating works in the same way as diesel heating. This type of heating requires an adequate gas supply and is mainly used on larger motorhomes.
Gas convector heaters are mainly used for caravans, and are installed inside the layout. However, it is reserved for caravans and mobile homes and is not suitable for other types of converted vehicles.
- Self-contained diesel heater
This is the type of heater most commonly installed in motorhomes or converted vans. You can adjust the power level via a control panel. The heating unit draws in air and heats it with a burner, then redistributes the air. Conveniently, it’s the fuel your vehicle uses! The heater can be installed under the chassis or in the passenger compartment, and unlike gas, it works even when you’re driving!
- Electric heating
This is the most practical and least expensive type of heating, and unlike other types of heating, requires no technical installation. You can choose between fan-assisted radiators, which heat the room quickly, or oil-bath radiators, which distribute heat more slowly. But be careful! They are not self-sufficient, and you’ll need to be connected to the electricity grid to take advantage of them!
Insulate your motorhome
Just like in a house or apartment, insulating your vehicle is important if you want to optimize your heating!
- Insulate the outside
The first thing you need to do is insulate the outside of your motorhome, using an insulated external shutter. This will keep the cold out and protect your windows, windscreen and engine from freezing. Prices vary according to the size of your vehicle and the brand of thermal insulation, but you should expect to pay around a hundred euros for a simple cover.
- Insulate the interior
If your motorhome or van is not equipped with a double floor, we recommend adding a layer of insulation by laying carpet or rugs on the floor. This will keep your feet warm!
Opt for accessories
Of course, if you decide to go on vacation when it’s cold, a number of accessories will be needed to keep you warm in your vehicle. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of accessories to help you cope with the cold in your motorhome:
- Hot-water bottle (classic or rechargeable)
- Thick socks
- Plaids and/or cushions if you’re short on space
- Dehumidifier
- Isothermal thermos
- Antifreeze
And above all … heating safety!
Heating is no laughing matter, because accidents can happen… If you don’t have a heater in your vehicle and you want to install one, call in a qualified professional, especially if it’s a gas heater! And don’t forget to install a carbon monoxide detector, as carbon monoxide poisoning remains one of the main domestic accidents in motorhomes!
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Check out our other articles for more tips, such as « Our tips for a successful first trip in a motorhome » or « 8 tips for buying a used motorhome! »