Hot topics for both consumers and webmarketers on WebmasterRadio.FM
Every Wednesday, 5PM Eastern.
RV Heating & Cooling Tips
Replace Your RV Furnace
If you have to replace your RV furnace, don't despair. There are many replacement models available and some are much more energy-efficient than ever before. Some offer a premixed gas/air combo that means more energy-efficiency and a better use of gas by wasting less, thereby improving performance.
RV furnaces are available in low-profile models as well, in case space is a concern when you replace your RV furnace. These low-profile models will even fit in many RV basements, which allows you to service them from outside, rather than inside the coach. Never try to replace an RV furnace yourself, it must be done by a qualified RV technician.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Camping World Inc. Tip: Portable RV Air Conditioners
Portable RV air conditioners offer several benefits over window air conditioners. These evaporative units combine the function of a dehumidifier, fan, cooler, and air cleaner all in one. They also take up less space and are more energy efficient than window- and roof-mounted models.
When you shop for portable RV air conditioners, look for models with a remote control, programmable 24-hour timer, an emergency water holding tank and a memory so it does not lose its programming during a power outage. Some of these units even come with heat pump technology, so you can use them as a heat source during the winter as well.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
RV Tankless Water Heaters
RV tankless water heaters can provide hot water for the entire family in just minutes. No more waiting for the small water tank to heat up again and again; these compact units offer hot water instantly. You only have to attach a cold water line, and they plug into your campsite electrical power for energy (it runs on 120 volts).
The only thing you have to remember is that all your faucets, showerheads and aerators must be low-flow. Most companies supply a low-flow aerator with their RV tankless water heaters. These RV tankless water heaters really make sense for big families or full-time RVers that use dishwashers and washers as well.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Camping World Inc. Tip: Outdoor RV Heaters
If you use your RV for tailgating or winter camping, outdoor RV heaters are a must. These high-BTU heaters are made to create warmth in a campsite or tailgate area and can heat up to 100 square feet in just minutes by using radiant heat. It should be easy to put together and take apart and it should cool down quickly so you can store it away easily after use.
Look for outdoor RV heaters that are easy to store, carry, and that will run for a number of hours on their gas source. (Most use propane). You should also look for one that radiates heat in a complete 360-degree circle. Try to find one with pushbutton ignition for easier starting, as well. Remember, these RV heaters are for outdoor use only.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
RV Roof Air Conditioners
To keep RV roof air conditioners in top form, you should perform some maintenance every year before you use your RV again.
Filters. Change the filters for new ones. If they're not that dirty, you can wash them and use them again, but your best bet is a new filter every season.
Condenser fins. Look for crushed condenser fins and carefully straighten them out. Gently clean out any bugs, leaves, or other debris in the condenser fins. Consider putting a grill on your air conditioner to avoid these problems.
Shroud. Inspect the shroud and the mount. If the shroud is damaged in any way, replace it or it could come loose and fall off the roof of your RV.
Test. Test the air conditioner before you leave home to make sure all the fans and parts are working correctly.
RV roof air conditioners need to be maintained correctly to ensure years of service, so a few minutes of inspection and maintenance each year is a small price to pay for cool comfort all season long.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Camping World Inc. Tip: RV Vents Need Covers
If you've ever experienced the "joy" of a rain shower inside your RV, you need to install RV vent covers to keep rain out but fresh air circulating. These vent covers are easy to install and come in a wide variety of colors, sizes and shapes to fit just about any RV vent you've got.
Look for RV vent covers that don't need drilling to avoid drilling your roof (and the potential leaks that can cause). These vent covers also keep bugs and leaves outside, keeping the inside of your RV clean and neat. If you're like many people, you forget to close your RV vents when you put away your rig for the season. However, with these RV vents with covers, that won't be such a catastrophe.
