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Originally Posted by cpaharley  I have been searching RV shows and reading several posts in my quest for the best, all around Airstream. My questions center around 3 areas, some of the models have the wrap around windows in the bedroom area. Is this area hot in the summer and cold in the winter due to the large glass area. I also notice storage under the bed with o/s access, does this make the bed colder? Would I not be better with less glass area exposure? The second area of concern is how the underbelly is kept warm, some models have hotair and some have 12V heaters on the tanks. It would seem the 12V would be more efficient. Finally, I notice some interiors have a finish and some are aluminum, what are the pros/cons in regards to heat and cold? Would not the non metal finish be more insulated? These concerns will help me in deciding on which model will suit my needs best. I appreciate your input! |
Welcome to the forums!!
In answer to your questions, most of them are a resounding YES! A window is great for a view, and absolutely terrible for energy efficiency. Most modern houses have dual-pane energy efficient windows to help offset this effect. Most Airstreams have single pane windows. Having no windows would be the best thing for energy efficiency in temperature extremes, but do you want to sacrifice the view of the lake/mountain that you just drove 1500 miles to see?
For comparison sake, the residential building code in Michigan only allows 15% of the exterior wall space to be occupied by windows. I've not measured an Airstream, but I'm willing to bet that most are far beyond 15% and probably closer to 30%.
An aluminum interior is a terrible choice for energy efficiency. (They do look great though.) Aluminum is a conductor of heat. The vinyl covering used in the 1970's models will help offset some of the heat loss, but is not used anymore. A layer of paint will help considerably. Wood cabinetry interiors do actually have some "R" value as well as thermal mass, and will be a better choice for regulating the temps.
As was mentioned earlier, an RV was not designed to be a model in energy efficiency. The furnaces and A/C units are oversized compared to a modern house, and they are expensive to operate. A LEED rating for an RV will be another hundred years from now.
Good luck,
Woody