Some Basic Radiant Heating Questions

[BrockLives]

I am looking at having a radiant heating system put into my Ambassador, but I don't know the first thing about them and consequently am having problems choosing what heating unit to use. I've read a lot of older threads on this topic, but most of the information is over my head.

I will be living in my trailer fulltime and want it to be as off-grid ready as I can, but realistically I will be hooked up to electric most of the time. Is a propane unit like a TwinTemp Jr. my best bet in this situation, or are there electric powered units that will be more economical? Are there even electric units out there for RVs? What exactly are my options?

Thanks!

[2airishuman]

hi brock

search catalytic heaters, radiant may find distracting info about INFLOOR systems.

you will find a load of info good and bad on catalytic heat.

i prefer a VENTED catalytic heater...

as in the 'platinum cat' u can search or google it...

for a 29 footer above the mason-dixon line consider putting in TWO...

a small one in the rear and a larger one up front.

these would keep you toasty and are safe.

there is a LOT of extra interior moisture/condensation to consider with cats.

they won't use much electricity but you may need a big lp tank (next to the trailer) for the coldest months.

IF you have access to electricity a traditional ducted/vented rv furnace would be more effective for winter.

and the prices aren't much different when btu needs are compared...

cheers
2air'

[HowieE]

2airishuman

An interseting type of heater. Have you used this type as opposed to the unvented? I may have to change out my unvented because of an aged element and this looks interesting.

My current unit is mounted on the side of the cabinet forward of the dinette and talking to the manufacture they say that would work since the unit could be recessed into the cabinet.

[FreshAir]

Hopefully, doorgunner will see your thread because he has 2 great solutions. One of which he has in use now.

Neil.

[2airishuman]

Originally Posted by HowieE

...An interseting type of heater. Have you used this type as opposed to the unvented?...

hi howieE

yep for about many years.

it was/is the only cat "approved" for rv use by rvia.

here are a couple of threads and links...

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f427...-ir-38149.html

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f427...ers-35230.html

cheers
2air'

[BrockLives]

Whoops, I actually am talking about in-floor radiant heating! Sorry for the confusion.

[BrockLives]

Just curious if anyone knew of any RV-safe infloor electric radiant heating systems?

[UpNorthAir]

SunTouch Electric Radiant Heat Mats

Try talking with these guys. Used them for the hydronic radiant heat in my house. They are very good. I can't see why these mats would not work under a floating floor or carpet. According to this you need to embedd it in 1/4" masonary set. Just have to watch weight.....

[UpNorthAir]

You could also go under the subfloor with it. You wouldn't need the 1/4" masonary set, saving some weight. check this out...

Suntouch Electric Radiant Heat Mats, Suntouch, Suntouch Radiant Heat, Suntouch Floor Heating, Suntouch Floor Heat, Suntouch Warm Wire, Nu Heat, New Heat

[cameront120]

NuHeat type electric radiant in floor heat only does you any good if you have access to a 120V electrical source. If you're off the grid, no heat, unless you can find something that runs off of 12V