Contingency Heat Source

[JamuJoe]

We are just completing a three week trip from CO to WA and return with wonderful visits to Monument Valley and Zion NP en-route. We had light freezing temps most nights, and never a problem staying warm and comfortable until we docked in Boardman, OR along the Columbia River on the return trip. I pressed the Dometic CC2 for the furnace and - nothing. Tried the Heat Pump and - nothing. Did the soft reset on the CC2 and - nothing. Outside temp showed 32º and inside temp showed -5º. It was cold inside, but not that cold!

Thankfully, we had aboard a small 110v ceramic heater, and that kept the coach warm enough overnight. That's the point of this posting. The heat pump and furnace are independent heat sources, but both are dependent upon the CC2. If it fails, there is no heat. The little ceramic heater saved the night.

Called Airstream and they recommended a SOB Dealer in Boise, ID. Bretz RV was great - they put a Dometic trained tech on it right away and he diagnosed a CC2 interior thermocouple failure. It wasn't simply the cable and RJ connectors. Unfortunately, he had no replacement, but rigged a secondary interior thermocouple that allowed the furnace and heat pump to operate. I'll have to deal with the warranty and replacement when we return the trailer to our dealer.

The Airstream is fine for moderately freezing temps, and we've spent nights at 17º F without issues, but I would suggest having a contingency heat source.

[Alphonse]

A 1500 watt electric heater seems to work well to keep the chill knocked down.

[Jammer]

I too dislike the CCC for this among other reasons.

A fact to consider, for the mechanically and electrically inclined, is that if the CCC fails to deliver a call for heat, the furnace wires can be found by removing the air box from the front A/C, and either shorted together for instant heat, or temporarily wired to a cheap home-center thermostat until more permanent repairs can be made.

[Silver Otter]

We agree about carrying alternative heat. We use a small three setting oil filled electric radiator. We roll it into the bath and close the door to the front. It keeps the back bedroom toasty during the night and is quiet.