There’s no denying that wintering in an RV can be challenging, but for part-timers and full-timers alike, the biggest challenge is often finding ways to stay warm. It’s why so many people put their RVs in storage during the winter months. Staying warm is doable with a bit of preparation. Here are a few easy ways to keep your RV toasty even when it’s freezing outside.

Skirt Your RV
Skirting your RV is one of the most effective ways to keep the interior of your rig warm and protect your plumbing at the same time. The skirt is a physical barrier against the wind and cold and helps trap any ambient heat beneath your RV to keep the floor and pipes warmer. You can buy professionally made skirts or make your own using foam board or thick vinyl sheeting. On extremely cold days, you can even run a small space heater under your RV to keep the area even warmer.

Keep in mind that skirting works best if you’re going to be parked for a month or more. If you’re traveling every couple of weeks, installing and removing the skirt may be too much of a hassle. 

Rely on the Furnace
RV furnaces are more efficient than you might think and they heat both the interior plumbing of your RV and the living space at the same time. If you can, use the furnace and set the thermostat to at least 55 degrees. This way, it will turn on anytime the interior gets too cold. If you’re worried about your propane use, consider installing an exterior propane tank kit on your RV. These kits let you hook up to a larger tank if you’re parked for the season or a small barbeque tank if you’re traveling frequently.

Use Space Heaters
Space heaters can also be an effective way to heat your rig, but they will use tons of electricity. You’ll want to use this method if you’re traveling more frequently and aren’t being charged electricity at your site or use your heaters as a supplement to your propane furnace. Just make sure the heaters you choose have an automatic shutoff if they’re knocked over or get too hot. This will reduce the risk of electrical fires inside your RV.

Layer Up
If you’re worried about your energy use or want to extend your propane supply as much as possible, layering up is a great option. Wear wool socks and sweaters indoors and consider wearing a warm hat indoors. You can also use blankets on the couch and flannel sheets on your beds to further improve your comfort.

Go South
The easiest way to stay warm during the winter is to escape the cold entirely. If you can, consider going south where temperatures rarely if ever reach freezing. Arizona, southern New Mexico, California, Baja, and Florida are all popular RV destinations to consider.

Staying Warm Is Easier Than You Think
Staying warm in your RV is doable with a bit of planning and patience. As long as you keep these tips in mind, you’ll stay toasty warm even when temperatures drop. Need to fill your propane tank? Stop by today and let our techs inspect your furnace and fill your tanks so you’re ready for the first cold snap.