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  1. #1
    Seasoned Camper
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    Potentially Stupid Question: Does Anyone Run their Furnace While Towing?

    Looking to do some cold-weather camping next week. It occurred to me that I COULD run the furnace in my camper while I was towing (I think) it to our destination, so that it's warm and cozy inside for the wife when we set up. It kind of goes against my grain to even think about doing this, but I thought I'd ask. Does anyone do this? What are the pitfalls?

    Thanks.

    PS - Forgive me if this IS a ridiculously stupid question...

  2. #2
    Rolling Along kevinpo's Avatar
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    I have done this for more than 20 years up here in the frozen north so my plumbing doesn't freeze. Never had a problem and no frozen plumbing down to -10F.

    HTH,
    Kevin
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  3. #3
    Site Team WhittleBurner's Avatar
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    There was discussion on this early on in the forum, GD said no (this is back when they participated) but gave no real valid reason. Seemed more of a CYA reply.
    If I recall correctly it came down to as long as the cold air returns are not blocked there was no other reason why it can't be done.
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  4. #4
    Site Sponsor SGT ROC's Avatar
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    I have never done it, but the coldest for us was in the Mid 30's. We don't camp in the winter. But... If your going to run the frig while towing, which I do, why not the furnace? I agree, as long as the cold air return is not blocked, not issue as far as I can see.
    Bob (retired) & Vicki
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  5. #5
    Big Traveler Wicked ace's Avatar
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    Wouldn't the 120VAC electric be needed to run the fans?
    2018 F150 XLT 301a, Screw, 4x4, HDPP, Max tow, Andersen Ultimate w/ Curt Double Lock hitch.
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  6. #6
    Rolling Along JColeman's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wicked ace View Post
    Wouldn't the 120VAC electric be needed to run the fans?
    The furnace controls and fan run off the 12V battery system
    Jeff and Jen
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    Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety. - Ben Franklin

  7. #7
    Site Sponsor andrewssteve's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Wicked ace View Post
    Wouldn't the 120VAC electric be needed to run the fans?
    Ok. Now I gotta question the veracity of all those boondocking claims you've made.

    Just messing with you. . .

    -Steve
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  8. #8
    Big Traveler Wicked ace's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by andrewssteve View Post
    Ok. Now I gotta question the veracity of all those boondocking claims you've made.

    Just messing with you. . .

    -Steve
    ??????
    2018 F150 XLT 301a, Screw, 4x4, HDPP, Max tow, Andersen Ultimate w/ Curt Double Lock hitch.
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  9. #9
    Big Traveler boyscout's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by MJMCCAND View Post
    Looking to do some cold-weather camping next week. It occurred to me that I COULD run the furnace in my camper while I was towing (I think) it to our destination, so that it's warm and cozy inside for the wife when we set up. It kind of goes against my grain to even think about doing this, but I thought I'd ask. Does anyone do this? What are the pitfalls? Thanks. PS - Forgive me if this IS a ridiculously stupid question...
    Not ridiculously stupid at all. As others have said it can be done. Just know that there are plenty of people - including some authorities who can give you tickets - who say that propane should be turned off when traveling. Some of the laws relate to operating propane devices near fuel pumps, probably for very good reason. However there are lots of people who ignore the laws without blowing up themselves or anyone else.
    Mark - 2018 Solitude 310GK - 2017 F-350 diesel SRW short box - Pullrite Superglide hitch

  10. #10
    Long Hauler D2Reid's Avatar
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    Funny how I am willing to accept one risk but not another. I travel with the refrigerator on propane. I do not travel with the heater running. I have no good explanation for this. They both have lock out functions should they fail to start that prevents propane from leaking into the RV.

    For what it's worth; we travel in subzero conditions. The rv is typically around 65f when we shut off the heater in the morning. Around noon to 1pm when we stop for lunch average temp is around 45, we turn the furnace back on for a bit when it's really cold. We typically stop traveling between 3 and 4. The RV has never been down to freezing temps doing this. Warms back up within a half hour.
    Dallas
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