Insulation for forward storage area

**Dooley** · 08-31-2022, 09:02 AM

Has anyone insulated their forward storage compartment? If so, would you share what type of insulation used? Thanks.

**huntr70** · 08-31-2022, 09:19 AM

Assuming you are talking about a fifth wheel.

Those compartments aren't heated. Are you also putting a heat source in there?

You should be able to use any type of rigid insulation, or the "bubble wrap" looking foil insulation.

Still need heat though....

**Dooley** · 08-31-2022, 09:27 AM

No, not a fifth wheel. 22mle. The forward compartment is directly below bed. I had thought of using rigid insulation as you suggested. Thanks "huntr70", much appreciated.

**huntr70** · 08-31-2022, 09:44 AM

Originally Posted by Dooley

No, not a fifth wheel. 22mle. The forward compartment is directly below bed. I had thought of using rigid insulation as you suggested. Thanks "huntr70", much appreciated.

OK, then you will retain some heat in there already.

Rigid sheets work the best.

**Second Chance** · 08-31-2022, 10:29 AM

Originally Posted by Dooley

No, not a fifth wheel. 22mle. The forward compartment is directly below bed. I had thought of using rigid insulation as you suggested. Thanks "huntr70", much appreciated.

It would be really helpful when you post questions if folks new which line and model of RV you're talking about - especially in a case like this. You can create a signature block with your RV and tow vehicle information (see mine below). That way you won't have to repeat that information whenever you post or ask a question - and others won't have to ask. You can create a signature by going to:

Forum Actions (on menu bar) -> Edit Profile -> Edit Signature (under My Settings on the left)

Rob

**Riverbug** · 08-31-2022, 10:31 AM

Actually, that compartment is already insulated from the floor, front and sides. It's just thin paneling between the interior and storage compartment so it heats at just about the same rate as the interior. I did a post on this topic but would have to search for it. I put a thermometer with 4 sensors in mine so I could monitor exterior, interior, storage compartment, and belly (under the shower area). When the exterior temps were 30-40 degrees and the furnace was set to 68, the storage compartment was 2-4 degrees cooler than interior and the belly area was about 5 degrees cooler. The important point here is that you are using the furnace to blow that hot air and not using an electric heater to warm just the interior. Hope that helps.

**Dooley** · 08-31-2022, 11:23 AM

Originally Posted by Riverbug

Actually, that compartment is already insulated from the floor, front and sides. It's just thin paneling between the interior and storage compartment so it heats at just about the same rate as the interior. I did a post on this topic but would have to search for it. I put a thermometer with 4 sensors in mine so I could monitor exterior, interior, storage compartment, and belly (under the shower area). When the exterior temps were 30-40 degrees and the furnace was set to 68, the storage compartment was 2-4 degrees cooler than interior and the belly area was about 5 degrees cooler. The important point here is that you are using the furnace to blow that hot air and not using an electric heater to warm just the interior. Hope that helps.

I checked the temperature in storage compartment in December. Only a few degrees warmer than outside air. I do not see how much, if any warm air can get to storage compartment from inside of RV. You have the bed pedestal, valet with drawers below it. Not to mention the padded head rest that covers the back of wall. I never sleep with electric heater on, gas furnace is blowing. I appreciate your response.

**Riverbug** · 08-31-2022, 12:22 PM

I'm certainly not making it up. I'm in MN so I know what freezing temps are, and I traveled from MN to FL in December and back in Feb. Water flowing through my lines in below freezing temps and thermostats that tell me it's in the 60's is the only proof I can share.

Anyway, one other option you might consider is using that heat duct under the bed to blow warm air into storage compartment. You could put a Y connector in the duct so you can get some air to blow out the existing vent and some directed to a new vent for the compartment. Or insulate. Obviously, you wouldn't need to insulate the ceiling of the compartment since that's the bed or the interior wall. Bubble type insulation that could conform to the curve on the front wall would probably be easiest. Good luck.

**FlyStar** · 08-31-2022, 01:10 PM

I did the multi thermo sensors too. My storage are stays warm. Maybe 2 or 3 degrees colder than in the living spaces. There is furnace duct to the nautilus panel area and that heats the whole area. So. I kind of like the idea of a y connector and running a small duct to the compartment.

**Riverbug** · 08-31-2022, 01:49 PM

Originally Posted by FlyStar

I did the multi thermo sensors too. My storage are stays warm. Maybe 2 or 3 degrees colder than in the living spaces. There is furnace duct to the nautilus panel area and that heats the whole area. So. I kind of like the idea of a y connector and running a small duct to the compartment.

Your model is different than the OP's and mine. Ours don't actually have a heat duct to the compartment where the nautilus system is. Hasn't mattered on mine though.

But the OP is a little confused about the setup. The drawers are above the storage compartment as is the headboard. The wall between the compartment and the interior is just two thin layers of plywood; one on the interior of the coach side and one on the interior of the compartment. If he removes the one on the inside of the compartment he will see the aluminum framing and the backside of the paneling to the coach side. Just had another thought...he could also just cut a couple of holes in that paneling under the bed, that would also increase the heat transfer somewhat.