Cold weather camping

[dirtclod-MGRV]

We are planning on a fair amount of cold weather camping, with temperatures ranging from highs of 50, to lows of 0. We will have to leave for the week and return on weekends to RV. My question is, do we need to winterize every time we leave or leave an electric heater on 50, or what temperature, not to be froze up when we return on Friday night? Any cold weather camping advice appreciated!!!!!!

Thanks Mike

 

[Cate&Rob]

Hi Mike,

The only way to heat the underbelly is with the propane furnace.
If you are going to be away from the trailer for days at a time, I think you will have to winterize.
What hookups will you have ? This will have a significant affect on your plan.

Rob

 

[TucsonJim]

Mike as pointed out, you need the propane furnace to keep the plumbing warm enough with those low temperatures. If you are going to be gone for days at a time, you could contact a propane company and rent a large propane bottle to keep from running out.

 

[dirtclod-MGRV]

Rob and Jim, the hookups we have are electricity and sewer, haul fresh water to site, we have to haul propane also. We can quickly blow out with air, leave thermostat at 60 (low as it will go) electric heater on whatever, (if we have enough propane) or any other thoughts?? If one was to leave electric heater on 50, how much cold do you think it would stand, Thanks!!! Mike

 

[Cate&Rob]

Hi Mike,

Have you considered insulated skirting since it sounds like the RV is staying put for a while ?
Putting an electric heat source under the trailer would keep the tanks warm and enough heat should rise through the camper to keep other stuff from freezing. You might still want to blow out the lines, put antifreeze in the traps and drain the water heater for really cold spells.

Rob

 

[dirtclod-MGRV]

Thanks! We will try that. Newbie to cold weather camping.

 

[concreteman]

Leave your water heater on electric. Keep your thermostat about 62. You should have enough propane with 2 30lb bottles to make it at least 10 days. If you have sewer I would asume that your grey tanks are open. When you leave open all tanks. If you are there leave your grey tanks open. Your black tank is not going to freeze with chemical in the tank and several gallons of water. The most important thing is your water supply line have a heated hose or insulate.

 

[dirtclod-MGRV]

Thanks!!!!!!!!!!