The 10 Best RV Heaters Buying Guide

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Last Updated on September 5, 2024 by Paul Clayton

The 10 Best RV Heaters Buying Guide

The efficiency of RV heaters ensures a cozy living space and safeguards your vehicle’s interior from potential damage due to extreme cold temperatures. Investing in a quality RV heater can significantly enhance your road-tripping experience, making it a worthwhile addition to your vehicle’s amenities.

• Heater type: Choose between propane and electric.
• Safety features: Look for auto shut-off capability.
• Size and weight: Opt for compact and lightweight.
• Energy efficiency: Consider power or gas consumption.
• Noise level: Select a quieter heater for peaceful living.
• Accessibility to resources: Propane availability for propane heaters.
• Climate suitability: Consider efficiency in extreme cold.

If you want a lifestyle that involves traveling constantly, all year round, and constantly visiting new places, a recreational vehicle will be perfect for you.

Talk about a free lifestyle! But not all places are the same, and seasons change with time.

When your next destination is a place with low temperatures, or when your next trip happens in winter, there’s nothing better than having something that keeps you warm and cozy as you go on your adventure. And that’s exactly what an RV heater is for.

If you bought your RV, it likely came with a built-in propane heating system. However, some prefer electric-powered systems instead.

For those who custom-build their RVs, this is the guide to help you avoid mistakes when buying your next RV Heater.

Avoid buying mistakes when choosing RV camping accessories by checking out our excellent guides.

Whether you’re buying an extra heater, replacing an existing one, or even building a new RV entirely, you want to get the one that best serves your needs.

The Best RV Heaters

To help you decide on your next source of warmth during your next adventure, here are the top 10 RV heaters of 2024:

1. Lasko CD09250 Ceramic Adjustable Thermostat

Summary

Our first heater is perfect for those who like it old-school. The Lasko CD09250 makes itself stand out in a market full of heaters with digital settings controllers by having knobs instead. Despite this, the manual controllers still do their job perfectly well.

One of the knobs is for setting the mode: high heat, low heat, or fan. Meanwhile, the second knob is the one responsible for allowing you to control how much warmth you want it to provide; in short, the second knob is a thermostat. Quick and easy.

Its construction is made from thick plastic, which always remains cool. This is accomplished by using a ceramic element that can automatically regulate its temperature.

This feature comes in handy if you want to move the unit around or get it from point A to point B. Do note that the ceramic element means that this heater can’t be placed in areas of above-average humidity, such as the comfort room.

The fan option is also great if you want to heat your RV to a specific temperature and let the fan do the rest or when you need to cut back on energy. The heater is also portable, so you can place it anywhere.

This particular model also shuts down automatically once it senses it is overheating. However, it cannot automatically shut down whenever it is tipped over.

2. Camco 57351 Olympian Wave-8 LP Gas Catalytic Heater

Summary

The Camco 57351 Olympian Wave-8 LP Gas Catalytic Heater is propane-powered, so it doesn’t require electricity if a power supply is a concern. It’s also a wave heater, so it radiates comfortable heat.

Instead of heating the air, it first warms up the people, objects, floors, and walls, so you’ll immediately benefit from its warmth. This heater can be placed on the floor or mounted on a wall.

One good thing about the Camco 57351 Olympian is that even though it’s meant to be used as an auxiliary heater.

It still works great as a primary heat source for your mobile home, providing up to 8,000 BTU, which means it can quickly warm a space of around 350 square feet. And this heater also does it fast.

Another benefit of getting the Camco 57351 Olympian is its ability to remain quiet while used. Other RV heaters tend to clatter when used, but this one functions perfectly while remaining silent.

This heater can easily keep it friendly, warm, and comfy without any sound distracting you from your sleep, perfect for when you want some shut-eye in a cold climate.

However, it would be best to note that the Camco 57351 Olympian uses HD-5 propane gas exclusively. HD-5 is indeed the most distributed variant of propane gas. However, it would be best if you were still careful not to accidentally use HD-10, as it could be more common in other places, such as California.

In terms of features, the Camco 57351 Olympian has the feature to shut off the valve automatically but has no option for fine-tuning the temperature.

3. Broan NuTone 6201

Summary

Small though it may be, this heater is built like a tank. The case is metal, with thick plastic lining the edges to prevent accidental tipping.

The handle is also made of thick plastic, so the device can be easily transported without worrying about its heat.

The construction and design make this device very durable if that’s what you’re looking for in a heater.

Its relatively small size may make you doubt its capabilities. But rest assured, the Broan NuTone 6201 is capable of everything you expect from it.

However, reaching your desired temperature takes a while, especially when you leave it at a low setting. To warm your place up faster, set the heater to its highest setting immediately.

Once it becomes warm enough, you can turn down the setting to what you want.

Note that you might get a strange chemical odor when using this device. Fret not, this is normal, and often happens when you first run a brand-new heating device (although certain brands have ways to make the smell negligible).

If it’s a bother, leave it open when running it.

This is for you if you need a portable heater that can be placed anywhere. It is small, durable, and can heat space fast (if you raise the setting to maximum).

4. Ontel Handy Heater

Summary

If you want something a little smaller, the handy heater is an excellent option for its size. It measures only 6.2 inches high and 3.3 inches thick and is covered by a metal casing.

The Handy heater is also powered by electricity and consumes 350 watts. Due to its low power consumption and portable design, you can use it anywhere there’s a power source, such as a plug.

One good thing about the Handy heater is its automatic timer function, which has options for high and low settings and can be programmed for up to 12 hours. This is a great feature for forgetful types.

A significant downside to the Handy Heater is that you must manually set the settings, including the temperature, every time you use it.

This means that if you turn it off sometime during the night, you’ll need to get up and manually input your desired settings again before you can use it.

This issue is made worse because the temperature controller is challenging to push when increasing the heat by a little (although this may be because it’s new). Having the option to have presets would go a long way to improving usability.

Do note that the Handy Heater is only capable of heating small spaces, roughly around 100 square feet (as opposed to the 250 square feet that were advertised). Luckily, if your space is around that size, this RV heater can warm it up relatively quickly.

Sadly, the Handy Heater doesn’t have any safety features. Clumsy people should be careful when buying this product.

5. Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX

Summary

What a mouthful. Mr. Heater’s new heater is propane-powered and designed to be portable, meaning you can take it around with you. Perfect for when you’re in the mood for camping out.

A single look at this product shows that it was designed for maximum safety. It will automatically shut itself off whenever it detects that it’s been toppled or detects a low oxygen level.

It also shuts down if its pilot light is snuffed. It is a great feature, especially if your campsite has a lot of flammable material.

Since it’s gas-powered, you’ll need a propane supply. Don’t worry if you’re camping out; even a small propane canister should be sufficient. The propane tank can also be the power source if you use it inside your motorhome.

The heater can quickly heat a 225-square-foot space. If your place is more prominent, you can always use the maximum setting (and have a fan aid the heat spread). Note that increasing the setting might require more propane.

If you plan to use this heater overnight, have a tank with 5 pounds or more of propane fuel. This heater requires a considerable amount of resources, and each pound of propane only lasts about 5 hours, even when the setting is set to lowest.

A device for detecting carbon monoxide is also advisable, especially if you’re planning to use this heater in an enclosed area most of the time.

Gas heaters with a central heating system typically have an exhaust vent leading outside, but this one doesn’t. It’s advertised to be 100% efficient, but it’s always better to be safe.

Finally, this heater is silent and does not vibrate, even while operational. It’s perfect for cozy nights spent sleeping peacefully in a tent outside.

6. BOVADO USA Portable 166648 Ceramic Space Heater

Summary

Don’t let its medium size fool you; this heater is quite capable. Warm up an average trailer only takes around 20 minutes at high settings. This performance is on par with other full-sized furnaces despite being relatively portable.

This RV heater is also designed to be durable. While other RV heaters might overheat when working for too long, this RV heater’s material is strong enough that it’s possible to maintain the (impressive) heat for long without having to worry about internals. Its material is also highly resistant to meltdowns.

Bovado USA 166648 also has several safety features. It has an overheat protection system, which shuts the device off if its components reach a specific temperature. It also has a Safety Tip-over switch, which allows the device to shut itself off if it falls over automatically.

However, one downside of this heater is the noise. This is something to note if you like to keep your heater running while you’re asleep because the noise from the fan might wake you up.

The Bovado USA 166648 makes use of two knobs for controlling the settings. The first knob is for switching between the three modes; you can choose either high heat, low heat, or fan. The second knob is a thermostat for fine-tuning the temperature.

This device also runs on electricity, so you can take it with you and use it anywhere there is a power source.

The Bovado USAs 166648 is a portable and durable heater if you can handle the noise. While not very fancy, this unit is dependable in its security features and capability to heat your space.

7. Suburban NT-30SP Electronic Ignition Ducted Furnace

Summary

This propane-powered heater uses an electronic ignition instead of a pilot light. Electric ignitions are more cost-efficient than pilot lights since they’re not always on. The burners will only activate if the furnace is turned on.

To enjoy the full heating capability of the Suburban NT-30SP, getting the complete package is highly suggested since it includes a vent system. Installing the whole set is relatively easy; it only takes two or three hours to set up.

This already includes installing the duct system and aligning the ports and vents. However, if this is your first time setting up and installing such a system, it’s easy to become intimidated by the work.

The Suburban NT-30SP performs quite well in terms of heating. At its maximum, this heater can reach 30,000 BTU, meaning it can heat an area of up to 2,000 square feet, more than enough for the average RV.

Combine this with its vent system, which can quickly warm up your RV. No more frosty doors or windows, no more chilly rooms.

With this heater, your entire RV will be a warm and cozy wonderland, even in winter, especially if your motorhome has several rooms. The vent system will ensure that each one is as warm as the others.

The biggest downside of this furnace is expected. Because it has to heat your entire motorhome instead of just a small space, unlike the other items, the Suburban NT-30SP consumes a significant amount of gas.

It’s also much more expensive than the other portable heaters on the list, which is understandable given that it’s bigger and much more capable.

If you’re looking for a new furnace and want your next one to last, this one is worth considering. It’s capable of providing heat and is highly durable.

This furnace can be depended on for at least two or three decades, maybe even more. Unlike the other options, it’s a long-term investment, but it’s worth it.

8. Suburban NT-16SEQ

Summary

The Q in the Suburban NT-16SEQ stands for quiet, meaning it’s similar to the NT-16SE in almost all aspects except its silent operation. To accomplish this, the noisy blades in the fan used in the NT-16SE were improved to produce less noise and vibrate less.

Like the NT-30SP reviewed previously, this unit is propane-powered and uses electronic ignition. However, this vented heater is smaller and can “only” output up to 16,000 BTU. However, this is still enough to power a relatively large 800-square-foot area.

Another difference from the NT-30SP is that this unit has a ductless design, making it easier to install. For safety purposes, the air intake and combustion exhaust are vented outside the RV.

Another safety feature is its ability to sense whether there’s a flame; if it detects that the flame is out, the gas valve will automatically close.

The NT-16SEQ requires 12 volts to run, which your battery can adequately supply, meaning you don’t have to go to a specific RV park to use it.

This unit also works great, even using solar-powered DC batteries. Its power draw is minimal since it only needs power for the circuit board and the fan.

Like the NT-30SP, this heater is a long-term investment due to its cost. It will last you for at least a couple of decades and, most likely, more. However, even though it’s smaller than the NT-30SP, it is still not portable.

9. Lasko Oscillating Digital Ceramic Tower Heater

Summary

The Lasko 755320 Ceramic Tower Heater is a dependable RV heater. This 23-inch heater is made of quality materials that can easily withstand high temperatures.

The cover is constructed from top-quality fiberglass, so you can touch it and not worry about getting burned.

The handle also functions well, so you can easily take the heater when moving from one place to another, even if the unit is running.

The Lasko 755320 also has a boatload of features. First is its oscillating feature, which allows the unit to keep the temperature nice and even throughout the space.

Second is its self-regulating feature, which includes an auto-off timer that maxes out at 8 hours. This gives you the peace of mind to go about your day without worry.

Finally, its best feature is probably the multi-function remote. When the heater is up and running, you can easily adjust the settings with the remote.

There is no more standing up and walking to the heater to find the right temperature. This feature is great for the lazy, but it’s also a blessing to anyone with mobility issues.

Another great use of this feature is keeping the remote beside your bed at night. This way, you can easily adjust the settings or even turn it off while half-asleep without standing up and walking to the unit itself.

Regarding power, the Lasko 755320 is rated at 1500 watts and can warm up around 180 square feet. Not only that, but it also does its job relatively quickly.

One problem with this heater is that it lacks a safety feature that allows it to turn itself off whenever it detects that it’s been tipped over. This feature is essential considering its design makes it vulnerable to being accidentally toppled.

If you have kids or pets that tend to roughhouse or run around, be careful when buying this heater.

10. De’Longhi Oil-filled Radiator Heater

Summary

Unlike the other items in this list, which are all heaters, the DeLonghi EW7707CM Radiator is a radiator. This means it radiates heat, gradually increasing the room’s temperature.

This also means that the DeLonghi is slower than other heaters when it comes to heating an area. However, this device can maintain that comfortable temperature for a longer time.

Since it’s a radiator, it usually takes around two to three hours to heat the space in your RV. Because of this, it’s advisable to keep a secondary heater, which you can use to heat your motorhome quickly.

Once your second heater gets the room nice and cozy, you can turn it off and switch to the DeLonghi Radiator to keep the temperature level longer.

The DeLonghi EW7707CM Radiator is powered by electricity. It can use up to 1500 watts, but its lowest setting will only use around 700 watts. Speaking of settings, the device has six heat levels.

If you’re having trouble choosing, the DeLonghi Radiator has a nifty feature called ComfortTemp, which automatically chooses the setting needed for optimal room temperature.

Additionally, the oil in this radiator doesn’t need refilling, which keeps the costs down. Because it’s electronic, burning gases is no issue. Its design is also pretty stable, which minimizes the chances of getting tipped over.

If you buy this radiator, you may notice a chemical smell when you first turn it on. Don’t be alarmed because this is normal and will eventually disappear.

However, it’s advisable to leave this device running outside when you first use it until the burning chemical smell disappears.

What are RV Heaters?

As the name suggests, RV heaters help heat your vehicle during cold weather. They accomplish this by producing heat through a heating device, which is then spread throughout your mobile home.

If your heater is gas-powered, it will also have ducts and vents strategically spread over your RV to release the heated air. If your heater is small and portable, expect it only to heat its surrounding space.

However, the space it can heat up also depends on the model.

Types of RV Heaters and How They Work

The method of increasing the temperature of an RV heater depends on its type. There are two significant categories of RV heaters: gas and electric.

There is also the oil furnace, but this is used more as a radiator than a heater. The following describes each type and how it differs from the others.

Gas-powered Heater

This type of heater provides heat using combustion. First, an ignition (either a pilot light or electric) lights up the burners found inside the combustion chamber.

These burners provide heat, which flows to another chamber that contains air. This air will then heat, increasing the temperature.

When the air within the second chamber reaches the desired temperature (the thermostat’s temperature), it is blown throughout your mobile home via the network of ducts and vents.

Gas heaters are usually powered by one of two fuels: natural gas or propane. Propane gas is man-made and is better for the environment because it does not release harmful gases during combustion.

This means less risk for you, and it also makes propane gas better for the environment, unlike natural gases, which release greenhouse gases when burned and contribute to global warming.

There are also downsides to gas heaters. Firstly, they need gas to work. Thus, they need regular refilling, mainly if you use them constantly.

Second, it is also dangerous due to the highly flammable fuel used. This means that it is imperative to ensure that there are no leaks anywhere that can allow the gas to escape.

In general, full-range gas heaters cost more than electric-powered ones, mainly because they require the installation of ducts within the RV. Remember that it is also cheaper to run and easier to maintain, making it a better choice in the long term.

Additionally, it does a better job of warming up the entire RV due to the ducts being spread throughout. Portable propane heaters are also an available option for when you only need to warm up a small area around you.

One thing to note regarding propane heaters is that they require minimal electricity. However, they only need a DC connection capable of supplying 12 volts, which the battery of your RV can quickly provide.

Electrically-powered RV Heater

As it says in the name suggests, electric heaters make use of electricity, which it converts into heat. To do this, an electric current is passed through a resistor, which dissipates the current into heat.

Instead of having a chamber for exchanging the heat with a network of vents, the heat produced by electric heaters is just released through an open vent, aided by a blower and sometimes electric fans.

Because of this, heat dispersion is comparatively slower, especially without electric fans to aid in spreading. However, unlike gas heaters, electric heaters do not have any byproducts, so they are 100% safe for you and the environment.

An important trait of electric heaters to be mindful of is that they can only heat a relatively small area around their heating coils, which can be good or bad depending on your needs.

If saving energy and money is a priority, this is the better option since it only heats specific spots in your mobile home. However, if you want your entire RV to be nice and cozy, electric heaters might not be up to the task.

Another important point is that electric heaters, like gas heaters, can also be dangerous. Unlike built-in gas heaters, electric heaters aren’t built into the RV, which means they can tip over, resulting in an accident.

If your RV is solar-powered, know that electric-powered heaters can consume significant energy, varying depending on the model.

Ensure that your power source can adequately provide enough energy for your heater and other essential appliances powered by electricity.

RV Oil Furnace

Oil furnaces function like gas heaters. Oil is burned in a sealed chamber within the furnace, raising the temperature within a second chamber.

When the temperature within the second chamber is at the desired temperature set in the thermostat, the hot air will be blown through the ducts and out the network of vents.

Oil furnaces heat up just as quickly as other gas-powered heaters and last longer. Oil is also safer than the other two because it is non-combustible, even if it leaks.

It also does not have a carbon monoxide by-product. However, oil furnace heaters are uncommon since oil furnaces are generally used as radiators.

Why Buy an RV Heater?

RV Heaters allow you to control your motorhome’s temperature, preventing cold climates from freezing you and your company.

It also helps your RV and other appliances that may be ruined by condensation or the cold. Finally, the best part about RV heaters is they enable you to go on adventures even in places with cold climates.

When looking for a new RV heater, these are the aspects that you need to consider

• Power Consumption

This refers to the fuel or power required to heat your space for a specific time. This allows you to know exactly how long your supply can last. It also lets you know how much you need to stock up so you’re not left freezing in the middle of a winter drive.

• Durability

You want your RV heater to be a long-lasting investment. It won’t do any good to have it die on you in the middle of your third drive after buying it. It should be able to handle driving even on the roughest roads.

• Efficiency

How many resources does it need to heat a certain amount of space? Different heaters have different BTUs (British Thermal Units), which refer to the maximum area they can effectively warm.

For example, warming up an area of 150 square feet requires 5000 BTUs, and 300 square feet requires 7000 BTUs.

Another point of notice is the time it requires to heat your space. Is it the type that turns on and off frequently, or does it stay on to maintain the temperature for an extended period?

This depends on the type of unit you choose. For example, the DeLonghi Radiator usually maintains the temperature because heating an area will take hours.

• Ease of Maintenance

It would be best to look into the difficulty of maintaining the heater. Low-maintenance heaters should be preferable if you’re inexperienced with RV heater troubleshooting.

• Extra Features

What other valuable features does it have? Try to choose something with safety features. Since a heating system can be dangerous when taken care of improperly, you want to buy something that can take care of itself in the worst-case scenario, such as an auto-shutdown feature when it gets tipped over or a built-in CO and CO2 sensor.

• Cost

Look into the price and decide if the heater’s features and capabilities justify it. If it’s something small, like a portable heater capable of heating only 50-100 square feet, expect the price to be around $100.

If it’s something more significant, such as a full-range centralized heater, the price will be at least $500, even more depending on the brand and other features.

And There You Have It

The top 10 RV heaters you can buy right now. If you can afford one, there is no reason why you shouldn’t have a heater in your RV. It has tons of benefits with absolutely no downsides.

The only problem in buying an RV heater is deciding which one is the best for you. Is your RV big, with several rooms to accommodate your entire family?

A centralized heater would be the best option to heat all the rooms evenly. You also need to ensure that your heater has enough BTU for all the space in your RV.

If your RV is small enough for yourself or a company of one or two, you might want to buy a small portable heater instead. It’s much cheaper and allows you to save up on fuel or electricity.

The best part about portable heaters is that you can take them anywhere, even outside, if you’re in the mood for camping in a tent.

Numerous factors come into play when choosing your next RV heater, but always remember that safety should be the main priority.

Especially since there’s a good chance you’ll be running your heater while you’re asleep, know the possible hazards of your place, such as whether you or your company are clumsy or if some kids or animals tend to run around a lot, and choose the RV heater with the appropriate safety features.

If you don’t know where to start, check the list above for suggestions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How do RV furnaces work?

RV furnaces work pretty similarly to the furnace in your home. There is a centralized heating system where the air is heated. This air is sent through ducts to the vents throughout your RV, where it is blown out into the space.

The heated air is blown directly through the vents of ductless furnaces. Tankless water heaters work slightly differently.

• How do I keep my RV warm during winter?

It depends on how large your RV is. If you’re alone and want to keep a tiny spot warm, a portable heater should be enough.

If your RV is vast and you’re traveling with family, a centralized heating system is suggested to keep all the space inside warm and cozy. If you want your heater to function quickly, get one powered by either electricity or natural gases.

Oil-equipped radiators work slower, but they maintain the temperature much longer. It is ideal to have a combination of the two, a heater to raise the temperature and a radiator to maintain it.

• Are there any alternatives to propane heaters?

You can choose either Natgas (natural gas) heaters or electric-powered heaters. You can also get an oil-based radiator instead, but these may take longer to heat your motorhome.

• How do I keep my tent warm while camping?

The best option is propane heaters; choose a portable one that can function with just propane canisters.

Another option is RV wood stoves, which have inherent risks due to the explosive nature of the items necessary.

• What happens if you leave a heater on for 24 hours?

Leaving RV heaters on for an extended period, such as 24 hours, can pose significant safety risks. Like other electric heaters, RV heaters can cause fires if they have frayed wiring or malfunction.

The risk is heightened in the confined space of an RV, where a fire can spread quickly.

Furthermore, RV heaters can drastically reduce the humidity in the air by generating excessive heat, leading to an arid environment.

This can cause discomfort and may exacerbate respiratory issues for those on board. Therefore, it is advisable to use RV heaters judiciously and ensure they are in good working condition.

Final Words

Several vital factors must be considered when choosing RV heaters to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency. Firstly, the type of heater is paramount.

Two popular choices include propane and electric heaters, each with its advantages. Propane heaters are known for their high heat output and efficiency, while electric heaters offer ease of use and consistent performance.

Safety features are a crucial factor when selecting RV heaters. Opt for models with an auto shut-off capability that automatically turns the heater off if it tips over or becomes too hot, providing peace of mind and additional safety measures.

The size and weight of the heater can significantly impact its portability and placement within the RV. A compact and lightweight design is preferable for easy installation and maneuverability.

Energy efficiency is another critical aspect to consider, whether in terms of power consumption for electric heaters or gas consumption for propane units.

The noise level can impact your living comfort in the RV. A quieter heater ensures peaceful living, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings without the constant hum of machinery.

Accessibility to resources is also essential, particularly for propane heaters that require regular refills.

Lastly, consider the heater’s climate suitability, especially if you plan to travel in extreme cold conditions. The heater’s efficiency in such circumstances can significantly influence your comfort level.

Considering these factors, you can choose an RV heater that best meets your needs and preferences.

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