Rving in freezing weather. Most recently... 14 days where the daily high temperature was still below freezing, and night time lows were -2 degrees. Below freezing has some unique issues. Our rv has an artic insulation package. Here's what we do.
Our key notes:
HEAT... generally 70-72 degrees inside.
We use a electric heater (oil filled radiator type) in living room, works great.
And a small whisper quiet electric heater in bath/bedroom.
These provide almost all of our interior heat.
(more efficient than rv propane furnaces by themselves)
We use the ceiling fan on low to circulate heat to eliminate hot/cold spots.
Remote temperature monitors in basement & underbelly.
We use small electric heater on lowest settling in rv basement to protect plumbing.
Monitor temperature levels in basement/underbelly.
RV furnaces are used very limited... heat underbelly to protect plumbing.
RV furnace to add additional heat to rv basement.
RV furnace to supplement interior RV heat if needed, temps below 10 degrees.
(note: electric heats is more efficient than propane furnace since propane furnace wastes too much heat through exhaust. Did a study... heat with propane only + normal electric was $140.... heat with electric only + normal electric was $95).
WATER
If your hose only runs a short distance, a heat strip or heated hose may be an option.
Insulate water hose with foam pipe insulation (helps). I have used fat pool noodles with success (works better). Letting the water trickle will go a long way to keeping even unprotected hoses from freezing. Be sure the gray tank is open to let the trickle go into sewer line via 3 inch sewer hose, smaller sewer hoses could freeze. I have also used the the basement water hose to trickle directly outside. Just make sure that the drain hose only protrudes outside as little as possible as not to freeze up.
Of course you could also disconnect and drain hose, and reconnect tomorrow if temps are above freezing.
INSULATION
We have double pane windows, which helps greatly. Insulated shades/curtains helps reduce the cold generated via the glass. 3" padded roof vent covers (12x12) help insulate the openings. Needless to say be sure entrance door is weather proofed with strips. We also use a sunshade (silver with bubbles), cut to fit into the shower skylight.
CLOTHES/ ETC
Insulated socks or slippers go a long way to keep feet warm. Throws and heated throws also feel comfy when just sitting inside. Sweat pants/shirts are also comfy.
ELECTRIC
Be sure not to overload any one circuit with the heaters. 15-20 amp circuit should only handle one electric heater. And do not use extension cords for heaters. Keep heater cords out in the open (not under rugs etc).
Y'all stay warm!
