Only when it is time to have a barbeque or read outside do we think- damn there is something missing here. Yup! Awning lights!

In this review post, I will try to give you a decent overview of different lighting options you have that you can install under the awning.

The most important questions you should ask yourself before getting awning lights are-

• What is it primarily used for? Do you need it for reading/cooking or simply for atmosphere? This determines which ones are more suitable.
• Do you need the lights to be waterproof or is water resistant enough? Most awning lights are water resistant and come with a certification. However, this does not mean you can dip them in water and think they work just fine. Be sensible and smart about this!
• Do you want the lights to be dimmable? Not all awning lights are dimmable so if that is important for you, do check it beforehand.
• Do you need a remote? Remote is really useful if you want to play around with different settings throughout your dinner and not run back and forth every time you need to change the mood.
• Do you want to change the colors/atmosphere/mood frequently or simply let it stay as it is? If you only use it for illuminating the awning area for functional purposes then you may be better off with a simple LED light that does not have too many options to confuse and annoy you.

Here is my pick of the top products out there right now:

Best Awning Lights for Reading & Cooking

1. RecPro White LED Awning Party Light w/ Mounting Channel

This awning light from RecPro is basically a LED strip with a polycarbonate channel, where the strip is inserted to. It comes in four different lengths and an IP68 rating, which means it can be submerged in water for 30 minutes, so it should be OK for a very wet climate or sudden rainfall.

The light is usually mounted under the gutter, where it does not get in way of the movement of the awning. Be mindful, though, when you apply the double-sided tape because it is very difficult to take off or replace. Sticking the strip to the surface is easy, but have to be very certain where to apply it.

After installing it on your awning, you can only wire the light to a 12V power source. Splicing the connection to an existing light source is a fairly simple, but it would be much easier to use if it came with an adapter for a wall socket.

It emits a cool white light and it doesn’t hurt the eyes when using it at night. The area under the awning is well illuminated, and you can read a book under these lights. However, there is no dimmer switch included, but you can always manually add it if you know how to wire one.

Pros

• Four lengths to choose from
• Water resistant
• Bright enough for reading

Cons

• No adapter for a wall socket
• Double-sided tape is hard to replace
• No dimmer switch included
• You have to wire it manually

2. Dream Lighting 12V LED Waterproof Awning Lights

This practical awning light comes with simple no-frills design and waterproof IP66 rating. You can choose either a short (9.84 inches) or long (21.65 inches) version of this light and they come in three colors (black, white, silver) and three configurations (6-LED and 12-LED for the short version and 60-LED for the long version).

When you open the box, you only get the unit itself and a couple of mounting screws. There is no switch included, so you have to connect it to the existing one in your RV, but make sure it is a 12V one. This is somewhat inconvenient as it isn’t a plug-and-play type of kit.

To install the light against the wall of your RV, there are two holes on either side of the light. Simply remove the cap to drive a screw through the hole. The LEDs shine light downward, which helps to illuminate the area better.

This light is bright enough to read at night, but the brightest spot is probably below the light itself. The living area is decently lit and your awning is immediately noticeable even from afar.

Pros

• Multiple sizes and colors to choose from
• Water resistant
• Shines light downward
• Bright enough for reading

Cons

• You have to wire it manuallyBest Rope Lights for RV Awnings

Best Rope Lights for RV Awnings

3. Green LongLife 18’ Red, White, and Blue LED Rope Lights

For all the patriots out there looking for red-blue-white all American awning light design, this kit is for you. This rope light is 18-feet long and extendable ( simply add a strand to the end of each light). It’s great to be able to customize the length of the light source depending on the perimeter of the awning.

They are also UL Approved for outdoor use and the lights are housed and sealed in PVC, which makes them flexible. You can bend them around corners if you want to and can create all sorts of shapes and sizes using them. Most often I have seen these LED rope lights used as mood lights, hidden behind sofas, under bed or awning and they do a wonderful job in setting the atmosphere.

You can plug this straight into a wall socket and it comes with an extra fuse in the box, which is a welcome addition.

When you have them installed in your awning, they are actually bright enough to read a book when it’s dark but do keep in mind that the white light is obviously brighter than the red and blue ones (because they are darker, not a design flaw).

Pros

• Easily extendable
• Water resistant
• Can be plugged into a wall socket
• Extra fuse included
• Bright enough for reading at night

Cons

• Red and blue lights are not as bright as the white light

4. LampLust 24’ Plugin Rope Lights

This rope light comes in five solid colors and one multicolor option to choose from, and you can even create your own combination if you wish. Each strand is 24 feet long and they plug into a wall socket, which makes them very easy to set up.

The rope is sealed in a plastic casing, which helps with the water resistance, but it does not come with any certification so do not install them in a bathroom or other places that are prone to get very wet. It is perfect as an awning lighting though as it is bright enough for reading and water resistant enough so you can leave it outside.

You also get a mounting kit (includes clips, zip ties, and screws) and a spare fuse in the package which saves you the trouble of getting them separately.

Pros

• Multiple colors to choose from
• Easily extendable
• Water resistant
• Can be plugged into a wall socket
• Extra fuse included
• Bright enough for reading at night

Cons

• Other colors of light aren’t as bright as the white option

Best LED Strip Lights for RV Awnings

5. Luminoodle Basecamp LED Outdoor String Lights

While it does not look like much this product is one of the more versatile lights out there that I could find. There are 15 color options, 10 brightness levels, and 3 fade modes you can use and they are all controllable by a wireless remote.

The LED strip is a decent 20-feet long but unfortunately, you can’t extend it by connecting another strand. The LEDs are sealed in a water-resistant silicone casing.

Inside the package, you get a wireless remote, a diffuser for lantern mode, wall mounts, a wall socket power adapter, a 12V adapter for your car, and a nylon bag. All these are welcome additions and it’s really easy to install it under the awning.

Because you can control the brightness level, the illumination ranges from bright to more ambient. There’s no problem in reading a book under these lights and you can also dim them down if you just want to relax. It’s a truly versatile light that suits a lot of different tastes and scenes.

Pros

• Multiple lighting options
• Comes with a lot of useful things in the box
• Water resistant
• Easy to set up

Cons

• Not extendable
• Pricey

6. HitLights 16.4’ Weatherproof LED Light Strip

The next light on our list is a widely used LED strip light. While it only comes in white, you do get to choose a warm or cool white hue. The LED strip comes in a roller and it’s 16.4 feet long. You can divide it into smaller four-inch strips, and there is a helpful mark where you should cut it which makes it considerably easier to fit.

However, do keep in mind that you have to wire these smaller strips manually. There is a 12V DC female connector included, but it’s a bummer that the power supply has to be bought separately.

The strip has an IP65 rating and a plastic shield cover for the LEDs that make it water resistant. This is more than enough for rainy weather but it is not waterproof so do not go crazy with it. Thankfully, the adhesive is very effective and doesn’t lose stickiness when it rains.

These lights are bright enough for activities like cooking outdoors or enjoying a drink with friends but you may struggle to read a book if you have poor eyesight.

Pros

• Warm and cool white hues are available
• Cuttable every four inches
• Double-sided tape is pre-installed
• Water resistant

Cons

• No power supply included
• Not bright enough for reading

7. LEDwholesalers 12-Volt RGB Color-Changing Kit

If you are looking for an awning light with lots of color options and variations then a standard LED strip or rope light won’t work. You need something like the color changing kit from LEDWholeSalers.

This LED strip can be customized with a huge variety of color options and different brightness levels. This product is really popular with families with kids or people that love to entertain- you can change the color depending on your mood and create a slightly different atmosphere every time.

The strip is 16.4 feet long and you can cut it into smaller pieces. However, you can’t extend it by connecting more strips. It’s also water resistant, and the silicone casing seals the LEDs well. This helps in preventing rain from entering the strip but the connection to the power and wireless remote receiver must remain dry.

You do get the 12V power adapter for a wall socket as well as a wireless remote receiver in the package, which is great.

The LED strip also comes with double-sided tape at the back, but if I were you I would buy a different tape or find clips as it does not work that well. You may notice that the strip will start to sag after a few days.

What makes this product great is that it is variable- you can use it for reading and but you also have the option to dim the brightness down for a more relaxing atmosphere.

Pros

• Multiple brightness and color options
• Wireless remote control
• Includes power adapter
• Water resistant
• Cuttable into smaller strips

Cons

• Not extendable
• Pre-installed double-sided tape doesn’t hold for long

Best Hanging Lights for RV Awnings

8. ALOVECO 33’ LED Globe String Light

Another fun product on our list is this cute bubbly design by Aloveco. You can choose between multicolor lights or a warm white hue light and there are eight dimmable settings.

You also have eight sequence settings with this light, where you can let it flicker, glow slowly, or just light up steadily. It’s great that you have these options because you can spice up the ambiance outside your RV, making it more homey and welcoming.

There is also a timer function included, that could keep the lights on for up to six hours and then turn them off (Great for evenings when you forget to turn them off before you go to bed!).

These lights are 33 feet long but do keep in mind that unlike some other lights on this list you can’t daisy chain them together. Aloveco has only  IP65 rating so keep the plug it in a wall socket inside the RV to avoid water damage.

One thing I did like about this product is that it comes with a wireless remote and a 29V power adapter for a wall socket, which makes it much more convenient to use.

The lights illuminate the area nicely but you may find it hard to read a book under them. They provide soft lighting that is more appropriate for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors at night.

Pros

• Available in multicolor lights
• Multiple brightness and sequence options
• Wireless remote control
• Includes power adapter
• Water resistant

Cons

• Not extendable
• Not bright enough for reading at night

9. Camco RV Awning Globe Lights

This stylish set of globe lights come with 8 color options and 6-10 LED globes you can install under the awning. There are different color combinations you can play around with and yes, US flag colors is one of them.

They plug directly to a wall socket and the coiled wires allow you to customize the distance between each globe. The globes thread into the LED lamp preventing the water from seeping in. There is no official certification for water resistance, though.

Hooks are also included in the package, and they slide well on the awning roller- simply hang the LED globe to the hook and you are done. Overall, these lights require very little effort to install.

Aside from being really atmospheric, they also illuminate the area pretty well. Your eyes won’t hurt when reading under these lights, but only when using the clear globes (red, blue and green ones aren’t really suitable for that). And since it’s easy to change the lights, you can also create a party vibe to socialize with fellow campers.

Pros

• Multiple colors available
• Easy to set up
• Weather resistant
• Bright enough for reading at night

Cons

• Not extendable
• No official rating for water resistance
• Colored globes are not suited for reading

10. Camco 8’ Hanging Festive Party Glow Lights

These awning lights have small LEDs enclosed in plastic casings that have a cute cartoonish design. While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, my wife certainly loves these. There are seven styles to choose from and they all are reminiscent of the RV lifestyle. Be aware, though, that these are not waterproof like the previous lighting option so be careful.

They are only 8 feet long but you can daisy chain them together if want a longer chain. There are no clips included, though, so you have to figure out how to attach them. As they are very light you can use pretty much any clips that you have laying around or get specialized awning clips like these.

If you are looking for lights that will really light up an area enough so you can read, these are not for you. These are like Christmas lights, meant for mood lighting that emit nice glow but that is about it.  So you may need to get an extra light for reading or other activities that require more visibility.

Pros

• Multiple designs to choose from
• You can daisy chain them
• Improves the vibe of your outdoor living area

Cons

• Not water resistant
• Not bright enough for reading
• No clips included

11. Brightech Ambience Pro – 48’ LED Outdoor String Lights

The design is reminiscent of vintage light bulbs that have become really popular in recent years. It’s 48-feet long, which should be enough to cover the perimeter of most awnings and you can even daisy chain them together in case you need even more length.

Brightech markets these as waterproof, but there is no official ingress protection (IP) rating, so I guess you need to take their word for it but I must say it is quite nerve-wracking to see them exposed to heavy rain. At least you get a three-year warranty, which is actually much longer than standard 6-months, so it seems they are pretty confident that the bulbs are of high quality and reliable.

You can install the lights anywhere as long as you have something to hang them onto. It gives off a warm white light that is just enough for reading at night. And because it is not too strong, the ambiance under your awning is nice and relaxing.

It is not recommended that you add a dimmer switch, though. Because of its parallel circuitry, some lights will perpetually flicker and it can become annoying very quickly!

Pros

• Vintage design but with modern technology
• You can daisy chain them
• Three-year warranty
• Light is good enough for reading

Cons

• No official IP rating
• Lights will flicker with a dimmer switch

What is a Wifi Booster and How Does it Work?

An RV Wifi booster is a device that can boost or enhance the quality or strength of your internet connection. It works in combination with your Wifi router to enhance the signals received by it and ensure connection wherever you are.

A Wifi booster works by establishing a connection between a Wifi router and a wireless device, such as a laptop, phone, etc. Your router needs to be turned on and sending signals to your device. If the signals are weak, the booster simply captures the transmission and pushes it towards your device.

The strength and speed depend on several factors, including the Wifi router and the standard of the booster. The general standard used by most Wifi boosters is Wireless N, which can support a network bandwidth of 300 Mbps.

Why Do You Need to Boost RV Wifi Signals?

There are a number of reasons for getting a Wifi booster for RVs. The following are some of the most pertinent:

• Weather Updates: When you’re driving in an RV or camping out, it’s important to stay updated with weather reports and forecasts. After all, you don’t wanna’ be stuck in a campsite when there’s a storm raging, trust me. The only way to make sure your camping trips go without a hitch is to stay updated with weather reports and plan your trips accordingly. With a Wifi booster, you can be assured that you’ll receive weather reports wherever you are.
• GPS Location: If you’re driving around in an RV, it’s obvious you’ll need constant access to directions. Physical maps can be annoying to handle and a misreading can lead you off track. However, if you can access GPS location or Google maps, there’s no way you’ll ever get lost. The only way to ensure you always have access to GPS locations is to get a wifi booster so you’re never stranded without internet.
• Contacting Friends and Family: Those who lead the nomadic lifestyle often have to go weeks and months without meeting their loved ones. If you have a Wifi booster, you can always be connected to them, just a video call away.
• Emergencies: Are you stranded in the middle of nowhere in the dead of night? Has your engine caved in? Has someone been injured and you need immediate medical assistance? In any of these emergency cases, it’s important to have internet connectivity so you can call for help or figure out what to do. For example, if someone is hurt and you’re in the middle of nowhere, you’ll be grateful for your Wifi booster which allows you to locate the nearest hospital.
• Digital Nomad Lifestyle: Are you a digital nomad? Do you carry your work wherever you go? If so, your livelihood literally depends on having access to the internet at all times, wherever you are. As such, a Wifi booster is a valuable investment to ensure you don’t miss any work or deadlines.

There are a number of different devices that can be used for boosting Wifi signals. Each of these devices essentially performs the same function by providing you with a stronger connection, but they go about it in different ways. I have categorized them into standard Wifi Boosters, Wifi Antennas and Wifi Extenders.

Best Wifi Boosters for RVs

A Wifi booster amplifies the strength of the signals received by your router. If you are receiving internet, but the connection is weak, a booster will be useful. Wifi boosters can be further subcategorized.

There are several types of Wifi Boosters:

• Dual-Band Booster — These Wifi boosters are the strongest, providing better reach and strength than other Wifi boosters. These come in stationary and portable forms, you should go for the portable booster.
• Wireless Signal Booster — This is a quick and easy solution to extending your Wifi’s range, but it’s not as powerful as a Dual-Band booster.
• Mobile Booster — These are small and compact boosters that can be carried around in your pockets. These are the most portable of all the Wifi boosters on the market.

Here are my top picks:

1. Kuma Long-Range

The Kuma Long-Range is a wireless Wifi booster that can be equipped with the popular R36 portable WiFi router, with tube series USB wireless adapters, and the ALFA network outdoor antenna AOA-2409. It weighs just 2.3 pounds so it’s highly portable, and it has a frequency range and distance of 2.4 GHz and 1.5 kms respectively.

This wifi booster works will all Wifi devices and is extremely easy to set up as it doesn’t require any drivers, disks, wires, or any additional accessories. It also comes with a long-ranged antenna that can be mounted on a pole outside the RV to receive even stronger signals.

The antenna base is not threaded, so if you need to mount it, you’ll need to attach the base to an adapter using the provided straps and thread that to your flange. The device, as it’s provided, is designed for mounting only on an existing rack with zip ties.

While connecting to a local Wifi, you’ll need to enter the network password to give the booster access to the Wifi. However, it can increase the range of Wifi networks detected drastically. I used it in a fairly crowded park and my phone could detect as many as 20 networks whereas earlier it could only detect 4 to 5.

However, while you can detect additional networks, it’s not ideal for enhancing the speed. After using this Wifi booster, my internet speed cut down by almost half. I used an online SpeedTest website to check the speed before and after from the same place and the same Wifi network. Before, I was getting over 10 Mbps, and after using the booster, it got down to about 5-6 Mbps. That’s because this Wifi booster is designed to enhance the range of networks, not the speed.

As such, if you’re traveling to places where you have to access Wifi connections from several miles away, this will serve you well. However, you can’t use it to enhance the speed of an already existing and detected Wifi network.

Pros

• Increases the range of Wifi networks detected easily.
• It comes with both a DC and AC adapter which is fortunate if you don’t have direct access to electrical hookups in the vicinity.
• You can connect and install it without any professional help.
• The device is highly durable and weather and temperature resistant.

Cons

• It can only enhance the range of Wifi connection, not the speed.

2. Alfa AWUS036NH

The Alfa AWUS036NH is another great option if you’re looking for a portable RV Wifi booster. It has the ability to both enhance the strength of your signals while also enhancing its range. It comes equipped with a hi-gain folding antenna that’s rated at +9 dBi and a 2.4GHz frequency. This ensures that your internet connection is significantly boosted, and it gives you a range of about 1.2 miles. It has a 2000 MW output power so it should be attached to a 2.4GHz antenna.

It bears mentioning that Alfa AWUS036NH isn’t as powerful as some other Wifi boosters like the USB-Yagi Plug and Play. Those Yagi Wifi boosters — and other similar stationery boosters — offer far more range and strength. Furthermore, they can be connected and stacked atop each other to multiply their strength. You can’t do that with the Alfa AWUS036NH. However, stationary Wifi boosters are also larger in size but the Alfa booster can easily be carried around anywhere.

This unit also comes with a USB cable, but it can only be hooked to USB 2.0 ports. It also supports both monitor and injection mode as long as the user has an app and OS to support it. You should, however, note that this device cannot simply be plugged directly to a power outlet. It has to be connected to a USB port to amplify signals.

Once this device was connected and installed, I found it to be extremely effective. However, you might face a number of issues while installing it as it’s pretty complicated. First, this is not a plug and play device. As such, you need to first install all of the necessary drivers and then connect it or you’ll end up having to do a restore point. You should also set up a restore point because you might run into errors while installing the drivers. Furthermore, before installing this device, you should update all of your Windows drivers or it might not work.

Another pesky issue with this device is that it cannot remember your password. As such, you have to enter the Wifi password every time you need to connect. I also found that it often drops the connection unexpectedly and you have to connect all over again.

Pros

• Compatible with all wifi devices.
• Has an LED screen that displays the signal strength.
• Highly portable.
• Strong range.

Cons

• Installation is extremely difficult.
• Doesn’t remember Wifi password.
• Drops connection sporadically.

3. NETGEAR AC750 EX6100

The NETGEAR AC750 EX6100 is one of the most portable Wifi boosters on the market and it’s also extremely easy to install. You simply connect it to a power source, turn it on, then turn the router on, and your signals are immediately amplified. You don’t need to connect it to your computer via a USB so it’s highly portable and simple. However, if you want to connect it physically to the device, you can do so using the Gigabit Ethernet port as well.

In terms of speed, this Wifi booster has a maximum speed rating of 750 Mbps, which is enough to stream a Full HD video easily. This booster has two antennas and it broadcasts in dual-band, so it provides signals at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The band with the 2.4 GHz frequency provides 300 Mbps speed and the 5 GHz band provides 450 Mbps speed. The dual-band feature makes it ideally suited for all wifi enabled devices.

I also appreciated the access point mode, which is a feature that enables you to connect the booster to the router directly with an Ethernet cable. This enhances the broadcast speed even when you’re far away from the booster and router.

You can also connect two separate Wifi boosters to the same routers if you want Wifi connection in two different areas within the given range. You cannot, however, connect two boosters with the intention of doubling either their range of strength. You can also use multiple boosters to extend the signal by bouncing them off each other, however, in that case, your Wifi speed will suffer.

If you want to maintain 100% speed while simultaneously extending the range, you’ll have to use Access Point by moving the slider from Extender to Access Point mode. Following that, connect the LAN cable to the booster and use the network SSID and password. Alternatively, you can also use the 2.4 GHz band to communicate with the Wifi router while using the 5 GHz band to communicate with the devices. Both these options will help you enhance the range while maintaining the original Wifi speed.

Pros

• Two antennas, both of which receive strong signals.
• Easy installation.
• Dual-band wireless signals with 4 GHz and 5 GHz.
• Can work on Range Extender and Access Point mode.

Cons

• Setting it up to extend the range while simultaneously maintaining the speed is complicated.

Best Wifi Antennas for RVs

A Wifi Antenna can be mounted on your RV to strengthen the internet signals. It helps capture signals from a distance and transmit them to your router. If you travel to distant and off-the-road areas, a Wifi antenna will be useful.

4. BearExtender Bearifi

The BearExtender Bearifi is a Wifi antenna meant for a single computer. It can extend the WiFi signal to the computer or device that it’s connected to via a USB cable. However, it has a long range so it can catch signals from miles away and divert them to the computer, making it extremely useful if you’re traveling or camping far from the cities.

It comes with a 10 dB directional antenna and a 16 feet USB cable and there’s no need to connect to a power outlet. You can connect this device anywhere at all. However, connecting it outside helps fetch the best signals, especially if it’s high on a pole. You might not get great signals if it’s within the RV. There are three mounting options you can use — either as a detachable tabletop tripod, mounting on a metal pole, or with a Velcro strap. It’s also IP65 certified so it’s water resistant and corrosion resistant, making it durable and ideal for use outdoors.

My biggest issue with this Wifi antenna was that it can’t directly be used to amplify connection for several devices. However, you can plug it into a computer and then connect an ethernet port to a wireless router and command the computer to share the connection. This method will help you bypass that limitation. You also have the option of turning your computer’s hotspot on and sharing the connection with other devices.

Another big issue here is that this Wifi antenna is only meant for Windows PCs. As such, you can’t connect it to your Apple Mac or Linux.

Besides those issues, I found this Wifi Antenna to be pretty powerful. While driving around the city, I could pick up Wifi signals from public places like McDonald’s, Library, Starbucks, etc, from several blocks away. So if you’re looking to mooch of public Wifi connections from afar, this is a pretty useful device.

Pros

• It’s a directional antenna so it can pick up signals from all directions.
• Has a great range.
• Durable construction.
• There are several mounting options with provided accessories.
• Since it connects directly to the USB, there’s no need for a power outlet.

Cons

• Can only be used to connect to a single computer. If you want to add several devices, you have to use additional accessories or use the computer’s hotspot, a process that essentially splits the speed of the internet between the different devices.
• Only meant for Windows PCs.

5. C. Crane US3

The C. Crane US3 is a tiny 1.5 pound USB wifi antenna for portable use in RVs. It simply needs to be connected to the computer’s USB port and it can considerably extend your laptop’s Wifi reach. Upon testing it in my city, I noticed at least 15 new Wifi networks being detected by my computer. It can even maintain the signal strength if the USB device is located within the walls of the RV.

This wifi booster has an IP65 certification so it can be used outside even when it’s raining. Furthermore, the “N” technology ensures that you can transfer files using the N router. It also comes with a 15-foot USB split USB cable in case you want to hook or mount the antenna far from the computer. In terms of mounting, you can use the suction cups to attach the device to the window or you can use the “hook and loop” strip to mount it on a wall or pole.

When using this device, I was curios to see if its reach and strength would be even further amplified if it was attached on a pole on my RV roof. I made the connection and used an additional 30 feet USB cable and I received far stronger signals. Furthermore, unlike the Bearifi Wifi antenna, this antenna is compatible with all Windows and Mac operating systems, though you still can’t use it with Linux.

I would also recommend that you should keep the antenna at a vertical position because it acts as an omni-directional antenna in that case. If you place it horizontally, you’ll need to point it directly in the direction of the Wifi network.

One of the reasons I prefer this — and other Wifi antennas — to a wifi booster is because it can take the place of a wireless card. A regular wifi booster can pick up a wireless frequency and broadcast it over another channel. However, this antenna is an amplified wireless card. As such, it can amplify and catch signals from 1 to 3 miles away and transmit them to your laptop or device without needing a specific router.

While I personally didn’t have much of an issue with installation, several users I spoke to said that they struggled with installing it. The instructions provided with the device are pretty vague so you might need to watch some tutorials online before using.

Pros

• Extremely lightweight and portable.
• Omni-directional.
• Great range.

Cons

• Issues with installation.

Best Wifi Extenders for RVs

A Wifi extender is similar to a Wifi booster in a lot of ways. However, not all Wifi extenders can boost your signal strength, some can only boost the distance of the signal. As such, they may be able to capture signals from farther distances but not necessarily strengthen them. If you are located in an area where the internet signals just don’t reach, a Wifi extender will be more useful than a booster as it can capture distant signals.

6. Winegard WF-3000

The Winegard WF-3000 is a powerful Wifi extender equipped with three high powered antennas to enhance its range. It’s highly secure with advanced wifi protected access, double firewall protection, and denial of service attack prevention features. Furthermore, with this wifi extender, you can connect all the devices you want and enhance all of their wifi range.

I really liked that this device had three amplifiers, one for outdoors and two for indoors. The outdoor amplifier is detachable, rated at 2.4 GHz, and provides up to 450 Mbps of speed. The indoor amplifiers are rated at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz respectively and provide up to 450 Mbps and 1300 Mbps of speed.

As a Wifi extender, this device can only increase the range of wifi signals and not increase the speed. For example, if you’re parked in an RV park, it’s possible that you might not be within range of the park’s Wifi router. However, if you mount the Wifi extender on top of your RV, the 3 antennas will be able to catch signals from miles away and allow you to access the Wifi. This also applies to all other locations. You can park the RV in the parking lot of a public building with Wifi and access its internet, as long as you have their network’s password that is.

You cannot use this extender while driving because you have to be within 1-2 miles of the Wifi router in order to access it. Once you go beyond that point, you will lose the signals. If you want a network extender you can use while driving, you can use this model’s 4G version.

I do have one major concern with this wifi extender though. I found that it works with some Wifi spots and doesn’t work with some spots. In some areas, it can catch signals perfectly and in other cases, the network times out. This suggests that there’s a compatibility issue and that this device isn’t compatible with all Wifi systems. However, I will also say that when it does connect to a wifi network, it does so perfectly and really boosts the signals and the range.

Pros

• Great at increasing the range and catching distant wifi networks.
• 3 antennas are provided for a heightened range.
• Highly secure.
• Easy to install.

Cons

• Extremely expensive.
• Not meant to increase the speed of internet, only range.
• Inconsistent compatibility with wifi networks.

7. Persevere WiFi Range Extender

The Persevere WiFi Range Extender is equipped with 4 5DBi external antennas, all of them rated at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz capable of WiFi speeds up to 300 Mbps and 1200 Mbps respectively.

This Wifi extender works on three separate modes — Repeater Mode, AP Mode, and Router Mode. The Repeater Mode can be used if you want to enhance the coverage of a wireless network already being detected by your device. AP Mode allows you to cover a wired network to a wireless network. And the Router Mode allows you to create a private wireless network and give several devices access to it.

This device also comes equipped with a Media Bridge Function that allows you to use the gigabit Ethernet ports to connect wired devices to the extender for heightened speed. A lot of people misunderstand what this extender is supposed to do so I’ll explain it. The extender function creates new SSIDs that you can connect to and it extends the range of the Wifi. You can also create new networks using different SSID names.

I have to say that this device does its job wonderfully. After connecting it to a wifi router, I started walking with it to see how far I would retain the signals. I continued walking away from my house and down the street, and the signals were still strong. I continued walking down the block and I still had signals. I eventually lost the signals altogether once I was about 3 blocks down, so that’s an incredible range. I’m very impressed.

Installation of this wifi extender is quite simple if you follow the instructions. You need to trigger the Repeated mode using the switch at the left, plug the extender into a power outlet, and turn it on. Reset the device by pushing a pin into the small hole at the right. This will turn all the LED lights on and activate the device. Connect your device’s wifi to either Wireless-N or Wireless-AC. Launch the browser and enter the address http://ap.setup or 192.168.10.1 and then enter the password “admin”. You’ll have to now simply follow the setup wizard to set up your device and your wifi signals will be amplified.

Pros

• Has an incredible range because of 4 external antennas.
• Can work in several different modes for different purposes.
• Easy installation.

Cons

• The connection can sometimes be unstable and you might have to reconnect or reset the device.

8. Halo Long Range Marine & RV Wi-Fi Extender

The Halo Long Range Marine & RV Wi-Fi Extender comes equipped with an 18” 9DBi antenna rated at 2.4 GHz and capable of supporting a wifi speed of up to 300 Mbps. As such, it’s not the most powerful WiFi extender out there, and it’s quite expensive, but it’s designed in an extremely sleek style and is highly durable. This device is essentially just a long antenna with little more to it, which makes it highly portable. Its dimensions are 28 x 1 x 1 inches and it weighs just 1 pound.

It can connect to several devices, you just have to configure it with the local wifi network and log in using the provided username and password. As such, the installation and setup is a breeze. This Halo extender comes equipped with a 120-200V AC adapter which you need to plug into an outlet, or you can also connect it to a 12V car charger.

Even though it has just one antenna, the range is not an issue for this device. Upon testing it, I could detect over 45 Wifi networks whereas previously I could only detect 10. Furthermore, I could also connect to a convenience store’s wifi which was located over 4 miles away. However, while this device has great range, it also cuts down the internet speed by half. For example, if I use it with my personal home internet which should be providing me with 125 Mbps, I only get about 65 to 70 Mbps. As such, you can use this to gain access to distant Wifi networks, but you shouldn’t use it if the network is already within reach.

Pros

• Easy installation and instructions.
• Can connect several devices without splitting the speed.
• Highly durable and waterproof.
• Has a long range.

Cons

• Cuts down the speed of the internet by half.

FAQ About Wifi Boosters

Which Factors to Consider when Buying Wifi Booster for RVs?

When you go through the reviews of Wifi Boosters for RVs, it’s important to focus on the following factors to determine if it’s right for you.

Compatibility

Before you purchase a Wifi booster, you need to examine your router. The booster has to be compatible with your signal provider or router. Furthermore, the booster must also be compatible with the router’s speed range, which is usually somewhere between 300 to 1300 Mbps. Most modern Wifi routers can cater to all different types of boosters now so it shouldn’t be much of a difficulty. However, you should be careful anyway.

Type

As mentioned already, Wifi boosters come in various forms. Some of them amplify the strength of the internet whereas some can receive signals from greater distances. If you already have internet, but with poor signals, you need to strengthen your signal. If you are located in an area with no or minimal Wifi connection, you might need a booster that can fetch signals from a greater range.

Design

Wifi boosters are available in various designs, some of them have plastic blocks that can be plugged into an outlet directly. Some come with LED displays that flash the signal strength. Some look like simple Wifi routers. Some are large and some can fit into your pockets. Choose a Wifi booster that’s portable and has all the features necessary for you.

Speed

As far as speed is concerned, the higher the Mbps the better. However, you’ll be limited by your Wifi router’s capacity. So choose a Wifi booster with the highest Mbps that can also be supported by your current router.

Security

The Wifi booster should also be designed in a safe and secure manner, ensuring both the security of your online presence and your physical space.

Ease of Connection

Depending on your skills with technology and hardware, you should also focus on the ease of installation and connection. In order to connect the Wifi booster, you’ll have to know your router’s network name and password, usually written under the router.

The easiest Wifi boosters for connection are the Antenna because they need to simply be turned on and they start amplifying the signals, as long as the router is also turned on. The signals will directly be transmitted from the router to the booster for effortless connection.

Additional Features

There are various features that only some Wifi boosters offer because they aren’t a necessity. One such feature is the presence of one or several ethernet ports. This port allows you to plug in a device with a wired connection which can often provide a better connection, though you can’t access it wirelessly.

Some wifi boosters also provide audio streaming and come with ports for speakers or headphones. As such, these wifi boosters can also double as music streaming devices.

Be sure to examine the additional features available in your chosen RV Wifi booster and select wisely.

How is an RV Wifi Booster different from a regular Wifi Booster?

The only major difference between a regular wifi booster and an RV wifi booster is that the latter should be more portable by necessity. Since you’ll be traveling a lot, it makes sense to get a Wifi booster that’s small and can easily be connected anywhere.

Besides that one point of difference, RV wifi boosters are the same as regular wifi boosters and can be used interchangeably.

How to use Wifi Boosters in RVs?

It’s easy to connect and install your Wifi booster in your RV. You need to install the booster and then place it in a location from which you can easily receive Wifi signals.

Once the Wifi booster has been installed in place, you need to connect it to the power supply. Using your computer and remote devices, log into the booster and enter the network login details. You’ll now be able to use the Wifi booster to amplify your signals.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you decide which is the best Wifi booster for RV for your specific needs. Do consult the Buyer’s Guide at the end to help figure out your options and learn more about Wifi boosters. Having said that, go ahead and enjoy browsing the internet!

An RV Awning is either a roof or a cover that can be used to provide additional shelter from the sun, rain or even some mild wind. Some of them can be retracted and some are stationary, and they’re made of materials like vinyl, acrylic, aluminum, etc.

However, the awnings that come with RVs are often of inferior quality and don’t last very long. If your current RV awning is damaged, or if you simply want an upgrade, you should look out for the best RV awnings on the market today.

In this article, I’ve reviewed some of my favorite RV awnings in a fair and unbiased manner.

There are a number of benefits of using RV awnings:

• You can increase the space available around your RV.
• It can provide shelter from wind, sun, or rain.
• If you want to sit outside the RV but without being exposed to the sun, you can sit under the awning as you enjoy coffee or read the papers.
• If you get a screen room type RV awning, it can serve as shelter from bugs and other insects as well.
• Screen rooms can also provide you with additional privacy as it serves as an independent room.

Different types of RV awnings are usually determined by how they are positioned, where they are located, and whether they are retractable. The most common types are retractable, shade, canopy, shelter and screen room-type RVs.

Best Shade, Canopy and Shelter Awnings for RVs

Shade awnings are simply a canopy that can be attached along the side of the RV to provide shade during summer days. They’re easy to install and can be combined with drop-down mesh sunshade panels to provide additional shade.

Canopy

Canopies are similar to shade, only a lot more durable and made of tougher materials. In addition to offering shade under the sun, they can also protect you from rains and strong winds.

Shelter

Shelters serve the same functions shades and canopies, but they’re made of tougher fiberglass material or plastic and are used to provide protection to the entire RV. They can withstand most external elements. However, they’re also heavy and difficult to both install and disassemble.

1. Tentproinc RV Awning

This is a mesh sun shade awning by Tentproinc and it is meant largely for use in hot summer days to provide protection from UV rays and wind. It can be attached to your existing awning so it drops down from the edge of the awning and can be hooked down to the ground, creating a cool screen for you.

The mesh quality is strong and durable so you don’t need to worry about the mesh tearing or ripping when you hook it down to the ground. The company also claims that it can block out 86% of the UV rays while not restricting visibility. I cannot comment on their claims about blocking out 86% of the UV rays, however, I can attest to the fact that it kept me cool and out of direct sunlight. Furthermore, my visibility was not restricted either.

The only issue I have here is that it doesn’t come with mesh sides. You only have the mesh screen but the sides are left uncovered. If you’re camping out at nights and want to use it to keep bugs out, you’ll have to purchase the sides separately. This felt a bit like a cash grab to me and I don’t appreciate it. In my view, the mesh sides should have been a part of the package.

You should carefully measure the width of your RV before purchasing it. Fortunately, this is available in a number of different colors and sizes, so you’ll find one that suits your RV without difficulty.

This RV awning shade comes in a single piece and there’s no zip attached. You have to slide the 3/16” PVC cord into the awning track. It’s also very easy to slide it out and rolling up the fabric.

There have been some complaints from users about the fact that this shade doesn’t ensure privacy. However, I find that complaint to be unjustified because the manufacturers have clearly stated that it’s not meant for privacy and that it retains the visibility. It’s made of mesh material after all. As such, if you need a shade that provides privacy, you should find another RV awning.

Pros

• Strong visibility.
• Lightweight and durable mesh.
• Easy to attach and install.

Cons

• Doesn’t come with sides.
• Cannot stand independently. Has to be used in combination with an existing awning.

2. Carefree 701508

The Carefree 701508 is yet another awning shade that’s meant to be used in combination with an existing RV awning. Like the Tentproinc RV Awning, this too is meant for those who want protection from harsh sun rays and want a cooler space where they can relax.

However, where it differs from Tentproinc is in visibility. The material used here — Vinyl-coated polyester — is a lot thicker than the mesh used in Tentproinc. As such, you have a lot more privacy. This can be a good or bad thing depending on your needs. Some people prefer to experience the awning’s cooling effects without losing visibility. This is not the right shade for them. However, if you want the shade to provide you with some privacy while you relax, this is meant for you. However, you should note that it provides relative privacy. It’s dark and dense so people won’t be able to see you clearly, but dark silhouettes will still be visible.

It comes in two parts — a lower skirt and an upper zippered insert panel. The two parts need to be attached using a zipper that runs through the middle. The upper part needs to be attached to the existing awning and the lower part can be staked to the ground. The zippered insert needs to be attached to the free slot of the awning roller and it can be used to roll up the awning.

This method also allows you to reach it without using a ladder, you simply have to zip the body panel into the awning’s insert. All the tools you need for installation — bag, spikes, and tie downs — are available with the product so you don’t need any additional purchases.

Like the Tentproinc, I was again disappointed to find that they don’t provide awning sides as well. If they have designed a shade, I prefer that they provide shade on all sides, not just one. Furthermore, this product doesn’t even provide side shades that you can purchase externally.

Pros

• Block out UV rays and provide shade.
• Ideal for hot summers.
• Durable material.
• Privacy provided.

Cons

• Installation is complex.
• Side shades are not available.

Best Retractable RV Awnings

As the name suggests, retractable RV awnings can be collapsed, folded, and stored in the RV. This is useful whenever you’re traveling so the extended awning doesn’t present an obstacle. It only takes a few minutes to install it so that shouldn’t be an issue.

Retractable awnings also come with metallic arms that can be folded without entirely collapsing or removing the awning. These are available in mechanical and electric variants. The mechanical awnings require a crank to be manually opened or closed. The electric awnings can simply be opened or closed by pressing a button.

The mechanical variant is easier to install and has fewer parts. The electric variant is a lot more convenient but it’s also more difficult to install.

3. SunWave Awning Fabric Ocean Blue Fade

The SunWave Awning Fabric Ocean Blue Fade is a highly durable and waterproof vinyl retractable RV awning. As the name suggests, it’s available in a faded blue shade and it’s made of durable 15oz vinyl material with an additional 16oz vinyl weather shield. This ensures that no water is absorbed by the material and it provides protection from sun, wind, and rains. Since it is just an overhead RV awning, it cannot provide protection from bugs or privacy, but you can attach a separate shade to it to block out bugs as well.

This is a manually operated retractable RV awning. As such, you’ll have to install and take it off manually. If you’re experienced, you’ll be able to do it pretty easily. With the help of a friend, you can install the awning within a few minutes without much of a hassle if you know what you’re doing. However, if you’ve never installed such an awning before, you’ll find it quite challenging. For one, threading the second groove is difficult because of the lack of a pre-sewn seam.

This awning comes with a sewn-in poly cord next to the valance and around the side of the RV. However, the poly cord that comes with the fabric isn’t sewn in so you’ll have to insert it by threading it through the material which causes quite a hassle.

Furthermore, while it’s possible to install the awning on your own, you will pretty much have to rely on instincts and YouTube tutorials as the instructions manual is a mess and leaves you more confused than clarified.

Pros

• Aesthetically pleasing design.
• Lightweight and durable.

Cons

• Confusing instructions.
• Difficult installation process.

4. ALEKO RVAW16X8BLUE24

The ALEKO RVAW16X8BLUE24 is a manually-operated retractable RV awning. It can be opened and closed with a simple hand crank and the process takes less than a minute. It’s made of acrylic material and, as such, it’s water-resistant but not waterproof.

This means that it will prevent water accumulation and the water will easily evaporate, however, if you touch the underside of the awning you will feel its wetness. However, it’s mildew resistant as well so you don’t have to worry about mold growth if it remains wet for too long. It also provides protection from the sun and complete UV protection.

The kit comes with all of the tools necessary for installation, including the arms and rails. I am disappointed that the instruction manual was so poorly written and even carried a lot of simple spelling and grammatical errors. It seemed like the person who wrote it didn’t really even understand what he was writing, which made it incredibly difficult to follow. I had to eventually rely on a mixture of common sense and online tutorials from other users to install it. Once I got a hang of it, the installation was fairly simple.

The roller piece is provided in three separate pieces so you have to put them together. However, once you do, it’s pretty strong. You also have to manually thread the spline through the top of the fabric, which is another complicated step. Besides these two minor inconveniences, the rest was quite easily handled, especially the arm lock, which I loved.

All things considered, this is one of the best retractable RV awnings on the market, as long as you have the time to figure out the installation carefully.

Pros

• Durable material.
• UV, mildew, and water resistant.
• Hand crank makes it easy to open and close.
• All necessary tools are provided with the product.

Cons

• The instruction manual is a complete mess.

Best Screen Room RV Awnings

A screen room is essentially an additional room with four walls and a roof that you can attach beside your RV. It expands your RVs available space while providing you with another room where you can enjoy some privacy and be protected from external elements.

5. Carefree 291800 Vacation’r Screen Room

The Carefree 291800 Vacation’r is the best screen room to extend your RV’s surface area. It’s available in a range of sizes from 86 inches to 150 inches, and it can easily be attached next to the RV for some privacy. It’s made of a durable yet lightweight material. There are several mesh windows attached on the walls of this screen room, but they can be covered up using the drop-down extension as well, thus providing complete privacy.

It comes with a skirt to ensure that it’s fully enclosed, down to the last inch. If you have pets or kids, you’ll have to stay down the skirt firmly so they cannot get out from underneath. This screen room can be used independently or it can also be used in combination with an existing awning if you prefer to use that as the roof.

The doors on this screen room come with a zip so you’ll have to zip and unzip your way in and out of the door. This can be a nuisance to handle. Furthermore, zipper doors aren’t very durable. After a few months of continuous use, it’s inevitable that some of the zips might give away and you’ll have to find a replacement. I would have preferred magnetic screen doors or even velcro strips instead of zip as they can flap shut behind you instantly. If necessary, you can purchase a magnetic net door separately.

If it’s windy, you should take down the screen room completely because it will flap around quite a lot and the zippers and windows can get damaged. However, disassembling it doesn’t take too long.

Pros

• Easy installation.
• Complete privacy.
• Works with other awnings as well.
• An additional extension panel is available if you need to extend the size for a perfect fit.
• Can keep out the sun, rain, and bugs.

Cons

• Zipper doors can be difficult to use and aren’t durable.
• Not ideal for windy days.

6. Dometic 935002.120 Veranda Room

The Dometic 935002.120 Veranda Room is a screen room available in 7’ to 12’ lengths and they can be attached to both manually-operated or electrical awnings. However, it’s necessary for you to already have an awning in place as it doesn’t have a roof of its own. This is perhaps one of the cheapest screen rooms on the market and it’s a great way to increase your RV’s living space while also ensuring that you have protection from UV rays and bugs.

The walls of this screen room are made entirely of mesh so you should note that it cannot offer privacy the way most screen rooms can. This can offer you protection from UV rays and bugs when camping, but not privacy. The fabric, however, is fire-resistant and it also dries easily and is resistant to mildew. Having said that, since it’s made of mesh, it cannot keep rain out. As such, if the weather is windy or if you’re expecting rains, you should take it down.

It comes with a trailer skirt as well which can be staked down on the ground so there’s no space left at the bottom of the screen room. However, the top of the screen is attached to the awning via a velcro strip. As such, it’s easy to install but velcro can easily come off if there’s the slightest of winds. Furthermore, velcro isn’t a very durable material and its efficiency mitigates over time.

Pros

• Can be attached to all awnings.
• Provides protection from UV rays and bugs.
• Fire and mildew resistant.
• Dries quickly.
• Easy to install.

Cons

• Cannot withstand the slightest of winds or rain.
• Velcro strip for attachment isn’t durable.
• It’s necessary to already have an awning in place.
• No privacy as the mesh is partially transparent.

FAQ About RV Awnings

Which Factors to Consider when Buying RV Awnings?

The following are some of the most important factors you need to take into consideration when buying RV awnings.

Fabric/ Material

RV awnings are made of a number of different materials such as canvas, acrylic, vinyl, fiberglass, plastic, and others. It’s important to consider the material because it will determine the amount of protection it offers, the weight, durability, etc.

For example, if you’re traveling during the summer, you might need a lightweight material that can offer protection from the sun. However, if you’re traveling during windy or rainy months, you will need stronger protection.

The following are the most popular materials used for RV awnings.

Acrylic

Acrylic is a breathable fabric made of individual threads that have been woven together. The fact that it’s made of individual woven threads means air can circulate through it, ensuring that it’s cool during hot months. These are available in a lot of different colors and design options as well and they don’t fade because they’re made using colored threads rather than dying the material later.

Acrylic fabric is water-repellant, so the water will either roll off the surface or eventually evaporate. However, it’s not waterproof, so it will get wet and you’ll be able to feel the wetness and moisture on the awning’s underside as well. It can provide protection from both sun and rain, but not if the rain is too heavy.

Vinyl

Vinyl fabrics are a lot more durable than acrylic and consist of four layers — a top layer that’s resistant to fading, painted vinyl layer, polyester layer to add strength and durability, and base vinyl layer to offer support.

Vinyl fabrics are completely waterproof and extremely durable. However, it’s important to dry it out before storage or it will develop molds and mildew. They’re great for use in locations with high rainfall, but not in places that are constantly humid as they might lead to mildew.

Installation Process

Some awnings can be installed within a few minutes, and some require a complicated set of instructions and they take hours. You should go for an RV awning that’s easy to install individually and within a few minutes.

RV Measurements

This is the most crucial factor. RVs are available in all sizes, and so are RV awnings. You need to find an RV awning that’s meant for your RV size, neither too big nor too small. You should ask the RV awning’s manufacturer about the RV its meant for. Or if you want to measure yourself, you should go for an RV awning that’s 1/2 or 1/3 times the length of your RV.

Personal Needs

You need to consider where you plan to go with your RV. If you travel to locations without electric outlets, getting an electrical RV awning will be a bad idea. In that case, you would want a lightweight and durable manually-handled RV awning. However, if you spend most of your time in camping grounds with power supply, you can get an electrical awning even if it’s heavier.

Aesthetics

This is the least practically important factor. However, since you’ll be using an RV awning for a long time, make sure the print and color is one that you like looking at.

How to Make Sure Your RV Awning is Waterproof?

Whether your RV awning is waterproof will depend on the material of the fabric. The most waterproof cloth-based material is vinyl fabric as it’s essentially a laminated piece of cloth. This prevents the water from seeping through, making it completely waterproof.

How to Attach an Awning to the RV?

Electric awnings should ideally be installed by professionals. As such, in this part, I’ll show you how to install a manual RV awning. Before you start, you’ll need another individual’s help and you’ll need two step ladders so you can support the awning on both sides.

Once everything is in place, follow these steps:

1. Attach the awning rail to the correct spot using screws and bolts.
2. Pull the awning tube towards yourself and unroll the awning carefully.
3. Slide the upper awning arms into their position and use the tension knobs to adjust the tension and fix them firmly in place.
4. Depending on the type of awning you have, the bottom support arms of the awning will either be placed on the ground or on the sides of the RV.

How to Open, Close, or Repair an RV Awning?

In this section of the article, I’ll show you how to open, close, repair, or replace an RV awning.

Opening an RV Awning

1. Squeeze the release mechanisms at the side of the arms to unlock them.
2. Set loose the rafter knobs and place the ratchet mechanism to a roll-down position. In some cases, the sliding mechanism can be handled remotely as well. This will release the awning.
3. Use the pull-down strap loop and pull rod to extend the awning and slide their arms upwards.
4. Secure the awning by drawing the awning tube while pushing it down gently.
5. Tighten the knob on both the tension arms.
6. Use the lift handle to disengage the catch pin, move it up, and pull the awning to extend it completely.
7. To prevent water accumulation, place one end of the awning about 3 inches below the other corner to create a slope from which the water can slide down.

Closing an RV Awning

1. Lower the arms of the awning using the pull-down straps.
2. Loosen the rafter knobs and rafter catches from the back of the arms.
3. Set the rafters on a rest position to ensure that the awning doesn’t roll up automatically. Hold the awning rod and strap in place when you’re loosening the rafters.
4. Use the switch at the top to put the ratchet mechanism on roll-up mode.
5. Wind up the awning by connecting the hook to the pull strap.
6. Secure the travel locks and make sure the handle releases are locked.
7. Secure the rafter knobs to prevent the awning from opening up again.

Repairing an RV Awning

1. Use a non-abrasive cleaner to clean the top and bottom parts of the damaged location on the awning.
2. Dry the awning using an absorbent towel.
3. Patch the damaged area using a clear repair tape. Make sure the angle is correct and even out any air bubbled that might form.
4. Repeat the process for all the tears, both for the top and bottom parts of the awning.

How to heat an RV Awning?

The only type of RV awning that can be heated is a screen room. You can create the screen room next to the RV, and since it is essentially an enclosed space, you can also install a heater. Once you do that, you can also open and close the RV door at will without fear that the cold air will get in.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you figure out which is the best RV awning on the market. And I hope I’ve been able to answer all your questions about them and their use. So now that you’ve made up your mind, it’s time to extend that shade and enjoy!

Furthermore, it’s important to invest in a good waste tank. Trust me, you don’t wanna cut corners where waste tanks are concerned. It can get… messy, for lack of a better word.

What is a Portable Waste Tank?

An RV portable waste tank is the most effective way of disposing of both gray water (shower and tap water) and black water (toilet water). Essentially, an RV portable waste tank can hold both liquid and solid wastes generated in the RV. It’s attached to the RV, treated with some chemicals to mitigate the odor, and allowed to fill up. Once it’s almost full, you can tow or carry it and dump it into a dump station. It is an essential for those who travel around on RVs often.

Why Do You Need a One?

The prospect of handling a waste tank and dumping it isn’t pleasant. But if you’re an RV user, it’s essential for a number of reasons.

1. Many campgrounds don’t have public bathroom facilities or sewage connections. So you have to dump your waste somewhere.
2. It’s possible that you might want to use the toilet when you’re still on the road. In that case, you don’t have to wait for miles and miles hoping for a public bathroom, you can simply use your RV’s toilet and be assured that you have a waste tank in place.
3. When you’re using a waste tank, you will try to limit your water usage as much as possible to save yourself another trip to the dumping station. This automatically necessitates economic use of water, making it an environmentally friendly option.
4. Waste tanks can be well sorted into black tanks and gray tanks. As such, you can dump out the black water and then use the gray water to clean the black tank. This makes the process a lot cleaner and more hygienic.

Best Portable Waste Tanks for Your RV

There are a lot of different RV portable waste tanks on the market but which one is suitable for your specific needs? Over the years, I have used a number of waste tanks, some of which have been a godsend and some of which have led to some embarrassing situations. In this article, I’ve compiled all my findings to give you a detailed overview of the best RV portable waste tanks on the market.

1. Barker 30844

The Barker 30844 is undoubtedly the best 4-wheeler portable waste tank for RVs on the market. I especially love it because of its strength and durability as it’s made of blow molded polyethylene, zinc plated steel and aluminum, and its simplicity of use. It has large pneumatic rubber tires that can easily allow it to be towed along and a 3-inch sewer valve that can be easily secured and fastened.

It also comes equipped with a full tank indicator that lets you know when the sewage tank is about to fill up. As such, you can shut off the valve in the holding tank in time to prevent a spill. Some waste tanks come with an auto shut-off feature that detects the tank is filling up and automatically shuts it off. However, I personally don’t like that because if you shut off the portable tank’s valves before the holding tank’s valves, the waste will accumulate in the hose, leading to a possibility of rupturing it or causing a spill.

This portable waste tank is available in sizes ranging from 16 gallons to 42 gallons. With 2-wheel waste tanks, you have to lift one end and drag the tank along the ground while its wheels can barely support its weight. Furthermore, 2-wheelers can’t be drained horizontally so you have to lift them up into a vertical position to drain them.

This 4-wheeler waste tank resolves that issue because you just have to hold on to the handle and the tank rolls along the ground without any need to lift it up. The wheels are air-filled and they’re set on axles with rear wheel bearings, so they can be rolled along easily on the hardest of surfaces. Trust me, your arms will thank you for the consideration! Once you reach the dumping station, you can empty it from the horizontal position itself and don’t need to lift it.

While I absolutely loved the wheels on this waste tank, I was not a fan of the hose. Yes, you do get a 3 feet long hose that allows you to drain the holding tank into the portable waste tank, but it’s made of inferior quality and requires frustrating assembly. As you might be aware already, transference of fecal matter from holding tank to portable tank where most of the leaks occur. So don’t skimp out on the hose and get the very best sewer hose separately. You should ideally get a hose with a 90-degree elbow at the end so you don’t have to contort it to fit into the valves.

Pros

• Can dump while it’s still horizontal.
• Pneumatic wheels can be used on any kind of ground.
• Don’t have to lift it from one end, can simply roll it along.
• Full tank indicator available.
• Extremely sturdy and durable.

Cons

• The sewer hose is made of inferior quality.

2. Barker 31342

The Barker 31342 is a 2-wheeler RV portable waste tank available in capacities ranging from 10 gallons to 30 gallons. I personally don’t care for 2-wheeler waste tanks for all the reasons I already mentioned in the previous review — you need to lift up one end, it’s hard to roll, and it needs to be emptied vertically. However, a lot of people don’t want to shell out the inordinately high cost of a 4-wheeler portable waste tank, so I’m including this for those people.

Barker 31342 is certainly the best 2-wheeler RV portable waste tank on the market, especially considering it’s made of the same materials as Barker 30844. Made of blow-molded polyethylene construction and quality zinc plated steel brackets, it’s extremely durable and you don’t need to worry about corrosion, cracks, etc.

It comes with large-heavy duty wheels. However, you’ll still have to lift it up from one end and the hind-wheels can only offer so much support. As such, if you’re taking it through areas with soft ground, you’ll find that the wheels will dig into the dirt and make it hard for you to move forward adequately. You might even have to lift the whole waste tank up and carry it through occasionally. Furthermore, when it’s time to dump, you have to lift it up into a vertical position. If you’re getting the small 10-gallon waste tank, that might not be an issue. However, if you’re using the 30-gallon waste tank, well then you have my condolences. I also found that it doesn’t empty out completely because of the design. As such, if you have black water in it, you might have to manually remove some of the last bit.

Like Barker 30844, this waste tank also comes with a sewer hose. However, the hose suffers from the same issue. It’s not made of durable material, it’s extremely frustrating to assemble, and the end of the hose is hard to fit into the holding tank’s valves. As mentioned in my previous review, you’ll be better off purchasing a separate sewer tank altogether. The provided hose, however, can be used to connect the tank to a hose bib so you can rinse it thoroughly with water in order to clean it.

A little suggestion: don’t fill it up to the brim. After remaining in the tank for a long duration, the fecal matter and waste builds up methane. As such, if you’ve filled it up to the top, the pressure will be strong and it might blow the waste water out of the top the moment you release the valves. I speak from experience. Leave a few inches of space at the top.

Pros

• Reasonably priced.
• Relatively lightweight.
• Durable construction.

Cons

• Has to be lifted from one end.
• The wheels can’t take you through soft grounds.
• Has to be drained in a vertical position.
• Due to the design, it doesn’t drain efficiently all the way through.
• Sewer hose is made of inferior quality.

3. Tote-N-Store 20123

The Tote-N-Store 20123 is a 4-wheeler portable RV waste tank available in the capacities of 18, 25, and 39 gallons. This is a great option for you if you, like me, don’t like 2-wheeler waste tanks but can’t afford a Barker 30844. As such, this is a budget option for a 4-wheeler waste tank. Or what can pass off as a budget option considering all 4-wheeler waste tanks are incredibly overpriced.

This waste tank has narrow wheels that can adequately allow you to roll the tank on hard asphalt surface. However, if you try to roll it along soft ground or through gravel, the wheels might cave in or give away, thus putting you in a position to have to lift them and carry them on your back. The wheels never entirely came off while I used them, however, I have heard complaints from several users who showed my visual evidence of how the wheels collapsed when made to roll along uneven ground. As such, you should only purchase this waste tank if you’re certain that you’ll only need to use it on hard even ground.

I also have an issue with the compartment door. While towing it, the door threatens to open up as it’s not fastened well enough. I was terrified of that happening because of the mess it would create! I had to eventually fasten it with a bungee cord, but I shouldn’t have to do that. The door should be strong enough to hold even when towing the waste tank through rough terrains. Furthermore, the sewer hose comes with bayonet connectors on both ends, which makes it impossible to attach an elbow on one end. As such, I had to purchase a separate sewer hose.

Having said that, this is still a much better choice than a 2-wheeler waste tank because you don’t have to lift up one end, nor do you have to empty it from a vertical position. I also liked that they provided translucent drain pipes. This allows you to gauge how full the tank is getting and drain the tank accordingly.

Pros

• One of the most budget-friendly 4-wheeler portable RV waste tanks.
• Can be emptied in a horizontal position.
• No need to lift it up on one end.
• Translucent drain pipes allow you to see how full or empty the tank is.
• Comes with a storage compartment where you can keep the accessories.

Cons

• Wheels are narrow and small.
• Can’t be used on soft or uneven ground.
• Compartment door doesn’t close properly.
• The sewer hose can’t accommodate an elbow extension.

4. Camco Rhino 39002

The Camco Rhino 39002 is a 2-wheeler RV portable waste tank that comes in capacities ranging from 15 to 36 gallons. Even though it’s a 2-wheeler waste tank, I don’t hate it quite as much as most other 2-wheelers because the heavy-duty wheels are extremely large. As such, even though you still have to lift them up, they’re quite durable and you can even tow them across soft or uneven ground without fear of the wheels giving away. This makes towing the tank less strenuous as you’re not constantly worried about damage and having to carry the tank. Furthermore, the handlebar at the end can also be attached to the back of a golf cart or truck and you can tow it behind slowly.

One my issues with the Barker 31342 was its design which didn’t allow the waste to be cleared entirely. However, the Camco Rhino 39002 is designed with an extremely low drain hole so it drains entirely. Furthermore, it also comes with an integrated tank rinser that can be used to efficiently clean and rinse the interiors.

The entire tank is made of blow molded UV stabilized HDPE material. It’s adequately durable and doesn’t expand under the sun. Furthermore, the 3’ sewer hose provided has a bayonet at one end and lug fitting on the other so you can attach an additional elbow accessory if you so choose. This is a feature that wasn’t even available in some of the better Barker models, so I really appreciate it.

I would also caution against using the 6’ hose. I appreciate that they provide a 6’ hose with the larger tanks, but they’re really slippery and move around quite a bit once you remove them from the tank. I tried using them and I got gray water all over myself and some of my coworkers. So use a 3’ hose that’s a lot easier to manage. If you must use a 6’ hose, get one that’s a little stiffer than this one.

I was also disappointed to find that it doesn’t come with a level indicator. As such, you have to make an estimation on when the tank might be close to filling up. If you make the wrong guess, your waste might start leaking or you might overfill the tank. This is quite a big oversight on the part of the manufacturers.

Pros

• The wheels are large and durable.
• Durable construction.
• Easy to drain it entirely.

Cons

• Sewer hose can be too flexible for comfort.
• No level indicator available.

5. Thetford SmartTote2 40518

The Thetford SmartTote2 40518 is a 4-wheeler RV portable waste tank with a 27-gallon capacity. It only comes in this one size so you can only use it for short trips and if you’re a single individual.

The front wheels of the tank are attached to the handle to facilitate easy maneuverability. The handle itself is extendable which is great because you don’t have to slouch uncomfortably to tow it nor do you have to use an extension. Furthermore, the extendable handle can easily be tucked under the tank when not in use so it doesn’t take up too much space in the RV. The handle can also be easily attached to the back of your RV or vehicle so it can be towed comfortably and you don’t have to keep it inside your RV. I also found it pretty easy to drain the tank since the port is quite large. It also has an AutoStop level gauge that can prevent it from overfilling and spilling.

The only real issue here is the foldable handle and the wheels’ durability. I used it for a few weeks and it worked perfectly and I do like the design. However, I was dubious about how long it would last with continuous folding and unfolding over a period of several months and whether the wheels would be able to work over uneven gravel paths. So I contacted several of this product’s other users and I was disappointed that they all voiced a similar sentiment. Everyone who had used it for over 6 months said that either the handlebar or the wheels or both came apart eventually. While the same hasn’t happened to me (yet), I have to take the word of so many people.

This is a reasonable and smartly designed waste tank. But it’s not durable and you shouldn’t purchase it for regular or longterm use.

Pros

• Extremely reasonable for a 4-wheeler waste tank.
• Easy to maneuver.
• Draining and cleaning are easy.
• Comes with an AutoStop level gauge.
• Handle can be folded under the tank.

Cons

• Not durable. Both wheels and handle can break or come apart after a few months.

6. Alpha Systems VB22548H

The Alpha Systems VB22548H is the only no-wheel RV portable waste tank on this list. In addition to not having any wheels, it’s also meant largely for gray water waste but you can also use it as a black waste tank provided you add plenty of water to prevent possible clogging. It’s cheap, and some people need waste tanks for temporary use so it’s ideal for them.

The tank is made of blow-molded HDPE material and it’s extremely tough and durable. It has a uniform thickness throughout the body which again adds to its durability. Since there are no wheels attached, you cannot tow it. You will have to either lift it or carry it in a vehicle. If you need to secure it, you can use steel straps with a rubber seal so that the strap doesn’t rub through the plastic. It has a 3” outlet from which you can connect the sewer hose. The outlet is positioned such that all of the waste can efficiently be released and it’s easy to clean up after.

You can connect this waste tank to the bottom of your RV. There are a number of ways to accomplish this. Some people prefer to create a little cage by using straps. I personally preferred to use the lipped edge of the tank to weld brackets for the tank to sit on. I am disappointed, however, that the manufacturers didn’t provide any tools to mount the tank or attach it to the RV. Considering mounting is a pretty essential part of using this tank, that’s quite an oversight.

These tanks also have four sensors attached — one ground sensor next to the outlet and three level sensors. These sensors can detect when the tank is filling up so you can stop.

Pros

• Durable material.
• Sensors available.

Cons

• No wheels so it’s hard to carry.
• Has to be mounted to the RV and the manufacturer doesn’t provide any tools for it.

FAQ About Portable Waste Tanks

What are the different types of RV Portable Waste Tanks?

There are basically 2 types of portable waste tanks out there- a grey and a black one.

Grey Tank

Grey tank is the one where all your waste water (other than toilet water) is disposed of. It collects water from the sink, shower, etc. Some RVs come with a single gray tank whereas some come with two gray tanks, one for the bathroom and another for the kitchen. If you use separate gray tanks, you’ll have the responsibility of draining and cleaning them separately, doubling your work.

You can also leave your grey tank valve open when you’re hooked up to a sewage drain so the grey water can drain out and you don’t have to later dump them.

Black Tank

Black tank is solely meant for toilet waste, so it’s pretty disgusting. Spills are pretty inevitable with tanks, at least occasionally, so you’re responsible for cleaning them up when they happen.

Black tanks also clog up easier than grey tanks because they hold both solid and liquid waste. As such, solid buildup can lead to clogs which you’ll have to fix later. To avoid clogs, you can make sure you flush often so there’s plenty of liquid in it, and avoid flushing toilet paper. If you must flush toilet paper, be sure to use ones that are meant specifically for RVs.

You should never leave your black tank valve open for an extended period as all the liquid will flow out and leave behind the solid waste, increasing the likelihood of a clog. You should only open the valves when you’re at the dumping station and ready to pour out the liquids and solids.

Which Factors to Consider when Buying RV Portable Waste Tanks?

There are a number of different factors to take into consideration when buying RV portable waste tanks. The following are some of the most pertinent factors of consideration.

Type

As mentioned above, some waste tanks can only hold gray water, some can only hold black water, and some can hold both. If you’re handling gray water, buying the wrong tank might not make a big difference. However, if you handle black water and buy the wrong tank, you could be in for a really sticky situation. So read the product description carefully and choose wisely!

Material

RV portable waste tanks are available in a lot of different materials but the most popular are plastic and polyethylene. Plastic is preferred over metal tanks as it’s relatively immune to corrosion and cracking. However, if you want to prevent the slightest of odor from breaking through, the polyethylene will be a better choice as it has thick and impenetrable walls.

Simplicity

An RV waste tank should come with a flush valve that’s attached to the hose and is used to easily flush the waste. If the waste tank doesn’t come with this feature, you’ll either have to remove the waste manually or purchase a separate flush valve. It’s also important that you read the product’s reviews to make sure that it doesn’t clog so you don’t get messy while emptying the tank.

Portability

RV waste tanks are available with no wheels, two wheels, or four wheels. The higher the number of wheels, the more portable it is because you can simply tow it instead of carrying it. Furthermore, the wheels should be made of rubber so it rolls along easily.

Size

It’s extremely important to consider how large you want your waste tank to be. You don’t want to be forced to undertake the arduous process of emptying the tank too often, and you don’t want it leaking over either. The size of the tank is determined based on a number of factors.

• Length of Trip: The length of your trip is a big factor in how big the tank should be. Are you going to be on the road for over 3 days? If so, get a waste tank with a 30 to 42 gallon capacity. Are you going to use it for a single weekend? If so, a waste tank of less than 30 gallons should suffice.
• Number of Individuals: The number of people who will be in the RV will also determine how much of the waste tank is used. If a family of four or more people will be in the RV, for even a short period, you will naturally need a large waste tank. But if you need it just for yourself, you don’t need an extremely large waste tank.
• Size of the RV: It might be tempting to simply get the biggest waste tank possible. That way you’ll be sure that no matter how much waste you have in your black tank, you can always dispose of it. However, you also need to consider the size of your RV and whether the waste tank can fit into it. Furthermore, a larger waste tank is also harder to clean.
• Size of the Holding Tank: You should ideally buy a portable waste tank that’s as capacious as your RV’s holding tank. If your black tank is 25 gallons, get a portable tank that’s also 25 gallons. As such, you’ll be able to empty the entire holding tank without spilling.

Features

Different portable RV waste tanks come with different features and accessories. Some of these additional features can really enhance the convenience and durability of the waste tank so study them carefully. Some of these features include:

• Separate compartment to hold waste tank tools like hoses.
• Cradle pivots.
• Auto-stop systems.
• Tow handle extensions.

Where to Dump the Contents of the RV’s Holding Tanks?

There are three different places where you can dump waste from your holding tanks:

1. Campsite: Your gray and black water holding tanks can be connected to the camp’s sewers. However, in this case, the solid waste from the black water tank might not get adequately disposed of, which could lead to buildup and clogs.
2. Dump Stations: You can drive your entire RV to the dumping station and dump your waste there. This is inconvenient because it requires you to drive your entire vehicle to the station. As such, you might lose your spot if you’re boondocking or, if you’re at a campground, you will have to pack up your entire rig every time you have to go to a dump station.
3. Portable Waste Tank: You can drain your holding tank into your portable waste tank and then stow it away until you get the time to go to a dump station to empty it.

How to Empty the RV Holding Tank into the Portable Waste Tank?

The scariest part of using a portable waste tank is the part where you have to drain the black and grey holding tanks into the portable waste tank. This is the moment with the maximum potential for a messy spill, so you have to be very careful.

In order to make sure that you don’t get messy, follow these steps carefully:

1. There’s generally one outlet for the black water and gray water. Only some RVs come with separate outlets for separate gray tanks. The outlet will have separate valves for the gray tank and black tank. You can find them using your RVs manual. Be sure to identify which valve is for gray water and which is for black water and be sure not to get them mixed up.
2. Open the outlet’s cap. Don’t worry, unless the valves are open, no waste will come out at this point.
3. Connect the sewer hose to the correct valves and the other end into the portable waste tank.
4. Open the grey tank’s valve gently. As such, if there’s a leak, at least nothing seriously nasty will leak out. Once you’ve confirmed that there’s no leak, close the valve immediately. We are going to drain the black tank first.
5. Open the black tank valve and allow it to drain completely.
6. If you have a black tank flush, connect the hose to it and allow the flush to run into the tank for a few minutes while the black tank is open. This will ensure that everything is cleaned out. Once done, turn off the water and disconnect the hose.
7. Firmly seal the black tank valve closed.
8. Connect the hose to the gray tank valve. This will wash out the hose so there’s no fecal matter stuck to it.
9. Close the gray tank valve shut as well.
10. Disconnect the hose from the RV once all of it has drained into the portable waste tank. Lift it by holding the end high so nothing drips or spills on you.
11. Rinse it thoroughly with water, both inside and out.
12. Disconnect the hose from the portable waste tank as well. Rinse it again.
13. Shut off the portable waste water’s valve.
14. Put the cap back on the RV’s outlet and close both levers so there’s no leakage.
15. Keep your sewer hose back in storage.
16. Carry the portable waste tank to the nearest dumping station and empty its contents into it.
17. Clean the waste tank thoroughly and make sure there’s no matter still in it.

How to Clean a Portable RV Waste Tank?

1. Add bleach and water to the RV’s holding tank. Only if it’s empty and clean.
2. Run water through the tank till the bleach has mixed in and dissolved completely.
3. Allow the bleach to sit in the tank for a day.
4. Drain the bleach water into the portable RV waste tank.
5. Add treatment chemicals so that the smell of waste can dissipate.
6. Allow the bleach water to sit in the portable waste tank.
7. Drain the portable waste tank and rinse it clean with water.
8. Keep the tank open till the smell of bleach is gone.

How to Avoid Clogging?

Are you afraid of your black tank clogging up? Are you apprehensive about having to dump your tanks way too often? The solution is simple.

Don’t EVER dispose of toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, or other solid waste in the toilet. Dispose of them in a bin with a lid. This will drastically reduce the likelihood of the black tank clogging. This will also allow you to purchase whoever toilet paper you want without having to worry about the brand.

Furthermore, these solid wastes take up a lot of space in the black tank. As such, if you dispose of them in the bin, you’ll save a lot of space and you’ll be taking trips to the dumping station far less often. This will be fortunate especially if you’re boondocking because you’ll be able to stay in the campground for longer periods of time before needing a trip to the dumping station.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you find out which is the best RV portable waste tank for your needs. Be sure to use it carefully, follow all sanitary and safety advice, and drive around your RV without fear of a sewage outbreak!

When you’re traveling for long periods of time in an RV, it’s important to have a means of keeping your drinks cool and your food well preserved. Who enjoys a warm beer, right? Unfortunately most mini-fridges are not suited for RVs and the ever-moving lifestyle because they’re either too big or draw too much energy. That’s why it’s important to purchase a specialized portable 12V refrigerator for RV.

What is a 12 V Refrigerator?

A 12 V Refrigerator is a small-sized portable refrigerator that’s meant to be used in cars, campervans, RVs, etc. It is designed such that it can work with just 12 volts of power so you can connect it to a car cigarette lighter or other power sources that generate only around 10 to 15 volts of power.

Why do you need a 12 V Refrigerator for RV?

A portable 12 V refrigerator can be used in a number of different ways. While they are meant for the portable life in camper vans and RVs, they can just as well be used in hotels, homes, etc, as well. The following are the prime uses of these refrigerators:

• Camping: If you’re going out into the wilderness for an extended period of time, you’ll need some means of ensuring that your food and drinks are kept well-preserved and cool. This can be ensured with a 12 V refrigerator for RV.
• Road Trip: If you’re going on a long road trip in your RV, you’ll need a 12 V refrigerator that can withstand all the bumps along the way and can keep your beverages cool.
• Cabin: If you have a cabin that you escape to every now and then, you can stock it up with a 12 V refrigerator as these are durable and they don’t consume a lot of power.

There are a lot of different types of portable 12 V RV refrigerators to choose from. They differ based on their power source, be it thermoelectric, compressor-type, or absorption-type, and some differ based on how their door is opened. The choices can be pretty overwhelming, so I have listed 6 of the best options out there at the moment.

What Are the Different Types of 12 V RV Refrigerators?

12 V RV refrigerators can be distinguished from each other based on the source of their power. The three types of portable 12 V refrigerators are thermoelectric, compressor, and absorption refrigerators. While all of them have their sets of advantages and drawbacks, the Compressor Refrigerators are generally considered to be the best — and most expensive — of the bunch.

Best Thermoelectric Portable 12 V Refrigerators for RV

A portable thermoelectric RV refrigerator works on the basis of the Peltier effect, i.e., it keeps food cool by passing current between two plates of semiconductors, thus facilitating the transference of heat. The cooling plate — the plate that loses heat — is placed inside the refrigerator and the heating plate — the plate that gains heat — is placed outside. As such, heat from inside is transferred to the outside.

The best aspect of a thermoelectric RV refrigerator is that it can also be used as a warmer. With a single button, you can turn the internal plate into the heating plate and the external plate into the cooling plate. As such, the heat will move from outside to the inside, warming up the food. This makes portable thermoelectric RV refrigerators ideal for those who travel far and wide, changing from warm climates to cold conditions.

However, if your purpose is to keep food really cool or freeze it for long durations of time, this is not the option for you. It doesn’t work well in really hot conditions and can only go down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. As such, it cannot be used as a freezer.

Pros:

• Great for occasional day trips.
• Can be used to cool and warm food.

Cons:

• Can’t keep anything cool if the ambient temperature exceeds 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Generates a lot of noise.
• Consumes 3-5 amps of power, which is a lot of battery.
• Cannot manually set the temperature.

1. Domestic Gray Tropicool TC21

The Dometic Gray Tropicool TC21 is a great 12 V refrigerator for short RV trips. It uses a thermoelectric system of refrigeration so it can be used to both cool or heat the interiors, though only to a limited range.

Since this is a thermoelectric refrigerator, you cannot moderate the exact temperature with it, you can merely set up the difference between ambient (atmospheric) temperature and the interior temperature. As such, you can set it up to be 20º C cooler than the ambient temperature. The maximum temperature difference possible is 30º C and the minimum is 1º C.

Thermoelectric refrigerators work on the basis of the displacement of heat between two plates. As such, a simple button can turn the cooler into a heater and you can heat the contents of the fridge. The lowest cooling temperature available is 1º C and the hottest temperature possible is 65º C. As you can see, this refrigerator is enough to cool or warm dishes, but it cannot maintain frozen food. The ECO mode is pretty useful as it maintains a steady temperature within the cooler and doesn’t consume a lot of energy.

You should also note that even though the minimum possible temperature is 1º C, it can only be maintained if the ambient temperature is 25º C and lower. If the ambient temperature rises, the minimum possible internal temperature will also rise accordingly. As such, if you’re in an extremely hot environment, the cooler will be rendered almost completely inefficient. To prevent this, you should keep it away from direct sunlight and keep it in an area with some shade so its ambient temperature is kept lower.

When you’re using this refrigerator, it’s important not to cover up the vents. The air needs plenty of space to circulate in and out otherwise the interiors will not cool at all if the hot air cannot be displaced.

This is a chest-style cooler so the lid opens up from the top. This is a useful design because it maximizes storage space and makes sure that cold air isn’t displaced when you open it, making it more energy efficient. The lid can also be detached if necessary.

The Dometic Gray Tropicool TC21 is a powerful thermoelectric refrigerator. However, like all thermoelectric refrigerators, it’s only suitable for short trips, for example going to the beach and keeping a few bottles of water cool.

Pros

• Can be used to warm or cool food.
• Can be used with both AC and DC connections, so it can be plugged into a wall outlet or powered with a cigarette lighter.
• Plenty of storage space.

Cons

• Inefficient in extremely hot conditions.
• Not suitable for long trips.

2. Dometic TC-35US

Weighing only 22 pounds, the Dometic TC-35US is considered to be one of the most lightweight portable 12 V refrigerators for RV. Like Dometic Gray Tropicool TC21, this too is a thermoelectric refrigerator so it comes with the same drawbacks.

You can only use this refrigerator for short trips occasionally. There is no means of setting an exact temperature, you can only set up the difference between ambient and internal temperature. As such, if the ambient temperature is extremely high, this refrigerator will be rendered ineffective. This refrigerator can only go down 45º F from the ambient temperature so it has an even lower range than Dometic Gray Tropicool TC21.

It’s really small in size so you can stow it anywhere at all, but be sure to keep the top clear as its lid opens from the top. Furthermore, you should keep it in an area with shade to minimize its immediate ambient temperature. The lid is detachable with a magnetic lock so it’s easy to clean as well.

What I liked most about this cooler is that it came with solid polyurethane foam insulation. This ensures that the contents are kept cooler and minimizes the amount of cold air that “leaks” out of the cooler. As such, the cooler remains cooler and consumes less energy. Furthermore, you don’t need to be concerned about purchasing a separate insulation cover, though you can if you choose to.

Another similarly energy-efficient feature is the power-save circuit that automatically switches off the power the moment the necessary temperature is reached. Later, when the temperature rises, the power will automatically turn back on. As such, it’s only actively working when necessary, thus saving a lot of energy.

It also comes with a dust-proof and moisture-proof keypad that displays the current temperature in the cooler. This allows you to gauge not just the ambient temperature difference but the actual current temperature within the cooler.

You can also power this with a car battery, however, you should minimize the cooler run time with the engine turned off to just about an hour or it might drain your car’s battery. If the ambient temperature is cold and so is the refrigerator, it might be able to maintain the cold temperature through the night.

Pros

• Great insulation provided.
• Energy-Efficient.
• Can be powered with both AC and DC connections.
• Power turns off automatically when the temperature is achieved.

Cons

• If you’re using it with a car battery, it can drain it dry if you’re not careful.
• It’s easy to block the air vent if you’re not careful.

Best Compressor Portable 12 V Refrigerators for RV

Compressor-type portable refrigerators are the most similar to home refrigerators because they use compressors for power. They work with the help of a cooling agent, condenser coils, expansive valve, and evaporator coils. The cooling agent is turned to liquid at temperatures below -15 Fahrenheit, and that’s used to cool the refrigerator from inside.

Out of the three portable refrigerators mentioned in this list, these are the most commonly used and popular. They’re also the only ones in which you can manually set up a temperature so they can be used both as a fridge and a freezer. Some of them also come with partitions so you can use one as a freezer and the other as a fridge.

If the external ambient temperature rises drastically, the internal temperature can be affected, but only slightly. As such, external temperature isn’t much of an issue for compressor-type portable RV refrigerators.

These refrigerators don’t run constantly but they power on and off to retain the established temperature point. This also makes them more energy efficient and they consume only about 1 amp/hr. If the ambient temperature rises, they have to work harder and longer, so the power consumption also increases in response to ambient temperature.

They also stop working automatically if they sense a low voltage level. This ensures that they don’t completely drain your RV’s batteries.

Pros:

• Low power consumption.
• Can manually set the temperature.
• Can work on both level ground or an incline.
• Can be used as a fridge, freezer, or both.

3. Dometic CFX35W

The Dometic CFX35W uses compressor technology to provide “true refrigeration”, i.e., it acts just like an actual home refrigerator but is small and portable. It has a temperature range of -22º to +10º C so it can function either as a fridge or a freezer, and it comes in capacities of 27 to 90 quarts, depending on your needs.

This 12 V RV refrigerator is the perfect fridge to take on long road trips or if you live your life in an RV. I have found that most 12 V compressor refrigerators can only cool to about -18º C, but the Dometic CFX35W can cool to -22º C, making it ideal for deep freezing purposes as well. As such, it can be used to preserve frozen food, preserve ice cream, etc.

While I appreciated the sub zero temperature range, I did have one major issue with it. There’s a single compartment in this fridge. As such, you can set it up to a single temperature, you can either use it as a fridge or a freezer, not both. I would have preferred it to have had at least two separate compartments for different temperature needs. In its current form, I found that I could either store water bottles and soda or frozen food, not both.

Having said that, I did appreciate that this portable refrigerator came with a number of useful features. For one, they have interior LED lights so you have visibility in the dark. But what I really loved was how its handles can be taken apart and the lid can be taken off to facilitate cleaning or to make it squeeze into tight spaces, features pretty handy when you’re using the fridge in an RV. It also comes with a USB port which you can use to charge mobile devices, another thoughtful feature that can help save space. It also has an essential battery protection feature in place to prevent it from completely draining your vehicle’s batteries.

This product has been marketed as weatherproof, however, you should be careful about testing its limits. Yes, you can use it outdoors. However, if it’s raining heavily, it will eventually start filling up with water because it’s not 100% waterproof. I tested this out by placing it under a shower. This wouldn’t have been much of an issue if Domestic hadn’t put up the misleading claim that it’s completely waterproof.

Pros

• Acts like a real refrigerator with a temperature display and modulation features.
• 3-stage battery protection to prevent it from draining your vehicle’s battery.

Cons

• Has only one compartment.
• Not 100% waterproof as advertised.

4. Dometic CFX 65DZ

My biggest issue with the Dometic CFX35W was its single compartment which prevents you from using the fridge for both cooling and freezing simultaneously. However, the Dometic CFX 65DZ addressed that issue perfectly. It’s a dual-compartment compressor technology portable 12 V refrigerator for RVs. You can independently set up the temperature for both compartments, so you can use one side for deep freezing and the other for simple cooling. I loved this feature because it allowed me to store both ice cream and cold drinks without fear of one melting or the other freezing!

You have to basically set up the deep freeze temperature for one of the compartments in this refrigerator, and then the cold air from that compartment spills into the next compartment, keeping it cool. As such, you can only set up a precise temperature for the freezer and not the refrigerated section. I didn’t personally mind this feature very much, but I know a few people who were disappointed that they couldn’t set up the precise temperature for both compartments.

Similar to the Dometic CFX35W, this fridge also has an impressive range of -22º C to 10º C. However, if the ambient temperature goes above 32º C, its ability to cool is compromised and it can no longer achieve the minimum temperature of -22º C. The temperature display gauge can help you set the precise temperature with 1º C increments. If you want to reach the desired temperature fast, you can set it up on Turbo Cooling mode to make the compressor work rapidly and achieve the desired temperature almost instantly. It comes with a 3-level battery monitor that can automatically turn the fridge off and prevent it from draining the vehicle’s battery.

As you can see, I don’t have a lot of complaints about this refrigerator. So if I had to get nit-picky, I might complain about the WiFi app. The app can be used to control the temperature of the refrigerator from a distance of up to 100 feet. This is great of course. However, when you connect the fridge to your phone, you cannot simultaneously also connect other devices to your phone, making it quite like a bluetooth. This can be an annoyance for some people, but it’s not a big enough issue for me. 

Pros

• Noiseless with an operation range of 37 dB to 42 dB.
• Dual zone so you can use it as both refrigerator and freezer.
• You can set temperature by precise 1º C increments.
• 3-stage battery protection.
• Functions perfectly even when placed on an incline of 30º.

Cons

• You can only set the specific temperature for the freezing zone. The refrigerated compartment is cooled when the cold air spills over to it.
• If you connect this device to the phone over the internet, you cannot connect any other devices to your phone simultaneously.
• If the ambient temperature goes above 32º C, the minimum achievable temperature of -22º C is no longer possible.

Best Absorption Portable 12 V Refrigerators for RV

These are the most power-hungry refrigerators out of all three types. They consume ten times as much power as compressor refrigerators and generally need a jump-start. You should not run these off your RV battery but use a separate set of dual batteries. You can also run them on gas, but you’ll need a lot of gas to keep them powered on the long run.

These refrigerators can only go about 30 degrees below the ambient temperature so they’re pretty inefficient in extremely hot conditions of over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, they only function if they’re placed on a completely even ground. This makes them unsuitable for use in campgrounds where the ground won’t always necessarily be even.

While these refrigerators can be used in RVs, they are also the largest in size amongst the three types, so they’re not highly recommended.

Pros:

• Can run on battery power or gas.
• Efficient when running on gas power.

Cons:

• Can only run on perfectly even ground.
• Temperature cannot be moderated.
• Can only cool about 30 degrees below ambient temperature.
• Consumes 10x as much power as compressor refrigerators.
• Larger in size.

5. Smad LP Gas Electric 3-Way Absorption Refrigerator

The Smad LP Gas Electric 3-Way Absorption Refrigerator is not my preferred choice for a portable 12 V refrigerator for RV. In fact, personally speaking, I avoid using absorption refrigerators altogether because they’re extremely power hungry and consume 10x as much energy as most compressor refrigerators.

However, some people appreciate the fact that these can function through various power sources — 110V, 12V, and Propane. That’s why I’ve mentioned this here, for those who prefer absorption refrigerators. You should note that it’s extremely power intensive so don’t connect it directly to your vehicle’s battery, use separate batteries. If you’re using gas, a 20 pound gas tank should last you for a month. This is a great option if you’re going camping and won’t have access to electricity. However, it doesn’t come with an adapter, you have to purchase the regulator and hose separately.

Another feature I like here is that it’s an upright refrigerator. Basically, it looks like a mini version of a regular refrigerator. You open it from the front and you can stack up your dishes on the various shelves. The advantage here is that you can stow it under shelves and countertops as well, so it takes up less space. But this also comes with a disadvantage. Most portable RV refrigerators are designed in a chest-style so the cold air doesn’t leak out upon opening it. However, in this refrigerator, the cold air can leak out, making it even less efficient than it already is.

This refrigerator is also extremely quiet, producing only a faint 30 dB sound which is barely even discernible.

Pros

• Can run on electricity, battery, or gas.
• Can be used in campgrounds without an electricity source.
• Upright refrigerator so it saves a lot of space in the RV as it can be built under shelves.
• Noiseless operation.

Cons

• Not at all energy efficient.
• Doesn’t come with a propane tank regular and hose.
• Cold air leaks out when the door is opened.

6. SMETA Mini Fridge

SMETA Mini Fridge is also a powerful absorption refrigerator available in sizes ranging from 1.0 Cu ft to 1.6 Cu ft. It can work on AC or DC power and comes with a single reversible door. It’s power intensive and only cools to a single temperature. It works on the basis of silent absorption technology so there’s no noise produced and you can use it without any additional cooling refrigerant.

If you use 12 V for operation, it will run constantly. However, if you use 110 V, it can be adjusted using the thermostat to only work when necessary and stop when the ideal temperature is achieved. You can also operate it with solar panels, as long as it can reach the necessary 12 V supply.

It cannot cool instantly. As such, before you start using it, you should allow it to cool and reach the cooling temperature for an entire night. Furthermore, you shouldn’t use it to store frozen food as it will defrost and leave a puddle behind. This is meant for simple refrigeration and it can maintain that temperature for a long time.

Like the Smad LP Gas Electric 3-Way Absorption Refrigerator, this too is an upright refrigerator. As such, you can squeeze it in the space below the countertop for efficiency. However, upon opening the door, the cold air will leak out, which is an issue common to all upright refrigerators.

Pros

• Extremely silent.
• Can maintain cold temperature well.
• Can be placed under a countertop or shelves.

Cons

• Can’t be used as a freezer.
• Takes a long time to cool.
• Uses a lot of energy.
• Doesn’t work with propane gas like a lot of other absorption refrigerators.

Which Factors to Consider when Buying Portable 12 V RV Refrigerators?

The following are the primary factors you need to consider when buying portable 12 V RV refrigerators.

Cooling Ability

Refrigerators can come in the form of coolers, freezers, or both. Coolers can only be used to keep your drinks cool and your food preserved. Freezers can be used to preserve frozen food. This will be determined by the lowest temperature settings on the refrigerator. You should aim to get a refrigerator with different compartments for coolers and freezers with different temperature ranges.

Durability

Durability isn’t much of a concern if you’re getting a refrigerator for a hotel or your home. However, since the refrigerator is meant for RVs, it might have to sustain some abuse in the form of bumps while traveling through unpaved roads, traveling through the wilderness, etc. As such, durability is extremely important.

Power

The refrigerator will operate solely on the power provided by your RV or by solar energy if you have the system installed. As such, you need to get an RV with a low power consumption or your RV will run out of juice. If possible, also go for an AC refrigerator instead of a DC one, though the latter is a lot more common.

Storage Capacity

If you travel sporadically for a few days at a time, you can get a small refrigerator of less than 30 liters. However, if you travel regularly and with your family, you will need a larger refrigerator of around 30 to 60 liters.

Exterior Dimensions

No matter how large your RV is, it’s natural that you’ll need to handle space intelligently. You don’t want your refrigerator taking up more space than necessary. If you have a designated spot where your fridge will go, you should make sure that the fridge you get can fit into it. If you will need to move the fridge around often, you should also take weight into consideration and get a lightweight fridge.

Door Type

When you have a lot of space to spare, the direction from which the door opens doesn’t really matter. However, in RVs, the direction from which the door opens will be a major issue. The following are the door-types you can consider.

Chest Style

These are refrigerators that open at the top. You generally keep them on the ground and make sure there’s plenty of space at the top so you can open them from the top to retrieve items.

These are the most energy efficient because the cold air remains settled at the bottom and doesn’t escape when opened. If you’re short of space, you can also use it as a seat or work surface.

They are also quite capacious inside so you can take them out and use them as ice coolers when you’re going on camping trips. Furthermore, even if you cram it full of food and drinks, you can be assured that nothing will fall out when you open it or if the ride is bumpy.

Upright

These are mini-refrigerators that open at the front. The biggest advantage of this type of refrigerator is that you can build shelves and counter space directly over it because it won’t open from the top.

In terms of energy efficiency, more cold air will “leak” out of this when opened, which means the compressor will have to work harder to remain cold, thus consuming more energy. However, this can be minimized if the refrigerator is well insulated.

Furthermore, if you stuff them with items, they might fall out when you open the door, especially if you’re driving down bumpy roads. They are also harder to come by and they’re more expensive as more hardware is built into them.

Slide-Drawer

Similar to Upright refrigerators, Slide-Drawer refrigerators also open from the front, so you can build counter space over the fridge. Furthermore, you can stack food in them in a manner that they don’t fall out when opened and you can utilize more space.

The biggest drawback here is that the entire fridge is exposed when you open them, so there’s potential for a lot of cold loss, making them the least energy efficient. These are also quite costly and hard to find online.

Insulation

The cool temperature of the refrigerator can leak out if it’s extremely hot or if the refrigerator is placed under direct sunlight. As such, you should ensure that the refrigerator is well-insulated. If necessary, you can also purchase an external insulation cover to keep the refrigerator cool.

Additional Features

The aforementioned features are the essentials for all RV refrigerators. However, there are some features that are not available in all portable refrigerators but still available in some of the advanced models. The following are some advanced features you might want to consider.

• Multi-Compartmentalized: The refrigerator should have several compartments so you can separate different food items requiring different temperatures.
• Temperature Monitoring: Some refrigerators come with a digital temperature display so you can monitor the temperature without having to open the fridge.
• LED Lighting: Some refrigerators come with LED lighting inside the fridge so you can view the contents even in the dark.
• Organizer Baskets: Some refrigerators come with organizer baskets that can be lifted out.
• Floor Drain Plug: This feature makes it a lot easier to clean the fridge.

How does a 12 V RV Refrigerator work?

A 12-volt refrigerator keeps the food in your refrigerator cool by transferring internal heat to the external world. The sides of the refrigerators come with vents from which heat can be blown off. If the walls of the refrigerator are insulated, this process is made even more efficient.

Do I need to purchase any additional 12 V RV Refrigerator Accessories?

Refrigerators generally come with all the accessories you need to run them efficiently. However, there are a few accessories you can use to either enhance their energy efficiency or make them more convenient.

Insulation Cover

Using an insulation cover can help the fridge remain cooler for longer periods of time. This means the compressor won’t have to work too hard or too often, increasing the refrigerator’s energy efficiency.

Slide Mount

If you’re installing your refrigerator on the storage bay of your RV, the slide mount makes it easy to both load and unload your food.

How to increase the efficiency of a 12 V RV Refrigerator?

You can increase the efficiency of a 12 V RV Refrigerator by taking the following measures:

• Make sure that your refrigerator has a strong compressor belonging to Domestic, Danfoss, or Engel.
• Make sure your refrigerator is well insulated and get an additional insulation cover if necessary.
• Make sure the space around the ventilators is clear so that the heat can easily disperse upon being released, keeping the insides cool. You can also install 12 V PC fans to facilitate the removal of hot air.
• Refrigerators that are full and well stocked have greater thermal mass, which also increases their efficiency.
• When you open the fridge door, be sure to close it the moment you’re done retrieving what you need. The longer the door remains open, the more cold air you’ll lose.

Conclusion

I hope this article has given you a strong idea about which 12 V refrigerator is most suitable for your RV. So now all you have to do is buy it, stock it up, and hit the road!

Since I spend most of my time in RVs, traveling actively at least 6-8 months a year, a tire pressure monitoring device is absolutely necessary for me. Over the years, I’ve used a number of different devices, some of which have been great and some of which have been little more than junk.

In order to purchase smartly and make an informed decision, you need to first understand what a tire pressure monitoring device is, how it works, and the factors to consider when buying them.

What is a Tire Pressure Monitoring Device?

As the name suggests, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) or device monitors the pressure on all your tires and lets you know if they are either under or over inflated. However, some of these devices also monitor the tire temperature because a higher temperature is indicative of a tire approaching failure or wearing off faster than it should.

As such, if you find that the temperature is increasing, you can slow down and stop somewhere safe before the tire blows out or you get into an accident.

Furthermore, they also inform you of possible issues with the brakes and wheel bearings, both of which increase the temperature and affect the tire pressure.

Why Do You Need to Monitor the Tire Pressure ?

The following are some of the primary reasons for getting a TPMS and the benefits of having one:

1. Extending Tire Life: Most people run their RVs on under or over inflated tires and they don’t even realize it. This leads to the tires wearing off faster than they should. With a TPMS, you always know exactly how much tire pressure you have and adjust them accordingly to maximize your tires’ life cycle.
2. Maximizing Fuel Efficiency: If you have under-inflated tires, your vehicle and engine has to make a greater effort into covering the same distance. As such, more of your fuel is used up, giving you lesser mileage. Using a TPMS can help you enhance your fuel efficiency.
3. Reduce Carbon Footprint: Under-Inflated tires reduce the fuel efficiency, which, in turn, leads to an increased emission of carbon monoxide which is harmful to the environment. By optimizing the tire pressure, you can decrease your carbon footprint and do your part for the environment.
4. Safety: Under-inflated tires can often cause your vehicle to drive in unpredictable ways. Over-inflated tires, meanwhile, can cause your tires to skid or even blow out. This can cause accidents. Furthermore, your tires can also suddenly give away, effectively leaving you stranded.
5. Convenience: If you want to check tire pressure manually, you have to kneel down before all of the tires, remove the valve cap, and then insert the gauge to check the pressure. This is a cumbersome process. With a TPMS, you can simply observe real-time pressure data on your screen.

Best Tire Pressure Monitoring Devices or Systems

In this article, I’ll give you a detailed overview of some of the best tire pressure monitoring devices on the market today.

1. TireMinder A1A

The TireMinder A1A is a tire pressure monitoring system equipped with 6 transmitters so it can be used in large RVs and motorhomes as well. This just happens to be one of the most powerful TPMS devices on the market, capable of monitoring pressure from 0 to 232 psi and temperatures of up to 22 tires.

The monitor is shaped and sized like a regular smartphone with dimensions of 4.25” x 2.5” x 0.6” and it can be mounted to the windshield using a suction cup or mounted to the dashboard using a Velcro strip. The batteries are rechargeable and you are also provided 2 sets of additional batteries.

The sensors on this device are designed in the cap style and they are equipped with a lock nut that’s screwed to the valve stem as an anti-theft measure. You also receive two sensor versions — brass and aluminum. You can use the brass sensors for all applications. However, the aluminum sensors should only be used with aluminum valve stems in case of internal sensors used in motorhomes. As you can see, this TPMS device has been put together with a lot of consideration, providing users with a lot of additional features you can use.

The only thing I was concerned about was the cap-style sensors used on this device. I prefer a flow-thru type sensor as they are easier to use and handle. However, they also provide an additional T adapter that can protrude for 1.33” past the tire, effectively turning it into a flow-thru sensor. I am really happy with the degree of customization possible with this device.

The monitor is extremely easy to handle and use. When you use the monitor mode, you get a visual of all the tires that have been set up. You simply have to tap a single arrow button to scroll between the pressure and temperature of different tires. A fully charged monitor can last you for several hours. However, if you’re traveling long distances, you can charge them while you’re driving. Furthermore, the monitor receives transmissions from the TPMS devices every 6 seconds so you’re always up to date with the pressure and no accidents can take you off guard.

If a problem is detected, the device starts beeping and the affected tire is highlighted and displayed on the screen along with an icon displaying the issue, be it leakage, temperature warning, or pressure warning.

Pros

• Display is effective and icons are clearly displayed.
• Highly versatile in terms of sensor style.
• Comes with a range booster in case you need to enhance the monitor’s range.

Cons

• The icons used to indicate the problems can be confusing.
• The temperature and pressure are displayed on separate screens so you have to scroll between them for each tire.

2. TireTraker TT-500

The TireTraker TT-500 can monitor the pressure and temperature on up to 22 tires simultaneously and it measures pressure from 0 to 232 psi. My biggest issue with this device is that only cap style sensors are available, however, all of them have replaceable batteries. The sensors also come with locking rings that you can attach over the valve stem before installation and then engage the anti-theft lock by sliding the ring against the sensor.

The monitor is designed in a portrait layout, which I prefer to a landscape design. The monitor can be attached to the windshield using a suction cup. One of the things I liked most about the monitor is that the battery can last for 20 to 30 days, which is a lot more than the TireMinder device mentioned earlier.

In terms of display, you can view the temperature and pressure of the tires individually. You can either scroll through them manually or you can set them on auto-scroll so you can view both of them periodically without having to handle the device.

While I do quite like the monitor in this device I have one major issue with it. The monitor turns off and enters sleep mode if there has been no motion detected for 15 minutes. If you want to activate it again, the device takes over 20 minutes to set up and for all the tires to come online again. If everything is functioning normally, the system will keep checking the pressure and temperature every 5 seconds, but it will only update the screen reading every 4 minutes. However, if there’s an emergency, you are informed immediately.

This system comes with a wide range of alarm features, and the particular condition is displayed using both an icon and text so there’s no confusion.

Furthermore, it doesn’t just inform you if the pressure is low, it informs you if there’s a pressure decrease of 15% under baseline, 25% under baseline, or even 50% under baseline.

Pros

• Alarm messages are clear and easy to follow.
• A lot of alarm options.
• Monitor life is great.

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a booster.
• Takes 20 minutes to set up after sleep mode.
• Only cap-style sensors available.

3. EEZTire TPMS

This product has been designed by one of the leading TPMS manufacturers — EEZTire. This device can monitor temperature and pressure on up to 26 tires simultaneously and it monitors pressure from 0 to 188 psi.

It comes with 6 anti-theft cap-style or flow-through sensors. Keep in mind that the anti-theft housing is a bit difficult to install and you have to use a special set of tools that come in the package. However, it’s also possible to install the sensors without it and simply like a valve cap. To secure the flow-through sensors, you have to screw them in place using the provided tools. The sensors also have replaceable batteries.

The monitor has a large landscape-style display screen with plain-text alarms and a 60 hour battery life. It can be mounted using a suction cup, bolts, or using a mounting bar on any flat surface. The kit also comes with a signal booster that you’re recommended to use if the TPMS sensor is over 50 feet from the monitor. However, while using it, I found that I sometimes lost signals even when the monitor was within 30 feet so I had to use the booster anyway.

Even though the monitor isn’t graphically advanced, it displays the temperature and the pressure for the highlighted tire simultaneously so you don’t need to scroll between them. You can manually scroll past the tires or you can auto-scroll it so the screen scrolls through the various tires every 6 seconds. The alarm notifications are both clear and precise. Whatever the condition may be, it displays the alarm in big bold letters like “FAST LEAKAGE” accompanied with a flashing red light.

Pros

• Great monitor battery life.
• Doubles as both cap and flow-through sensors.
• Plain text alarms.
• Highly secure.
• Can monitor 26 tires simultaneously and they are arranged in the display the way the user’s rig actually looks.

Cons

• The signals may be lost even before the stated 50 feet range, necessitating the use of boosters.
• Pressure range is lower than several other TPMS devices.

4. Bellacorp TPMS

The Bellacorp device can monitor up to 34 tires simultaneously and monitor pressure up to 175 psi. You can get the kit with 4 to 12 sensors, and you can also purchase additional sensors in pairs of two. The sensors are all cap style and they come with set screws to set the anti-theft lock. They all come with replaceable batteries accessible via the sensor cap and can read nitrogen pressure just as well as regular air pressure. For more information check for the price and the reviews here.

The monitor, sized 3.5 x 1.5 inches, is similar to that of EEZTire’s. It’s a portrait mode monitor featuring plain text alarms. The manufacturers advertise that they have the longest range in the market, i.e., 60 feet. When I first used the device, I was quite surprised by that claim because it should be able to cover the largest of RVs and motorhomes without a booster. However, in reality, the connection starts wavering after about 40 feet or so. As such, you’ll have to get a separate range booster as this device doesn’t come with one.

In terms of the setup, it’s important to note that while different axles are programmable, the individual tires are not. Each of the axles can have different pressure and temperature settings, however, all the tires in a single trailer or axle must have the same pressure. The minimum pressure reading available on this Bellacorp TPMS device is 15 psi. You can, nevertheless, set up your own pressure and temperature range rather than selecting from a preset list of options. However, when doing so, you should be very careful that you’re aware of your tires’ limits.

Pros

• Can monitor up to 34 tires.
• Great monitor range.
• Clear and legible alarm warnings.

Cons

• No booster is provided.
• Only cap style sensors available.

5. TireMinder Smart TPMS

This TireMinder Smart TPMS can monitor up to 22 tires and monitor a pressure range of 0 to 232 psi. My favorite feature here is that you can use it with your smartphone via a mobile app. It’s compatible with iPhone, iPad, and other Android devices, as long as you have iOS 7.0+ and Android 4.3+. As such, you don’t need a separate monitor because you can remotely access all of the data in your own cell phone. The TPMS checks the tires every 6 seconds, and if an emergency is detected, it immediately sends a push notification to your phone via the app.

The monitor also features a number of alarm settings, including temperature alarm, pressure alarm, and leakage alarm. It also features auto-scroll so it keeps scrolling through the different tires and their pressure and temperature settings. The app also comes with a “Disable Sleep” feature which can prevent the phone from going to sleep when the app is running, similar to Google Maps. This kit also comes with a TireMinder Rhino Signal Booster that can amplify the signals if your cell phone is over 30 feet from the TPMS sensors.

The biggest concern I have with this TPMS device is the inconsistency and false alerts. I took this device on a long 100 mile drive and I had to pull over several times because it kept flashing the “Low Pressure” alert, even though the pressure in my tires were perfect. Every time that happened, I had to reset the app and wait for the tires to come online again, which proved to be a great nuisance. Initially, I thought this might be a single faulty product. However, upon contacting several other customers, I realized that this is a recurring issue.

I’m not saying ALL of these devices send false alarms. Several users I spoke to had nothing but praise for this device. But there were many who — like me — experienced the false alarms. This is a cause of concern.

Pros

• Compatible with smartphone
• Updates every 6 seconds and sends alarms immediately.
• Auto-scroll feature so you don’t have to manually handle the phone.

Cons

• Setting up process is complex and time consuming.
• False alarms are commonplace.

6. VICTONY Solar Power TPMS

The VICTONY Solar Power TMPS is meant for smaller RVs of about 30 to 35 feet in length because it only comes with 4 external sensors that can measure the tire temperature and pressure. However, it’s also a lot cheaper so it’s worth it. Each of the sensors come equipped with individual chips that shut down whenever the tire has not been moving for 10 minutes. This also acts as an anti-theft lock.

Still, there was one thing I really disliked about this device and it is the monitor. The screen is small and displays only numbers and plain text that’s hard to decipher and the controls are also hard to figure out. Nonetheless, when some issue is detected, it does start beeping and flash a visual and textual warning and it can be charged via solar energy or USB.

Another thing you should be aware of is that it only measures temperature in Centigrade, not in Fahrenheit and the maximum range for the monitor is only 30 feet, which is why you can only use this in smaller RVs.

Pros

• Cheap and suitable for small RVs.
• Automatically shuts down when the tires aren’t moving.
• Eco-friendly as the monitor can be charged with solar energy.

Cons

• Small and illegible screen.
• Only measures in Centigrade.
• Limited monitor range.

7. RV 6-Tire Flow-Through Sensor TPMS by Tire-SafeGuard

This very popular tire pressure monitoring system has six sensors and you have the option to add more sensors. Unlike Victony, you can choose between the English and metric system for both pressure and temperature readings. The sensors can detect pressure up to 199 psi and you can specify the low pressure alert depending on your use.

There is no signal booster in the box but there should not be need for it either. From the dashboard of my pickup to the wheels of the camper I was towing, the readings still came through. Some users are even reporting they can reach up to 100 feet of reception.

The monitor’s battery lasts for about 12 hours when driving constantly and they can last much somewhat with lighter use. You can also charge the system via a USB cable aside from 12V charger supplied in the box.

One drawback, however, is that the screen itself isn’t bright enough and driving against direct sunlight makes it difficult to read. The lack of tilt and swivel action did not help either unless you have the monitor permanently facing the driver seat.

The base of the monitor uses double-sided tape instead of a suction mount. For those looking to use the system on multiple vehicles at a time, you would be better off with a monitor using a suction mount.

In installing the sensors, you start with the front tire at the driver side and then to the front tire of the passenger side. The succeeding sensors follow the same order so you have the proper reading in the monitor.

The sensors are a flow-through type, so you can inflate the tire without having to remove these. Two screws on the side tighten against the valve stem and they did not come loose even after hundreds of miles of driving. They also have a slot for a hex wrench and that was helpful in securing them to the inner tire of the vehicle.

The sensors, which are waterproof, use CR1632 batteries and they should last for about a year.

Pros

• You can add more sensors to the system
• You can choose between English or metric system for measuring pressure and temperature
• You can specify the lowest pressure alert depending on your use
• There is no need for a signal booster
• The battery life of the monitor lasts for more than a day with normal use
• The monitor charges via USB cable as well
• There is a slot for a hex wrench on the top of the sensor
• The sensors are waterproof
• The flow-through sensor allows you to inflate the tire without having to remove the sensor

Cons

• The monitor’s screen isn’t bright enough when used against direct sunlight
• There is no tilt and swivel action for the monitor for better adjust-ability
• The mount uses double-sided tape and is hard to detach once mounted
• It can be difficult to attach the sensors to the inner wheels of a vehicle

8. YOKARO Solar Powered TPMS for RVs

Yokaro TPMS comes with six sensors and a repeater in the box, but unfortunately there’s no option for additional sensors. The pressure can be read in psi or bar but the temperature can only be read in Celsius, which is not really suitable for US.

The system has a limit of 87 psi and you can set the low pressure alert depending on your use. Compared to other systems this is quite low and that is indicative of the price this is selling at.

The repeater is ideally mounted at the rear of the vehicle to maximize the range and you can connect it to either the wire harness or the battery for power. Without the repeater, the range of the system is only 26 feet, but using the repeater boosts it to 33 feet.

The monitor is solar-powered so you really don’t have to worry much about battery life. It practically runs by itself but it can also be charged via the USB cable that comes in the box.

The monitor’s display, however, has rather low contrast so when the sun is shining bright, it is almost impossible to read the display. In heavy traffic, it shuts off when the vehicle is not moving and would only update the measurements once the vehicle starts to move again. I would rather have it always turned on because I tend to check my readings under the red stoplight.

Only four readings can be displayed at a time and you have to toggle to show the remaining two readings. If you’re the type of person who wants to know all the information at a glance, this system might not be for you.

The waterproof sensors are cap-type, which means you have to remove them when you inflate the tires and thy use CR1632 batteries which should last about 2 years or so.

Pros

• You can choose between the English and metric system for the pressure reading
• The display is solar-powered and you don’t have to worry about batteries
• The display can be charged via a USB cable
• The sensors tighten against the valve stem to prevent theft
• The battery life of the sensors lasts for up to two years with normal use
• The sensors are waterproof

Cons

• You can’t add more sensors to the system
• The display shuts off when the vehicle doesn’t move and is slow to update
• This system is not suited for vehicles that are more than 33 feet in length
• You can only read measurements from four sensors at a glance
• The temperature can only be read in degrees Fahrenheit
• The maximum pressure it can read is lower than the competition
• You have to detach the sensor when you need to inflate your tire

9. TST 507rv TPMS

The last device on our list that you can use to avoid tire blowouts and increase safety comes from TST. The black and white display comes with dasboard mound and fairly large display shows temperature and PSI at the same time.

You can choose between the English or metric system for pressure and temperature measurements. The maximum pressure that can be read is 188 PSI and the operating temperature range is between –40 – 257 degrees F.

TST recommends that you add a repeater when you need more than 10 sensors, but even without a repeater, the sensors can still be detected within 60 feet (some users who tested the repeater claim that even 100 feet of reception is possible).

The monitor has a monochrome display and a glossy surface which makes it somewhat reflective and difficult to read when the sunlight hits the screen.

The monitor is mounted on a small tray which you can be attached just about anywhere. A suction mount comes in the box so you can attach it to the windshield as well. You can tilt and swivel the monitor by using the suction mount, which just makes it more flexible to use.

Also, do keep in mind that when turning on the system, there is 10 minute delay before the sensors register in the monitor. While the system runs regardless if the vehicle is still or moving, having the delay can cost you precious time especially if you’re in a hurry.

The waterproof sensors use CR1632 batteries and they lock really firmly and do not come loose even when driving on rocky roads.

Pros

• You can add more sensors to the system
• You can choose between the English or metric system for measurements
• Adding a repeater allows you to expand the already long range even further
• There is a suction mount included in the box
• You can connect the monitor directly to the vehicle’s wiring harness
• The battery life of both the monitor and sensors are good
• You don’t have to remove the sensor when inflating your tire
• The sensors are secured tightly to the valve stem
• The sensors are waterproof

Cons

• The monitor’s reflective display is hard to read in direct sunlight
• There is a delay in detecting the sensors when turning the system on
• It can be difficult to detach a sensor from an inner wheel

TPMS Buyer’s Guide & FAQ

What are the Different Types of Tire Pressure Monitoring Devices?

There are two primary types of tire pressure monitoring devices based on their location of installation. Both of them come with their unique advantages and drawbacks.

External

External TPMS Sensors are installed on the valve stem, the part of the tire used to fill them up. They can be installed easily, but they can also be easily detached and stolen. They can further be sub-categorized into two types:

• Flow-Thru External TPMS: These are screwed on the valve stem, replacing the cap. It comes with a pressure adjustment device located on top of the sensor. They are large and heavy, so they should only be used on metal valve stems.
• Cap Style External TPMS: These are also screwed on the valve stem, replacing the cap, but they’re a lot smaller and lighter, making them ideal for use with rubber valve stems. In order to add or remove pressure, you have to first remove them.

Internal

Internal TPMS Sensors are installed inside the tires’ rims. Since they are located inside the tires, they cannot be stolen easily, but they have to be installed before you mount the tire. They also come in two types:

• Internal Valve Stem: These are installed directly from the factory and they have the valve stem attached to the sensor directly.
• Internal Bandclip: Popularized by Ford vehicles, these are located opposite the valve stem and hooked to the rim with a bandclip.

Beside the location of the sensor, TPMS devices can also be categorized based on their means of measuring the pressure. As such, they can be categorized into Direct and Indirect TPMS sensors.

Direct

A Direct TPMS device measures the air pressure directly by using an inner tube sensor which is attached to the tire. You can use it to adjust the pressure directly and you also get immediate alerts the moment the pressure dips below the standard.

Indirect

An indirect TPMS device measures pressure indirectly by gauging other facets of the tires’ performance. They don’t have the ability to measure the pressure directly but they have a speed sensor that works with the anti-lock brake system.

As such, they use the wheel revolution data to measure the tire pressure. They are cheaper but they’re not as accurate and they take longer to give you information.

Which Factors to Consider when Buying a Tire Pressure Monitoring Device?

When you go through the TPMS reviews, you should focus on the following factors to determine if it’s right for your needs.

Type

As mentioned above, TPMS devices can be externally or internally installed, and both of them also come with subcategories. External devices can be easily installed and monitored but can also be stolen easily. Internal devices are harder to install but are more secure. Select wisely!

Brand

There are a number of different brands of TPMS devices available such as VICTONY, BellaCorp, TireTracker, and various others. However, the two leaders in the TPMS industry are Tireminder and Eeztire.

Tireminder has a TPMS model that can work for all kinds of vehicles, be it an RV, motorhome, motor coach, 5th wheel, or any other. They can also monitor as many as 22 tires simultaneously.

Eeztire TPMS devices focus on security and convenience. As such, they have large interactive monitors and come with anti-theft and anti-failure features to keep them secure.

Sensor Range

Different TPMS devices are meant for different types of vehicles such as cars, RVs, trucks, etc. RVs, in general, require higher tire pressures than cars. As such, you should get a TPMS that can monitor tire pressures up to 100 psi, at least. All of the TPMS devices mentioned in this article meet that standard.

Battery

You should obviously ensure that the TPMS has a strong battery life. However, you should also look into whether the batteries are replaceable. Cheaper batteries will come with fixed batteries so you’ll have to dispose of the device once the battery is exhausted. You should also make sure that the battery shouldn’t produce excess heat as they can damage the device.

Installation

You should go for a TPMS device that you can install on your own without any professional help, this is especially true if you get an internal TPMS. In addition to installation, it should also be easy to operate the TPMS and monitor the results remotely.

Display

The TPMS should come with a monitor that’s easy to read and monitor, with legible icons and graphics. They should also come with indicator lights so you can receive urgent warnings immediately.

Durability

TPMS devices need to last a long time as they are meant to warn you of emergencies. As such, make sure the device is durable, one which can handle high temperatures and harsh environmental conditions, especially if it’s an external TPMS device.

How many Tire Pressure Monitoring Devices do I need?

The number of TPMS devices you need differs from vehicle to vehicle.

If you have a motorhome, you’ll need 6 TPMS devices, 2 for the RV and 4 for the rear tow vehicle. If you’re towing a car, you’ll need 10 TPMS devices.

However, most travel trailers, 5th wheels, and RVs require 4 to 6 TPMS devices. You should consult your RVs manufacturers about what’s recommended for your specific vehicle.

Can the TPMS batteries be replaced?

Some TPMS devices come with sealed batteries so you cannot replace them. As such, when the batteries are exhausted, you simply have to buy new TPMS devices.

However, all modern and advanced TPMS devices come with replaceable batteries so you have to open up the battery compartment and replace the batteries.

How to Test or Replace a Tire Pressure Monitoring Device sensor battery?

Once you have installed the Tire Pressure Monitoring Device, you need to routinely check its battery to make sure it’s still functioning. The sensor transmits data every few minutes, and if it misses a few transmissions the monitor will probably alert you of some malfunction.

That’s why you know it’s time to replace the battery. If you have an irreplaceable battery, you’ll need to replace the entire device. If not, you can remove the battery by first melting the potting material within the sensor housing. Following that, you can replace the battery.

Do I need a range extender for my TPMS?

All TPMS devices come with a specific range. As such, they can only accurately send information regarding the pressure to your monitor if it’s within range. If your monitor is usually kept far from the TPMS device, you’ll need a range extender.

If you have a short RV up to 25’ in length, you don’t need a range extender. However, if you drive a large Class A motorhome or triple axle toy hauler fifth wheel, then you’ll need to install a range extender at the rear of the tow vehicle.

The range of a TPMS is determined by factors like the length of the RV, the location of the devices, the number of slides, and the material that the devices are made of.

Which Conditions Set off the Tire Pressure Monitoring Device’s alarm?

The following conditions will set off a TPMS device’s alarm:

• Underinflation
• Overinflation
• High temperature
• Leakage of pressure
• Failures.

Why Should You Get a TV Antenna for Your RV?

There are a number of reasons to you should get one:

• You can watch TV and be connected to the world while traveling. Even if you’re camping out in the middle of nowhere, you’ll still feel right at home with the ability to watch any channel you want.
• Modern TV Antennae are also internet compatible. As such, you can be connected to the internet wherever you are. If you’re a digital nomad, or even if you just have to take care of a bit of work during your vacations, you’ll be able to handle it instantly. In fact, the internet is strong enough to stream movies and TV shows as well.
• The RV Antenna will be capable of picking up on all local channels so you can watch them without having to subscribe to them specifically.
• All TV channels and shows will be available in HD quality.

When it comes to selecting a TV antenna for RVs, there are a lot of things to consider. Do you want an indoor antenna or outdoors? Do you want a satellite TV antenna or an HDTV antenna?

TV Antennae for RVs can be sub-categorized based on two factors — the source of the signal, or the location of the antenna.

Signal-Based Types of Antennae

• Satellite TV- Satellite-based RV TV Antennas work on the basis of a specific satellite service such as Direct TV and Dish Network. In order to access channels via a Satellite RV Antenna, you need to subscribe to one of these satellite services. The best aspect of these antennas is that you get high-quality videos and a wide range of channels to choose from. Some satellite TV antennas are designed to be used by specific subscriptions, so you need to be careful about that.
• UHF/VHF/Digital and HD TV- These Antennas (aka Over-the-Air Antenna) are the most popular kind. It doesn’t depend on specific subscriptions. When you activate the antenna, it starts picking up on UHF/VHF/Digital signals and allows you to view HD channels such as CBS.

Location-Based Types of Antennae

• Outdoor Outdoor RV Antennas are the most popular types of antenna on the market. It’s placed outside the RV, generally on the roof, and it’s very effective in picking up strong signals. As powerful as these antennas may be, they come with an obvious drawback. They can get stuck on low-hanging branches and are vulnerable to external climatic conditions. These antennas are usually fire-resistant and designed to handle various stressors, but even so, it’s wise to fold them when not in use. As such, be sure to get an outdoor antenna that can be easily folded or lowered.
• Indoor Indoor RV Antennas aren’t as popular as the outdoor ones because of their limited range. You can connect it to the top of your TV or somewhere inside the RV so it’s a lot more convenient. They’re usually smaller and thinner in size so they can be mounted on internal fixtures like doors or windows. However, in order to achieve this convenience, you’ll have to give up on HD quality videos and a wider range of channels. Another advantage of these is that you don’t need to adjust the antenna in a specific direction for them to work.

In this article, I’ll give you a detailed overview of the 6 best TV antennas and satellites for your RV travels available today. So let jump right in:

Best Satellite TV Antennae for RVs

1. Winegard DISH TRAV’LER

The Winegard DISH TRAV’LER is undoubtedly the best satellite TV antenna as it’s a multi-satellite model that can hone in on three satellites simultaneously. Most satellite antennas have the ability to connect to a single satellite and a specific receiver. However, with this satellite dish antenna, you don’t need to make a choice, you can have all of them. In order to access the three satellites, however, you will need three receivers for those specific satellites and three TVs. This allows you to connect up to 3 TV sets to the same satellite antenna.

Upon connecting with the Dish network, the satellite is available at 110°, 119°, and 129°, with 61.5° being manually available. With the Bell TV network, the satellite is available at 82° and 91°. The former of these networks is available in HD quality and it comes with a pay-as-you-go model so you only need to pay for the months you need it.

Since this is a satellite antenna, you can only use it in a stationary form when the RV is parked. Furthermore, it’s an outdoor antenna so you should fix it on the roof, though make sure to keep it clear from overhanging branches or other obstructions. The antenna comes in the form of a dish with a stable base so it has the ability to resist strong winds and harsh climatic elements as well. It can also be installed on a roof with a 5° so you don’t have to worry about leveling, making installation a breeze.

While the roof-mount and dish-form stable base are ideal for installation and durability, they also pose one major challenge. This satellite antenna is not at all portable. As such, you can only use it in your RV, and that too when it’s parked in a single place. Furthermore, when you start driving, you have to turn the dish down and reconnect once you have stopped. It takes about 10 minutes for it to fetch signals again and start working.

Besides the aforementioned issue, this RV satellite antenna is pretty solid in every other way. My major concern was that it might get obstructed by trees. However, I am happy to report that I used this satellite antenna in several campgrounds, several of them bearing heavy canopies of trees, and my signals were not interrupted. That’s because the dish actually points quite high up in the sky and the signals are received by the top of the dish rather than the middle or center. The signals are then bounced off the middle and down to the LNB receivers.

I will, however, recommend that you should not be taken in by apparent simplicity of installation as advertised in their online product page. I had erroneously assumed that any novice user might be able to install the dish without professional help. However, it’s quite a bit more difficult than the instruction manual or online DIY videos suggest. As such, it’s highly recommended to get professional help to install it.

Pros

• Can connect to 3 satellites.
• You can connect up to 3 TVs to it simultaneously.
• Doesn’t get disrupted by trees.
• Durable and wind-resistant.

Cons

1. Installation is complicated.
2. Cannot be used while driving.
3. Takes about 10 minutes to receive signals.

2. KING VQ4500 Tailgater

The KING VQ4500 Tailgater is a roof mountable satellite TV antenna for RVs and it’s compatible with DISH service. It can automatically connect to satellites at 110°, 119°, and 129°. As with all DISH services, you can either pay monthly or pay-as-you-go for the months you’ll be using it.

You can connect multiple TVs to this satellite antenna using the built-in dual coaxial outputs. However, all of the TVs will be programmed to the same satellite. You should also note that this antenna only works with a few specific receivers. As such, there’s a limited number of receivers you can use with this satellite antenna.

One of the features I loved most about this antenna was its portability. It can be mounted to the roof with the provided mounting feet, but it can also be carried around elsewhere if you’re camping or if you’re stopping by in hotels. The device just weighs 8 pounds and has dimensions of 22.7 x 20 x 16.2 inches so it can easily be carried around.

You get about 50 feet of coax cable along with the antenna. However, you can even extend that to 100 feet or more and be assured that the quality won’t dip. I tested it by attaching an additional coax cable of over 100 feet and didn’t experience any issues.

One of the major issues with this satellite antenna dish is the lack of a built-in weather sealing. Sure, it’s portable and lightweight, but that comes at a major cost. Outdoor satellite dishes should come with weather sealing — a gasket between the dome and the base — to prevent rainwater accumulation within the dish. This dish is not equipped with that. As such, if you live in an area that receives an abundance of rainfall, you might want to steer clear of this model. Furthermore, the lightweight material also means that it cannot withstand harsh winds and can be easily tipped out of alignment.

You should also note that the picture quality received by this antenna is SD. If you want HD quality videos, you should look elsewhere.

Pros

• Compatible with 3 satellites.
• Can connect to multiple TV sets.
• Highly portable and lightweight.
• Easy to install and operate.
• The coax cable can be easily extended to meet your needs.

Cons

• Channels not available in HD.
• There’s no weather sealing to prevent rainwater accumulation.
• Not very durable or wind-resistant.
• Should not be used in areas experiencing harsh rain or wind conditions.

3. Winegard PA-1000 DISH Playmaker

The Winegard PA-1000 DISH Playmaker is a highly portable roof-mountable TV satellite antenna for RVs. It’s compatible with DISH service, and, as such, it automatically locates the DISH satellite orbital locations and gives you access to all the DISH HD channels. At 13 pounds, it’s extremely lightweight, and it’s connected by a single coax cable so you can carry it around and connect it anywhere.

Unlike some of the other satellite antennas, the Winegard PA-1000 DISH Playmaker is only compatible with one receiver and one TV. As such, you can only use it to view channels on a single TV at a time. If you have an RV with multiple TV sets, you might want to avoid this. It’s compatible with a few specific receivers only such as viP 211k, viP 211, 411 solo HD, amongst others.

To be honest, I have a lot to complain about with this dish, even though it’s one of the most popular satellite antennas on the market. Like other satellite antennas, this too is stationary and cannot be used while the RV is moving. It takes about 15 minutes for it to reassert a connection. However, that is not what I’m complaining about. I am, however, infuriated by one feature in specific. While this antenna can be mounted to the RV roof, the RK-4000 Roof Mount Kit is sold separately. I think this is a complete rip-off. The mount kit should always be provided with the antenna because roof mounting is a crucial aspect of using RV antennas. As such, I am quite incensed by their decision to provide that basic feature at an additional cost.

While setting up the antenna, it’s a helpful tip to use a satellite finding phone app to figure out exactly where the satellite should be pointed. This will allow you to set up the antenna precisely by using your phone’s camera and the app. You don’t have to keep rushing to your TV set to see if the signals have been received. You should also ensure that there are no trees in the way as its signals get disrupted. It must be pointed at clear skies.

This satellite antenna comes with a 25 feet long coax cable. You can extend it to suit your needs, however, going past 50 feet might lead to disruptions in the quality. Another major issue with this dish is that it’s not WiFi compatible. As such, you can’t use it to access the internet.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable.
• Easy to set up with a phone-finding app.
• Extendable coax cable.

Cons

• RK-4000 Roof Mount Kit has to be purchased separately.
• Not WiFi compatible.
• Compatible with just one receiver and one TV at a time.
• Gets disrupted by trees.

Best Over-The-Air (OTA) TV Antennae for RVs

4. KING OA8300 Jack Replacement Head Over-The-Air Antenna

The KING OA8300 Jack Replacement Head Over-The-Air Antenna is one of the most powerful OTA TV RV antennas on the market. It comes with universal mounting brackets that can be used to easily attach it to the roof of the RV. This antenna needs to be connected to a 12V power source.

The UHF, VHF, and HDTV reception range of this antenna is powerful enough that most users don’t need to get a signal booster, even if they’re considerably far from the local broadcasting tower. The strong reception range also gives you access to a greater number of local channels with better clarity than most other directional over-the-air antennas.

The official reception range is around 70 to 90 miles. As such, the antenna should ideally be able to pick up signals from all broadcasting towers within that range. However, this number is subject to change due to circumstances such as surroundings, obstructions, weather patterns, the presence of trees and hills, and the quality of signals being broadcast by the station.

The antenna does not come with a mounting plate because that’s only necessary when you’re replacing a crank-up unit or when you’re installing the antenna on a rubber roof, which is not advisable. It also comes with its own signal amplifier, but you can also use your own amplifiers.

I was also pleasantly surprised to find that this antenna is far more powerful than the Winegard Batwing, which has long been deemed to be the best OTA antenna on the market. Upon using the two, my channel scan went all the way from 89 (with Winegard) to 178. That is a marked improvement. Furthermore, I contacted various other users and they all concurred — this antenna provided a far greater channel scan than other OTA antenna on the market.

The manufacturer of this antenna is also pretty generous with the additional parts they offer. The product comes with a mounting bracket to attach to the roof, a universal bracket to attach to a pole for use at home, a voltage injector to install in a coaxial line to provide 12vdc to the head, and a 120V-12V adapter. As such, you have all the tools you need for installation in your home or your RV and you don’t need to invest in anything additional.

The only thing I find concerning is that many users have complained that this antenna works well initially but eventually dips in quality over time. That was not my experience, perhaps because I haven’t used it long enough. But several users I contacted mentioned that the signals on this device were extremely strong when they first hooked it up, but then gradually dipped in quality until they were receiving half the original channels.

 Pros

• Can easily be attached to the roof.
• Extremely strong reception range of 70 to 90 miles.
• Comes with a signal amplifier.

Cons

• Many users have complained about dipping reception quality over time.

5. Antop AT-414B

The Antop AT-414B is an omni-directional VHF/UHF HDTV satellite antenna with a range of up to 65 miles. Being omni-directional, it’s ideal for RVs because the antenna doesn’t have to be pointed toward a certain broadcasting tower, it can pick up signals from all towers within the 65-mile radius and you don’t need to worry about constantly adjusting it.

Even though it has officially been rated at 65 miles, I found that you can even pick up signals from further away. This is because TV transmission travels in a straight line and due to the curvature of the earth it eventually ends up in space. As such, if your antenna is high enough, it will be able to catch signals that are even further than 65 miles on ground. However, in order to get that, you will have to mount the antenna pretty high, either you live on a top of a hill or a tall building.

This antenna supports high definition 1080p and 4K Ultra-HD videos and it’s also compatible with TV converter boxes. You can also employ a signal splitter to connect the satellite to several TVs simultaneously. The number of channels received depends entirely upon the number of broadcasting towers within the radius, however, the amplification technology used ensures that obstructions like trees and hills will not be much of a hindrance.

It’s possible to travel while using the antenna, but in that case, the signals might occasionally get disrupted. You can also use the antenna indoors, but that will again fetch weaker signals. For best signals, you should mount the antenna high up on the RV roof using the outdoor bracket and you should remain stationary. The antenna is supposedly rain and wind-resistant. However, in my experience, the signals are drastically affected if there’s a strong wind outside.

I was also disappointed to find that the video quality is not always consistent. When the signals are strong, the video quality is unbeatable, it’s crystal clear. However, the signals suffer often and the video gets distorted. Furthermore, several users have noted that the frequency of these distortions grows over time. As such, after a year or two, you will likely experience a lot more distortions and inconsistencies of quality than you did initially.

You should also note that although this antenna can be used indoors, it might not work if the roof is metallic as that can disrupt signals more than other materials.

Pros

• Omni-directional so you don’t need to constantly rotate it.
• Ultra-HD videos can be transmitted.
• Can be used in multiple TVs with a signal splitter.

Cons

• Inconsistent quality.
• Quality gets distorted if it’s windy.

6. KING OA8500 Jack HDTV Directional Over-the-Air Antenna

The KING OA8500 Jack is one of the best directional over-the-air antennas on the market today. It’s equipped with a long-range signal finder that can fetch signals from broadcasting towers that are far off.

One of my favorite features was the aerodynamic design. A lot of the outdoor antennas promise wind-resistance but they get tipped the moment a light gale blows their way. This is one of the few antennas that can actually withstand strong winds and ensure that your signals aren’t disrupted. This is owing to the aerodynamic and compact design which renders it extremely sturdy. It’s approximately 70% smaller than other antennas and weighs only 2.6 pounds, making it highly portable as well.

Like the KING OA8300, this antenna too doesn’t come with a mounting plate as that’s only needed when installing on a rubber roof or replacing a crank-up unit. Furthermore, I found that it was also extremely easy to connect. You get all of the necessary parts with the package and they’re easy to assemble if you follow the instructions carefully. You don’t even need to call for professional assistance.

I am not a big fan of directional antennas in general. I can’t fault it for being directional because that’s what it’s supposed to be. However, with directional antennas, you have to point the antenna towards the broadcasting towers to get the signal. This can be a nuisance as you have to keep turning and rotating the antenna. Furthermore, if you travel on an RV often, you’ll have to re-adjust the antenna every time you go somewhere else.

Since it’s a directional antenna, it also stands to reason that it’s also stationary and can’t be used in motion. If you drove with it, the signals would get distorted or lost every time you made a turn.

Pros

• Great signals.
• The instruction and installation manual is extremely easy to follow. No need for professional help.
• Has an aerodynamic design so it can withstand strong winds.

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a roof mounting plate.
• As a directional antenna, it has to be pointed towards the broadcasting towers. This means you need to rotate the antenna often.
• Can’t be used while you’re driving the RV.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a TV Antenna for Your RV?

There are a number of factors that you need to consider before purchasing a TV antenna. You need to consider its location, the channels you want to access, installation process, and a lot more. The following are some of the most crucial factors to consider when buying TV antenna for RVs.

TV Service

As far as TV Service is concerned, you have two options — receiving premium subscriptions through Satellite, or access to local broadcasting stations. These will depend on whether you get a Satellite TV Antenna or a UHF/VHF/Digital and HD TV Antenna.

If you’re already subscribed to Satellite channels, you should get a Satellite Antenna cause you can bring along your own receiver from home and access the same channels. Your satellite antenna and your receiver will have to be compatible in this case. These can be accessed from any location.

If you want to access local broadcasting stations via UHF/VHF/Digital and HD TV Antenna, you need to be close to the broadcasting tower for better reception. The closer you are the better. Furthermore, conditions like weather, obstructions, etc, can hinder the service signals as well.

Indoors or Outdoors

As mentioned previously, you can get TV antennas that can be hooked outside the RV or inside the RV. The latter is the more convenient option but it also leads to relatively weaker signals.

Fixed or Portable Installation

These are some TV antennas that are fixed in place, be it indoors or outdoors. It’s not possible to move them if necessary so you can only access them within your RV.

Portable antennas — like half-dome satellite dishes — can also be mounted on a tripod and carried around or placed in a campsite. This means you can continue enjoying the satellite and its offerings even if you’re away from the RV or camping out.

Stationary or Motion Use

Most satellite dishes are stationary — i.e., you can access them when your RV is parked in place. This is because they take time to receive satellite signals.

Over-the-Air antennas, in comparison, can also be used while driving. However, their signals depend on their proximity to broadcasting towers so you might experience interruptions.

Material

A lot of antennas are manufactured using plastic. These antennas are susceptible to damage. If you’re buying an indoor antenna, you don’t need to worry about the material much. However, if you’re buying an outdoor antenna, it’s important to make sure it’s made of a durable and powerful material such as aluminum.

Connected Devices

Some satellite antennas can connect to several different antennas simultaneously as long as you have the corresponding receivers as well. Some satellite antennas are meant solely for one satellite service. Furthermore, one receiver can only be hooked to one TV and vice versa. You cannot power several TVs with one receiver or subscription.

OTA antennas allow you to connect to different TVs simultaneously, but you’ll need a signal splitter. That can also affect the quality and reception.

Reception Coverage

You need to consider the antenna’s reception coverage, i.e., its gain and range. This is the antenna’s ability to pick up signals, especially in relation to OTA antennas. If you’re far from the broadcasting towers, you’ll need an antenna that’s powerful enough to pick up the signals from afar. Furthermore, for OTA antennas, they should be able to pick up both UHF channels and VHF channels, i.e., channels 14 to 51 and channels 2 to 13 respectively.

WiFi Compatibility

If you want to be able to access high-speed internet, you need to make sure that your antenna is also WiFi compatible. However, most modern antennas are WiFi enabled so this shouldn’t be an issue.

Installation

Different antennas have different installation processes. Some are simple and some are extremely complex. Furthermore, some of the best antennas may not be right for you as they’re complex and confusing to install. In addition to the installation, you should also note that it should be easy to manipulate or modify to enhance the signals.

Weight

Regardless of whether you’re getting an outdoor or indoor antenna, it should be lightweight and small-sized since it will be used in your RV. If located outside, it will need to be small so it doesn’t get obstructed by branches and low-roofed tunnels. If located inside, it will need to be small so it doesn’t take up too much space.

FAQ

How to Use the Antenna?

Most TV Antenna for RVs have a simple plug and play installation process. As such, you need to simply install the antenna using the instructions, check the reception, and start channel surfing.

Where Should the RV Antenna Point?

For OTA antennas, the direction of the signals depends on where the broadcasting tower is. If you know the tower’s direction, point your antenna towards it. If not — or if you have a satellite antenna — slowly turn the antenna around till you get signals.

How Do I Improve the Reception?

If you find that your signals are weak, you can invest in a signal booster as well. These devices can be used along with OTA antennas to boost their signals and ensure you get more channels and in clearer quality. However, antenna boosters only work with over-the-air antennas and they can be a little difficult to handle, so you need to select them carefully.

Can I Watch TV While Driving the RV?

This entirely depends on the type of antenna you’re using. Satellite antennas need to be stationary in order to get a reception and driving around will make you lose the connection every time you turn. Over-the-Air antennas can be used while driving, however, you should get an antenna with a powerful reception so it can be maintained even through obstructions.

Can I Install the Antenna Without Professional Help?

All RV TV antennas come with detailed instruction manuals. As such, if you know how to handle tools and electronics, you can install it on your own. The easiest antennas to install without professional help are the lightweight and fully-covered ones.

However, it’s always advisable to get professional help to make sure the satellite is set up properly.

Do I Get Channels for Free or Do I Need to Subscribe to Channels Separately?

If you want to access channels for free, you should use OTA antennas as they get signals from broadcasting stations for free. Satellite Antennas need a satellite subscription like Dish, DirecTV and Bell TV so they have to be paid for. Some of them are based on a pay-as-you-go model and some have to be paid on a monthly basis.

Are Any Other Devices Necessary?

For OTA antennas, you’ll need an HD-enabled TV equipped with a built-in tuner. For satellite antennas, you’ll need an appropriate receiver.

If I Travel Outside the US, Can I Still Use the Antenna to View TV?

OTA antennas pick up on channels from nearby broadcasting towers. As such, wherever you are, you’ll be able to hone in on the neighboring broadcasting towers and view their channels. Satellite subscriptions are limited to the US so you cannot use them outside.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you find the RV TV Antenna of your choice. Now feel free to lay back, relax, and start skipping through those channels!

Yet, there is usually not enough room for full size washer and a dryer in your RV, so what are you supposed to do? You guessed it, get a small portable combo!

If you have never lived in a smaller apartment or traveled in a camper before you may think these small machines are just like the bigger ones, except they fit fewer items. Well, sorry to say but you would be wrong.

Most portable washing machine/dryer combos that people use in their RVs do not use warm air to dry the clothes and use spin cycle instead. They come in different sizes and also have either single-tub or twin-tub design. You can either fill & drain them manually or use hoses and faucet adapters, which may or may not be included in the package.

If you are determined to get a washer-dryer combo that uses air to dry out the clothes, you will need bit more extra space. There are both vented and ventless options out there, and in this review I will review both of them as well.

To make it as simple as possible for you you should ask these questions before buying a washer-dryer combo for your RV or small flat.

Questions to Ask Before Getting an Washer Dryer Combo for Your RV

• What is the load capacity? Most combos are quite small and can only hold limited number of items, so lazier you are or larger your family is, the bigger the machine you need.
• Do you want a the washing machine to be portable or not? If you need to move the washing machine around, then only the lighter spin dry machines are suitable for you. All the air dry combos out there weigh well over 100 lbs.
• What is the size and does it fit in your RV? It sucks to find out that the unit you ordered does not even fit into your RV or small bathtub. Do not make this mistake and check the measurements of the unit (not the box!!) first!
• Do you want an air dry or spin dry machine? There are pros and cons to both. While air dry gets your garments drier, they will also wrinkle them more. On top of that you will need a bit more extra space. If you are happy with slightly damp clothes (depending on the material they can get them almost dry, especially polyester blends) you can get a spin dry combo, which will be smaller and cheaper.
• Do you want a vented or ventless washer-dryer? If you decide to go with an air dry option you need to decide if you are happy with a ventless machine or you would need a vented one. If you go with vented washer-dryer then you should also have an exhaust vent installed in your RV. If you don’t want to bother with making a hole for a vent, then you must be prepared to spend more money on water as the ventless machines consume more and take longer to dry clothes.
• Does it come with inlet & drain pipes? How long are they? You need to know how far from the faucet and drain hole you will install your machine.
• Does it come with adapters? Sometimes you need to buy the adapters for the hoses separately.
• Does it have drain pump? This is important if the drain hose is higher than the water level in your machine. Gravity duh!

Best Spin Dry Washer/Dryer Combos Out There

Lets start with the cheaper and more lightweight washer-dryer options out there, which are the spin dry machines. If you need to have a portable washing machine then these are the only viable options out there.

1. Best Choice Products SKY2767 Portable Laundry Washing Machine

This compact washing machine is a top-loading unit where the washing and drying cycles happen in two separate tubs. However, the drying cycle is spin-dry only and it doesn’t apply heat to the clothes. The weight limit for the washer is 8 lbs while the limit for the dryer is 5 lb.

When you open the box, there is does have a plasticky smell, but it should disappear after few weeks. You do get an inlet hose and a drain hose, and both are of adequate length.

The adapter, however, included in the inlet hose doesn’t fit all garden faucets. What is really annoying, though, is a short, two month warranty period.

When you wash your clothes, they do come out clean and light stains are easily removed. You might have to do several batches of clothes, though, as it is less effective when the washer is fully packed (like most other washing machines). There is no automatic rinse cycle, though, and if you want to rinse, just repeat the wash cycle without detergent.

Do keep in mind that even when using the dryer, cotton fabrics are still rather damp and you have to hang them in a rack to fully dry them out. But for fabrics that dry faster, such as polyester, the spinning cycle should be enough. You should know that there is no drain pump in the system and if your drain hose is directed upwards, you won’t be able to fully drain the machine.

You get a 15-minute timer for washing and a five-minute timer for drying. In most cases, you don’t have to exceed the limit when your clothes aren’t that dirty.

It also efficient in using water and detergent, and clothes don’t have to be fully submerged in water. For an 8-lb load, a tablespoon of liquid detergent is more than enough and this  saves you a lot of water and detergent in the long run. For a smaller machine, the vibrations are quite noticeable and it is not that quiet, so you should have cardboard or a rug under it.

PROS

• Washing and drying can be done at the same time
• Effective in cleaning clothes
• Timer for washing and drying is more than enough
• Efficient in using water and detergent

CONS

• Plasticky smell that only went away after weeks of use
• Two month warranty
• No drain pump
• No automatic rinse cycle
• No heat applied during drying
• Less efficient and more vibrations when the load is heavier

2. Giantex Portable Twin Tub Washing Machine

There are two options to choose from with this washing machine from Giantex. The grey-colored lid one has a 16-lb capacity while the blue-colored one can hold slightly more (17.6-lbs) clothes. The washing and drying stages occur at different tubs, and you can do both at the same time. However, the drying tub is spin-dry only and doesn’t apply heat to your clothes.

You get an intake hose and a drain hose, but they are quite short and without the adapter for connecting it to a faucet. Do keep in mind that there is no drain pump that comes with the machine, and it only drains fully when the drain hose is directed downwards.

When it comes to cleaning your clothes, it has no problem in removing light stains, but some users have reported issues with really heavy stays. It cleans better when the load is lighter, and it’s best not to exceed 10 lbs.

It doesn’t automatically rinse after washing, and the rinse cycle is pretty much like the wash cycle but without the detergent. After rinsing, the dryer is able to remove about 80 – 90 % of water and the five-minute timer is sufficient in most cases. When you touch the garment, it is still damp but your fingers aren’t wet. There is a 6-lb limit for the dryer and exceeding that will leave the clothes more wet.

The machine is quite efficient in its use of water and detergent. However, the manual is confusing in how much water you need to add. Based on the user experience, you need to add less than recommended by the manufacturer so the tub doesn’t overflow and damage the electronics in your RV. For that amount of water, two tablespoons of detergent is enough. Anything more and you have to add another rinse cycle, which is just unnecessary.

When the machine is running, it doesn’t shake as much as some other models, and it is not even noticeable if your load is balanced. Even when it is against the wall of an RV, there are no perceptible vibrations.

PROS

• Washing and drying can be done at the same time
• Effective in cleaning clothes
• Timer for washing and drying is more than enough
• Efficient in using water and detergent

CONS

• Instruction manual is confusing
• Less efficient and more noisy when the load is heavier
• No drain pump
• No automatic rinse cycle
• No heat applied during drying

3. SUPER DEAL Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine

This compact washing machine has two load capacities you can choose from: a 10 lbs and a 13 lbs load one. It is a top-loading unit, and the washing and drying happen in separate tubs. Fortunately, you can wash and dry clothes at the same time, but the dryer accommodates less clothes than the washer. It is also spin-dry only, where no heat is applied to remove moisture. For a full list of specs and reviews, check it out here.

When you open the box, you will notice a slightly unpleasant “brand new” smell but it does not last as long as with other models. The machine has an intake port on both the washer and the dryer side. It helps that you have the option where to connect your hose, depending on which side is nearer.

You do get an intake hose and a drain hose in the package and it even comes with an adapter. What is disappointing, though, is that the adapter doesn’t actually fit to most faucets. Both the drain hose and the power cord are shorter than usual, so you will be stuck near a wall to use this machine.

Shortcomings aside, it does a good job in cleaning clothes. You might have do a couple of batches, though, if you have a big pile of laundry as it does not fit much. There is also a 15-minute timer, and it’s more than enough time to for the wash cycle.

The machine doesn’t rinse automatically, though, so you need to reset the timer for the wash cycle without the detergent. When it comes to the dryer, the cotton garments are usually still left damp after the dryer cycle and you have to continue drying them outside. There is no drain pump either, so the machine only relies on gravity to remove the dirt water.

It does, however, a great job in maximizing soap and water usage. A tablespoon of detergent is enough if the tub is three quarters full and the clothes are fully immersed in water.

Keep in mind too that the more clothes you have in a load, the noisier the machine is. Heavy garments like jeans and thick towels do cause more vibrations, but having a cardboard or a rug underneath should minimize this.

PROS

• Two load capacities available
• Washing and drying can be done at the same time
• Effective in cleaning clothes
• Timer for washing and drying is more than enough
• Efficient in using water and soap

CONS

• Intake hose doesn’t fit most faucets
• Drain hose and power cord are short
• Less efficient and more noisy when the load is heavier
• No automatic rinse cycle
• No heat applied during drying

4. KUPPET Compact Twin Tub Washer and Spin Dryer Combo

There are three load capacities you can choose from when you get this washing machine. The 9-lb unit comes in blue and purple, while the 13-lb and 17-lb units only come in white. They are all top-loading machines and the twin-tub design allows for washing and drying be done simultaneously. The dryer uses spin-dry function only, so your clothes aren’t exposed to heat when drying. This is both a good and a bad thing. Good if you don’t want to damage your garments, bad if you want to get them bone dry.

Inside the delivery box, you get an intake hose and a drain hose. The drain hose ,however, can not be detached, so replacing it in the future, if you need it, wont be easy. There is also no drain pump in the machine that can fully drain the grey water if your hose is directed upwards.

When it’s time to clean your dirty socks and underwear, the machine performs well in removing all lighter stains. Food and sweat stains are washed away without a problem and even heavier stains come out fairly well if you don’t over stack the machine. It can’t rinse automatically, though, so you just have to repeat the wash cycle without adding the detergent like with other machines on this list.

After rinsing, you can’t load all of the clothes from the washer because the dryer is somewhat smaller. Kuppet can remove about 90% of the water from clothes. Depending on the garment, it ranges from cupboard dry to damp.

There is a timer included for both the washing and drying cycles. Usually, the 15-minute timer for washing is long enough to clean your clothes. The five-minute timer for the dryer is adequate too, and repeating the process doesn’t actually make much of a difference. It’s wiser that you do small batches at a shorter washing time, since the machine is less efficient with heavier loads. For a regular load the machine uses about 1/4 cup of detergent

The bigger unit is reported to vibrate less than the smaller unit, so if that is really an issue for you do keep that in mind.

PROS

• Three load capacities to choose from
• Washing and drying can be done at the same time
• Effective in cleaning clothes
• Timer for washing and drying is more than enough
• Efficient in using water and soap

CONS

• Less efficient and more noisy when the load is heavier
• No drain pump
• No automatic rinse cycle
• No heat applied during drying

5. DELLA Electric Compact Washing Machine

This small compact washing machine has a load limit of 8.8 lbs for washing and 4.4 lbs for drying. You load your clothes at the top and you can also wash and dry at the same time. There is no heat applied during the drying cycle, however, so it only spin-dries the clothes.

You get an long intake hose and a detachable drain hose in the package, but there is no adapter so you must buy it separately. There is also a small drain pump in the machine which is great for draining the grey water.

During use, it is quite capable of cleaning the food, sweat, and dirt stains of your clothes. This machine has a 15-minute timer for the washing cycle, and in most cases it is more than enough. It is wise, not to not exceed the weight limit though because it takes longer to clean a heavier load. There is no automatic rinse cycle with Della either so you need to repeat the wash cycle without soap in it.

The machine is also quite efficient in using water and detergent. But try not to add more water than 3/4 of the tank or it may cause overflow.

After rinsing, the dryer does remove the excessive moisture from the clothes. It can fully dry smaller garments like socks and underwear, but shirts and pants come out somewhat damp. This Della washing machine isn’t noisy and vibrations only occur when washing garments like a big towels or more than one pair of heavy jeans. But as long as the load isn’t beyond the weight limit, it remains stable.

PROS

• Washing and drying can be done at the same time
• Effective in cleaning clothes
• Timer for washing and drying is more than enough
• Efficient in using water and soap

CONS

• Intake hose doesn’t have an adapter to fit faucets
• Less efficient and more noisy when the load is heavier
• No automatic rinse cycle
• No heat applied during drying

6. Think Gizmos TG23 Portable Twin Tub Washing Machine

This stylish portable washer-dryer combo has a top-loading design and two tubs for washing and drying. The weight limit of the washer is 8 lbs while the dryer limit is only 4.4 lbs. You can wash and dry clothes at the same time, but the drying cycle doesn’t use heat. It only spins to remove moisture after rinsing, but is quite powerful. It is similar to the spinner you would find in locker rooms.

In the box, you get an intake hose with an adapter that you can attach to a faucet and drain hose. You can also hand fill the machine and drain it manually in the tub.

The expensive looking machine weighs 28 pounds and has minimum water capacity of about 18 liters and maximum limit is 24, so do not exceed that.

The washer will fit around 3 sweaters and 3 pants or about 10 T Shirts so it decent size for a portable machine.

The machine makes the most out of water and detergent. You only have to fill up the tub until the clothes are immersed. Beyond that and you risk overflowing the machine during the wash cycle.

The spin drier is surprisingly powerful and if you need to dry smaller items it will spin dry them in 2-3 minutes (like socks, underwear etc). But if the garment is larger, you might just have to hang them to fully dry.

The machine doesn’t have a drain pump, though, so you have to avoid the drain hose pointing upward when it drains.

When you have clothes in the machine, it is also important to distribute them evenly inside the tub. This avoids unnecessary vibration because the weight in the tub is balanced.

PROS

• Washing and drying can be done at the same time
• Effective in cleaning clothes
• Timer for washing and drying is more than enough
• Efficient in using water and soap
• 1 year warranty
• great for small spaces

CONS

• Intake hose doesn’t have an adapter to fit faucets
• Less efficient and more noisy when the load is heavier
• No automatic rinse cycle
• No heat applied during drying
• Cycles are easy to customize

7. Panda PAN56MG1 Compact Portable Washing Machine

This compact washing machine is offered in two capacities: 11 lbs and 15 lbs. It loads clothes through the top lid (with see through window) and it is fully automatic.

It only has a single tub for both washing and drying, and the downside to that is you can’t do them both at the same time. The spin cycle doesn’t apply heat to your clothes, unlike a dedicated dryer.

In the package, you get an intake hose both for hot and cold water (both are identical). You also get sink and quick connect hose adapters so you can connect it to a garden faucet or a kitchen sink faucet if you wish. There is a drain hose too, but it is only three feet long so you need to extend it if you are far from a drain.

In using the machine, you have four different settings (Standard, Heavy, Delicate, Quick wash) depending on the kind of garments you will need to wash.  The cycle is about 42 minutes long, and it will clean your clothes nicely. The lint filter catches a lot of lint compared to other machines, so you do need to clean it regularly. Thankfully, there is also a drain pump in the machine so you don’t have to rely on gravity alone to drain all the water.

It is also important to note that when you open the top lid when the machine is running, an error message pops out and it stops running. But don’t worry, simply close the lid and the process resumes. It also pretty quiet compared to other machines so no need to worry about the excessive noise.

PROS

• Two capacities available
• Fully automatic
• Intake hoses and adapters are included
• Four settings for different kinds of clothes
• Runs quietly
• 1 year warranty

CONS

• Washing and drying can’t be done at the same time
• Drain hose is too short
• No heat applied during drying
• Lint filter clogs up faster than usual
• Too heavy to be portable

8. XtremePowerUS Portable Compact Washer with Built in Pump (33L Washer & 16L Spin Dryer)

Similar to the Della washing machine, this portable unitl (22″ x 15.5″ with handles) is a twin-tub design where the washer and dryer are two separate tubs. You can also wash and dry simultaneously, but the dryer doesn’t use heat and spins only to remove moisture. It has a weight limit of 8.8 lbs for the washer and 5.5 lbs for the dryer. Like other machines on the list it uses 110 volts.

Inside the package, you get an intake hose and drain hose, and both of them are rather short. You do get a drain pump but no adapters for a faucet so you need to purchase them separately.

You can use this machine in your bathtub and fill it with a bucket also if you want to fill it up faster. Putting it in the bathtub may also help to drain it easier as the hose needs to be leveled, which is difficult as it is on the bottom.

But what is truly disappointing is that there is no instruction manual in the box. While this may be fine for experienced users, it is going to be more challenging for new users given that some features are lacking in the box.

There is a 15-minute timer for the washer and as long as you don’t exceed the weight limit, you don’t have to exceed 15 minutes. For towels and sheets, 15 minutes is enough if they aren’t heavily stained. It can fit about 3 adult outfits and bed sheets as well.

The portable machine is also quite efficient in using water and detergent, so it is ideal for RVs and small apartments. You only need to fill the water up the level where all your clothes are immersed. Anything more and your machine is likely to overflow.

After the detergent has been rinsed off, the dryer can remove most of water remaining in your clothes but not all- bigger the garment, the more likely it is to remain damp. There is a five-minute timer, and it’s sufficient for normal use.

The machine runs quietly and doesn’t vibrate much. Just keep the tubs balanced out and it will be reasonably noiseless.

PROS

• Washing and drying can be done at the same time
• Effective in cleaning clothes
• Timer for washing and drying is more than enough
• Efficient in using water and soap
• Easy to clean
• Spin drier is fast

CONS

• Intake hose doesn’t have an adapter to fit faucets
• Less efficient and more noisy if the load is heavier
• No automatic rinse cycle
• No heat applied during drying
• Lint trap does not work that well
• Can leak when filled to the max

9. Giantex Portable Compact Full-Automatic Washing Machine

This compact washing machine is fully automatic with a capacity of 8 lbs. It is top-loading and has a single tub machine, where washing and drying happen in the same tub.

You get an intake hose and a drain hose in the package and there is an adapter for a garden hose, but weirdly it doesn’t fit to most of them. You either have to go the hardware store or online to find the proper adapter. There is no adapter for a kitchen sink either, which is a bummer.

You can set the timer for each cycle (Soak, Wash, Rinse, Spin) and choose 5 different programs (combination of different cycles) and let the machine do the work. You do get to choose the length of each cycle which is great and also choose the water level from 16 liters (L for LOW) to 30 liters (H for HIGH), depending on how many clothes you have.

What is annoying, however, is that the H setting almost always causes the tub to overflow during the wash cycle.

This machine is not huge (as you can see from the capacity) and it fits about 2 jeans and a T shirt or perhaps 3 larger towels. You also don’t have the option to adjust the intensity of the wash which is a bit disappointing if you ever need to wash more delicate garment.

But aside from that, the machine cleans your clothes without major problems and the drain pump is helpful in draining all the grey water, so don’t have to rely solely on gravity.

The machine uses about 8-9 gallons of water for a full load and same for the rinse cycle.

You should distribute your clothes evenly inside the tub because this reduces unnecessary vibration during the spin cycle.

PROS

• Fully automatic
• Intake hose and drain hose are included
• Three settings for different water levels
• Runs quietly

CONS

• Washing and drying can’t be done at the same time
• Adapter for garden hose doesn’t fit
• No adapter included for a kitchen faucet
• The H water level almost always overflows
• You can’t adjust the intensity of the wash
• No heat applied during drying
• Lint filter clogs up faster than usual
• Only 6-month warranty

10. Best Vented Washer/Dryer- Splendide WD2100XC

Most smaller campers and RVs do not have room for full-size washers and dryers. If you one of the lucky ones you should really get a vented or ventless dryer that uses hot air not spin cycle to dry your clothes, towels, and sheets.  Even though these machines cost quite a bit more, the end result will be considerably drier.

The first washing machine on our list that has an air drying system is one of the top rated Amazon products out there. It comes with an impressive 10 different wash and 3 dry cycles and it is highly praised by a lot of full-time RVrs. An average wash cycle should take about 40 minutes and in 1.5 hours it should both wash and dry your items. Depending on the cycle it will use 7-16 gallons of water, so if you need to save water make sure to choose the right program.

The maximum spin speed is a whopping 1200 RPM (which should help dry heavy cottons 20% quicker than other models out there) and the max load capacity is 11 lbs.

Another thing that most users love about this product is the fact it is not as noisy as most washers out there (due to its super-silent technology) and measuring at 23-1/2″ width, 33-1/8″ height, and 22-5/8″ in depth it takes up about as much space as any standard washer and dryer you would use in your house.

This model is not portable and it weighs 155 pounds so you would need some help to installing it in your RV. Some users have complained about the installation as it does have problems removing the shipping bolts at the back, so you may need to get a plumber to actually do it for you.

The machine draws 11 amps, 120 volts (60Hz) and 1300W and uses a regular 3 prong outlet. Do keep in mind that the washer does not actually heat its own water, so you would need access to both hot and cold water to use it fully.

This model needs a standpipe of at least 1 ¼” in diameter and a carry-away capacity of 7 GPM or more. The drain pipe itself is about an inch (7/8″)  and it should drain the load in 90 seconds. This particular vented model comes only in white, but if you are OK with a ventless version you can also get a platinum one.

While it does a really good job at washing your clothes but you need to be careful not to overfill it or otherwise the clothes become really wrinkled after the drying cycle.

PROS

• Many different cycles to choose from
• Washes really well
• It really quiet
• Dries clothes completely (but it does wrinkle them)

CONS

• It is very heavy
• Cycles are longer than top load machines
• The user interface is little confusing
• Bit pricey

11. Best Ventless Washer/Dryer- Westland WDC7100XC

Westland Energy Star is a platinum ventless washer/dryer unit that comes with several auto dry cycles on top of the 10 wash cycles. It is a fairly quiet machine with automatic water level control and dimensions of 23-1/2″ in width, 33-1/8″ in height and 22-1/4″ in depth.

The unit is about as heavy as the other air dry unit by Splendid (this one is only 10 pounds lighter and weighs 145 lbs), so there is no way you can move and install it on your own. A good thing, however, is that is comes with a 5-ft outlet and two 8-ft inlet hoses so you do not need to buy them separately.

Energy star is really user friendly machine that comes with electronic knobs that are soft to touch and a clear display that lets you know the exact time the cycle ends.

Everything is done automatically so you don’t need to adjust the water level yourself and it has about 15 pound wash capacity which is suitable for smaller families as well. It uses about 9 gallons of water for a standard wash, but it can go as high as 20 gallons for towels and other heavy cottons.

Even though the machine has shock absorbers and heavy duty springs it does shake a bit during the drying cycle. Also, do keep in mind that this machine can not be stacked and you will not be able to drain it into sink either.

Even though this machine uses a drum rotation that is bi-directional,  you should keep the load fairly small if you want as wrinkle free result as possible. You should also be aware that ventless machines in general take much longer than vented machines to dry the clothes.

PROS

• 1 year warranty (+ you can add two more years for an additional fee)
• Fairly quiet
• Great wash capacity

CONS

• Takes longer to dry clothes
• Heavy
• More expensive than spin dry models

One thing that always surprises me is when people spend a lot of money on various gadgets in the RV, but still sleep on the same flimsy hard mattress that came with their camper when they first bought it.  Some of them are more than 10 years old and while tires, pumps, heaters and everything else has been replaced, they still somehow manage to sleep on a old dirty mattress and then complain about their bad necks and backs and how awful sleeping in a camper is.

If you are anything like me, you know how important good night sleep is. This is even more important when traveling and a quality mattress is the key. Getting a new mattress for your RV is slightly different to buying one for your house or a flat. There are a lot of different types of RV mattresses on the market, and all of them are meant for different types of RVs. For the purpose of this article, I’ve reviewed some of the most popular RV mattresses out there so you don’t have to.

Best RV Mattresses Out There

1. Best Latex RV Mattress- PlushBeds 8″ Natural Latex RV Mattress

The PlushBeds 8″ Natural Latex RV Mattress, as the name suggests, is made of 100% natural latex foam. There are no fillers or toxic additives used, so you don’t have to worry about the off-gassing of harmful toxins.

Most RV mattresses are available in 5-6” of thickness so they can be accommodated into different RVs. However, this PlushBeds mattress has a thickness of 8”. This makes it a lot more comfortable than most RV mattresses — allowing it to provide better weight distribution and reduce pressure points — but it can also be used in fewer RVs.

It can only be used in Class A or Class B motorhomes or in really large RVs. Beside the thickness, this mattress has dimensions of 75″x48″ and it weighs about 50 pounds.

The upper layer of this mattress is made of 2” of natural latex. However, it also consists of a lighter 6” core made of Plushfoam, a CertiPUR accredited material that can reduce the overall weight of the product. The entire mattress is then covered with a thin cotton cover.

I found this mattress to fulfill its promise of pressure relief and breathability. Even in really hot conditions, the material of the mattress does stick to your back and it is generally quite cool to the touch. I also found it to be lightweight enough to easily install in a moderately sized RV.

While I can’t personally attest to this mattresses’ longevity (since I haven’t used it too long), I have it on good authority that it retains its shape for several years without either sagging, breaking, or discoloring.

If you order this mattress online — as I did — it will arrive rolled up. It is at its most portable in this rolled up state. As such, you should carry it into the RV and place it as close to the bed’s fixture as possible before unfolding it. Once you have spread it out, the mattress is quite difficult to move.

This mattress gave me very little to complain about. It delivers on all of its advertised promises and it bears no odor at all. However, if I had to complain about something, I would complain about the firmness. This mattress is medium-firm. This may be suitable for some people, but I found it to be a little harder than what I’m used to. As such, I wish the seller’s provided a greater number of firmness options.

Pros

• 100% natural latex with no fillers or chemical additives.
• Delivers on all of its promises regarding quality, longevity, and odorless-ness.
• Easy to carry when still rolled up.

Cons

• Doesn’t come in different firmness levels.
• Once opened, it can be difficult to move.

2. Best Polyurethane Foam RV Mattress- AmericanMade Conventional Mattress

This AmericanMade Conventional Mattress is essentially a 3” thick slab of firm foam. It’s also extremely lightweight at 33 pounds, making it one of the best Polyurethane Foam mattress on the market. If you find it to be too stiff, you can use a separate memory foam topper to soften it up.

Unlike natural latex mattresses, Polyurethane Foam mattresses pay emphasis on durability and versatility rather than comfort. Being only 3” thick, they can be accommodated into just about any RV out there. However, you cannot compare its comfort levels to that of some mattresses with superior quality materials because it simply won’t live up.

While using this mattress, I often found myself twisting and turning because it was quite firm and didn’t come with enough support, but that is expected with a polyurethane foam mattress. However, I can say that it’s a better and more comfortable mattress than others made of the same quality. It’s extremely firm to begin with, but it gradually starts to conform to your body’s shape to heighten the comfort over time.

This review might sound harsh, but I can assure you that is not the intention. As I mentioned already, you buy a polyurethane foam mattress because they are durable, lightweight, and cheap, especially if you are only going to use them intermittently. You don’t buy them for luxury. As such, this polyurethane foam mattress delivers on all of its promises so I cannot fault it.

In fact, the great thing about this mattress is that you can purchase it and avail of a 30-day return policy as well. You can use it for 30 days, and, if you find that it’s not to your liking, you can return it for a full refund. I found this to be extremely generous because mattress companies don’t often incorporate a return policy into their products (for obvious reasons).

Another good thing about this mattress is that it is multi-purposeful. During the day, you can fold it and strap it into a futon position to use as a make-shift couch and then unfold it at night so it becomes a bed. If you have a sharp blade, the foam is firm enough so you can neatly slice this mattress to suit your needs.

Pros

• Firm and dense material.
• Extremely affordable.
• No chemicals used.
• Comes with a return policy.
• Can be folded up or cut neatly.
• Better than most other polyurethane foam mattresses because the foam conforms to the shape of the body over time.

Cons

• Too firm for some users and has to be softened with an additional topper.
• While it’s cheap compared to other types of mattresses, it’s still quite expensive considering it’s essentially just a $5 slab of foam.

3. Zinus Ultima Comfort — Best Memory Foam RV Mattress

Zinus Ultima Comfort is an 8” memory foam mattress. It comprises of three distinct layers — an upper layer of 2” memory foam, a middle layer of 2” pressure-relieving comfort foam, and final layer of 4” high-density base support foam. Together, the three layers provide softness and comfort with just the right amount of firmness.

There are a lot of petroleum and natural plant oil based memory foam mattresses out there, which cause allergies and exude chemical byproducts. This memory foam mattress, however, is entirely natural and made of bio-foam. It is also CertiPUR-US Certified so it has been thoroughly vetted for durability and fire-resistance.

Being 8” thick — and with dimensions of 74” x 60” — this RV mattress can only be used in the largest of RVs and Class A motorhomes. It weighs 42 pounds, so it’s quite a bit lighter than several other 8” RV mattresses of similar dimensions. However, the benefit of an 8” memory foam mattress is that you don’t need any additional toppers with them.

The softness of the mattress, however, can be a boon and a curse. Being generally lightweight at around 150 pounds, I didn’t have any trouble with the softness. In fact, I found it to be just soft enough so I didn’t sink in but still being comfortable.

However, I did have a heavier-set colleague (around 250 pounds) try it, and he completely sunk in. Upon further research, I found this to be a recurring complaint among heavier individuals. The mattress is too soft for the heavy set guys and gals out there and it may, over time, lose its shape. As such, depending on your weight, you might want to skip this mattress.

A common issue that people often have with foam mattresses is that they retain body heat. As such, their temperature generally runs hotter than most mattresses, and this can be an issue in hotter climates. However, this mattress has been infused with natural green tea extract to maintain its freshness, absorb the moisture, and to prevent heat generation. So, even if you’re living in hot conditions, this mattress won’t retain your body heat and you’ll find it to be cool every time.

Many of the users of this mattress have complained about an odor. When you open this mattress for the first time, you will find that it kind of exudes the smell of fresh paint. Off-gassing is a common occurrence for all mattresses, especially foam mattresses. However, you can rest assured that this mattress hasn’t been made with harmful chemicals and airing it out for about 48 hours will get rid of that odor.

Pros

• Comfortable for most light individuals.
• Made of all natural bio-foam mattress.
• No chemicals used.
• Natural green tea extract used to maintain freshness.

Cons

• Can be uncomfortable for heavier individuals.
• Over time, it can sag in the middle if heavy-set individuals have been using it.

4. Best Innerspring RV Mattress- Zinus 8 Inch Spring Mattress

The Zinus 8 Inch Spring Mattress is an 8” innerspring RV mattress comprising five distinct layers — an upper knitted jacquard cover, followed by a micro-fiber quilted fabric, followed by 0.5” of high-density support foam, 1” of green tea Viscolatex foam, and a final 6” layer of innerspring support system.

Innerspring is a great material to add some softness and bounce to the mattress. However, if they are not covered by spring “pockets” and buffered via other layers, they can cause discomfort. To prevent any discomfort arising from the springs, this mattress consists of four other layers — including a foam layer — to buffer the effects of the innerspring.

The mattress is originally rolled up and compressed when it’s shipped to you. As such, you should open it close to your bed and allow about 48 hours for it to gradually blow up and regain its original shape and size. It is also infused with green tea extract and natural castor seed oil in order to prevent bacterial growth, to absorb moisture, and to mitigate odor.

Flipping is a great means of ensuring a mattress’ longevity as both sides experience equal wear. However, this innerspring mattress only has one finished side so it cannot be flipped. This mattress can also not be folded to use as a substitute sofa or to make it fit into smaller camper vans. After it expands into its original shape, it retains that shape. As such, you should only purchase it if you’re sure it can fit into your RV comfortably.

I found this mattress to be quite comfortable when sleeping on my own. However, it might pose some difficulty if you’re sharing the bed with someone else. The springs vibrate considerably whenever someone moves on the bed. As such, your partner’s movements might affect your sleep.

Furthermore, if you’re a heavy-set individual, you might find that there isn’t enough padding between you and the springs, and you might feel their hardness on your back. I believe this mattress would have greatly benefited from some additional foam buffering. A lot of the users of this mattress have said that they had to get a foam topper to add some additional buffer and reduce the hardness. That should not be necessary.

Pros

• Green tea extract and natural castor seed oil can help keep the mattress fresh and comfortable.
• The springs add great bounce and there’s padding between the springs and the upper layer.

Cons

• Could have used some more buffering.
• Cannot be flipped as only one side is properly finished.

5. Best Gel-Infused RV Mattress- DynastyMattress 10GEL-QUEEN-RV

The DynastyMattress 10GEL-QUEEN-RV is a 10” gel-infused memory foam mattress. It comprises the following layers — 2.5” upper layer of CoolBreeze gel-infused high-density memory foam, 4” of cool airflow foam, and 3.5” of medium-firm foam as the base. The three layers have been structured to provide the ideal level of softness and firmness, and they are covered with a white and brown suede cover that can be removed via the zipper and washed.

Besides the 10” thickness, it has dimensions of 75 x 60 inches and it weighs 55 pounds. As such, it’s quite a large mattress and can only be used on large RVs. When you first receive the shipment, the mattress will be available in a compact rolled-up form. You need to let it out, preferably where the bed frame is located, and allow it to blow back out and regain its original shape over 48 hours.

As a gel-infused memory foam mattress, this mattress provides the comfort and softness of a memory foam while also incorporating the cooling essence and breathability of the get beads. As such, even if you’re sweating in hot nights, the mattress has been designed to keep your back cool.

Some of the other mattresses on this list have had issues with individuals who are heavier-set. Since this mattress is gel-infused and 10” thick, I assumed it would be too soft for heavy individuals. However, I was pleasantly surprised that it’s just as comfortable for me (a 150-pound man) as it is for those who weigh around 280 pounds.

Furthermore, upon contacting some of the other individuals who have used this mattress for several years, I was told that it retains its shape and there’s no depression or sagging over time.

The only thing that concerns me about this mattress is the consistency. Upon unboxing this mattress, you’re supposed to give it about 24 to 48 hours to fluff up completely. However, many of the users have complained that even after fluffing up completely, there are spots that don’t fluff up all the way through. This might occur due to air pockets within the mattress and it creates an uncomfortable and uneven surface to sleep on.

Pros

• Extremely comfortable for individuals of all weights and sizes.
• Gel beads keep you cool during hot days.
• Highly breathable material.

Cons

• Some users have complained of the uneven surface.

6. Best Air RV Mattress- SoundAsleep Dream Series

This SoundAsleep Dream Series air mattress has been designed with Comfort Coil Technology, using 40 air coils to enhance comfort. Inflating and deflating the mattress is fairly easy, a single click of the pump is all it takes and you simply need to wait for it to inflate or deflate. It takes approximately 5 minutes for the mattress to fill up entirely.

When using an air mattress such as this, it’s important to note that they are meant for temporary use. This mattress can serve you well for about 2 months of use. However, if you need to use it beyond that, you will need to be extremely careful. After you receive the mattress, it will be advisable to fully inflate and deflate it a few times to allow the composite material to stretch out completely. Air mattresses need to be broken in to really be comfortable, so repeated inflation and deflation should achieve that. You should also top up the mattress with about 10-15 seconds of air every couple of days to keep it firm and well inflated. Finally, if you intend to use this mattress for several weeks or months, you should use a mattress pad to enhance longevity.

This mattress has been designed for indoor use so you cannot use it on camping expeditions. However, you can set it up in your RV if you have a wall power outlet within close range. It has an internal motor that needs to be hooked to the power outlet. There’s no external motors available and no batteries available for inflation, as, such, you can only use it indoors.

Furthermore, the thickness of the mattress has been designed for use in an even surface. As such, if you intend to use this air mattress in your RV for a few weeks, it will work great. However, you cannot carry it with you if you decide to go for camping expeditions.

Pros

• Inflates and deflates quickly.
• Comfortable construction.

Cons

• Can only be used indoors and needs a wall power outlet for inflation.

RV Mattresses Buyer’s Guide

In this section of the article, I’ll give you a detailed overview of RV mattresses. I’ll answer some of the most common questions people have about RV mattresses and give you an overview of the factors to consider when buying them.

How are RV mattresses different from regular mattresses?

• The mattress foam used in RV mattresses is completely different from regular ones. Since they have to fit into smaller frames in RVs, they are six inches shorter than regular mattresses.
• You get a range of different sizes, but all of them are specific to RVs and their dimensions.
• RV mattresses are also supposed to be lighter to reduce the overall weight of the RV.
• RVs often contain beds with rounded frames to accommodate cupboards and washrooms. As such, RV mattresses are designed to meet those atypical shapes.

How To Install a Mattress to an RV?

There are a number of different ways to add mattresses to your RV to save space. The following are some of the most popular methods:

• Install the bed in the back of the RV, running end to end. This will allow you to stretch out and you’ll have plenty of space for other things.
• If you’re fine with narrow beds for single individuals, you can set up a double bunker bed on one side of the RV.
• You can install a complete bed down the length of the RV and use the remainder space along the sides for storage.

What Is the Best Mattress for Your RV?

Different RVs have different space specifications. Some RVs can only accommodate small bunk beds whereas some can accommodate any kind of bed. It’s important to consider the type of RV you have before you select a mattress. The following are the different types of RVs along with the mattresses they can accommodate.

Motorhomes

Motorhomes are RVs that are driven rather than towed by a vehicle. They do not require a commercial driver license (CDL) either. These are some of the most expensive and largest RVs on the market. They can be divided into the following sub-categories according to their sizes:

• Class A: The largest motorhomes measuring up to 50 feet in length. They can generally accommodate RV mattresses of any dimension.
• Class B: Easier to handle than Class A, but also featuring less space, they are some of the most popular motorhomes. They are between 30 and 40 feet in length and feature plenty of storage. Most of them can accommodate RV mattresses of all sizes.
• Class C: These measure just 20 to 30 feet in length and are usually not big enough for RV mattresses. As such, they have to settle for pull-out sofas or toppers for their sofas and bunk beds.

Fifth Wheel Trailers

These are the largest towable trailers on the market with enough space to fit any RV mattress size. They are made of two components — the towing vehicle and the trailer. This makes them easy to maneuver during turns or while reversing.

Travel Trailers

They are similar to Fifth Wheel Trailers but they don’t have the coupling to hook the trailer to the towing vehicle. As such, they are harder to maneuver and the towing vehicle cannot easily back up. They are long and narrow, and thus can’t usually accommodate full-size mattresses.

Pop Up Trailers

These are the smallest towable trailers with small sleeping quarters that are not very comfortable and only meant for short camping trips. They also don’t come with many features and are minimalist to save space. As such, they cannot accommodate large or thick mattresses.

What Materials are RV Mattresses Available In?

The following are the different types of materials that RV mattresses are available in. The material is important because it determines the most important factors — cost, durability, portability, and comfort.

Latex

Latex mattresses are meant for both comfort and support. There are a number of different types of Latex mattresses available — Dunlop, Talalay, Synthetic, and Natural Latex.

Natural latex is the best out of these. It’s a completely organic material made from the rubber tree. It’s more comfortable than synthetic materials, is antimicrobial and anti-allergic, and is also more durable. However, Latex RV mattresses are also extremely expensive, large, and heavy, and thus can’t be used in all RVs.

You should generally avoid using Dunlop, Talalay, or Synthetic Latex materials as they are processed using chemicals that can be hazardous.

Polyurethane Foam

Polyurethane Foam — often called only Foam — is the most commonly used material for RV mattresses. It’s thin and firm, and can thus be accommodated in most RVs. However, it’s also quite uncomfortable and not very durable. If you don’t have a lot of space in your RV, or if you have budgetary constraints, you’ll have to go for a good Polyurethane Foam mattress.

Memory Foam

Memory Foam mattresses are made of a base of sturdy foam material but they’re topped by a layer of soft memory foam. As such, they remain thin and firm, thus capable of fitting into most RVs. However, they are also comfortable, or at least more comfortable than Polyurethane Foam mattresses.

The most distinct aspect of a memory foam mattress is that it doesn’t snap back immediately after the weight is lifted off it. As such, it will bear the imprint of your body for several minutes or even hours after you get off it. Some people prefer it this way because the bed can be “broken in” for heightened personalized comfort.

Innerspring

Innerspring or coil mattresses are high-quality mattresses are made bouncy with the use of coils underneath layers of the mattress. The coils and springs are usually topped off with foam memory foam or some other soft material.

These are durable, however, they can be uncomfortable for two people. Any movements made by one sleeper can interrupt the other sleeper as well. In order to avoid this, most companies have wrapped all the individual coils within pockets.

Innerspring mattresses are also some of the heaviest mattresses out there, so they’re not ideal for pop-up trailers or a nomadic life. Furthermore, they contain metal elements that can also rust and corrode if exposed to natural elements like moisture.

Gel-Infused

These are foam mattresses containing cooling gel beads. These add some comfort to otherwise uncomfortable foam mattresses and they can also lower the temperature. As such, these are a great option if you live in hotter climates.

Air Mattress

Air mattresses can either be extremely expensive or extremely cheap. These are available in a number of different types so be sure to get an RV air mattress. Some of the more expensive mattresses even allow you to adjust the amount of air present on both sides of the bed, which can help you adjust the softness depending on the sleeper’s preference.

They are also durable, lightweight, and highly portable. As a result, they can fit into most RVs. The biggest drawback here is that many air mattresses require electric power.

Which Factors to Consider when Buying RV Mattresses?

The following are some of the most vital features and factors you’ll have to consider when buying RV mattresses.

Size

The sizing structure following by RV mattresses is different from those followed by regular mattresses because RVs have smaller spaces. The following is a brief summation of the different RV mattress dimensions (W x L):

• Twin — 38” x 75”
• Twin XL — 38” x 80”
• Full or Double — 54” x 75”
• Queen — 60” x 80”
• King — 76” x 80”
• California King — 72” x 84”

You should use the aforementioned size chart to determine which of these your RV can accommodate.

Material

As previously mentioned, RV mattresses are available in six distinct materials — Latex, Polyurethane Foam, Memory Foam, Innerspring, Gel-Infused, and Air Mattress. All of these mattress materials have their advantages and disadvantages. You need to consider which of these is suitable for your needs and can also be accommodated in your RV.

Thickness

RV mattresses need to fit into the RVs sleeping quarters. As such, they are generally between 5 to 6 inches thick, and they are never over 10 inches. Generally speaking, the thicker the mattress, the more comfortable it is. However, greater thickness also takes up more space in the RV.

Firmness

Most RV mattresses are quite firm. However, if you prefer softer mattresses you should go for soft memory foam, latex, or innerspring mattresses.

Portability and Durability

It’s possible that you might have to move the mattress often. As such, make sure that it’s lightweight enough for you to conveniently handle it on your own, if necessary.

You should also focus on practical considerations to ensure durability so it stays with you for several years. Make sure that the mattress meets the regulations for biodiversity upkeep. You should also ensure that the mattress hasn’t been made of illegal substances like formaldehyde, lead, mercury, etc, that can prove to be hazardous to one’s health. To make sure your mattress is of the highest quality possible, make sure it is CertiPUR-US certified.

Warranty

RV mattresses have shorter warranty periods than regular mattresses because they are used in rougher conditions. The average RV mattress warranty is between 5-10 years, though some high-end RV mattresses also come with 20-25 years of warranty. You should steer clear of cheap RV mattresses without any warranty coverage.

How Much Should You Spend On An RV Mattress?

RV mattresses can be extremely cheap (less than $150) and extremely expensive (over $1000). Most comfortable and durable mattresses can be found around the $500 bracket. However, you should make sure that it has been properly certified, has a warranty, and is made of a durable material.

What is the Best RV Mattress for Camping?

The best RV mattress for camping is a foam mattress. These might not be as comfortable as some of the other mattresses but they can withstand external elements like a change in temperature, moisture, etc.

Innerspring mattresses, in comparison, is quite comfortable. But they are also more susceptible to rusting and corrosion when used outdoors. Air mattresses can also be convenient for their portability, but some of them require electric power so they’re not ideal for camping.

Are All RV Mattresses Fireproof?

In 2007, the US government passed regulations that necessitated all mattresses to be fireproof. This happened as a result of a large number of deaths occurring as a result of smoking in bed.

Currently, all mattresses have to pass the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSP) open flame fire test. So yes, all mattresses are fireproof. But that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re all safe.

In order to pass CPSP’s test, many mattress companies have resorted to using cheap fireproofing chemicals. Over a period of time, these chemicals continue to release gas from the mattress that the sleepers will inhale. As such, over time, these mattresses can result in harmful side-effects and health hazards.

There are, however, many companies that use fire-resistant materials that are more expensive and also completely safe. These materials include fiberglass, wool, kevlar, and various others. These materials pass the open flame fire test and pose no known health hazards.

As such, you should make sure that the fireproofing of your mattress has been done using only natural fire-resistant materials and not through chemical use. All of the mattresses recommended in this article meet those standards.

How to Off-Gas An RV Mattress?

Off-Gassing is the process wherein a mattress gradually exudes chemicals that were used during the course of the production. All mattresses — even those made entirely of organic materials — off-gas initially.

This off-gassing process continues gradually for several years after the mattress is purchased. However, it is advisable to allow the mattress to air out for about 48 hours after purchase. This is the period when most of the chemicals will come off. After that period, if you’ve purchased an all-natural mattress, the chemicals exuded through off-gassing will be too negligible to really matter.

You should ideally off-gas your mattress in a confined space such as a garage or a basement.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you figure out which is the best RV mattress for your specific needs. With that said, rest up and sleep tight!

There are many different kinds of heaters out there and the exact type you will need really depends on the size of your RV and where you will be traveling.

In this review post I have gone through some of the most popular RV heaters out there and compiled a list of propane/gas, electric and oil-filled heaters on the market today. So lets jump right in-

Gas/ Propane Heaters

A gas or propane heater works via combustion. An ignition is set off to fire up the burners in the combustion chamber. The generated heat is then transferred to the heat exchange chamber, from which it diffuses into the atmosphere, raising the temperature.

If given the option between a natural gas heater or a propane heater, you should choose the latter. Natural gas heaters release greenhouse gasses that can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning. However, propane gas heaters don’t release any such noxious gasses.

However, a propane heater comes with several drawbacks. First, it needs to be constantly refueled, thus proving to be expensive in the long run. Secondly, if there is a leak in the propane tank, the gas can leak out. This is dangerous as propane is a flammable gas.

Propane heaters also require electricity, though just a negligible amount via 12 volt DC connections.

How to Heat an RV Without Propane:

If you don’t want to use Propane, you can also use portable electric heaters, either ceramic heaters or infrared heaters, though the latter won’t heat up the entire RV. Oil-filled heaters are also a great alternative as they can heat up the RV faster and more efficiently.

Natural Gas isn’t a great alternative for Propane because they can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Can you get Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Propane Heaters?

Propane Heaters are either meant to be used outdoors or indoors. Those that are rated for outdoor use should never be installed in confined spaces like in RVs. These outdoor propane heaters can generate carbon monoxide.

However, indoor propane heaters are designed for ideal burn, a balance that ensures that there’s only a negligible carbon monoxide output. Most indoor propane heaters also come with low oxygen level detectors. As such, if the carbon monoxide level increases, the heater will automatically turn off.

Regardless of these precautions, it’s important to get indoors propane heaters regularly checked and serviced to make sure that they’re working in optimal condition and not producing unwanted carbon monoxide byproduct. Furthermore, you should also invest in a carbon monoxide detector for your RV.

While the potential of carbon monoxide poisoning from indoors propane heaters is negligible, it is still a possibility.

Best Gas/ Propane RV Heaters

1. Olympian Wave 3 LP Portable Gas Catalytic Heater

The Olympian Wave 3 LP Portable Gas Catalytic Heater is a low-pressure gas heater that can be mounted on the walls of the RV or it can be used as a portable heater. It can produce 1600 to 3000 BTUs of heat per hour and it doesn’t generate any noise since it doesn’t have a fan.

I appreciated the focus on safety in this device as it features a safety shut-off valve. This can protect you from the discharge of any non-ignition fuel. If you use this heater in high altitudes, you should be careful to crack a window open and allow plenty of ventilation as it uses a lot of oxygen.

This gas RV heater is also fuel efficient. It consumes only 1/8 lb of propane per hour at its maximum heat setting and 1/15 lb at its lowest heat setting. As such, you can use a 20 lb propane tank for approximately 160 to 300 hours, depending on the heat setting.

This heater has been rated at 100 square feet based on an external temperature of 35 degrees Fahrenheit. As such, it can heat up a 100 square feet RV well enough. But if the RV is not well insulated or if the external temperature is cooler, you’ll need a larger 6000 BTU or 8000 BTU heater, both of which are available as variations on this model.

Pros

• Extremely fuel efficient.
• No noise is generated.
• Great safety measures in place.

Cons

• At 100 square feet, it only suits small rooms or small RVs.

2. Dyna-Glo RA18LPDG Heater

The Dyna-Glo RA18LPDG Heater is an extremely powerful gas heater for your RV that can generate 6,000 to 18,000 BTUs of heat per hour. As such, it can effectively warm up a 600 square feet of space. That’s more than enough to keep your entire RV warm through extremely chilly winter nights.

This gas heater comes with a front safety grill to prevent any accidents. It also has an inbuilt Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) so it gets automatically switched off whenever the oxygen level falls short, thus preventing suffocation. The ODS feature also makes this heater safer to use in higher altitudes because you can rest assured that the heater won’t consume all of the oxygen.

This gas heater is extremely powerful and can heat up an RV well. However, it sucks up the oxygen quickly, even on its lowest heat setting, so you will have to ensure there’s plenty of ventilation. You might even have to crack open a door. You should also ensure that there’s at least a 5 feet radius maintained between the heater and all other objects as it can make them extremely hot.

Pros

• Extremely powerful and can heat up a large space quickly.
• Comes with an Oxygen Depletion Sensor for safety.

Cons

• Even though it automatically turns off when oxygen is depleted, you still need to ensure ventilation to prevent the RV from getting too hot.
• Sucks up the oxygen really fast, even on the lowest heat setting.

3. Mr. Heater F271380 Propane Heater

The Mr. Heater F271380 Propane Heater can be used to heat up a space of approximately 2,125 square feet as it produces 50,000 to 85,000 BTUs of heat per hour. It also comes with a 100-feet adapter hose that can be hooked to a 20-pound propane tank that can power the heater for up to 8.5 hours. As such, it’s definitely not very efficient in terms of power usage, but if you need to warm up a large RV or camp, it can do that pretty well. You can read more about Mr Heater here.

However, if you use it in an RV or a small enclosed space, you must ensure that there’s plenty of ventilation and you should keep the doors open. I found that it sucks up the oxygen pretty quick and small spaces get unbearably hot unless you crack open a door.

Furthermore, I was also disappointed about how the product has been marketed. It has been labeled a “quiet burner” that can produce 50% less noise than other propane burners. However, in my experience, it produces quite a bit more noise than other propane heaters since it comes with a fan to disperse the heat. Another pain point is the pigtail, which is only 12” long. As such, it’s pretty much necessary to have an extension cord to use this.

Pros

• Extremely powerful and heats up really fast.
• Can be used to heat up large spaces.
• Comes with an adapter hose.

Cons

• Not fuel efficient.
• Generates noise.
• An extension cord is necessary.

4. ProCom MG20TBFPropane Wall Heater

The ProCom MG20TBF Propane Wall Heater can operate either with natural gas or propane, even though the latter is highly recommended. It can produce 20,000 BTUs of heat per hour, so it’s only suitable for small RVs of up to 950 square feet of space.

The propane flames generally burn with a steady and gentle blue flame. However, when the propane tank is about to finish, it starts sputtering, which can be quite distracting.

This propane heater can be mounted on the walls of the RV. It comes with an oxygen depletion sensor, so you don’t need to worry about ventilation. If it senses a loss of oxygen, it will automatically shut down.

You should, however, note that you can’t use this heater in altitudes about 4000 feet for several reasons. It has a low BTU rating so it will be pretty ineffective in higher altitudes where the temperatures are cooler. Furthermore, the oxygen depletion sensor is likely to prevent it from working in high altitudes where the oxygen presence is scant.

Pros

• The thermostatic controller allows you to select a temperature and the heater ensures that the room is kept at that temperature.
• Comes with an oxygen depletion sensor.
• No need for ventilation.

Cons

• Can’t be used in high altitudes.
• Flames start sputtering when the propane is low.

Electric Heaters

Electric heaters generate heat by converting electricity (passed through a resistor) into heat. The heat is then channeled and released through an open vent.

Unlike gas heaters, electric heaters produce no byproduct. There’s no release of greenhouse gases and there’s no risk of a gas leak. That is not to suggest they are safer. In fact, electric heaters can often be riskier than propane gas heaters because they can tip over or an electric fuse can cause a fire. Electric heaters are also not as immediately effective as gas heaters because they are slower to disperse.

Electric RV heaters can only be used to heat up one space at a time. The heater can warm the area immediately surrounding the heater but not other rooms. As such, you can save power with it, but if you want your entire RV heated simultaneously, this isn’t your best option.

Electric heaters also consume a lot of energy, especially if you’re using solar energy.

How to Heat an RV Without Electricity:

If you don’t want to use any electricity, you can use a propane RV heater hooked to a 12V battery. Some people also use wood stoves, however, those are a safety hazard and should not be used in RVs.

Ceramic Space Heaters

Ceramic Space Heaters are a type of electric heaters. They use coils and a fan to draw air from a conducting ceramic element, and then they release the warmed air into the room. Even though these heaters generate and release a considerable amount of heat, they remain cool to the touch. Furthermore, ceramic heaters radiate heat in one direction, most of them in the direction they are facing.

If the electric current passing through the heater increases, they generate more heat. This, in turn, also increases the resistance and limits the current flow. As such, ceramic heaters are also energy-efficient, using only as much electricity as is necessary.

Infrared/Radiant Space Heaters

Infrared or Radiant space heaters are also a type of electric heaters. They transfer high heat into the atmosphere through electromagnetic radiation. Infrared heaters work through vibrations, generating and releasing heat energy that is locked within the object itself. This makes them more energy efficient, but it also means they can warm up a very limited area. You can place them on your table or near your legs to warm your body, but they don’t go much beyond that.

Best Electric RV Heaters

5. Lasko CD09250 Ceramic Portable Space Heater

Lasko CD09250 Ceramic Portable Space Heater is an extremely compact and portable heater that you can either mount on a tabletop or place down on the floor. It has a 1500-watt heat output with 11 different temperature settings. On the low setting, at 900 watts, it’s also pretty energy efficient. Furthermore, coupled with the thermostat, several users noted that it hardly made a dent on their monthly electricity bill.

It comes with an overheat protection feature so the room doesn’t overheat even if the heater is allowed to go on for an extended period of time. You can’t set a timer in terms of when you want it to come on and go off. However, the thermostat ensures that it maintains the favored room temperature. If the room gets too hot, it automatically shuts off or lowers the temperature accordingly.

You should, however, note that this heater cannot and should not be mounted on the wall because it has an internal fan that needs at least 2-3 inches of clearance at the back. One of the biggest issues with this is the lack of safety. It doesn’t have an auto-shutoff feature in case it’s tipped over. This can prove to be a major fire hazard. They have incorporated a casing to prevent that, however, it’s not enough.

Pros

• Compact and portable.
• Energy efficient.
• Overheat protection feature available.
• Thermostat available.

Cons

• Can’t be mounted.
• Lack of safety features.

6. Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater

The Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater is an infrared electric heater with a 1500 watt heat output that can generate about 5,000 BTUs of heat per hour.

As an infrared heater, it works on the dual principle of radiative heat and conductive heat. Radiative heat, the predominant part, helps heat up objects directly before the heater. As such, you can keep it close to your body to heat you up even with low wattage. The heater uses conductive heating to a lesser degree to heat up the air.

However, even the radiative heat ends up heating the air through dispersion. The clear advantage here is that radiative heating allows you to warm yourself while using low energy and without drying out the air in the room.

You can even set it to the desired temperature and rest assured that the heat will cycle on and off to maintain that pre-set temperature as long as you need. However, it maintains the exact temperature rather than maintaining a range. As such, after it has achieved a temperature, it stops for a while and turns back on the moment the temperature dips below.

The fan on the device turns on every 5 minutes for 30 seconds in order to assess the room’s standing temperature. If heat is needed, the fan will remain turned on. If not, it gets turned off. Every time it starts up again, it makes a discernible sound that can prove to be disruptive, especially if you’re a light sleeper. There is no setting available that keeps the fan either turned on or turned off continuously.

The only part of the heater that heats up is the metal grate through which heat is expelled. That is, of course, expected, since heat is expelled from that region. You should also be careful to ONLY plug this heater directly into the wall outlet rather than a power strip. The high amperage can lead to an electrical fire if plugged into a power strip.

Pros

• Can heat up a moderately sized room well.
• Temperature can be maintained.
• Can heat up objects without drying out the air.

Cons

• The constant on and off, accompanied by a noise, can be disruptive.

7. EdenPURE A5095 Gen2 Pure Infrared Heater

This EdenPURE A5095 Gen2 Pure Infrared Heater can comfortably heat up around 1000 square feet of space in cold temperatures. It comes with an electric thermostat so you can configure the temperature you want to maintain and it does so automatically. See full specs of EdenPURE here.

While this is a perfectly decent space heater, I was incensed while trying to set it up. The factory setting for this heater comes with heating settings between 1-20 instead of stating the actual temperatures.

In order to reach the temperature menu, you have to hit ‘Quiet’ for 5 seconds until your reach Timer, then go through a few options until you reach Temperatures, and then set it up between 40 to 90 degrees. This is a needlessly complicated method for something that should be pretty simple. You can find the details in the manual.

Several of the users have also complained about the limited range of the remote. You essentially have to stand over the heater and use the remote for it to work. This can be annoying if you need to change the settings in the middle of the night.

Pros

• This is the ideal heater for RVs located in extremely cold weather conditions.
• An electric thermostat is available to set up a temperature for the room.
• It’s quiet

Cons

• It’s not energy efficient and can prove to be quite expensive in the long run.
• The remote has a very limited range.

8. Vornado QUIET Vortex Heater

This Vornado QUIET Vortex Heater can run on 1500 watt or 750 watts of power, and it can comfortably heat up an RV of up to 300 square feet in space. It has a cool exterior that doesn’t get dangerously hot even when it’s operating. It also turns off automatically when it’s tipped over or when the room is overheating, thus minimizing the risk of electrical fires or asphyxiation.

It can also be placed on carpets or around other potentially flammable objects because the safety tip-over switch will immediately turn it off if it falls. It’s also quiet in operation, even when you turn on the fan to circulate the hot air around the room.

Pros

• Several safety features available.
• Perfect for small RVs of up to 300 square feet.
• Energy efficient.
• Doesn’t produce any noise.

Cons

• No discernible drawbacks.

Oil-Filled Heaters

Oil-filled heaters are similar to gas heaters in that they both function through combustion of energy. However, oil doesn’t get utilized as fast as propane, making them last longer. They are also safer than gas heaters because they aren’t as flammable, in case there’s a leak. Despite these advantages, oil-filled heaters are generally only used as radiators and are the least popular types of heaters.

Best Oil-Filled RV Heaters

9. De’Longhi EW7707CMOil-Filled Radiator

The DeLonghi EW7707CM Oil-Filled Radiator has a 1500 watt heat output so it can adequately heat up medium-sized rooms. It has a thermostat that comes with three heat settings so you can adjust accordingly and it maintains the internal temperature automatically. This unit is also highly energy efficient. Several users have mentioned that even after 24/7 usage, this heater only increases the electricity bill by about $100.

When you first purchase this heater, it’s important to “temper” it. To do this, you need to plug it outside or in a well-ventilated area and run it at full heat setting for several hours. This will help burn off all the anti-corrosion coating that’s been applied by the manufacturers. If you don’t do this, your heater might expel a foul odor in your RV.

While this heater can warm up an RV perfectly well, users must also temper their expectations. This is not a forced air heater but a radiant heater. As such, it takes a while for it to heat up the room, and even then it can make it comfortable rather than toasty. Furthermore, you should turn on a fan to help circulate the hot air and evenly distribute it.

Pros

• The SmartSnap wheels can help you move the heater around.
• Energy efficient.

Cons

• The unit needs to be “tempered” before use.
• To evenly disperse the heat, you need to turn on a fan.
• Doesn’t work immediately since it’s not a forced air heater.

10. Insignia HTRFBK6 Oil-Filled Radiator

The Insignia HTRFBK6 Oil-Filled Radiator has a 1500 watt output that can heat up a room of up to 144 square feet of space. It comes with a safety tip-over switch so it automatically gets turned off upon tipping or falling over. The oil is pre-filled and sealed inside the heater so it provides constant radiant heat. You also don’t need to worry about refilling the oil as it can last for 10 to 15 years. As such, there’s no need to either refill or replace it.

As an oil heater, there’s no overheating at the bottom of the radiator. Furthermore, the heater itself is elevated on wheels so the bottom doesn’t touch the floor. As such, you can even place it on a carpeted floor without fear of it burning. This heater also doesn’t give off any odor and it doesn’t need to be tempered before use.

While operating, the coils of the heater do get hot. They’re never hot enough to be scalding, however, they’re not completely cool like some other heaters either. As such, it should be kept away from the reach of small children or pets.

This heater doesn’t give you a lot to complain about. However, if I were to get finicky, I’d complain about the temperature increments. The temperature settings are set apart by 5 degrees, so it goes from 60 to 65 to 70, and so on. This can sometimes leave you feeling either too hot or not hot enough. It would be better served with temperature increments of 1 or 2 degrees.

Pros

• Perfect for small rooms.
• Has a safety tip-over switch.
• No overheating and can be used on carpets.
• No odor.
• Has a digital thermostat.

Cons

• The coils can get hot to the touch.
• Temperature increments of 5 degrees.

11. De’Longhi TRD0715T Oil Filled Radiator

The De’Longhi TRD0715T Oil Filled Radiator is sealed with pure diathermic oil so there’s no need to either refill or replace it. It has a thermostat in a place that automatically maintains the temperature and automatically turns the device on when the temperature in the room falls below the mark. The temperature can be increased by 1-degree increments, which is perfect if you have exacting needs. It also has a safety thermal cut-off feature that automatically turns it off if the coils get to be too hot.

This heater can be used to heat up approximately 150 square feet of space. As such, it can only heat one room at a time. It works silently and it also has a timer which you can use to set up when it should start or stop operating. The 24-hour timer comprises several teeth that allow you to set up when the heater would turn on or turn off. It’s easy to operate and extremely efficient.

Like several oil-filled radiators, this heater also needs to be tempered before use. If you use it in high heat setting directly, it will exude the foul odor of heated paint. As such, you need to take it out in a ventilated area and let it run for a few hours before using it. The heating is slow, which is common for oil heaters, but it eventually heats the room in an even temperature.

Pros

• No need to refill or replace oil.
• The timer is efficient.
• Silent operation.
• Comes with a safety thermal cut-off feature.
• Roller wheels available for portability.

Cons

• Exudes a foul odor initially.
• Heating is slow.

12. De’Longhi MG7307CM Oil Filled Radiator

The De’Longhi MG7307CM Oil Filled Radiator has a 1500 watt heat output along with a ComforTemp feature that can maintain the ideal temperature range. You can also leave this device turned on all the time and be assured that the overheat protection feature will automatically turn it off if it gets overheated.

It makes use of pure diathermic oil that’s permanently sealed in the heater so there’s no leaks and no need to refill either. As with other  De’Longhi products, it gives off the smell of burning paint upon initial use so you need to let it run at high setting for a few hours. However, some of the users of this product have also complained that the smell never really goes away, only dissipates over time.

It takes a while for it to heat up the room, about 20 minutes, just like most oil-filled radiators. That isn’t a lot of time in the grand scheme of things. However, considering some electric heaters can heat up a room within 5 minutes, it can be a lot. However, eventually, it heats up the room more evenly than most heaters. It is also quite economical as it doesn’t consume a lot of energy.

Furthermore, you don’t need to use fans to disperse the heat as the inbuilt fins slowly and naturally circulate the hot air up to the ceiling. The fins are also covered by a shroud not found in the other De’Longhi models, so it’s also cooler to the touch.

Pros

• ComforTemp feature to maintain ideal temperature range.
• Heats up the room evenly.
• The fins help circulate the hot air.
• Remains relatively cool to the touch.

Cons

• Takes quite a while to heat up the room.
• Exudes a foul odor initially.

Factors to Consider when Buying RV Heaters

Power or Fuel Consumption

Your RV heater should be highly efficient, capable of functioning even at low power input. If the heater requires a lot of power, you’ll have difficulty finding such a power source, thus increasing the likelihood of your battery blowing out. This might leave you without heat on a chilly night. As such, if you’re purchasing an electric heater, get one with a high heat output at low power consumption.

If you’re purchasing a gas heater, it should consume as little propane as possible. If you use a 10-pound propane gas canister, how long will that last with this particular heater? Getting a heater with a high fuel consumption will prove to be rather expensive down the line, if you are not careful.

Safety Features

Your heater should come with plenty of safety features. Electric heaters should have cool surfaces so they don’t become too hot to the touch. They should also come with thermostats so you can monitor the room’s temperature and prevent overheating.

Some heaters also come with switches that automatically turn them off if they are tipped over, mitigating the risk of a fire. If you’re purchasing gas heaters, they should come with oxygen level detectors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Size

The heater you choose should be able to heat up your entire space. While this may seem obvious, a lot of campers overlook this crucial aspect and then end up complaining how cold their RV is. The exact size of the heater can be calculated based on the BTUs (British Thermal Units). It takes about 20 BTUs to warm up a 1 square foot space. As such, you’ll need 2,000 BTUs to heat up a 100 square foot space. In order to determine how many BTUs you need, simply multiply your RVs square footage by 20.

Noise

Some RV heaters are noisier than others, this is especially true for electric heaters with fans. You should run the heater before buying it to determine if is too noisy or not. If you are buying your heater online, this is a problem of course, but you can read other users reviews to see what they think.

In my experience you get pretty used to any constant sound pretty quickly and I have yet come across a fan that is so loud that you can not sleep in the same room with it. But maybe it is because I am such a heavy sleeper and if the noise really does bother you, get an oil-filled or gas heater instead as those are generally silent.

Type of Discharge

RV heaters discharge heat in one of two ways — directly or through ducts.

Direct discharge RV heaters blow air from the faceplate. They are small and lightweight, but they only heat up the space from a single source. They are usually found in small and often old RVs.

Duct heaters blow air through ducts in the ceiling and floors. This helps the heat get spread evenly across the RV and you can also open or close vents in rooms more freely. They usually come with inbuilt thermostats to determine when the system turns on or off, thus regulating the heat automatically.

Duct heaters are generally favored these days. However, some people still prefer the convenience of a compact direct discharge RV heater.

Safety Precautions for RV Heaters

• If it’s an electric heater, it should be plugged in directly to the wall. If you use an extension cord, it should be as small as possible and be a 14-gauge wire or larger to minimize the potential of tripping.
• The electric heater should have a tip-over safety switch.
• Ensure that the heater carries the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) mark.
• Get a thermostat along with the heater so your RV is not overheated.
• If you’re using a propane or gas heater, also invest in a carbon monoxide detector.
• Select a heater that can comfortably fit within the RV without taking up too much space.
• The heater should be placed on a level surface. It should also be tucked away in a corner so it’s not in the path of either foot traffic or some water source.
• Turn the heater off and unplug it when not in use.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to get a better idea what is the best heater for your specific needs. If you have any questions that I haven’t answered in this review, feel free to reach out!