Furnaces: Atwood vs. Suburban vs. Wood vs. Others

[chad.nuesmeyer]

My use case is RV - not full-timing. However, better than half my use will be in the winter in the Rockies - Banff to Colorado.

I plan on having two heating sources: Primary and Back-Up. I am looking for feedback on the primary heating source. I am currently leaning towards a propane style furnace (atwood, surburban, or other...) for a couple of reasons:
- I can easily duct the air throughout the bus
- I can use the duct to warm water lines (run in parallel)
- I plan on having propane appliances - dual purpose
- space preservation
- Stove takes up space that could otherwise be used
- Thermostat controls
- Keep the wife happy
- Easier to use on the road and in the walmart parking lot
- Crackle of a fire is just cool, it can't be replicated

What has experience taught this crew? Pros and Con's? What other brands should I consider? From the newbie perspective, what should I think about as I consider the various makes and types?

Thanks - Chad

[M1031A1]

I'm installing a Webasto heater. It's very efficient.

[Tango]

Propane heaters are fine but they do go through the fuel pretty quickly. If using for multiple appliances and/or extended camping, figure on carrying a LOT of it.

The Webasto diesel heaters seem to be much more efficient. No comparative figures here, just what "I've heard".

[gbstewart]

we have a suburban furnace, ducted front and half way the bus, works great, burns a fair amount of propane, and it does draw battery power when boondocking,
If you go that route, I would recommend getting one with electronic ignition , rather then a pilot light, just a bit easier to use, but a pilot light is ok mine has pilot light,
gbstewart

[roach711]

I've got an Atwood Everest II furnace that works well. It's not tremendously efficient; probably more heat is going out the exhaust than into the bus, but I have no fear of leaving it on at night like I would with a catalytic heater. No problems with humidity either. It draws about 40 watts when the fan is on.

[WIbluebird]

Can the Webasto heaters found on normal school buses be configured to heat the entire interior? I can't tell if the Webastos are only for keeping the engine warm or if it's intended to heat the entire bus without the engine running.

[M1031A1]

Originally Posted by WIbluebird

Can the Webasto heaters found on normal school buses be configured to heat the entire interior? I can't tell if the Webastos are only for keeping the engine warm or if it's intended to heat the entire bus without the engine running.

The Webasto is designed to heat the whole vehicle. There are some models that are too small for this and just keep the diesel engine from freezing up in winter. However, most are designed to heat the whole vehicle. Hope this helps:

https://www.webasto.com/us/markets-products/bus/

M

[WIbluebird]

Originally Posted by M1031A1

The Webasto is designed to heat the whole vehicle. There are some models that are too small for this and just keep the diesel engine from freezing up in winter. However, most are designed to heat the whole vehicle. Hope this helps:

https://www.webasto.com/us/markets-products/bus/

M

I'm looking at a few buses for sale and one seller is offering to throw in a Webasto as part of the deal. Looks like I should defenitely go for it!