Heating Your Camper in Cold Weather: What Works, What’s Safe, and What Will Drive You Nuts at 2 A.M.

If you store or camp with a camper in Michigan, you already know this truth:

Cold weather doesn’t ask permission—it just shows up.

Whether you’re squeezing in one last fall trip, camping early in the spring, or checking on a camper that’s tucked away for winter, heating questions always come up. What works? What’s safe? And why does the furnace always kick on the second you finally fall asleep?

Let’s talk about it—honestly, clearly, and safely.

What Is “Shoulder Season,” Anyway?

You’ll hear campers talk about shoulder season, and no, it has nothing to do with jackets.

Shoulder season refers to the time between peak summer camping and full winter shutdown—typically spring and fall. Campgrounds are quieter, prices are lower, and daytime weather can be great.

But nights? Nights can still get cold. Sometimes very cold.

That’s where heating decisions matter.

The Built-In Propane Furnace: Effective… and Loud

Every camper has one for a reason.

The good:

• Designed specifically for RV use

• Works without shore power

• Helps protect plumbing and tanks from freezing

The reality:

• When it’s on, it’s HOT

• When it shuts off, the heat disappears fast

• Loud fan noise

• Constant cycling throughout the night

  
  

Propane furnaces are safe when maintained properly, but they’re not known for quiet or consistency.

Ceramic Electric Heaters: Popular, But Not Perfect

Ceramic heaters are one of the most commonly used camper heat sources—and for short-term comfort, they can be helpful. But there are important limits people don’t always talk about.

Typical wattage matters

Most ceramic space heaters run at:

• 750 watts (low setting)

• 1,500 watts (high setting)

In an RV, 1,500 watts is a heavy electrical load.

Many camper outlets, extension cords, and campground circuits are not designed for continuous high-wattage draw, especially over long periods.

Why ceramic heaters are NOT ideal for long-term use

• Prolonged high-wattage draw can overheat outlets

• RV wiring is lighter-duty than residential wiring

• Loose or older outlets can arc or melt

• Overheated outlets are a documented fire risk

• Running heaters unattended increases danger significantly

Even high-quality ceramic heaters with tip-over protection can still cause electrical overheating if:

• Plugged into worn outlets

• Used on high continuously

• Combined with other appliances on the same circuit

Important takeaway:

Ceramic heaters are best used as short-term, attended, supplemental heat—not as a long-term or unattended solution.

Oil-Filled & Infrared Heaters: A Safer Electric Option

If electric heat is available, oil-filled or infrared heaters are often a better choice.

Why?

• They still commonly draw up to 1,500 watts, but:

  • They cycle less aggressively

  • Maintain steadier temperatures

  • Produce radiant heat rather than constant fan-driven bursts

• Less stress on outlets over time

• Silent operation

• Lower surface temperatures

They are still not recommended for unattended, long-term use, but they tend to be more stable for overnight comfort when properly monitored.

The Best Heating Strategy (When Camping)

Experienced campers rarely rely on just one heat source.

A safer, more balanced approach:

• Use electric heat on low or medium for comfort

• Set the propane furnace lower as a backup

• Let the furnace protect plumbing and tanks

• Reduce how often the furnace cycles on

This minimizes electrical stress, saves propane, and keeps temperatures more even.

Safety First (Always)

❌ Do NOT:

• Run ceramic heaters on high continuously for days

• Use extension cords or power strips

• Leave any heater running unattended

• Use open-flame propane heaters overnight

• Assume “it’s been fine before” means it’s safe

✅ Always:

• Plug heaters directly into wall outlets

• Feel outlets periodically—warm is a warning sign

• Use heaters with overheat shutoff

• Keep heaters clear of bedding, curtains, and walls

• Use working carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

Comfort is optional. Safety is not.

Cold Weather Storage: Best Practices (This Is Where It Really Matters)

If your camper is stored for winter, heating it is not the solution.

1. Do NOT leave heaters running in storage

Even electric heaters are not designed for weeks or months of unattended use. This is one of the biggest fire risks in stored campers.

2. Winterize instead of heating

• Drain water lines

• Use RV antifreeze where required

• Don’t rely on heat to prevent freezing

3. Moisture control is more important than warmth

Cold + moisture causes:

• Mold

• Mildew

• Soft surfaces

• Long-term interior damage

Helpful tools:

• DampRid or moisture absorbers

• Breathable camper covers

• Vent covers that allow airflow

• Periodic checks during winter months

4. Insulate smartly

• Vent cushions

• Window insulation

• Draft blockers

Keeping cold out is safer than trying to heat inside.

The Honest Truth

Ceramic heaters are convenient, not perfect.

Propane furnaces are reliable, not quiet.

Electric heat feels cozy—but carries real electrical limits.

There is no magic solution—only informed choices.

Used correctly, heaters can make cold-weather camping comfortable. Used incorrectly, they can become a serious risk.

Let’s Hear From You 🤔

Every camper owner does things a little differently—and that’s where the best advice comes from.

• What heater setup works for you?

• Any outlet or electrical lessons learned the hard way?

• Moisture-control tricks that actually work?

Drop your experience in the comments. Your advice could save someone else from a cold night—or a costly mistake.

At Red Run Storage, we believe good storage starts with good information—and a community that looks out for each other.

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Need Safe Outdoor Storage? We’ve Got You Covered

If you’re looking for a safe, secure place to park your camper, RV, boat, or trailer, come see us at Red Run Storage. Our facility offers well-maintained outdoor spaces with gated access and friendly, local service from people who care. 

Conveniently located near I-75 and I-696, our storage yard makes it easy to drop off or pick up your vehicle without hassle.  Whether you need space sesonally, or just extra room, we’re here to help. 

Call us at (586) 978-1692 or stop by during office hours to talk options or secure your spot today. 

Red Run Storage — Safe. Simple. Local. Since 1978.