Is a Coleman Catalytic Heater The Best Choice for Your RV?

Do you want to spend more time in your RV even during the winter nights? If so, you will have to consider a heater that will have enough battery power to keep you warm onboard.

So, if you are planning to travel in your RV during the cold months, consider getting a heater. Not only that it will keep you warm all throughout your journey, but it will also make you comfortable.

It’s time to search for a new source of heat to have a cozy night in your RV. You may want to consider purchasing a heater like the Coleman Catalytic Heater. But, how do you use this device? Is it safe to use? What makes it so great? To answer all of your questions, better keep reading.

Catalytic Heaters Misconceptions​

Some people claim that using catalytic heaters is such a dangerous task. Others say that when you utilize such device in a confined space, it may cause death. However, you must know that these are all fallacies.

You have to be aware that reasons of these tragic losses are due to carbon monoxide poisoning. So, if there is no open flame, a catalytic effect may burn cleaner. Thus, it reduces the deadly gasses and fumes.

​Also, these deaths are usually due to inadequate oxygen in an isolated space. Catalytic heaters use up oxygen to work. If you utilize them in smaller rooms, then the individuals in the area may asphyxiate because of lack of oxygen.

So, you have to realize that you have to provide more oxygen to get into space while using catalytic heaters, especially in your RV.

​Luckily, these days, a lot of these heaters come with little oxygen sensors. So, when the oxygen levels go down below the standard level, the propane flow shuts down.

Moreover, the device extinguishes itself. So, if you are planning to purchase a catalytic heater, you need to make sure that it has a low oxygen sensor. You have to ask the expert in the shop since some heaters do not have any form of protection.

​Two Types of Catalytic Heaters for RVs

If you want to consider getting an energy-preserving catalytic heater, there are two kinds that you may choose for your RV. Here are as follows:

A Portable Heater​

​The space heater may operate using a propane canister. Moreover, you can also utilize an extension hose. You may work it off a typical refillable tank. Plus, these portable heaters are convenient and simple to use in your RV.

A Permanently Mounted Heater

​You can plumb this catalytic heater directly in your propane system. You may opt for a device that gives off an excellent performance. Also, you need to make sure that it matches the square footage of your RV.

How Does a Catalytic Heater Work?​

A catalytic heater has a fuel source, a mesh containing a catalyst like platinum, and a metal grate. When the fuel goes through the tank via the mesh, it undertakes a chemical reaction. So, the heater produces heat. Then, the metal grate takes up the heat and passes it out to space. Often, a small fan assists the process.

These heaters have various power sources. The most typical are propane, alcohol, butane, and lighter fluid. When you set up the heater into your RV, you can just tap the source in your propane system. Catalytic heaters require air to work appropriately and safely.

The chemical response between the catalyst and the fuel needs enough oxygen to function. So, as you go camping in your RV with such heater, it is crucial to make sure that you have enough supply of oxygen.

​Why is a Catalytic Heater so Great for RVs?

Firstly, you have to remember that these heaters won’t require you to have any source of electricity to function. So, it gets rid of the largest consumption on your RV’s electric ability. Also, it enables you to save more volts for other things like your television and your computer.

And since there is no open fire involved in the process, catalytic heaters use up propane at a slower pace. So, it can lower down the number of times you have to head back to town to get more propane. Moreover, you should take note that it only uses a heat-generating catalytic reaction.

​Safety Tips While Using Catalytic Heaters

You can use this type of space heater safely. However, you still need to follow some safety precautions just like any other heaters out there. So, if you consider obtaining a catalytic heater in your RV camping, you need to follow these safety tips carefully:

• You should only use this device when the manufacturer indicated that it is for indoor purpose.
• Then, users can only utilize catalytic heaters having little oxygen. Also, it should have a shutdown protection for a more secure environment.
• If you purchased a movable type, you have to make sure that it has a tip protection. So, it will just turn off by itself when not in the right position.
• Also, you have to check out the manufacturer’s guidelines for usage every single time you use the heater.
• Make sure that there is enough ventilation system when you use the catalytic heater.
• If you are utilizing a hose and tank, you should place the take outdoors.
• Moreover, you should have a properly working detector for propane and carbon monoxide in your RV.
• When you are not using it, cover the heater from any dirt and dust. Otherwise, it will create more carbon monoxide.

​Conclusion

Catalytic heaters create heat through chemical reactions. However, it uses no flame. That’s why a lot of people are getting hooked with these heaters, especially during the fall and winter. But, though it is safe to use in your RV, you should remember that you should follow the proper usage of catalytic heaters. Moreover, you need to make sure that you are acquainted with the safety tips while using this device.

Remember, there is no room for carelessness. It applies to any products. But most especially when you are using a product that could either help you or kill you. Take note that taking any additional actions while using the device could lead to a great disaster.​