We are fairly new to the caravan scene and wondered if we should have the heating on in our old caravan that is stored on our drive, especially as temps are so low at the min or are we just wasting electic. It is on a thermostatic timer so thats not an issue, any thoughts ?
Also which club to join caravan or camping and caravan club any difference ?
thanks
In my opinion it would be a waste of energy. If our van was stored on the drive I think I would put it on once every few weeks, but certainly wouldn't have it on all the time.
We only put it on the other day because of the really low temps and will turn off when back to normal , just wondered what everyone else does at this time of year if caravan is on your property.
all you need do is remove anything that will freeze and make a mess when defrosted, make sure all the pipes are drained and taps left open and you should be ok
lets face it we dont turn heaters on in our sheds and garages and parked cars when it gets cold
could be expensive having heating on all the time,but,to have a constant low heat (24/7)is good as the air does not get too moist.failing that if its really cold and you add heat to a cold caravan then you will get condensation forming.mine is on EHU 24/7 on a timer (4 hours a day)but this is to keep the battery fully charged and it does.been like that for years.we are in both clubs as it gives you more choice of sites to go too and you get your money back in the first week because non members pay up to £7.50 a night more.do not leave any liquids in the van as they can freeze making a mess after.drain down all waters on return from the site.
------------- the only silly question is the one you do not ask.
Wouldn't bother with heating generally, unless you intend to use it in the very near future, but it would be a good idea to check that all water has been drained off (and any bottles etc of liquids removed).
Re your other question, this has been discussed many times on these forums, these are just a few of the threads which a Search brings up!
Read through these and others and have a look at both club's websites and sites lists, and possibly visit one of their sites before making up your mind - you can usually (at least in the case of the Camping and Caravanning Club - not sure about the Caravan Club) join on arrival at a Club site.
Ours is on the drive and I normally leave the heating on over winter with the thermostat turned right down. It may be a waste of energy but it is very rare the thermostat actually switches on and without it on the windows, mirrors etc all steam up and everything generally feels unpleasant. With the heating on its lowest setting, it still feels cold, but at least there is no condensation anywhere.
If there is enough moisture in the air to steam up windows and mirrors then it can't be doing the timbers any good.
By the way, I prefer the caravan club but that doesn't necessarily mean it is the right one for you, it all depends what you want from the club.
Small oil heater permanently on low in ours, keeps the damp air away and we dont even see the cost. As its on the driveway it's hooked up constantly anyway. We once suffered warped doors after a severe cold snap and being left, new van also.
someone told us having the heating on caused more problems with condensation as it was constantly warming up then going cold again...ours is off and will only go on prior to us using the van ...
------------- Coming home back to a caravan
2013
Whit week Kelpie Manorbier
July/Aug Carpenters Farm Isle of Wight
Heating is not necassary.
Drain down all pipework and leave taps open
Either keep on EHU to ensure battery is charged or remove battery and store it at home. Low temperature will flatten a battery. Frost will kill a flat battery
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Heating
