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I'm think I am going to use this for rear heat: http://www.boatandrvaccessories.com/j026.html
The pluses:
>I will be able to run it off either the engine (alternator) when running or my auxiliary batteries when not.
>I don't have to install it permanently, I can move it around.
>No serious alterations needed and the cost isn't too bad (~$200)
The minuses: Big 50 amp draw (600 watts). Glad I got the 220 alternator.
>Of course I won't be able to run it for too long off the aux. batts. (160 amp hours total) with that kind of draw but long enough to take the chill out of the air when I wake up in the morning when camping.
>It won't put out near the heat of a cooling system based heater. But, as I mentioned, I will be able to run it off the aux. batts. when the engine's not running.
I should mention that I plan to insulate the van well so it will actually hold the heat for a while and probably warm up faster too. I'm also going to install a thick thermal curtain between the cab and rear to help hold the heat in the rear when camping and in the cab when driving in cold weather.
Any thoughts/comments?
The pluses:
>I will be able to run it off either the engine (alternator) when running or my auxiliary batteries when not.
>I don't have to install it permanently, I can move it around.
>No serious alterations needed and the cost isn't too bad (~$200)
The minuses: Big 50 amp draw (600 watts). Glad I got the 220 alternator.

>Of course I won't be able to run it for too long off the aux. batts. (160 amp hours total) with that kind of draw but long enough to take the chill out of the air when I wake up in the morning when camping.

>It won't put out near the heat of a cooling system based heater. But, as I mentioned, I will be able to run it off the aux. batts. when the engine's not running.
I should mention that I plan to insulate the van well so it will actually hold the heat for a while and probably warm up faster too. I'm also going to install a thick thermal curtain between the cab and rear to help hold the heat in the rear when camping and in the cab when driving in cold weather.
Any thoughts/comments?