As a seasoned RV technician, I can tell you that a reliable furnace is the heart of a comfortable cold-weather camping experience. There’s nothing worse than waking up to a frigid cabin because your heating system failed overnight.
I’ll never forget a frantic call I got from a family camping in the mountains in late October. Their furnace had died, and the temperature was dropping fast. I was able to walk them through a simple fix over the phone (a loose wire on the sail switch), but it was a stark reminder of how critical a functioning furnace is.
I’ve spent countless hours installing, repairing, and replacing RV furnaces, and I’ve learned that not all heaters are created equal. The right furnace not only keeps you warm but also operates efficiently, quietly, and safely. This guide is a distillation of my two decades of hands-on experience, designed to help you select a furnace that will keep you cozy on even the frostiest of nights.
For those who need a quick recommendation, here are my top picks. These furnaces have proven their reliability and performance in real-world conditions.
Let’s get into the specifics of each of these heating systems. I’ve chosen them based on their performance, durability, and the feedback I’ve received from hundreds of satisfied RV owners.
1. Dometic Mojave Large LP/Natural Gas Furnace
Best for: RVers who need a powerful, dual-fuel furnace for all-season camping.
The Dometic Mojave is a true workhorse. What sets it apart is its ability to run on both LP and natural gas, offering flexibility depending on your campsite’s hookups.
This is a high-output furnace, capable of producing enough heat for larger motorhomes and fifth wheels, even in freezing temperatures. In my experience, the Mojave is exceptionally reliable, with a robust ignition system that rarely fails. It also features a relatively quiet blower motor compared to other furnaces in its class, which is a significant plus for light sleepers.
I installed one of these for a client who spends winters in their RV, and they were amazed at how much quieter it was than their old furnace. They told me they could finally sleep through the night without being woken up by the furnace kicking on and off.
The installation is straightforward for a qualified technician, and it's designed as a direct replacement for many factory-installed units. If you're looking for a powerful and versatile furnace that you can depend on, the Mojave is an outstanding choice.
One of the standout features of the Mojave is its dual-fuel capability. This is particularly useful if you're staying at a campground with natural gas hookups, as natural gas is typically cheaper than propane. The furnace automatically adjusts its operation based on the fuel source, so you don't have to worry about making any manual changes. The heat exchanger is also very efficient, extracting maximum heat from the fuel and distributing it evenly throughout your RV.
I've also been impressed by the build quality of the Mojave. Dometic has a long history of producing reliable RV appliances, and the Mojave is no exception. The components are well-made, and the furnace is designed to withstand the vibrations and stresses of life on the road. If you're a full-timer or someone who camps in cold weather frequently, the Mojave is an investment that will pay dividends in comfort and reliability.
Buy Dometic Mojave Large LP/Natural Gas Furnace
Best for: Large RVs and fifth wheels that require maximum heat output.
When it comes to raw heating power, the Suburban SFV-Q Series is a beast. This furnace is designed for the largest of RVs and delivers an impressive amount of BTUs to keep even the most spacious interiors warm.
The “Q” in the series name stands for “quiet,” and while it’s not silent, Suburban has done an excellent job of dampening the operational noise. The SFV-Q features a vent assembly that allows for installation in areas with limited depth, making it a versatile option for various RV layouts. I’ve installed dozens of these, and their durability is top-notch. They are built with heavy-gauge steel and feature a reliable electronic ignition system.
I had a customer with a large toy hauler who was constantly cold in the winter. We installed an SFV-Q, and he called me a week later to say he was finally comfortable, even when the temperature dropped into the single digits. For those who camp in extreme cold or have a large, poorly insulated RV, the SFV-Q series provides the peace of mind that comes with having an abundance of heating capacity.
The Suburban SFV-Q is also known for its longevity. I've seen these furnaces operate flawlessly for 15-20 years with nothing more than basic maintenance. The electronic ignition system is particularly reliable, eliminating the need for a standing pilot light and reducing propane consumption.
The blower motor is also quite powerful, ensuring that warm air is distributed quickly and evenly throughout your RV. One thing to keep in mind with the SFV-Q is that it does draw a fair amount of power when the blower is running. If you're boondocking, you'll want to make sure you have adequate battery capacity or a generator to support it. However, for the amount of heat it produces, the power consumption is reasonable.
If you have a large RV and need a furnace that can handle extreme cold, the SFV-Q is the gold standard.
Buy Suburban Furnace – SFV-Q Series
Best for: Small to mid-sized RVs that need an efficient and compact heating solution.
The Dometic DFMD30111 is a compact and highly efficient furnace that is perfect for smaller travel trailers, Class B motorhomes, and truck campers. Its small footprint allows for installation in tight spaces where larger furnaces simply won’t fit. Despite its size, it produces a surprising amount of heat and can easily keep a smaller RV comfortable.
One of its standout features is its low amp draw, which is a major advantage when boondocking or running on limited battery power. The DFMD30111 is also known for its quiet operation, making it one of the least intrusive furnaces on the market. I often recommend this model to clients who are looking to upgrade from an older, less efficient furnace in a smaller RV.
I installed one in a vintage camper restoration project, and the owner was thrilled with how little space it took up and how quiet it was. It's a fantastic combination of size, efficiency, and performance.
The DFMD30111 is also incredibly easy to install, even in tight spaces. The compact design means it can fit in locations where other furnaces simply won't, making it a great choice for retrofits and upgrades. The low amp draw is another major selling point. When you're boondocking, every amp counts, and the DFMD30111 sips power compared to larger furnaces. This means you can run it longer on battery power without worrying about draining your batteries.
The heat output is also surprisingly robust for such a small unit. It's rated at a lower BTU output than the larger furnaces, but for a small to mid-sized RV, it's more than adequate. I've had customers tell me they're amazed at how well it heats their space. The quiet operation is also a huge plus. You can have a conversation or watch TV without having to shout over the sound of the furnace.
Buy Dometic LP Gas Furnace Model DFMD30111
Best for: Off-grid campers who need a silent, non-electric heating source.
The Camco Olympian Wave-6 is a different kind of heater altogether. It’s a catalytic heater, which means it produces heat through a chemical reaction rather than combustion. The result is a completely silent, radiant heat that requires no electricity to operate. This makes it an ideal choice for boondockers and dry campers who need to conserve battery power.
The Wave-6 is also incredibly efficient, using a fraction of the propane that a traditional forced-air furnace consumes. However, it’s important to note that catalytic heaters require adequate ventilation, as they do consume oxygen. I always stress the importance of cracking a window or vent when using one.
I had a customer who used a Wave-6 as their primary heat source in a small teardrop trailer, and they loved the silent, even heat it provided. While it may not be the primary heat source for every RVer, the Olympian Wave-6 is an unbeatable secondary heater for silent, off-grid warmth.
The Wave-6 is also incredibly simple to operate. There are no electronics, no fans, and no complicated controls. You simply light it (it has a built-in piezo igniter), adjust the heat output, and let it do its job. The radiant heat is very comfortable, warming objects and people rather than just the air. This makes it feel warmer than a forced-air furnace at the same temperature.
The propane consumption is also remarkably low. A single 20-pound propane tank can last for days, even with continuous use. However, as I mentioned, ventilation is critical. Catalytic heaters consume oxygen, and without proper ventilation, they can create a dangerous situation. Always crack a window or roof vent when using a catalytic heater. I also recommend having a carbon monoxide detector as an added safety measure.
For boondockers and off-grid enthusiasts, the Wave-6 is an invaluable piece of equipment.
Buy Camco Olympian Wave-6 Catalytic Heater
Regular maintenance is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your RV furnace. Before each camping season, I recommend inspecting the furnace for any signs of insect nests or debris in the exhaust vents. These can cause a dangerous blockage.
It's also a good idea to have the furnace inspected by a qualified technician every couple of years. They can check the gas pressure, clean the burner assembly, and ensure all safety features are functioning correctly.
And most importantly, always have a working carbon monoxide detector in your RV. It's a small investment that can save your life.
I also recommend cleaning or replacing the furnace filter regularly. A dirty filter restricts airflow, reducing efficiency and potentially causing the furnace to overheat. Most RV furnaces have a simple screen filter that can be removed, cleaned with soap and water, and reinstalled. It's a five-minute job that can make a big difference in performance.
Additionally, check the furnace's exterior vents for obstructions. Leaves, snow, or even spider webs can block the vents and prevent proper operation. Finally, if you notice any unusual noises, smells, or performance issues, don't ignore them. Address them immediately or have a qualified technician diagnose the problem.
A small issue can quickly become a major (and expensive) repair if left unchecked. With proper care and attention, your RV furnace will provide you with years of reliable, comfortable heat.
Your RV furnace is more than just an appliance; it’s your key to comfortable and safe cold-weather adventures. Choosing the right furnace for your needs is a decision that will impact your camping experience for years to come.
Whether you need the raw power of the Suburban SFV-Q, the versatility of the Dometic Mojave, the compact efficiency of the Dometic DFMD30111, or the silent, off-grid warmth of the Camco Olympian Wave-6, there’s a perfect solution out there.
By investing in a quality furnace and keeping up with regular maintenance, you can ensure that your RV remains a cozy haven, no matter how low the temperature drops.
I’m Bill Rowell, the founder of RVupgrades.com. In 2002, I launched the business to help fellow RV enthusiasts find unique and hard-to-find products. Over the years, it’s grown to offer more than 15,000 items, with a warehouse in Eastlake, Ohio. Having owned and repaired nearly every type of RV, I bring over two decades of hands-on experience to the table. For me, this isn’t just a business – it’s a passion and a way of life that I love sharing with the RV community.
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