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Old 11-11-2011, 08:45 PM   #1
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low amp 12v heater

I searched "12v heater" in this forum to look at other topics and see what others have done. I didn't really find a definitive answer on what people are using for a removable 12v heater for chilly nights. I saw that some were using heated blankets, which is cool, but only helps when in bed. I am heading out for a Christmas trip and don't want to freeze. This has moved to the top of the list in my DIY quigrig. Any ideas/advice is much appreciated. I was thinking removable due to summertime where I don't need a heater and can use the space a furnace would occupy to store other things. Thanks again for all the help.
Cheers,
C

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Old 11-11-2011, 09:04 PM   #2
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low amp 12v heater

Check out mr. Buddy heaters
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Old 11-11-2011, 09:05 PM   #3
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Re: low amp 12v heater

There's really no such thing as a low amp electric heater. Have you considered picking up a propane Mr Heater?

http://golightweight.com/2010/01/heart- ... solutions/
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Old 11-11-2011, 09:25 PM   #4
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Re: low amp 12v heater

Yeah, I looked into Mr. Buddy, but in closed spaces they are a little dangerous, even with the low oxygen sensor. If I did go with a nice small furnace, what's the common choice in this regard?
Thanks for all the help.
C.
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Old 11-12-2011, 10:35 AM   #5
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Re: low amp 12v heater

A low amp 12V heater is called an electric blanket. They all seem to be 58"x42" and draw 5-7 amps. Do a web search and you will find several for $25-40.

There is no way to generate enough heat from an electric space heater powered by a battery. Well, not for very long anyway.

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Old 11-12-2011, 10:49 AM   #6
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Re: low amp 12v heater

I use 12V mattress warmers, which are similar to electric blankets, but they go underneath the mattress. 6.2A max current draw, with an estimated 50% duty cycle. They also have a thermostat control (simple 1-7 numbers, not temperatures). Designed for the trucking industry.

Not sure they're made anymore, but I've been able to find a few of them brand new on eBay.
http://electrowarmth.com/12vbunkwarmermattresspad.php


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Old 11-13-2011, 10:17 PM   #7
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Re: low amp 12v heater

Pretty much agree with everyone. A low amp 12v heater is a hen's tooth by definition.

Here's what you need:

http://www.coleman.com/coleman/colemanc ... sCjjz1FudA

Not trying to be pithy, but our Coleman big game sleeping bags are one of our best, if not the best purchases we've equipped the SMB with. We paid $50-ish on the costco web site, probably not going to see that again but these are fantastic. I'm 6'5" and I have tons of room plus they can be zipped together. We have 2 for below and 2 for the penthouse.
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Old 11-14-2011, 07:15 AM   #8
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Re: low amp 12v heater

if you are really determined to get an electric solution, you could get a motorcycle electric vest or jacket to wear while in the van. I think mine, which is for sale since I don't have the bike anymore, draws 75 watts at 12 volts. Their vest draws 45 or so I believe. They don't draw much as they have focused heat and a limited amount of wire since they are so close to the body. Although I would just get a small propane heater myself and make sure to get a proper propane tank rather than the little disposable green ones.
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Old 04-04-2012, 08:49 PM   #9
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Re: low amp 12v heater

I sucked it up and installed on-board propane, furnace, and cooktop stove. SOOO glad I did, we slept in -8 degree weather and it was 71 degrees in the van all night, with only .3 loss in battery, and a small amount of propane use.
Thanks for the solutions and willingness to provide info.
C.
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Old 04-06-2012, 04:20 PM   #10
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Re: low amp 12v heater

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