Choosing the right RV electric heater with thermostat means balancing space, power source, safety, and control options. Below is a quick comparison of five relevant products selected for RV use, including wall-mounted units, portable heaters, and a dedicated RV thermostat compatible with Dometic systems.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater | Portable Ceramic Heater | Adjustable Thermostat, Two Heat Levels |
| FORZEEY RV Thermostat (Dometic Compatible) | Replacement Thermostat | Capacitive Touch, 12V DC Compatibility |
| Dreo Space Heater | Portable PTC Ceramic Heater | Precise Thermostat, Remote & Timer |
| Suburban Wall Mount RV Electric Heater | Wall-Mounted Electric Heater | Slim Profile, Variable Heat & Thermostat |
| Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI | Wi‑Fi Wall Mounted Infrared | Wi‑Fi Control, Digital Thermostat |
GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater
The GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater is a compact ceramic heater intended for small indoor spaces. It offers two heat levels (1500W and 750W) plus a cool air fan setting, making it usable year-round. The built-in thermostat can cycle the unit on and off based on a preset temperature range, helping maintain stable cabin temperatures without constant manual control.
Safety features include flame-retardant materials, automatic overheat shutoff, and tip-over protection that disables the unit if knocked over. The integrated carry handle and compact size make it convenient for repositioning inside an RV or taking to a small office.
For RV owners, this unit is suitable when 120V shore power or a generator is available; its compact footprint and thermostat control help target heat to occupied areas, reducing the need to heat the entire coach.
FORZEEY RV Thermostat Compatible With Dometic
The FORZEEY RV Thermostat is a direct replacement option for Dometic single-zone thermostats, offering 12V DC operation and capacitive touch control. It is designed to manage both cooling and heating modes for a single zone system, making it a good fit for RV HVAC installations that use compatible Dometic components.
Its capacitive touch interface provides a modern control surface compared with mechanical buttons. As a dedicated thermostat, it focuses on precise zone control and integrates into existing RV HVAC wiring and logic intended for single-zone systems.
When selecting a replacement thermostat for an RV, confirm compatibility with the original model number. This unit is purpose-built to match the Dometic 3316250.712 standard, which can simplify installation and restore thermostatic control without replacing the entire HVAC system.
Dreo Space Heater With Thermostat And Remote
The Dreo Space Heater uses a PTC ceramic element and an updated heat funnel design to accelerate warm-air delivery. It offers a digital display, 12‑hour timer, multiple modes, precise thermostat control with 1°F increments, and a remote for hands-off adjustments.
Safety is emphasized through tilt-detection, overheat protection, and use of flame-retardant materials. The tighter thermostat control can reduce energy use by avoiding extended run times at higher power when compared to less accurate thermostats.
For RV use, the Dreo unit works well in small to medium compartments where 120V power is available. The digital thermostat and timer are useful for overnight comfort while minimizing energy draw, and the remote adds convenience in tight interiors.
Suburban Wall Mount RV Electric Heater
The Suburban Wall Mount RV Electric Heater is designed specifically for recreational vehicles, featuring a slim profile of less than five inches for discreet placement. It provides variable heat settings and an adjustable thermostat for steady cabin temperatures.
As a fixed wall-mounted option, it eliminates the need to store a portable unit and frees floor space. The single-speed internal fan provides gentle air distribution, which can be preferable in an RV to avoid drafts and preserve heat in small spaces.
Considerations include electrical requirements and mounting location. Wall-mounted heaters offer a stable installation and integrated control but require planning for wiring and clearance inside the coach.
Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Infrared Heater
The Heat Storm HS-1500 is a wall-mounted infrared heater featuring Wi‑Fi connectivity and a digital touchscreen thermostat. Remote control via smartphone can allow pre-warming the interior when shore power or a generator is on, or adjusting settings from another room.
Infrared heating warms objects and occupants directly rather than relying solely on circulating warm air, which can be beneficial in drafty or partially insulated sections of an RV. The unit includes tip-over and touch controls and comes with a remote for local adjustments.
When integrating a Wi‑Fi wall heater into an RV, consider power availability, mounting space, and whether smartphone control is desired for convenience or energy management during trips.
Buying Guide: Choosing An RV Electric Heater With Thermostat
Selecting an RV electric heater with thermostat requires matching heater type, power source, control precision, installation needs, and safety features to your travel style and RV electrical system. Below are the main factors to compare.
1. Heater Type And Placement
Portable ceramic and PTC heaters are versatile for short-term spot heating. Wall-mounted heaters are better for long-term integration, conserving floor space and providing a fixed thermal source. Infrared units heat objects directly and can feel warmer at lower air temperatures.
2. Power Source And Electrical Compatibility
Confirm whether the heater requires 120V AC shore power or can operate on 12V DC. Most powerful electric heaters use 120V and higher wattage; thermostats for HVAC systems or built-in heaters may operate on 12V DC. Ensure the RV’s shore power, inverter, or generator can support the heater’s draw without overloading circuits.
3. Thermostat Precision And Control Options
Thermostat accuracy affects comfort and energy usage. Look for units with fine temperature increments and reliable sensors. Digital thermostats, touch interfaces, remote control, and Wi‑Fi connectivity provide convenience and scheduling. For fixed HVAC zones, choose a thermostat compatible with your system model number.
4. Heating Capacity Relative To Space
Estimate the cubic feet of the area to be heated. Portable 1500W units are adequate for small RV interiors or cabins but less effective in larger or open layouts. Wall-mounted or multiple smaller heaters can provide distributed heat more evenly.
5. Safety Features
Safety is essential in compact living spaces. Prioritize features like overheat protection, tip-over shutoff, flame-retardant materials, and certified safety listings. Fixed installations should also maintain clearances from combustibles and follow manufacturer mount instructions.
6. Noise Levels And Fan Operation
Some heaters use a fan to distribute heat, which can generate noise. If sleeping areas are close to the heater, look for low-noise fans or fanless infrared models to minimize disturbance.
7. Installation And Mounting Considerations
Wall-mounted units require planning for wiring, fastening, and clearance. Portable heaters need stable placement and access to appropriate outlets. Thermostat replacements (for HVAC) require matching wiring and compatibility with the existing furnace or air-conditioning control logic.
8. Energy Efficiency And Thermostat Cycling
A precise thermostat reduces runtime by cycling the heater to maintain temperature. Features like timers and programmable schedules help limit energy consumption. Consider units with power-saving modes or lower heat settings to extend battery or generator runtime.
9. Control Integration And Remote Management
Wi‑Fi or remote control helps preheat the RV before entry when shore power is available. For RVs with integrated HVAC, ensure the thermostat matches the system protocol. Smartphone control is convenient but verify secure network setup and reliable signal in your travel environment.
10. Compatibility And Replacement Parts
For dedicated HVAC thermostats, verify compatibility with brand and model numbers to avoid installation issues. When replacing water heater thermostats or elements, select kits designed for your water heater model to maintain safety and effective temperature regulation.
11. Durability And Maintenance
Look for corrosion-resistant materials and easy-to-clean grills. Regularly inspect wall-mounted units and portable heaters for dust accumulation and wear. For water heater-related thermostats and elements, follow manufacturer guidance to prevent scalding and extend component life.
12. Multiple Comparison Perspectives
- Short Trips Vs Full-Time RV Living: Portable heaters are flexible for short-term use; wall-mounted or integrated systems are better for full-time living due to permanence and distribution.
- Shore Power Availability: If you often dry camp, consider energy-efficient options or integrate a lower-wattage heating strategy to match inverter capacity.
- Comfort Vs Energy Use: Higher heat and continuous fan speeds increase comfort but also energy consumption. Choose thermostatic control and timers to balance these priorities.
- Ease Of Replacement: Thermostats designed to match OEM models simplify installation. Universal units may need wiring adaptation or professional installation.
Using this guide with the product overviews above should help you identify an RV electric heater with thermostat that meets your power, safety, and comfort needs while integrating appropriately with your RV’s electrical and living configuration.