Community Forums

Shaemarie · 10-29-2018, 08:00 AM

I’m currently purchasing a 2003 National Tradewinds series M-395le RV. I went to look at it yesterday and everything checks out. I plan on living in the RV permanently and living in Indiana temperatures get very cold, the average temperature in the winter is about 20degrees F however it’s been known to be -20 here before. The rig has been garage kept so the previous owners didn’t really have to worry about this issue. I’m trying to figure out my options as to how I can heat the basement. I know propane is an option however it can get very pricey and didn’t know if there was anything more cost efficient. If you have been in my situation or maybe just have a suggestion I would really appreciate it!

tmw188 · 10-29-2018, 08:04 AM

What yr is this and what do you mean no basement htr?
I would have a moderator move this post to the National RV Forums for more insight perhaps.

sbleiweiss · 10-29-2018, 08:07 AM

Before buying this rig to winter in IN I'd want to know if it only lacked a basement heater, or if it lacked four season build generally. I'm worried that it also lacks good wall, floor and ceiling insulation, dual pane windows, etc.; the stuff that also comes with four season coaches. I would definataly want a four season coach to do what you are planning.

MSHappyCampers · 10-30-2018, 09:23 AM

Hi !

Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined the gang!

Congrats on the new rig! Living the south we don't really have to worry much about low temps. Noticed that you are kinda new on IRV2 and wanted to say hello! Have fun and keep her between the ditches!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

ThePowells · 10-31-2018, 12:44 AM

Here is a link to many discussions with information that should help out. I used the term "thermocube" as that is usually mentioned in heating a basement compartment, and their will also discussions not narrowly focused on the basement and you may be able to get some information about other winter camping issues and solutions.

https://www.google.com/search?q=%22t...=13&gws_rd=ssl

Glenn and Kathy · 11-01-2018, 01:08 PM

With 20 yrs experience around National RVs I would say that the Tradewinds has basement heating if you are using the propane furnace it came with. If you use alternate heating, electric heaters, you will need to install them in basement also. You may want to ask this in the National owners forum for more info from a Tradewinds owner.

Glenn

tmw188 · 11-01-2018, 03:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Glenn and Kathy

With 20 yrs experience around National RVs I would say that the Tradewinds has basement heating if you are using the propane furnace it came with. If you use alternate heating, electric heaters, you will need to install them in basement also. You may want to ask this in the National owners forum for more info from a Tradewinds owner.

Glenn

I would totally agree with Glenn. My Dolphin has one 4” flex run that goes to the basement area. They are just run into the unseen compartment area and left there.

Damion · 11-02-2018, 01:16 PM

My 2003 National Tradewinds on the Freightliner chassis has no duct into the basement. It has one duct that passes through to the bathroom. Thinking of putting a opening in that duck to put some heat in basement too much heat in bathroom anyhow!

tmw188 · 11-03-2018, 07:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Damion

My 2003 National Tradewinds on the Freightliner chassis has no duct into the basement. It has one duct that passes through to the bathroom. Thinking of putting a opening in that duck to put some heat in basement too much heat in bathroom anyhow!

You may not know it has a duct run into the basement but I bet it does. You can’t tell unless you expose the furnace plenum and see the flex run going thru the floor or open the plastic closers in your cargo bays probably just to the rear of the furnace.