IdleAire

[ChiefJohn]

I've been aware of the IdleAire connections at many truck stops but had never used one until our last trip. For HDT RV'ers the IdleAire offers a bundle of amenities for a relatively low cost. Individually controlled A/C or heat; unlimited internet (wireless or ethernet); unlimited email; satellite TV channels; movies on demand; telephone connection; electrical outlets inside and outside the cab for appliances, entertainment devices, block/fuel heaters, etc.; and, reservation service. We called ahead to a TA Travel Center and reserved a parking place n the "Quiet Zone" where idling, refrigeration units, and generators are not permitted. One-time cost of $5 for the passenger window adapter and $5 for 6 mos. for a Gold Card membership. The per-hour charge was approximately $1.80 -- not unreasonable for all the goodies in the package. The window pod is connected by a large yellow tube to an overhead rail and once attached in the passenger window opening is not that intrusive into the cab.

Connected our in-cab TV to the IdleAire pod for power and reception and enjoyed great quality TV in the comfort of our air conditioned nest. Easier and cheaper than a campground for the night and (IMO) safer than a Wal-Mart or Rest Area.



John

[ChiefJohn]

I've been aware of the IdleAire connections at many truck stops but had never used one until our last trip. For HDT RV'ers the IdleAire offers a bundle of amenities for a relatively low cost. Individually controlled A/C or heat; unlimited internet (wireless or ethernet); unlimited email; satellite TV channels; movies on demand; telephone connection; electrical outlets inside and outside the cab for appliances, entertainment devices, block/fuel heaters, etc.; and, reservation service. We called ahead to a TA Travel Center and reserved a parking place n the "Quiet Zone" where idling, refrigeration units, and generators are not permitted. One-time cost of $5 for the passenger window adapter and $5 for 6 mos. for a Gold Card membership. The per-hour charge was approximately $1.80 -- not unreasonable for all the goodies in the package. The window pod is connected by a large yellow tube to an overhead rail and once attached in the passenger window opening is not that intrusive into the cab.

Connected our in-cab TV to the IdleAire pod for power and reception and enjoyed great quality TV in the comfort of our air conditioned nest. Easier and cheaper than a campground for the night and (IMO) safer than a Wal-Mart or Rest Area.



John

[Joe-K]

I've seen IdleAire systems showing up at more and more truck stops. From an economical standpoint, using the system at $ 1.80 hour is cheaper than lettng the engine idle when fuel is nearly $3.00 a gallon and obviously there is the maintenance and noise issues as well that are eliminated by not running the main engine.

[depchief]

Very interesting concept. I have never seen the installation, but have heard the advertisments on the truckers sat radio channel. Cost seems to be in line for what is offered.

Do you see any way the unit can be adapted to fit a MH or TT?

[ChiefJohn]

I believe the conversion would be fairly easy. Purchase one of the generic templates (these are trimmed to fit your specific model of truck) and adapt it to your window opening. I would also contact the IdleAire folks and ask them if other adapters are available.