Finding the right RV space heater means balancing power, safety, ventilation, and portability. Below is a compact comparison of five widely available heaters suitable for RV use, followed by focused product overviews and a detailed buying guide to help choose a heater that matches your RV layout and fuel preferences.
| Product | Type | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater | Electric Ceramic | Compact, thermostat, two heat levels |
| Dreo Space Heater (1500W PTC) | Electric Ceramic | Fast PTC heating, precise digital thermostat |
| Mr. Heater MH9BXRV Buddy | Propane Radiant | Designed for RVs, radiant heat, indoor-safe |
| BLACK+DECKER Portable Space Heater | Electric Ceramic | Lightweight, carry handle, heater + fan |
| JNDRO Portable Electric Space Heater | Electric Ceramic | Portable, dual power levels, tip-over protection |
GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater
This compact ceramic heater offers 1500W and 750W heat settings plus a cool fan function. It has an adjustable thermostat (0°F to 158°F) that cycles the unit on and off to maintain set temperature. The unit is made of flame-retardant materials with automatic overheat shutoff and tip-over protection.
For RV use, the GiveBest is attractive because of its small footprint and carry handle, making it easy to place on a countertop or shelf. It’s best suited to short bursts of localized warmth (near bunks or seating areas) rather than whole-RV heating. As an electric heater, it requires available shore power or inverter capacity able to handle up to 1500W.
Dreo Space Heater With Digital Thermostat
Dreo’s 1500W PTC heater uses a refined thermal design and a digital thermostat with 1°F increments for precise temperature control. The PTC element and funnel design aim to deliver heat quickly and push warm air farther than basic units. Safety features include ETL certification, V0 flame-retardant materials, overheat protection, and enhanced tip-over sensing.
In an RV context, the Dreo model suits users who want efficient, quiet, and controllable electric heating. The NTC chipset and remote/controls reduce thermostat swings and help conserve power when paired with an inverter. Ensure your RV electrical system can sustain continuous 1500W draws before extended use.
Mr. Heater MH9BXRV Buddy Radiant Heater
The MH9BXRV Buddy is a propane radiant heater designed for RV use. Rated at 4,000–9,000 BTU, it warms up to about 225 square feet depending on conditions. It’s nearly 100% efficient in converting propane to heat, is approved for indoor/outdoor use, and includes auto shut-off features for tip-over, pilot outage, and low oxygen detection.
This model is specifically branded for RVs and includes safety provisions suited to enclosed spaces when properly ventilated. Users must follow manufacturer guidance on ventilation and monitor CO detectors. As a gas-powered option, it bypasses electrical load constraints but requires safe propane storage and adherence to RV manufacturer recommendations.
BLACK+DECKER Portable Space Heater
BLACK+DECKER’s compact heater provides 1500W and 750W settings plus a fan mode. It’s lightweight with a built-in carry handle and a 6-foot power cord for flexible placement. The unit is designed as a portable personal heater for desks, small rooms, and compact spaces like RV shelves.
Because of its small size and portability, this heater works well as a supplemental heat source in RV living areas where shore power or an adequate inverter is available. The simple thermostat and robust build make it a practical option for short heating cycles, with the same caveat about 1500W electrical draw.
JNDRO Portable Electric Space Heater
The JNDRO mini heater offers 1500W and 750W modes with a cooling fan. It includes flame-resistant ABS construction, overheat protection, and tip-over protection that restarts when uprighted. It’s marketed to heat up to 200 square feet and is extremely portable with a built-in handle.
In RV applications, the JNDRO unit provides straightforward, compact electric heat for targeted warming of sleeping or seating areas. Like other 1500W electric models, confirm your RV’s electrical and inverter limits. The unit’s safety features align with common RV concerns for compact living spaces.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right RV Space Heater
Selecting an RV heater requires understanding power sources, safety needs, and heating goals. Below are key factors and comparative perspectives to guide a suitable choice.
Power Source: Propane vs Electric
- Propane (Radiant) Heaters: Models like the Mr. Heater Buddy provide strong heat without straining electrical systems. They are effective for larger or off-grid heating but require proper ventilation, CO monitoring, and adherence to propane storage rules.
- Electric Heaters: Ceramic PTC and fan heaters are clean and simple to operate on shore power or inverter/coach battery systems. They are typically quieter and have precise thermostats but can draw significant current (often 1500W).
Safety Features To Prioritize
- Tip-Over Protection: Prevents operation if the unit falls—essential in moving or compact RV interiors.
- Overheat Shutoff: Shuts the heater down if internal temperatures get unsafe.
- Carbon Monoxide/Combustion Safety: For propane heaters, use a CO detector and ensure ventilation. Confirm any indoor-approved heater is certified for enclosed spaces.
- Certified Materials and Listings: Look for ETL/UL listings and flame-retardant materials (V0 rating) for electric heaters.
Electrical Capacity And Inverter Considerations
- Check your RV’s shore power amperage (15A, 30A, 50A). A 1500W heater typically draws ~12.5A on 120V—acceptable on a 15A circuit if no other high-draw devices are in use.
- If running from an inverter, ensure the inverter and battery bank can handle continuous 1500W loads without excessive battery depletion.
Heat Type And Coverage
- Radiant Heat: Feels immediate and warms objects and persons directly. Good for focused areas and high ceilings where warm air rises.
- Convection/Forced Air: Heats air and circulates it; effective for broader distribution but may require longer run times to reach set temperature.
- Match BTU/Watt rating to the space. A small RV camper may only need localized heating; larger fifth-wheels may require a combination of systems.
Placement, Portability, And Mounting
- Portable units allow repositioning but require secure placement when traveling.
- Propane RV-specific units often include brackets or recommended placement to minimize tipping and ensure ventilation.
- Consider low-profile electric heaters for under-bunk or shelf locations; ensure airflow is not obstructed.
Noise, Control, And Comfort Features
- Noise Level: Ceramic PTC heaters and fan designs differ in noise output. Bedrooms benefit from quieter models (look for low dB ratings).
- Thermostat Precision: Digital thermostats with small increments reduce cycling and energy use.
- Timers, Remote, Oscillation: Useful for convenience and focusing heat where occupants need it most.
Maintenance And Longevity
- Keep intake/grille free of dust and debris. Periodic cleaning extends life and maintains safety.
- Propane heaters need occasional inspection of fittings and pilot assemblies; follow manufacturer maintenance instructions.
Comparison Perspectives
- Best Off-Grid/No-Grid Heating: Propane radiant heaters like the Mr. Heater Buddy avoid electric limits but require strict CO and ventilation management.
- Best For Hookup Use: Electric ceramic heaters (Dreo, BLACK+DECKER, GiveBest, JNDRO) work well when shore power or a capable inverter is available and are quieter and simpler to operate.
- Best For Precision Comfort: Digital thermostats with fine increments (Dreo) maintain steady temperatures and reduce wasted energy.
- Best For Portability: Small, lightweight models with handles (BLACK+DECKER, GiveBest, JNDRO) are easy to move and store in tight RV spaces.
When selecting an RV space heater, align the heater type with your typical camping conditions (hooked-up vs boondocking), prioritize certified safety features, and verify your RV’s power capabilities or ventilation plans before regular use.