Propane vs. Electric RV Appliances
RVs require various appliances to provide necessities like refrigeration, cooking, climate control, and hot water. RV appliances mainly run on either propane or electricity. Understanding the differences between propane and electric RV appliances can help you decide which option may work best for your needs.
Deciding whether to utilize propane or electric appliances is one of the most critical RV equipment decisions an owner must make. The power source choice impacts operating costs, functionality, reliability, and even where you can camp. As you determine the best appliance setup for your RV lifestyle, comparing the pros and cons of propane RV appliances vs electric allows informed decision-making when investing in equipment.
From generators to microwaves, refrigerators to A/C units, propane and electric units have key differences in how they operate. Gaining perspective into those distinctions helps uncover what option your appliances may fare best under if contemplating a switch. By doing diligent research, you can set your RV and appliances up for success as you map out your off-grid adventures or full-time journey ahead.
Propane RV Appliances
Propane appliances in RVs utilize liquefied petroleum gas stored in pressurized tanks to power various appliances. Some common propane-powered RV appliances include –
Refrigerators
Propane RV refrigerators utilize an ammonia absorption cooling system without requiring compressors. This allows them to operate without electricity.
Stoves/Ovens
Most RV stoves and ovens have propane burners to fuel the flames for cooking. This allows for cooking without requiring any electrical hookup.
Furnaces
Small and lightweight propane furnaces quickly warm up RVs using propane flames and a blower fan to circulate air.
Water Heaters
Storage tank propane water heaters can supply heated water on demand without electricity.
Benefits of Propane Appliances
Propane RV appliances provide certain advantages –
Fully Self-Sufficient – Propane appliances allow you to use appliances off-grid without hooking up to external electricity.
Compact Size – Propane appliances are typically more lightweight and space-saving to maximize limited RV room.
Lower Upfront Cost – Propane appliances tend to have a lower initial purchase expense over electric models.
Powerful Heating – The combustion from propane allows heating appliances to raise temperatures quickly even in cold weather.
Challenges With Propane Appliances
Some downsides to using propane RV appliances include –
Propane Refill Costs – Buying propane tanks can get expensive over time and may not always be readily available.
Limited Supply – You can only carry a fixed amount of propane based on tank capacity before needing a refill.
Proper Ventilation – Combustion appliances require venting outside for safety purposes due to carbon monoxide output.
Electric RV Appliances
Electric RV appliances run on electricity provided by an external hookup or generator. Some examples of electric-powered RV appliances include –
Microwaves
Microwaves use electricity for their high-frequency electromagnetic waves to quickly heat foods.
Air Conditioners
Electricity allows A/C units to cool air using a refrigeration cycle and distribute it through ductwork.
Space Heaters
Small electric space heaters with blowers use electricity to warm living areas efficiently.
Electric Ignition Systems
Many newer RV furnaces, water heaters, and stoves ignite using electricity instead of a standalone igniter.
Benefits of Electric Appliances
Electric RV appliances also have some advantages –
Unlimited Power – With a generator or electric hookup, you can run appliances indefinitely without propane refill worries.
Environmentally Clean – Electric appliances don’t combust fuel for operation, making them better for emissions and air quality when powered renewably.
Precise Controls – Electric appliances allow more precision in settings like exact oven temps or A/C adjustments.
Challenges With Electric Appliances
However, some downsides to electric RV appliances include –
External Power Requirements – You must have either an electric/water hookup or fuel for a generator to run them.
Limited Supply – Generator or hookup capacity can restrict the ability to run multiple high-wattage appliances.
Higher Upfront Cost – Electric RV appliances have a higher initial purchase price than propane models.
Source: campingworld
Comparing Propane and Electric RV Appliances
When deciding between propane and electricity it’s helpful to directly compare factors like convenience, operating costs, environmental impact, and safety considerations.
Convenience and Flexibility
Propane often provides more convenience for quick trips or remote camping while electricity suits extended stays with hookup access. Blending both systems offers maximum flexibility.
Operating Cost Comparison
Electric costs are dependent on electricity rates and how often you run generator fuel. Propane costs fluctuate based on tank refill frequency and gas prices. Maintenance is also required for both systems.
Safety Considerations
Proper ventilation, propane leak checks, and adherence to safety guidelines apply to propane RVs. Meanwhile, electric models need sufficient generator or hookup capacity plus GFCI protections.
Environmental Impact
Electric RVs using renewably sourced electricity have the lowest environmental footprint over propane exhaust emissions or fossil fuel-powered generators.
Key Differences Between Propane and Electric RV Appliances
Outlining the major distinctions in a table makes the contrasts between the two fuel sources clear.
| Parameter | Propane | Electric |
| Power Source | Liquefied petroleum gas | Electric hookup or generator |
| Upfront Cost | Lower purchase expense | Higher initial cost |
| Operating Cost | Refilling propane over time | Electricity rates/generator fuel |
| Functionality Without Hookups | Fully off-grid capable | Requires hookup or generator |
| Output Intensity | More high-heat output | Lower/more precise heat options |
| Ignition System | Manual buttons or electronic pilot | Many have electric ignition or control boards |
| Environmental Impact | Direct exhaust emissions | Dependent on the electricity source type |
| Safety Requirements | Adequate ventilation for combustion appliances | Sufficient generator/hookup capacity and GFCIs |
When Should You Use Propane or Electric RV Appliances?
Determining the ideal scenarios to employ propane or electric appliances ensures using the right fuel source for the situation.
Propane Appliances Help When –
a) Boondocking or camping off-grid without hookups
b) Quickly heating water or living spaces in colder weather
c) Starting up instantly without requiring sufficient charge/gas supply
d) Cooking with a more powerful concentrated flame
e) Ventilation accommodations are possible
Propane works best for heating appliances like furnaces, water heaters, and stoves/ovens.
Electric Appliances Help When –
a) Hooked up to campground electricity or running a generator
b) Precise temperature or setting adjustments are needed
c) Quieter operation is preferable inside the RV
d) Environmentally friendly power sources available
e) Running multiple higher-wattage appliances simultaneously
Electric powers convenient appliances like A/C, microwaves, and electric cooking appliances.
Which One Is the Most Cost-Effective and Reliable RV Appliance Power Solution?
Typically, having both propane and electric appliance capabilities offers the greatest reliability and cost-effectiveness. Propane allows off-grid flexibility while electric enables conveniences with hookups. Splitting appliance duties also avoids maxing out either system capacity.
Many RVs come equipped this way from the factory. For custom RV builds, plan appliances accordingly based on your typical travel destinations and cooking needs. Factor in upfront purchase expenses, operating costs over time, and recycling propane tanks or using renewable electricity where possible to maximize efficiency.
Should You Go All-Electric or All-Propane?
RV appliances powered entirely by either propane or electricity have limitations compared to a dual setup. An all-electric RV without a generator lacks off-grid functionality. Meanwhile, an all-propane RV relinquishes certain conveniences like A/C and struggles with heating for extended cold weather stays.
For most RVers, blending both systems allows the flexibility to camp with or without hookups. Just ensure your RV purchase or remodel accommodates adequate tank capacity and electrical wiring/outlets to cover all onboard appliances. Factor in your camping style and any climate or cooktop preferences when deciding between systems.
Conclusion
In summary, propane often provides the most convenience for quick weekend trips and off-grid camping while electricity better suits long-term stays with hookup access. The best approach typically combines both propane and electric appliances in your RV. Carefully weigh your intended travel destinations, typical lengths of stay, cooking preferences, and climate needs when deciding whether to prioritize propane or electric RV appliances during purchases or remodels. taking a blended approach allows RVers the greatest flexibility in more situations.
