As the winter starts to draw in, for those static caravan owners that have it in use over the colder period, our minds turn to cost-effective and efficient ways to keep the place warm and cosy for both you and the caravan.
Older static caravans are generally thin-walled, poorly insulated with single-glazed windows and so if you own one that isn’t of the Residential Specification (BS 3632) or double glazed, then you’re likely to feel that cold, breezy draft once in a while.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of top tips on keeping you warm this winter:
1. Get a Portable Heater
It may be an obvious choice but can do wonders if you get the right one. By popping it into the bedroom an hour or so before you settle down can make the rush from the bathroom to the bedroom all the more bearable.
Electric heaters can be expensive to run, but having it on for an hour or so before bedtime doesn’t have to rack up the pennies, and there are better and more economical ones on the market now.
2. Underfloor Heating
Not as easy as the previous tip, but putting underfloor heating can make a big difference, especially when the warm air gravitates to cold floors. With caravans having much less insulation than a normal house, keeping the big surface area you walk ok warm will make a big difference.
And with underfloor heating, you can set a timer to turn it on and off at the coldest parts of the day.
3. Curtain Management
By opening the curtains on the occasional days that it’s nice and sunny outside, especially with the large windows, you get the benefit of the heat radiating into the caravan. Then when the sun goes down in the evening, keeping them closed to keep the draughts at bay.
It may seem obvious, but it can keep the caravan warmer for much longer on the nicer winter days.
4. Electric Blanket
I remember my grandma using these many years ago, but they can work fantastically well, especially if it’s just when you’re tucked up in bed that you feel the cold.
If you’ve never had one, they simply plug into an electrical socket and using a series of wires embedded within it heat the surrounding blankets and bed – giving a toasty bed to climb into (something you won’t get with a room radiator).
Also, these days they don’t just come in blanket form and they can be and under-blanket, over-blanket, heated mattress cover, or even just a heated throw.
5. Thermal Clothing
Winter thermals can make a big difference when you’re out for a brisk walk in the crispy, winter air, but they can also make a big difference when you’re inside the caravan too.
With moisture-wicking fabric, you can keep warm and dry both inside and out. And by layering your clothes with things like fleeces, you can build up your body temperature easily.
6. A Hot Shower
If the chill starts to get to you, running a hot shower and lingering in there for a while will increase your body temperature. As will a long, luxurious soak in a bath, especially before bedtime when it will help get you in the sleepy mood.
7. Extra Caravan Insulation
If you’re going to be spending more time in your caravan over winter, investing in additional insulation for the caravan structure itself can really make a difference. External cladding insulation, better and more energy-efficient windows, and even caravan skirting can make it warmer.
Internally, you can add door draft excluders (they don’t just come in the floor snake type these days!), and more rugs and carpets to keep the floor warmer and more insulated underfoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to heat a static caravan?
The cost of heating a static caravan in the UK can vary greatly depending on factors such as the type of heating system, insulation, energy efficiency, and the size of the caravan. It’s also influenced by the prevailing energy prices, which can fluctuate and have done considerably recently.
On average, the cost of heating a static caravan in the UK ranges from £100 to £500 per winter season. This is a rough estimate, and your actual cost may be higher or lower depending on your specific situation and usage.
How can I improve my static caravan’s heating system?
Consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient heating system like a central heating system, a gas or electric fireplace, or an energy-efficient portable heater. Regularly maintain your heating system to ensure optimal performance.
In Summary
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or this is the first winter in your static caravan, it can be difficult to get the right setup to keep you warm in the darker months, even if you’re not using it throughout the winter.
Hopefully, you’ve picked up a couple of tips and suggestions to enjoy the breathtaking location your static is sited in during the colder spells, and make the most of the sun when it returns!