In the video “B Box Performance in a Deep Winter Freeze,” Mike from Advanced RV takes advantage of a freezing winter night in Cleveland to test the performance of the B Box prototype. With temperatures dropping below zero, Mike brings B Box 1 into the snowy outdoors and spends the night inside. The video shows the successful test results, with the chassis handling the snowy terrain well and the tank and battery temperature sensors indicating that no critical systems fell below 60°F. Advanced RV is excited to share upcoming completed projects and appreciates the support of viewers.
In the video, Mike explains that the B Box is designed for four-season comfort, with highly insulated walls and dual pane windows to eliminate conduction. It features hydraulically heated floors and auxiliary forced air heat to keep the interior warm in extreme cold. The tanks are also hydraulically heated and insulated, ensuring that all plumbing systems remain functional. Mike emphasizes the successful performance of the B Box in subzero temperatures, with no compromising of comfort or functionality. The video showcases the beauty of a crisp winter morning and expresses gratitude to the viewers for their interest and support.
Insulation and Heating Systems
Insulation and heating systems are crucial components of any camper or van, especially when it comes to preparing for extreme weather conditions. The objective of a four-season insulation system is to provide a comfortable and cozy environment inside the vehicle regardless of the outside temperature. This requires a combination of insulation materials, heating devices, and efficient circulation systems to ensure proper heat distribution throughout the space.
Four season insulation objective
The primary goal of a four-season insulation objective is to create a barrier that minimizes the exchange of heat between the interior and exterior of the camper. This is achieved by utilizing high-quality insulation materials with a high insulation value, such as R13 insulation. This level of insulation ensures that the cold air outside stays out, while the warm air generated by the heating systems stays in, providing a comfortable living environment even in freezing temperatures.
Hydraulic floor heating
One of the most effective heating systems for a camper is hydraulic floor heating. This system involves running a network of pipes beneath the camper’s flooring, through which warm water is circulated. This radiant hydronic heat provides gentle and even heating, eliminating cold spots and maximizing comfort. With hydraulic floor heating, you can enjoy walking barefoot even in the coldest of winters without feeling the chill that usually comes with it.
Auxiliary forced air heat
In addition to hydraulic floor heating, auxiliary forced air heat can be used to supplement the warmth provided by the floor heating system. This involves the use of a forced air heating unit that blows warm air into the living space. By combining both hydraulic floor heating and auxiliary forced air heat, you can achieve optimal heating efficiency, ensuring that every corner of the camper is kept cozy and inviting.
Hydronically heated tanks
Keeping the tanks in your camper from freezing is essential, especially during cold winter months. Hydronically heated tanks provide a reliable solution to this issue. Heating coils are strategically placed within the tanks, and warm water from the hydraulic floor heating system is circulated through them. This constant supply of heat prevents the tanks from freezing, ensuring that you have access to water, even when the temperatures drop significantly.
Thermostatically controlled plumbing
To further enhance the efficiency and convenience of your camper’s heating system, it is advisable to incorporate thermostatically controlled plumbing. This allows you to set and maintain a specific temperature for both hot and cold water. By using temperature sensors and regulating valves, you can ensure that your hot water supply remains at a comfortable temperature, regardless of any fluctuations in the ambient temperature outside.
Testing in Extreme Winter Temperatures
As part of the development process, it is important to thoroughly test insulation and heating systems in extreme winter temperatures. This allows for any potential issues or shortcomings to be identified and resolved before the camper is put into use in such conditions.
Opportunity to test in freezing temperatures
Testing in freezing temperatures provides a unique opportunity to evaluate the insulation and heating systems’ performance under the most challenging conditions. By subjecting the camper to extremely cold temperatures, you can assess how well it maintains a comfortable temperature inside and identify any areas of heat loss or inefficiencies that need to be addressed.
Sleeping overnight in -2°F weather
To simulate real-life usage scenarios, it is essential to conduct tests that involve spending a night in the camper in extreme winter temperatures. By sleeping overnight in -2°F weather, you can assess the camper’s ability to provide a warm and comfortable sleeping environment. This test also allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of the heating systems in maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the night.
Temperature sensors for critical systems
To ensure accurate monitoring of the camper’s internal temperature, temperature sensors can be installed in key areas. These sensors provide real-time data on the temperature distribution throughout the camper, allowing for any potential issues to be detected and addressed promptly. By closely monitoring the temperature, you can optimize the heating systems’ performance and ensure that the interior remains cozy and comfortable, even in the most extreme winter conditions.
Debriefing the test and overviewing the systems
Once the testing phase is complete, it is important to debrief and analyze the results. This involves reviewing the performance of the insulation and heating systems during the testing period and identifying any areas that require improvement or modification. By conducting a comprehensive overview of the systems, you can refine and enhance their functionality, ensuring that the camper is fully equipped to handle extreme winter temperatures.
The B Box Design
The B Box camper design is specifically engineered to excel in insulation and heating performance. With its innovative features and careful consideration of insulation values, it offers a comfortable and cozy living space all year round.
High insulation (R13)
One of the standout features of the B Box camper design is its high insulation value. With an insulation level of R13, it provides an effective barrier against heat transfer, minimizing heat loss and outside temperature influences. This high insulation value ensures that the interior remains warm and comfortable, regardless of the weather conditions.
Dual pane windows for no through conduction
To further enhance insulation, the B Box design incorporates dual pane windows. These windows have two layers of glass with an insulating gap in between. This construction prevents through conduction, where heat is lost or gained through the windowpane due to the temperature difference on both sides. The dual pane windows effectively create a barrier that reduces heat transfer, contributing to the overall insulation performance of the camper.
No steel or aluminum frame in doors or windows
Steel and aluminum frames in doors and windows can act as heat conductors, contributing to heat loss. In the B Box design, these materials are intentionally eliminated from the construction of doors and windows. By using alternative materials that are not conductive, such as fiberglass or composite materials, the camper’s insulation is further improved, ensuring that heat stays inside the vehicle instead of escaping through the frames.
Radiant hydronic heat for comfort
To provide exceptional comfort, the B Box design incorporates radiant hydronic heat. This system, which involves circulating warm water through a network of pipes beneath the camper’s flooring, ensures even and consistent heating. Not only does it eliminate cold spots, but it also provides a gentle and cozy warmth that makes your camping experience truly enjoyable, regardless of the external temperature.
Advantages in Snowy Conditions
Snowy conditions can present unique challenges, but the B Box camper design is equipped to handle them with ease. Here are some of the advantages it offers in snowy conditions.
Chassis navigation in snowy paths
With its rugged chassis, the B Box camper is designed to navigate through snowy paths and challenging terrains. The camper’s sturdy build, combined with its four-wheel drive capabilities, ensures that you can confidently venture into snowy regions without the fear of getting stuck or encountering difficulties along the way.
Comfortable night sleep in the Bee Box
Snowy conditions can make camping a challenging experience, especially when it comes to staying warm during the night. However, the B Box camper’s superior insulation and heating systems provide a comfortable sleeping environment, even in the coldest of temperatures. With the assurance of a cozy night’s sleep, you can fully enjoy your winter adventures without worrying about feeling cold or uncomfortable.
Handling in the snow without slipping
Slippery roads and surfaces can pose hazards when driving in snowy conditions. However, the B Box camper design incorporates features that enhance traction and stability, reducing the risk of sliding or skidding. With its specially designed tires and traction control systems, the camper can confidently and safely navigate through snowy roads, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience.
Heat Systems in B Box
To ensure optimal comfort and efficiency, the B Box camper incorporates various heat systems that work together to create a cozy living space.
Hydronic floor heat
The primary heating system in the B Box camper is the hydronic floor heat. This system utilizes warm water circulated through a network of pipes beneath the camper’s flooring to provide even and consistent heating. This radiant heat is gentle, comfortable, and eliminates cold spots, ensuring that the entire camper remains warm and cozy, regardless of the outside temperature.
Convective heat from oxy system
To supplement the floor heating system, the B Box design includes a convective heat source provided by the oxy system. This system uses combustion to generate warm air, which is then circulated throughout the living space. By combining hydronic floor heat with convective heat, the camper maintains a comfortable temperature, even during extremely cold weather.
Separate heating system for tanks
To ensure that the tanks in the B Box camper remain warm and functional, a separate heating system is implemented. This system utilizes hydronic heating coils strategically placed within the tanks, ensuring that the water inside does not freeze. By keeping the tanks at an optimal temperature, the B Box camper allows for uninterrupted water supply, even in freezing conditions.
Circulating pumps for different zones
To ensure efficient heat distribution, the B Box camper incorporates circulating pumps for different heating zones. This allows for independent control of heat distribution, ensuring that each area of the camper receives the right amount of warmth. By precisely regulating heat flow, the system maximizes comfort and energy efficiency, providing an optimal living environment throughout the entire space.
Diesel-Fired Furnace
A diesel-fired furnace is a crucial component of the B Box camper design, offering a reliable and efficient heating solution.
Settings for high and low heat
The diesel-fired furnace in the B Box camper is equipped with settings for both high and low heat output. This allows you to adjust the intensity of the heating according to your needs and preferences. Whether you require rapid heating in extremely cold conditions or a more gentle warmth during milder weather, the B Box camper’s furnace provides flexible options to suit different climate conditions.
Infinitely adjustable turndown ratio
In addition to high and low heat settings, the diesel-fired furnace in the B Box camper offers an infinitely adjustable turndown ratio. This means that you have precise control over the heat output, allowing you to fine-tune the heating system to maintain a comfortable temperature. This efficient combustion control prevents excessive fuel consumption and ensures optimal heat utilization, providing a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution.
Efficient combustion and performance
The diesel-fired furnace in the B Box camper is designed for efficient combustion and performance. With its advanced combustion technology, it maximizes fuel efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and minimizing harmful emissions. This not only saves on operating costs but also promotes environmental sustainability, making the B Box camper a responsible choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
No Conductive Path
One of the key advantages of the B Box camper design is the absence of conductive paths, which helps prevent heat loss and drafts.
Absence of conductive paths in the B Box
Unlike traditional camper designs that may have steel or aluminum frames in doors and windows, the B Box camper is meticulously constructed to eliminate conductive paths. By using alternative materials that are not conductive, such as fiberglass or composite materials, the camper ensures that heat remains trapped inside, reducing heat loss and eliminating drafts.
Prevention of heat loss and drafts
By eliminating conductive paths, the B Box camper design effectively prevents heat loss and drafts. This ensures that the internal temperature remains stable and comfortable, without any discomfort caused by cold spots or drafts. The absence of heat loss also contributes to energy efficiency, as the heating systems do not need to work as hard to maintain the desired temperature.
Use of convective heat in vans with limited floor surface
In traditional camper designs with limited floor surface area, convective heat can be a valuable addition. By utilizing warm air circulation through fans or blowers, convective heat helps distribute warmth evenly within the limited space. The B Box camper design maximizes the effectiveness of convective heat, optimizing its contribution to overall heating comfort in vans with constrained floor surface, ensuring a cozy atmosphere throughout the living area.
Comparison of Insulation Values
When comparing insulation values between the B Box camper and traditional vans, the B Box design stands out for its superior insulation performance.
Difference in insulation value between B Box and vans
While conventional vans may have some form of insulation, they often fall short when it comes to providing a comprehensive and efficient insulation solution for extreme weather conditions. The B Box camper, on the other hand, is specifically designed to excel in insulation performance, with an R13 insulation value that ensures minimal heat transfer and maximum insulation efficiency. The significant difference in insulation value between the B Box design and traditional vans results in a superior level of comfort and protection against the elements.
Radiant heated floor for comfort in vans
In addition to its high insulation value, the B Box camper’s radiant heated floor offers a significant advantage over traditional vans. The gentle and even heat distribution provided by the hydraulic floor heating system ensures a consistently warm and comfortable living environment. This is especially beneficial in vans with limited space, where traditional heating methods may struggle to provide sufficient warmth. The radiant heated floor in the B Box camper guarantees a cozy and inviting atmosphere, even in the coldest of winter conditions.
Customer Orders and upcoming projects
The B Box camper has garnered significant interest, with several customer orders already placed. The demand for this well-designed and highly functional camper highlights the growing recognition of the importance of insulation and heating systems for comfortable camping experiences throughout the year.
Several orders for B Box campers
Customers who are passionate about outdoor exploration and adventure have been quick to recognize the benefits of the B Box design. Its exceptional insulation and heating capabilities, coupled with its robust build and innovative features, make it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable camping companion. The number of orders received for B Box campers is a testament to the desirability and effectiveness of the design.
Upcoming completion of projects
As the team behind the B Box camper continues to work diligently, they are focused on completing the current orders and delivering them to excited customers. The attention to detail and quality assurance ensure that each camper is built to the highest standards. With upcoming projects on the horizon, the team is excited to continue refining and expanding the range of B Box campers, offering more options and features to cater to different camping preferences and needs.
Excitement to share the completed projects
The completion of each B Box camper project brings a sense of accomplishment and pride to the team. The effort and dedication that goes into designing and constructing these campers are evident in every detail. The team is eager to share the completed projects with their customers, knowing that they are providing an exceptional camping experience that combines comfort, efficiency, and innovation. The excitement to showcase the capabilities of the B Box campers fuels the team’s passion for their work and motivates them to continue pushing the boundaries of camper design.
Conclusion
Insulation and heating systems play a vital role in creating a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. The B Box design stands out for its exceptional insulation performance, incorporating features such as high insulation values, dual pane windows, and radiant hydronic heat. The camper’s heating systems, including hydronic floor heat and convective heat, ensure consistent warmth and comfort. The absence of conductive paths reduces heat loss and drafts, contributing to energy efficiency. Through rigorous testing in extreme winter temperatures, the B Box camper has proven its ability to provide a cozy living space in even the harshest conditions. With a focus on customer orders and upcoming projects, the B Box camper continues to evolve, offering outdoor enthusiasts a camper that is perfectly suited for year-round adventures.
