DIY Electric Heating System for Camper Van | Low Noise, Low Voltage, High Output

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on creating a DIY electric heating system for a camper van, utilizing a Phanteks PH-F140TS_WT 140mm fan and a custom nichrome wire coil to achieve a high output of 1000 watts at 12 volts. The setup aims for low noise operation at 19 dB. Calculations indicate that drawing 1000 watts from a LifeLine GPL-8DL 12v 255ah Deep Cycle battery will provide approximately 2.5 hours of use, although this is optimistic given the battery's 20-hour rate. The feasibility of the project is affirmed, but concerns about air movement and battery capacity are raised.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical power calculations (watts, volts, amps)
  • Knowledge of nichrome wire specifications and heating coil design
  • Familiarity with battery capacity ratings and discharge rates
  • Basic skills in wiring and electrical circuit assembly
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to calculate the required length of nichrome wire for specific wattage
  • Explore battery management systems for optimizing deep cycle battery usage
  • Learn about airflow dynamics and fan efficiency in heating applications
  • Investigate alternative heating methods for camper vans, such as propane or diesel heaters
USEFUL FOR

Camper van enthusiasts, DIY electrical engineers, and individuals interested in low-voltage heating solutions for mobile living environments.

voxvox
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Hello Physics Forum.
I need help/validation with a DIY electric heating system for my camper van.

The goal:To create a low noise(19 dB), low voltage (12v), high output (1000w) heater fan, using a 140mm 12 volt computer fan, and a correct nichrome wire coil setup.

1. Will this work?
2. How do I calculate the required length of nichrome wire to have a (1000) watt load @ 12 volts.
3. How many hours can I draw 1000watts from my battery?

Fan: Phanteks PH-F140TS_WT
Fan Size: 140mm
RPM: 1200 ± 10% rpm
Air Flow: 78.1 CFM
Noise Level: 19 dB
Input Current: 0.15 A
Rate Voltage: DC 12V
Input Power: 1.8W

Heating Coil: Custom nichrome wire coil calculated to 1000 watts.
16 AWG (gauge)
.051" dia.
0.260 ohms/ft

Battery: LifeLine GPL-8DL 12v 255ah Deep Cycle
Nominal Voltage: 12 volts
Amp hour capacity at 20 hour rate: 255 amp hour

Control System: On/Off switch for now.
Would love to hear ideas, because I don't even know where to start.


Sketch:
sketch.jpg
 
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voxvox said:
1. Will this work?
Hi voxvox. Welcome to Physics Forums.

Will it work? Sure, why not.
3. How many hours can I draw 1000watts from my battery?
Just looking at it roughly. You will be exceeding the battery's 20 hr rate, so will be lucky to get 200AH out of it. At 12 volts, 1000W equates to 83 amps. This looks like about 2.5 hours, and that's being overly optimistic.

It should take the chill off the inside of a cold van, but one battery won't even see you through 'till supper time. There won't be a lot of air movement if you employ a computer fan, but that's a separate issue.
 
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