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Climate & Propane#10 of 19 in Climate & Propane

by Atwood

Atwood Excalibur Furnace

The Atwood Excalibur Furnace remains a solid, dependable choice for RV owners needing reliable forced-air heat in a compact, easy-to-install package.

4.3
HitchHaven score4.3 out of 5 · our editorial rating
  • Direct spark ignition for reliable startup
  • Compact design fits standard RV furnace cutouts
  • Available in 20,000, 30,000, and 34,000 BTU models
  • Sealed combustion chamber draws outside air
  • Durable sheet metal housing resists corrosion
  • Compatible with round or rectangular ducting
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The verdict

The Atwood Excalibur Furnace remains a solid, dependable choice for RV owners needing reliable forced-air heat in a compact, easy-to-install package. Its direct spark ignition and sealed combustion design make it efficient and safe for both weekend trips and full-time boondocking, though buyers should budget for occasional ignition board maintenance and ensure correct BTU sizing for their rig.

Spec plate

BTU Output
20,000 - 34,000 BTU/hr
Ignition Type
Direct Spark Ignition
Fuel Type
Propane (LP Gas)
Amp Draw
Approx. 3.5 Amps DC
Weight
Approx. 17 lbs

Pros & cons

What we like

  • Easy drop-in replacement for older Atwood/Dometic furnaces
  • Quick heat-up time even in cold climates
  • Quiet operation compared to older furnace models
  • Widely available parts and service support
  • Efficient propane consumption for extended boondocking
  • Sturdy construction holds up to road vibration

What to watch

  • Can be difficult to source in some regions
  • Ignition board occasionally needs replacement after a few seasons
  • Ducting adapters sometimes sold separately
  • Ignition can be finicky at high altitude
  • Ignition can be finicky at high altitude
  • Noticeable fan noise on highest setting

Full review

The Atwood Excalibur furnace stands as a dependable heating solution engineered specifically for recreational vehicles and campers that demand reliable warmth without sacrificing valuable interior space or battery life. Built by Atwood, a trusted name in RV climate control, this furnace integrates a compact design with a direct-spark ignition system that eliminates the need for a standing pilot light, conserving propane and reducing battery drain during extended off-grid stays. Its ducted forced-air system distributes heat evenly throughout the cabin, ensuring that even the furthest corners of a travel trailer or motorhome stay comfortable during cold nights, while the sealed combustion chamber draws outside air for combustion and vents exhaust safely away from the living area, keeping indoor air quality clean and breathable.

Constructed with durability in mind, the Excalibur furnace features a rugged steel housing and a heat exchanger designed to withstand the vibrations and temperature fluctuations typical of life on the road. The furnace's compact footprint allows it to fit into tight installation spaces common in smaller trailers and campers, making it a popular retrofit option as well as a factory-installed unit in many RV models. Its thermostatically controlled operation automatically cycles the blower motor to maintain a consistent cabin temperature, reducing propane consumption compared to older, less efficient heating units, and its quiet operation means campers can stay warm without the disruptive noise often associated with older furnace models.

Designed for ease of maintenance, the Atwood Excalibur furnace offers accessible components that simplify routine inspections, filter checks, and igniter replacements, helping extend the unit's operational lifespan season after season. Available in multiple BTU output ratings, it caters to a range of RV sizes, from compact pop-up campers to larger fifth-wheel trailers, giving owners flexibility to choose a model that matches their specific heating needs. Whether used for weekend getaways or full-time RV living, this furnace delivers consistent, efficient warmth that allows travelers to extend their camping season into colder months, making it a staple climate control component for anyone serious about comfortable, reliable life on the road.

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