DIGITAL THERMOSTAT MODIFICATION:
Here are directions for replacing your factory RV thermostat with a digital model.
Why? I find that the manual RV type thermostat doesn't give an accurate read on the physical temperature, nor kick on and off often enough to heat/cool evenly. Replacing with a digital model, gives more USER CONTROL over the temperature, as well as programmability.
The model I used is a RiteTemp model 8085C. They are made/sold for Home Depot Stores, but I got a great deal on a brand new one on eBay. ($38.56 shipped) Main reason I used RiteTemp brand: Outstanding website info, and support...especially directions for RV installations.
Labeled Wires hooked up correctly:
The mod is very simple, and the directions are easy to understand. You basically cut the power to the furnace/AC, take off the cover of the old stat, label the wires, remove them. Put up the new one, wire it and you are on your way. I wanted to be able to use my HI FAN as well as LO FAN switch...so I used an ALTERNATIVE wiring scheme to the one at the link listed above. I didn't have to add any addition switches to do it this way either. The only drawback to wiring it this way...you won't be able to use the thermostat's ON switch to circulate air when you aren't in HEAT or COOL mode. (if you use it that way) Here's how it works with the ALTERNATE WIRING SCHEME: When I want LO FAN, I simply turn the stat on HEAT or COOL, with the FAN switch in AUTO. If I want HI FAN I put it on HEAT or COOL, with the FAN switch in ON.
Here is the
ALTERNATE WIRING SCHEME:
(keep in mind wire color varies on trailers, so don't wire it by color...use the letters)
NOTE: This ALTERNATE wiring method required me to remove the GAS/ELEC jumper. (small plastic thing on new thermostat) The +7.5 wire is taped off and not used anymore. The new thermostat is powered by batteries.
New digital Thermostat installed:
*This model has a 'touch screen' where you can simply touch it to change settings. There is also a 'stylus' on the frame you can use if you like.
The new stat works very well. It keeps the trailer at a more even, accurrate temperature. It's also much easier to tell what the temp is by looking at it. (big mumbers as opposed to old slide bar)