| Best Choice |
|
RecPro RV Microwave | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Premium Pick |
|
Summit Appliance Kitchen Cooking Range | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Best Value |
|
West Bend Slide Through Wide Slot Toaster | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
Just because you’re traveling in an RV doesn’t mean you can’t have the comforts and conveniences of home. Having the right appliances in your RV can make living in it easier and more enjoyable.
It can be a challenge to find the right appliances, though. You’re limited in space but still want to find appliances with plenty of features. Once you finally narrow down your options, it’s important to choose one that’s durable and fits your available space. This guide will help you choose the best RV appliances.
Best RV Appliances
This compact microwave has 10 power levels to choose from. There are eight express cooking options. The one-piece trim kit is a direct replacement for your RV microwave.
Its small size makes it easy to fit into tight spaces on your RV. The multitude of express cooking options makes it versatile and easy to use. The 30-second instant start is perfect for quick reheats.
- 0.95 cubic feet capacity
- 900 watts of cooking power
- Glass turntable
- One-piece trim kit
- Brand RecPro
- Model RPM-2-BLK
- Weight 30 pounds
10 power levels
30-second instant start
Eight express cook options
Limited to small interior size
Unique dimensions limit installation compatibility
Only comes in black
This compact toaster will have a small footprint on your counter. Its slim design makes it perfect for use in your RV. There’s a wide slot for accommodating several types of bread. Then use the seven toast settings to create the perfect level of doneness on your toast.
This toaster works in less than 90 seconds and is easy to use. The outside stays cool to the touch. It also has a lower power consumption than comparable toasters.
- Seven toast settings
- Bagel setting
- Cancel button to stop toasting
- Wider slot accommodates thicker bread
- Brand West Bend
- Model 77224
- Weight 3.78 pounds
Works fast to toast bread
Easy to use
Uses less power than standard toaster
Outside stays cool to touch
Doesn’t toast bread evenly
Toast can get stuck in it
Outside plastic can melt
At just 20 inches wide, this cooking range is the perfect size to fit into your RV. It has a stainless steel finish with a digital clock and timer. There is a lower storage compartment for pans. It uses 120 volts of electricity
This range has a modern appearance that will update the interior looks of your RV. There’s a window in the door that makes monitoring your cooking progress easy. Its small size makes it ideal for kitchens that are limited in space.
- 20-inch width
- Stainless steel
- Digital clock and timer
- Lower storage compartment
- Electric 120 volts
- Brand Summit Appliance
- Model TEM130BKWY
- Weight 142 pounds
Modern appearance
Door window for easy cooking
Works well in smaller kitchens
Coils for top burners can stay hot and burn
Limited oven space for cooking
Not compatible with standard 220V plug
This dryer has RV-friendly dimensions at 23.5 inches wide x 32.75 inches high x 22.75 inches deep. On the inside, it has a 4-foot metal drum. You can adjust the drying time to be suitable for the clothes that you’re drying. It uses 120 volts of electricity.
The door of this dryer creates an extra-wide opening, which makes loading and unloading easier. You also have the ability to choose between stacked and side-by-side installation.
- Dimensions: 23.5 inches wide x 32.75 inches high x 22.75 inches deep
- Adjustable drying timer
- 4-foot stainless steel drum
- Electric 120 volts
- Brand Westland
- Model NTP_07-0537
- Weight 71 pounds
Extra-wide opening
Side or stacked installation
Custom drying cycle options
Not compatible with standard wall outlets
Limited capacity
Only has a one-year limited warranty
This modern refrigerator has a retro design that will give your RV a unique look and feel. The exterior has a gloss finish, and the inside is bright white with a light for better visibility. It runs on 120 volt electric power.
The styling of the fridge is truly unique and will give the interior of your RV a retro flair. You can reverse the installation of the handles to make it work with your interior. This fridge will have a low pull on your power supply, as it’s energy-efficient.
- Adjustable thermostat
- Interior light
- Gloss finish in black or red
- Electric 120 volt
- Brand Galanz
- Model GLR76TRDER
- Weight 112.7 pounds
Stylish retro looks in red
Dual door true freezer
Reversible handles for custom installation
Energy-efficient
Lacks an ice maker
Metal-looking accents are plastic
Noisy operation
This Keurig mini coffee maker makes one cup of coffee at a time. This is perfect if you enjoy coffee but only drink one cup a day. It has an attractive matte finish. There is also an auto shutoff that engages when the coffee’s done.
The coffee maker holds up to nine K-Cups at a time so that you won’t need extra storage for the coffee. It’s also compatible with travel mugs so that you can make your coffee in the mug you plan to drink it out of.
- Holds nine K-Cup pods
- Auto shutoff
- Matte finish
- Single-serve coffee maker
- Cord storage
- Brand Keurig
- Model K-Mini Plus
- Weight 6.41 pounds
Compatible with travel mugs
Compatible with K-Cup universal filter
Energy efficient
Water doesn’t get hot enough
Struggles to get the proper amount of water through the system
Brewing can be incredibly slow
Best RV Appliances Buying Guide & FAQ
As more and more people hit the road as proud RV owners, the RV appliance market has boomed. There are countless options for the appliances you can get for your RV. You need to consider the size of your RV, power source, and usefulness of the appliance. For some, a washer and dryer may be a necessity, while for others, it’s a space hogging luxury that’s just not needed.
Evaluate how you like to use your RV and use that to determine if you need or want additional appliances. This will help you narrow down and prioritize which appliances you install.
Why You Need RV Appliances
When you have the right kitchen appliances in your RV, you can live comfortably and do all of the things that you would in your stationary home. They can also save you money while on a road trip. For example, going to a laundromat can be expensive and take all day. Having a washer and dryer in your RV will eliminate this trip.
Being able to store and cook your own food eliminates the need to eat out for every meal. This is not only more economical, but it’s also healthier. For the greatest freedom in how you store and cook food, you should have a fridge, microwave, oven, and stove.
If you plan on traveling somewhere that gets especially hot or cold, having AC or heat can make living in your RV more comfortable. If you aren’t ready to outfit your entire camper, you could go with a portable option of a fan or space heater.
- Save money
- Save time
- Travel for longer
The Most Common Types of RV Appliances
Having RV appliances throughout your RV will take your experience from bare bones and rough to comfortable or even luxurious. There are the basics, like a fridge, microwave, TV, and stove. Then there are the more luxurious appliances, such as washer and dryer, AC, or furnace.
Some appliances don’t have to be big to make an impact on your daily life. Small additions like a coffee maker, toaster, and portable furnace can make your life more enjoyable while on the road. Also, if you do not have your own but rather want to rent an RV, be sure to choose one with appliances that meet your needs.
- Refrigerator
If you plan to live in or travel for longer periods of time in your RV, you need an RV refrigerator to keep your perishable food from going bad. Choosing the wrong fridge will drain your battery and strain your generator, as these machines can be power-hungry.
An electric refrigerator will use between 7 and 15 amps of electricity per day. Instead, look for a propane-powered fridge, which will be more economical. If you decide to use battery power, a typical RV fridge will drain the battery in about four to five hours. Some fridges use both electricity and propane. This will give you complete freedom in how you keep your food cold.
- Washer and Dryer
Having your own washer and dryer can eliminate spending long and tedious days at the laundromat. However, there is a cost for convenience. These appliances tend to be bulky, heavy, and not easy to transport.
Washer and dryer combos typically come standard in high-end Class A motorhomes or fifth wheels. But you’ll need to install your own aftermarket in smaller RVs. To add a washer and dryer to your RV, you’ll need to have a 120-volt hookup.
You can expect your new appliances to pull about 300 to 500 watts, depending on the model you choose. They draw about 12 amps of current when in use. If you use your new appliances correctly, they’ll need very little maintenance.
- Oven or Stove
You need to have a method for cooking in your RV kitchen if you plan on living in it full time. This will save you from having to eat out all of the time. You could have an oven, stove, or both in your RV. These terms are often interchanged, but are actually two separate and different appliances. The oven is the compartment that you place food into and bake. The stovetop is the cooktop with burners that you place your cookware on.
If you choose a propane or gas oven, it will cook and work exactly like the one you would have in your home. This is a much smarter choice than electricity. An electric oven will require anywhere from 2,000 to 5,500 watts, which is practically unheard of in RVs.
- Microwave Oven
These compact little machines make cooking in an RV so much easier. Their downside is that they tend to pull a lot of power. Most microwaves pull between 1,000 and 1,200 watts. Try to look for an efficient model that pulls between 800 and 1,000 watts.
You’ll find all of the features that you’re familiar with, including express buttons, power levels, and menu options. If you want an easy installation, look for one that plugs into a 120-volt plug. While smaller microwaves will use less power, it still needs to be large enough to be effective at heating your food.
- Coffee Maker
Do you love having your cup of coffee in the morning? You can’t seem to start your day without it. Depending on your coffee habits, a coffee maker can go from a luxury to a necessity. There are 12-volt options, but they will take forever and struggle to brew a decent cup of coffee. These makers have limited power of around 200 to 300 watts.
For more effective heating power, stick with one that pulls around 800 watts. This will adequately heat the water to the right temperature. Next, you need to think about whether you want to brew whole pots of coffee, or if a single-serve option might meet your needs better.
- Toaster
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and a decent breakfast isn’t complete without a piece of perfectly browned toast. A portable toaster is the solution for taking your favorite bread and turning it into a delicious slice of toast.
Look for a smaller, portable toaster option that can toast two slices of bread at a time. It will have less of a power demand and takes up a smaller footprint on your countertop while in use. A standard toaster will require 700 to 800 watts of power. You should be able to find a smaller unit that also has toasting options.
- Ceiling Fan
A ceiling fan can generate airflow inside of your RV, which will help keep the air from feeling stagnant. You need to consider the ceiling height of your RV before you decide to install one, though. You should also think about the humidity levels, as you need them to be decently low for the circulating air to feel cooler.
RV fans are smaller and can function well on 12 volts of power. You also don’t need an inverter or generator to run them. This makes them convenient. Many modern RV fans come with a remote control and multiple speed settings.
- Dehumidifier
Excess humidity in your RV is not only uncomfortable, but it can also cause some serious damage to your RV. If you plan to have more than three people in your RV, the excess moisture will feel downright oppressive. You also need to account for the excess moisture you’ll create when cooking.
A dehumidifier will help control the level of moisture in your RV by removing the amount of condensation in the air. Look for a smaller, more portable unit that lets you move it around to where you need it while RVing. The best ones run on 120 volts.
- TV
A TV is the central appliance to your entertainment system. They’re a challenge, though. They tend to be large, heavy, and draw a lot of power. Space is limited in your RV, so you’ll need to either get creative or start with your available space measurement when picking out a TV for your RV.
A TV that is bigger will give you a more impressive picture display. However, TVs that are bigger than 30 inches have an average power draw of 300 to 400 watts. You’ll also need an inverter to run it. This power demand might be well worth it, though. Life on the road can get boring.
- Furnace
If you plan to hit the road during the winter, a furnace will take the chill out of the air in your RV. You’ll need to choose between propane and electricity to run your furnace. If you decide you want electricity, your furnace will pull about 8 to 11 amps and require anywhere from 500 to 1,500 watts.
A propane option won’t be such an energy hog on your battery. You also need to consider the size and placement of the furnace in your RV. Then consider the noise it will create and look for the quietest unit possible so that you don’t have to listen to your furnace run. You may decide you don’t need a furnace at all if you never plan to travel anywhere that gets cold enough to require one.
- AC
If you plan to stick to warmer climates, you may want to consider an AC system for your RV. A portable AC unit is self-contained and lets you move it around with you. To find the right AC unit for your RV, look at the square footage of the room that the unit can effectively cool. You only need to buy one powerful enough for your space. Smaller and more affordable units will be around 9,000 BTUs. Larger and more powerful units will be around 1,4000 BTUs. You can cool spaces that are anywhere from 350 to 700 square feet.
What to Consider When Buying RV Appliances
Don’t buy the first appliance that appeals to you. There are a few extra qualities you need to consider when buying an appliance. Think about the dimensions of the appliances; it needs to fit in your RV. You also need to think about its power requirements. Then you need to consider the weight of the appliances and how that will affect the performance of your motorhome.
- Space Required
You have limited space in your RV, which makes it a precious commodity. You need to consider if taking up space for an appliance is worth it. You also need to determine if you have the space available to use. Start by measuring the dimensions of the appliance. Then measure the available space where you intend to install that appliance. If it fits, you’re good to move forward with the consideration process.
When measuring, don’t forget to measure in all directions. You need to consider the width, height, and depth of the appliance. This is when it’s smart to look for RV-specific appliances that have smaller than average dimensions.
- Power Source and Demand
Energy efficiency takes on a whole new meaning when you’re buying appliances for your RV. You need to think about the power demand that the appliance has and how that will affect the running of the other elements already installed in your RV. Overloading your system can cause you to run your batteries down to dead or overload your generator.
Consider whether the appliance can run on propane or electric. If it runs on electricity, then think about what the volt and watt demands are. You should consider the operating pull and the spike or peak pulls.
You should also check to see if you need to install an inverter. Some appliances require one for correct installation.
- Weight
It may not seem like a big deal, but the weight of your appliances can have a significant effect on the overall weight of your RV. This is something you need to consider when buying your appliances. Hauling around an extra couple hundred pounds can have an effect on your tires, suspension, and fuel efficiency.
Smaller appliances will have a lower overall weight, but will also limit your ability to use them. Balance the functionality of the appliance with its weight. You may want to pick and choose your appliances. Opt to install a heavier yet more functional appliance instead of two smaller and less functional appliances.
Tips for Buying and Using RV Appliances
When buying your new appliance, you need to decide how you plan to power it. Consider both propane and electricity. Calculate how expensive these two options are to use. Which one will be easier for you to set up in your RV?
Once you choose your power method, you can start comparing units to find one that will fit in your RV. Measure the dimensions of the space that you have available. This will help you only consider appliances that you can install in your RV.
- Decide on propane or electric first.
- Measure the dimensions before you buy.
- Plan your energy consumption and do the math for your current and future use.
Best RV Appliances FAQ:
After you complete the buying process for your new appliance, you are now faced with installing it in your RV. Here are some common questions RVers ask when buying and installing their new appliance. These answers should help you get your new appliances installed so you can start using them.
Many RV appliances are portable and only require you to plug them in for installation. You may need to install an electrical outlet if you don’t already have one available.
If you want to be able to move the appliance around with you, then portable is better. These units also tend to be smaller and use less electricity.
It’s totally up to you where you install your appliances. Look for available spaces that will accommodate the new appliance while also not taking away from your needed storage or workspace.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick for the best RV appliance is the RecPro RV Microwave. This compact and multifunction appliance is perfect for cooking while on the road. You can easily fit it into a small space or into a predesigned space. Then use it to both microwave and cook with convection.
