12V Space Heater for Warming Bed w/ a Hard Shell Cover

Question:

I have a 2019 f150 short bed with a leer hard shell. It is wired with a 12 volt cigarette adapters in the rear. Could this heater be wired to plug in to a cigarette adapter. In 10 to 20 degree outside temperatures, what could I expect this heater to raise the temperature per hour, ie could it get above 32 degrees within one hour.

asked by: Tyler S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Depending on the seal around your hard shell's opening and whether or not you have side windows you would have no problem using a 300 watt heater like the Rampage Radiant Backseat Heater item # RA3501 to keep you warm. A 300 watt heater is designed to warm a room that is 30 square feet. Your short bed 2019 F-150 will be right at that square footage. You will need the Rear View Safety Cigarette Lighter Adapter item # RVS-505 to power this heater.

You will also want to make sure you have a good seal between the top of your bed and your Leer hard shell. You will want to inspect for any gaps or use a cigarette lighter to test for air coming through. Plugging up all of these exposed areas will help you keep your truck bed warm. You can use the Access Front Element Seal for Tonneau Covers item # A30890 to insulate those areas.

expert reply by: Jerred H