RV's Going Green
Wed Jan 13, 2010
Source: NewsNet5.com
Economists called it the first sign of trouble, when the sales of recreational vehicles plummeted several years ago. But there's been a shift in gears and perhaps a sign of a financial comeback, because RV sales are on the rise.
If you haven't checked out RV's in a while, you may be surprised to see what they have to offer. Many now have flat-screen TV's, microwaves, dishwashers and much more.
Brian Brawdy is traveling across the country in his environmentally friendly RV. He captures energy through 11 solar panels and three wind turbines which also generate power for his electrical appliances. Brawdy also has the ability to capture and store rainwater. He has installed LED lights which are 140 degrees cooler than the old-fashioned kind which gives the cooling system a break. The LED's also last a lot longer.
Ron Hanko, with Kamper City, said smaller, towable campers are growing in popularity.
"They're getting more aerodynamic with better gas mileage."
It used to be the mega RV's only got about 5 miles per gallon, but now they get about 12. But the smaller campers complete with a bed, kitchen area and living space can be hitched to the back of an SUV or truck.
Brawdy and Hanko are showcasing their RV's at the I-X Center for the Ohio RV Supershow that runs through Sunday. There will be 600 vehicles shown in all, complete with seminars and food vendors. The cost is $11.50 for adults and children 12 and under are free. It runs through 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 6p.m. on Sunday. It opens at 10 a.m. each day.
