FREEZING COLD | VAN INSULATION RESULTS

I have only put a small amount of insulation in the van. Here is the results of the first week of cold weather. Average temperature this past week has been -0 degrees celsius
I started VAN LIFE because i was tired of the day to day routine of doing the same thing, same job, same drive to work, same mornings, same nights...everything was the same day after day. Van Life has been just an awesome experience since day one. This full time for me. I am in this for the long haul. I Love Van life. Its been the best choice i have ever made. I started Van life with my English bulldog names Disco. He is my hommie and my heater lol. I Built my van build is simple to show everyone that you can start Van Life with just the basics and build your van as you go. That you don't need a big fancy build to get started. VAN LIFE is closer then you think. just grab the basics you need and get started. You will figure out what you need after you are in the van. I don't have solar or battery banks, a sink or an electric fridge. I didn't need that stuff to get started. I am sure in the future at some point when i feel the need for those things i will get them. But so far i have everything i need without all the fuss and stress of Solar panel, deep cycle batteries, and a full van build. One day maybe but right now i feel at home in my van with everything i need.
I have dedicated my life right now to doing youtube full-time, i have fallen in love with the creative aspect of filming and editing. I am still learning and and grinding to make this a full time gig for me. I would love to earn enough through youtube and Patreon to be able to travel and film for you and the world everyday. To share my journeys from my prospective and to inspire and uplift my viewers to be themselves and life the life they want. To be who they are truly meant to be. YOU.
Thank you for being here on this great Van Life adventure with me.
PATREON: / vancityvanlife
My hoodie is from an awesome guy www.kevinsemeni...
Buddy heater: amzn.to/2ApuHGn
LED Fairy Lights: amzn.to/2ycwflm
400 watt inverter:
FILMED: Port Coquitlam BC
Camera: iPhone 7+
Edited: Adobe Premier CC
Music By: Epidemic Sound

[@farrellhamann]

Chrome is one of the most articulate KZbinr ever. Hats off.

[@PattisArtInnaVan]

Hey Chrome going back and re-watching some of your old vids 4 years later and not only has your van undergone some epic changes, but your videographer skills are so far advanced as to almost make me think someone else filmed this one! Stunning skill levels now!

[@raveninavaniam9438]

You are so funny lol Helpful heat info... I'm binge watching these earlier videos...you so helpful and love your sense of humor :)

[@iknowheis]

I’m glad you have cleaned up your language in your later videos. If this was the first vid I had ever seen I wouldn’t be back

[@BlackRose-xt2xu]

Hello Sweetie . Enjoyed you video with you and your baby . I can tell you're an awesome Dad. You remind me so much of my Son. Your go and do things, live my life mentality . He is forty-nine. My first born . Always keep that open mind and heart . you would make any mother proud. Much love to you.

[@velvetmackenzie8141]

If you don't put in a vapor barrier, the accumulated moisture freezing on the sub-zero van panels (yes it will migrate through and around the insulation) Will cause the van body to rot from the inside out and it will happen where you don't see it until it's too late. I've seen on friend's vans and experienced it on mine. As a Canuc I know how cold it can get. If you want to check it out wait till it's been below zero for several days then peel back the insulation for the reveal.

[@JohnLee-ui5gd]

When I lived in my car I had a 12v electric blanket. Saved me a couple times.

[@sambiggsmusic]

Think you just became my favourite vanlifer! The simplicity makes it feel so achievable. Thank you! 🙌

[@ianpurkis3925]

One thing to watch for is the fibreglass trapping condensation, it can lead to moisture which then rusts the cavity’s.

[@isaacrenfro8762]

I've enjoyed your videos. I love that you just jumped into van life without having all the answers or having the Van all figured out first. Great Job. I was a home builder for 25 years. I just had one thought for you on the insulation. When you pack it in to a small area, don't pack it tight. Heat transfers through a solid object. The more dense you pack it the less it does it's job. It is the air in fiberglass insulation and the air in foam insulation that keeps the heat and cold from transferring. Best of Luck. Rick

[@rosemarie20]

Thanks, Chrome. This video made me laugh out loud so many times. It was fun and I love to laugh. Loved seeing Disco.

[@ttwillow9073]

Since you have a camp stove....... how about adding a sub zero sleeping bag with a hot water bottle OR a couple hot baked potatoes...you can have them for breakfast or lunch!!!....... keeping it weird :)

[@dejatran]

Metal can in a freezer lol I like that analogy

[@lifewithluluthecat835]

Life in a van out in the element is always an improvement ... making small improvements as we progress along the adventure path is how we learn to adapt and become a survivor in almost any situation ... and that's exactly how you did it! The One & Only Chrome and Disco keep on staying weird, be safe and keep warm! Sendings hugs to you both! 👍🐶😘👍

[@dorothyjanediaz3642]

Your videos are fun and I love watching them!! Your damn sure not boring... Stay Safe Enjoy Life and God bless you & Disco forever and always!!💙💙💙

[@loveadventures2999]

So amazing to see such love and generosity for your friend Jeffie Bear!

[@PastorChrisCoutts]

Every vehicle built since the late 80's engages the A/C compressor whenever you have the defroster engaged, whether it has "def/flr", "def/vent" or straight defrost. It doesn't produce dry heat so much as suck the moisture out of the incoming air, and the air inside. Run it too long and you will get chapped lips and hangnails, but you'll be dry as English Toast.

[@msmegification]

That is very good to know, thanks!

[@susanmaguire4452]

I find your videos almost like a positive thinking course. Love them, you and disco.

[@DivorcetheHorse]

Excellent video. I've heard that you are supposed to have a ceiling vent foe use with the Buddy heater. Haven't tried it yet, vent will go in later. I was shocked to learn that one of those standard propane cylinders only lasts about 4 hours on low. Thanks for the great information! Also, having a dog in bed with you helps because of their higher body heat. That's where the term, " Three Dog Night " comes from. Means it's really, really cold!

[@henna696]

please keep still when you record. very interesting. thank you.

[@gisellegonzalez2628]

Thank you for putting yourself out there showing us what you go through in the cold and keeping it real. Safe travels

[@DonovanRush]

I'm with the remote start concept.

[@PastorChrisCoutts]

Whoopee-Ding? Now there's an expression I haven't heard since the early 70's. Niiiice Bro.

[@SnowyOwlPrepper]

Awesome project. Every new step is progress. Looking forward to the next video.

[@CuaKay]

Good information about keeping warm. It can get to -10 in Wisconsin, which is -23.3 in Celsius. That's why I'm delaying my schedule

[@roadrunner17lee66]

Yeah winter has arrived. I had to turn my heaters in my apt.on ,And of course that means it’s winter. So once I get my van then get it insulated like yours then I’ll still be cold, but happier because I will finally be in my van. I so want to be in Az. Right now. When life hands you lemons ya make lemonade. Just because my first van didn’t work out doesn’t mean I won’t find another that speaks that speaks to me. To bad it doesn’t come with a dog like Disco. Keep warm my friend. See ya on down the road.

[@barbjoz63]

Thanks for the honest info! You've helped me make a couple decisions about heating. Finally the real scoop.

[@ericredekop5101]

I've done four winters with NO insulation and no issues. Challenges included several spells with temperatures of -20-C or LOWER. Wool and down are my friends.

[@bgjr2304]

The Newport Dickinson Marine Propane Fireplace is WICKED... the best money I've spent. Dry heat, no exhaust risk inside as it has a chimney flue.. and its beauuutiful with it's little flames. Highly recommend

[@ecdledvtraining]

I love your way of life. Respect. I wish I could do this too.

[@conversionproject1550]

Great summary! "You're in a metal can - in a freezer. It's gonna get cold!" Gotta love it though!

[@carolguezen5829]

Man you hit some key things. I just did my first solo trip and am amazed at how much my true inner self came scrambling out after being confined in some dark recess called daily life. Can't wait to explore more and your videos if inspiration and encouragement are definitely motivational. Cheers.

[@aeromagnumtv1581]

Definitely lining interior walls with sound deadening/weather proof type insulation before paneling.

[@barbarashirland9078]

You are so inspiring. Love hearing what you have to say. I miss the plentiful B roll like in the beginning ❤❤

[@I-live-and-learn]

Thanks for teaching me "Whoopie ding"!

[@AnnetteZang]

Glad the limited insulation is working for u. We have similar climate here in RSA, and I would also live in the van first, and then see if insulation is a necessity.... have fun shopping, and give Disco a hug for me!

[@lyseanthony7986]

Your fourth source of heat should be OLD-FASHIONED WATER BOTTLE. Doggie being the third. Ha ha ha.! Boil water as hot as you can and it will keep your bed warm all night long. ... defies logic, but they really do. I also make a tent with a second sleeping bag and it keeps my face from freezing. ... not a fan of sleeping with my head under the blankets. BTW I like your style.

[@josephosborne5115]

Sorry your having troubles!!!!been. There a few times it always gets better with time wish you all the beat

[@elaexplorer]

So cool to watch one of the older videos.

[@h.bsfaithfulservant4136]

Glad you are finding the cold manageable with your current set up Chrome :-) I think Disco has a big part to play in that too :-)

[@corkancreationscallenecork3744]

AS always great content.Love the advice.The moist heat is what I have been worried about in Van life and Tiny House.The insulation stuff was good.I was thinking foam spray insulation.You would never freeze,you have Disco.Great video.Going to watch your others now,playing catch up again.Hey Disco!Big hugs.Be safe.

[@stanleyjaxen8759]

This is a great run down, really good explanation from experience. but the insulation fears i have are for hot days like 30+DEGC cooking your van...

[@doramather4729]

The solution for moisture from your propane heater, to form mold under your mattress lay an military 100 % wool blanket between the wood frame and mattress , it works we have one under our memory form mattress and have been to alaska , Canada and Michigan in October. Cold , snow & rain.

[@swamphick7553]

Please consider the voc factor when you paint interior parts with the rock guard . Thanks for another great video. Stay warm

[@thomasfouts4496]

Use sheep's wool for insulation. 2 bags of batts would do your whole van. It handles condensation better than any other insulation. Worth it!

[@thomasfouts4496]

@longrider I did not know about it until recently. Search "Havelock wool" on KZbin. They have great info on wool insulation.

[@keepchrist]

I can be an xtra snuggle buddy like that "My Buddy & Me" way back in the 90's,remember that one? It's Go time!

[@hannahotwa1047]

I was worried about you, because of the cold weather. stay strong and well. Good luck.👍🏻😱🙀😀☕️

[@newnormalbabyboomer]

I made clip up "curtains" out of refectix insulation for my van. Last night in the mountains of Arizona it was 1° celcius. I also have the same Mr. Heater Buddy. With the insulation curtains up and the Mr. Heater Buddy I was able to keep it around 15° celcius in the van all night. With all my blankets it was so cozy.

[@jfx863]

Good stuff C man. Keep that info coming. I'm interested in van life and need that positive spin on the research. Best van life channel!

[@ryandavis4689]

So in a previous video comment I fretted on not having the "skill" to make money on the road. Claimed to be a hamster in a wheel. I found a way to make that wheel traverse terrain... Finally. I'm already starting a tile company. Been doing it, enjoy it. Easy work high pay. Plus there's pride in the finished product. All I need, tile cutter, aircompressor, nailgun(and hose), knee pads, and some misc items. Some of which I have... Takes up some small space in back van... The rest of van could be my cabin... Point is, I can start a tile company for on the road. Mainly start in my area, then expand. Gain reputation, maybe make a KZbin channel... Either way I think it's possible now, the more I contemplate. Your truly the shit bro, your an inspiration to be free again(like when I was a child(only more mature))...

[@drunkvegangal8089]

Have you considered hanging a curtain between the cab and the back of your van? A curtain, especially a blackout or insulated one, could be easily hung with a spring loaded, adjustable shower curtain/a piece of nylon rope. This would separate the multi-window cab from the insulated back. Might be helpful in summer too. Plus more privacy... Thrift shop always has heaps of cheap curtains or a quilt/comforter.

[@drunkvegangal8089]

Way ahead of me :D I hope you find it helps separate the spaces esp with heat/cold.

[@ac068286]

Man, your videos continue to be sooooo awesome! Your prep for van living in Vancouver during winter is exactly the same as my prep for winter camping. I love the buddy heater! First time with it but I have no doubts it'll be more than sufficient to warm up a small tent for two. Thx and keep up the great work. Always staying beautiful! Cheers!

[@GypsieRhythms]

Another great video! Stay cozy and I love the hoodie message!

[@IowaKim]

How about a remote starter? Imagine waking up in the morning and starting the vehicle from your bed and letting it warm you up?

[@IowaKim]

VANCITY VANLIFE good point. 😎

[@TxMx214]

Idling is bad for your van anyways, on these engines 1hour idle time is equivalent to around 31miles, and yes too much idle time is like 200,000 miles, but then again ford engines are very tough.

[@fightdhr8866]

Id go back to sleep and wake up cold and out of gas.;) Good idea though...And try discussing that idle time into miles deal when im freezing..lol..But i agree with it though..Them dam van are some heat mongrels...Maybe take the dog box off and cuddle up with the engine..All that heat would come back and out...Keep a good check on the fluids to..;) Roll Tide

[@NaomiEvolved]

Yeap! Thats what I have done to my SUV remote starter, just got to take the car back because they did not set up the alarm system correctly

[@BobbyFigliola]

@@TxMx214 cops cars , same engine ...sorta.. more radiator and fan constant on idle.... not to worry. First 15 on the highway....blow out buildup \

[@2avanman391]

Awesome video as usual. Thank you for taking the time to produce them and sharing with us!!I love Disco!!!

[@QCphlash]

Love the vids and how your learning as you go insted of a full renovation at once. Your adding stuff as you go. Keep it up bro

[@momashi69]

That's one advantage of having a setup as simple as yours, you can add things like insulation when you see that you need it. Honestly, that would have been the first thing I would have done but meh to each his own.

[@WereReallyRelayCamping]

in the uk climate the fibre insulation pulls moisture from the air, that turns to water in dirct contact with the steel and then rust/rot. if you use the stuff, then add a vapour barrier, plastic sheet glued sealed over the door/panel etc, winner, simple. once it looks like dexters kill room your ready to go...

[@F6HemiCharger]

Have you ever considered adding the factory rear heater/AC. Yeah it’s a bit expensive to put in but it would work really nicely. It would work with a wagon headliner for the vents.

[@claremonk6734]

Hey Chrome. Great to see your van build evolving. It's coming on nicely 👌

[@michele2855]

Disco is a great pillow lol. Loved the video. Stay warm Chrome. Thanks for sharing! 😎

[@acajudi100]

waiting for Jesus1 is it too cold for Disco, when left in the van?

[@randysimmons9838]

Here in florida its cooling the inside thats most important!

[@peterbrazeal7171]

Solid tips. It’s funny cause I have the same van but I have full interior insulation with all the windows and you have no windows but no interior insulation. A yin yang of what needs to be insulated. It gets cold quick in my glass house (it’s worth the view) ! Love ya bubs

[@libbyo3907]

LOL Great video. I heard those little buddy heaters are the bomb! Stay warm and keep smiling!

[@NOMADNEWSTV]

Dude, watching you VanDwellers makes me really glad I've got a CamperVan that came with central heating. Just turn on the thermostat and done. Also, being in Southern California with very moderate temps is a plus as well.

[@NOMADNEWSTV]

VANCITY VANLIFE sorry, Bro your struggle is real! Makes me thankful I went with a CamperVan instead of a cargo van was my point. Didn't mean to hit you with any negative though you're living, loving the VanLife that's all that matters

[@NOMADNEWSTV]

Marilyn Wisbey believe it or not a lot of people. LA is the 2nd largest city in North America. It would take three Vancouver's to make one LA.

[@windsongshf]

Keeps getting more crowded. It's the "perfect weather" syndrome...the closer to the Pacific ocean the more desirable. It's like the ocean is the rock star and So. Cal is the mosh pit, lol! Alas I'm stuck here (for now). :-)

[@bluecollarlit]

I imagine camper van living, following weather -- summer in northern Michigan, winter in southern Georgia. Removing Extreme Weather from my life, you know?

[@HamsterLife_EnglishLearning]

Educational content. Informative!! Your camera is a tell tale sign your probably a van dweller with a camera held out in front of you lol just having got out of it. But there was nobody outside around there may be someone at that moment looking out the window of the regular area's of parking. But by now you know what you're doing! Now it is time to grab a coffee you mentioning it in the video to do some more video binge.

[@12bitamigo]

Great channel dude, this is where its at for anyone starting out.I know because I went down the conversion route and ended using simple camping stuff similar to this with a new van, just threw it all in, simple bed, simple caming stove, big water container with tap, no complicated leisure battery which I didn't really need for the simple things I had, blah blah blah. BTW I don't know anyone has mentioned this but i would SERIOUSLY rethink using exposed fibreglass insulation like that. That suff is BAD news for lungs. A gust of wind opening the van door and you have fine particles of glass floating in your precious living space damaging you and Disco's lung flora. Believe me, I have worked with that s**t in the trade and I know how bad it is despite its good insulating properties. That aside, inspirational stuff! Peace

[@Mikeykaysuper]

I find dealing with the cold temps is always nicer than the heat .At least you can kick a heater on a bit and get some warm blankets for the cold .When it gets real hot like here in California it becomes impossible to live in or sleep in a truck without AC especially with 105 degrees like the other day .

[@glenwithonein]

Disco is the hero we need

[@Jane-nt3vy]

You are the real-ist!!! So glad I found your channel!!

[@CanadianLadyVanLife]

I love your channel. I have been following it since its beginning l. I have gotten my van to start van life but run into a problem. I have a leak and am now going to the mechanic to see if I need an engine or a gasket. I will keep posting about my build.

[@garrettbarnett2977]

hey Mr. Man. I frigin really like your videos. Soooo real!

[@TheGbortnick]

When I was younger and living in the woods I use to heat up water and put it in a Nalgene bottle or hot water heater worked well all night. Would b a lot cheaper than a new stove. We also use the single burner butane stove for cooking. Cheaper, lighter,smaller and easy setup for heating hot water bottle

[@griffinhjelm8992]

Been watching so much advice on this, this is the only video that's helped me so far

[@Alderbridge]

thank you for the video, I live in Vancouver too and thinking about living in the van. Your video is very inspirational with lots of detail information.

[@bevtrue6937]

SOME van lifers have tiny wood stoves but of course that messes with your insurance.... As we said, too, can turn on your cook stove and make a nice big pot of soup or stew. Of course a toasty sleeping bag is key.

[@sgbradley]

I have a mini cubic woodstove and with plenty of branches around it give high heat. I have the stove behind driving seat mounted on the wall of the van.

[@abefrohman1759]

Bulldog farts are a moist heat source.

[@MelissaJohnson23408]

Thanks I never knew that.!!!

[@sonnymoon6465]

trick to that is to feed them popcorn before bed !

[@davemacpherson4752]

😂😂😂

[@SoldierCapital]

Feed em Hormel Chili

[@peteraston8937]

Propex heater very good and easy to install , great videos

[@JT-py9lv]

I lived in Canada 30 years ago. There were a lot of places that had hook ups for block heaters. I new someone that was living in a truck & camper. Would use the free electricity to run electric coffee pots, micro wave ovens, electric skillets etc. In the winter time they would hook it up to a 1500w electric space heater with a thermostat. I know you're in the lower mainland of BC, and there probably are no hook ups for block heaters... But it was a thought.

[@wolfsmith2865]

ON my 04 Chevy express van, I have a thick denim layer followed by styro insulation board, followed by reflectix and then plastic shower wall board covered by speaker cabinet carpet on the walls. Very good heat insulation, (I live in Tucson, is was still 94 last week) so I know it will hold up to cold with a small electric heater . I am going to fiberglass an extended height roof for mine. I have a bad back, I can't be bent over in my van.

[@evoogold5172]

Great info but do u still get humid condensation while inside since body creates moisture?

[@wolfsmith2865]

@@evoogold5172 some, but this can be mitigated with a small dehumidifier or some ventilation.

[@kodeywhitewolf4056]

You did a great job with the insulation..Van shaping up nice

[@ramvanbobby3889]

iam going to try that running my van with the heater for a bit see how warm I can get it I already have a Mr buddy it works but it gets to moisty inside all my insulation is from the 80s my van is ol skool I need to update all that every little bit helps this propex heater sounds interesting thank you chrome for another great video god bless you peace brother stay safe

[@ramvanbobby3889]

VANCITY VANLIFE OK I'll look that one up thanx bro peace have a beautiful day give disco a hug for me :)

[@michellestone8238]

the moisture may make your head liner fall down. may think of small tacks or twist in upholster tacks > i cant wait to see your neck of the woods . be safe out there n have a ball doin it !

[@Mr-hz6jz]

WOW I’m glad we do not get those temperatures here, but the most important thing is, you and disco are warm 👍🏾

[@genericbugone5475]

Some of that silver insulation under your mattress will make it nice and toasty.

[@CaseyFinSF]

Foil side should be UP. SECOND LAYER IS WHEN YOU FACE IT DOWN. I have the same stuff on my roof. Foil up, and foil down. I then spent 40 bucks at Amazon for a roll of 3/8 inch Mylar padding, which is foil on both sides. I attached it and the boards with 3M Spray upholstery glue. And it looks cool too. I put it up between the ribs, and sealed all cracks with real metal ducking tape, about 8 bucks a roll at Lowe's, 2 rolls max. Roof vent is very important to keep condensation down. That's all I got for you today. You're right about not to expect it to be toasty all the time. Carpeting also helps a lot too.

[@BryanLankston]

This is a big advantage of living in Florida. If and when I get to do this I won’t have to worry about freezing because it never gets that cold down here.

[@TxMx214]

Watching your videos makes me want to buy an econoline van, just like yours. Specially for when I have to go out of town for work it would be perfect.

[@vindicator2011]

...interesting to watch these ol videos

[@kencarey3477]

I plan to move with the seasons

[@susancheveralllong7694]

Get a large "Emergency foil blankets" also known as a space blankets! You can put that inside your quilt cover on top of quilt. Just adding to the tog value of your quilt?

[@jeremydeane7057]

You rock! It's 0 out here in VA and I think you're right about runungthe vans air b4 bed. It cuts down big time on the condensation

[@mashahwhitecloud5226]

I just got a 95 Ford E250, I had a 2003 Windstar, but I love the van I have now. My van is like yours, but I am going to use Wool Mineral Insulation, which is way better, and it's cheaper, then I'm going to put paneling like my dad did to his 78 cargo van

[@mariaisabelkrause2347]

I am saving to live that way Thank you ❤️❤️❤️🇨🇦🇵🇪

[@sjr7822]

37 F I've used that thin fold foam insulation , it's good for so many projects

[@PloppyPaul]

I've been full timing for some years now, a propex heater will kill you 12v batteries so make sure you have a 12v sterling power battery to battery charger so you can quickly recharge your battery bank....love your videos top man just behind Justin credible for view ability

[@PloppyPaul]

A Free and Simple Life ...yes but it will still need 12 to power the fan that blows the hot air around...that said your van is small so might not need it on that much unlike here in the UK ....I use a webasto dual top diseal heater that taps into the campers engine fuel tank, so just one type of fuel to carry

[@Raykenn1]

Seems like every time I ask a question on another of your videos, a video pops up answering the very question. It must be an algorithm you tube employs. BTW - watch for moisture build up in the open fiberglass that could lead to mold and rust problems. Have a good day.

[@socaloutdoors7355]

Dude, ur thumbs up ratio compared to your thumbs down is consistently on point!

[@iraidalopez3598]

Hi! I live in the tropic but is good to learn from your experience, good advice ,maybe one day i'm going to need it.