RV Moisture Control Tips

As September approaches, people in other parts of the country are gearing up for temperatures to start dropping and autumn weather to set in. But if you’re a Floridian, you know that the hot, humid days and late summer rainstorms will persist for a while longer. That’s why it’s important to take the proper steps to protect your RV from moisture. If not properly controlled, condensation and dampness can cause mold to form in your RV. Mold can usually be detected if you notice a musty odor in the rig, or if you uncover visible discoloration or damp spots on the walls, ceiling, floor, or the inside of cabinets. The good news is that today’s RVs are better insulated and more energy efficient than ever before. The bad news is that there is less natural air circulation, which means that even small amounts of moisture can cause damage to your rig. Reducing moisture and condensation in your rig is easy with these simple tips:

• Maintain the proper humidity levels – Relative humidity inside the RV should be between 30 and 50 percent. Using a digital dehumidifier that tracks the humidity levels inside the vehicle can be a good way to monitor these levels while reducing moisture in the air. The installation of moisture absorbers in warm, closed areas such as inside cabinets and drawers can also help.
• Reduce condensation – Since many RVs have single pane windows instead of double pane windows, it’s far easier for condensation to form on the windows than it would be for it to form on the windows of a brick and mortar home. Reduce window condensation by installing insulators on the insides of windows and ensuring that all window seals are airtight.
• Install extractor fans – Extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen can help to extract moisture and odor from the air. Be sure to run the fans when showering or cooking on the stove. High-quality roof vent extractor fans can help keep the rig’s interior dry.
• Monitor outdoor temperatures – During the summer, RV air conditioning helps to maintain both temperature and moisture levels inside the rig. However, when cooler temperatures start to set in, condensation will quickly form on the windows. Try cracking a window or increasing the interior temperature of the RV to reduce moisture buildup.
• Use your vents – All too often, people forget to take advantage of RV vents. However, when showering, cooking, drying clothes, or doing other activities that can release moisture into the air, it is essential that you open these vents to allow air circulation.

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