Keeping Condensation in Check

Keeping 

Condensation

in Check

Staying in an RV requires paying attention to some things that you normally don't have to worry about as much as you would in a home with a permanent foundation.  One of these worrisome tasks is keeping the air moisture level low enough to avoid condensation. Moisture control can be easily accomplished with roof vents and a dehumidifier, but just as easily forgotten.

Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• Moisture inside an RV will condense in cooler weather if not controlled.
• Condensation can produce enough water to cause damage to walls and ceilings.
• You can reduce moisture by running exhaust fans, especially while showering or cooking as well as running a dehumidifier.
• In cooler weather (generally under 45 degrees), it may be necessary to always leave a small window or vent open.
• In cool/cold weather, check those areas of your RV that receive minimal circulation, for signs of condensation.

In the heat of the summer, it's easier to keep moisture under control.  This is because you will more than likely have your air conditioner and fans running to beat the heat.  However, when the weather begins to turn cooler, you may start to notice wet spots on the composite board of walls, next to stationary furniture, in the far corners of closets/cabinets and other places where air circulation is poor.

Most of the time, when people see these wet spots, they assume that they have a leak in the slide or in an exterior wall.  While this can be true, many times it is condensation.  A well-sealed fiberglass unit can even exacerbate the collection of condensation.

Running a ceiling fan during showering and the stove hood fan during cooking will help immensely. You can have an added sense of security by running a dehumidifier as well. While some RV humidifiers are large and need to be set on a counter with a hose that will drain into the sink, there are many mini models out there now a well.  They are  self-contained and can be placed almost anywhere there is an outlet.  Because they are small, they will run almost constantly. Some find the "white noise"  to be relaxing, especially at night.  Even with a dehumidifier in place, you will still nee to run the exhaust fans while showering and cooking.  

When using your RV in the warm weather, be prepared for condensation in cooler weather and take the measures you need to keep those pesky water droplets in check.