How to Keep Moisture Out of Your RV During Winter
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Whether you’re planning on traveling in your RV camper or keeping it stored during the winter, this time of year can also cause condensation damage in your travel trailer if you aren’t properly prepared. The season brings chilly temperatures, low humidity levels, and less sunlight. While these weather elements provide plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors, you’ll want to abide by the proper maintenance to protect your RV. This article will provide you with essential tips on how to keep moisture out of your RV in winter, ensuring your RV camper stays dry and warm throughout the cold weather.
What Causes RV Condensation During Winter?
Condensation in an RV during winter occurs when warm, moist air inside the RV meets the cold surfaces of the RV walls, windows, and roof. This process can be accelerated by activities such as cooking, showering, and even breathing. When warm air hits these cold surfaces, the moisture in the air cools and condenses, forming water droplets. The enclosed nature of RVs and winter travel trailers makes it difficult for this moisture to escape, leading to a buildup of condensation.
Why is Condensation Damaging to An RV?
Condensation and moisture buildup can cause significant damage to your RV in winter. Excessive moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can be harmful to your health and cause unpleasant odors. It can also damage the RV’s interior, including the walls, ceiling, furniture, and electronics. Over time, this moisture can weaken the structure of the RV, leading to costly repairs. Therefore, learning how to keep moisture out of your RV during winter is crucial for maintaining its longevity and comfort.
10 Ways to Keep Moisture Out of Your RV During Winter
1. Get Custom RV Skirting
Custom RV skirting is essential for keeping moisture out of your RV and keeping the camper warm during winter. Skirting provides an insulating barrier around the base of your RV, reducing the amount of cold air that can seep in from underneath. This helps to maintain a more consistent interior temperature, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming on cold surfaces inside the RV. Additionally, skirting can prevent snow and ice from accumulating under your RV, which can contribute to moisture issues.
2. Use a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is one of the most effective tools for managing moisture levels inside your RV in winter. It works by extracting excess moisture from the air, thereby reducing humidity levels. Lower humidity means less moisture available to condense on cold surfaces, which helps prevent condensation-related problems such as mold and mildew. Portable dehumidifiers are easy to use and can be moved around your RV to target specific areas where moisture tends to accumulate.
3. Use RV Roof Vents and Fans
Using RV roof vents and fans is another excellent way to keep moisture out of your RV during winter. Roof vents allow moist air to escape from the RV, while fans help to circulate the air inside. This combination prevents the buildup of humidity, especially in areas where steam and moisture are common, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Keeping vents slightly open, even in cold weather, helps to maintain adequate ventilation and reduce condensation.
4. Increase Air Flow
Increasing air flow throughout your RV can significantly reduce moisture buildup. Ensure that air can circulate freely by keeping interior doors and cabinets open, especially in areas prone to moisture accumulation like closets and storage spaces. Using small fans to promote air movement in these areas can also help. Good airflow prevents the stagnation of humid air and promotes even distribution of heat, both of which are crucial for reducing condensation.
5. Avoid Hanging Things to Dry Indoors
Hanging wet clothes or towels inside your RV can dramatically increase indoor humidity levels. Instead, try to dry your items outside whenever possible, or use a designated drying area in a bathhouse. If drying indoors is unavoidable, make sure to ventilate the area well by using fans and opening vents to allow the moisture to escape quickly.
6. Protect Your RV Mattresses
RV mattresses are particularly susceptible to moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. To prevent this, use a moisture barrier or mattress protector. These products create a protective layer that prevents moisture from reaching the mattress, keeping it dry and extending its lifespan. Additionally, lifting the mattress periodically to allow air circulation underneath can help prevent moisture from getting trapped.
7. Keep The Closet Open
Closets and storage areas are often overlooked when it comes to moisture control. Keeping these spaces open allows for better air circulation, which helps to prevent the buildup of humidity and condensation. Consider installing small vents or fans in closets to further enhance airflow and reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
8. Keep Roof Vents Cracked
Even in cold weather, keeping your roof vents slightly cracked can be beneficial. This small opening allows humid air to escape from the RV, reducing the overall moisture level inside. It might seem counterintuitive to open vents in the winter, but proper ventilation is key to preventing condensation and maintaining a dry, comfortable environment in your RV.
9. Skip the Propane Furnace
Propane furnaces are a popular heating option for RVs, but they can produce a significant amount of moisture. If possible, use an electric heater instead, which provides warmth without adding humidity to the air. Electric heaters are available in various sizes and types, making it easy to find one that suits your RV’s heating needs without contributing to moisture problems.
10. Use the Bathhouse More Often
Using the bathhouse for showers and other water-related activities can significantly reduce the amount of moisture introduced into your RV. Bathhouses are designed to handle high humidity levels, whereas RVs are not. By showering and drying off in a bathhouse, you can keep the humidity levels inside your RV much lower, helping to prevent condensation and moisture-related issues.
How to Detect Signs of Moisture
Detecting moisture buildup early can save you from extensive damage. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Condensation on windows: Persistent fogging or water droplets on windows indicate high humidity levels.
- Mold or mildew: Look for black or green spots, especially in corners, closets, and under mattresses.
- Musty odors: A musty smell is often a sign of mold or mildew growth.
- Dampness: Feel for dampness on walls, ceilings, and floors, particularly around windows and vents.
- Water stains: Brown or yellow stains on the walls or ceiling can indicate moisture intrusion.
Ensure a Dry and Cozy RV This Winter with Custom Skirting
Don’t let moisture and the cold weather ruin your winter RV travel trailer adventures. At Custom Skirting, we specialize in crafting custom RV skirting solutions that redefine protection and convenience. Our skilled team will blueprint and custom-tailor your RV skirting right on-site, ensuring a precise fit that enhances both aesthetics and functionality.
Our “No-Snap, No-Gap” channel system stands as a testament to our innovation, sealing out water and snow while offering superior wind resistance that outperforms all others on the market. Our skirting has been rigorously tested and improved over a decade, enduring harsh winters across the northern United States and Canada. Plus, its user-friendly design allows for quick setup by just one person in an hour, and it’s easy to pack up and take with you on your next adventure.
When you choose Custom Skirting, you’re choosing unrivaled quality, durability, and convenience for your RV. Protect your investment and enjoy a moisture-free, warm winter in your RV. Contact us today to book your custom skirting solution and keep moisture out of your RV this winter!