Condensation & Moisture

Unlike a home which can be thousands of square feet in size, your RV is much smaller. The relatively small volume and tight compact construction of modern RV's means that the normal living activities of even a few occupants (or animals) may lead to rapid moisture saturation of the air contained in the RV. Estimates indicate that a family of four can vaporize up to three gallons of water daily through breathing, cooking, bathing and washing. Unless the water vapor is carried outside by ventilation or condensed by a dehumidifier, it may condense on the inside of the RV. It may condense out of sight inside cabinets, closets, etc. where the air temperature may be slightly different. This may not only cause damage to your RV but also your personal belongings.

TIPS TO AVOID CONDENSATION
  • When bathing, washing dishes, hair-drying, laundering, cooking, and using appliances and non-vented gas burners, always turn on the nearest exhaust fan. Keep the bathroom door closed and the vent open (if equipped, exhaust fan on) when bathing/showering and for a period of time after you have finished.
  • Do not hang wet clothes in the coach to dry. In hot weather, start the air conditioner early as it removes excess humidity from the air while lowering the temperature. Manage the inside temperature during cold weather.
  • The higher inside temperature along with colder outside temperatures may cause condensation to form on areas that are not insulated as well as others (windows, vents, wall studs, etc).
  • Poor air circulation inside the RV may cause condensation to form inside closets and cabinets. Allow air to circulate inside closets and cabinets (leave doors partially open) so the temperature inside the cabinet is the same as in the rest of the RV. Please keep in mind that a closed cabinet full of stored goods prevents circulation and may cause condensation.
  • The natural tendency is to close the vehicle tightly during cold weather. This may actually compound the problem. Simply put, you need to get the moisture in the air, that is created from normal use, outside. The most effective way to do this is to utilize your vents and vent fans.

If the tips presented here are not effective in controlling condensation, it may be necessary for you to invest in a dehumidifier. Please be sure to visit the “Owners” section at https://www.keystonerv.com/owners/, where we have supplied you with a variety of helpful resources, including FAQs and “How To” videos, to assist in our goal of providing you with the Ultimate Owner Experience.

WHERE THERE IS MOISTURE, THERE MAY BE MOLD

Molds, which are pollutants, are microscopic organisms that naturally occur in virtually every environment, indoors and out. Outdoors, mold growth is important in the decomposition of plants. Indoors, mold growth is unfavorable. Left unchecked, molds break down natural materials such as fabrics and wood products.

For mold growth to occur temperatures must be between 40 degrees and 100 degrees Fahrenheit and there must be a source of moisture such as humidity, standing water, damp materials, etc. Indoors, the most rapid growth occurs with warm and humid conditions.

By controlling relative humidity (moisture), the growth of mold and mildew can be inhibited. Here are some tips for you to consider:

  • In warm climates, use of the air conditioner will reduce the relative humidity. - Opening vents and operating exhaust fans when introducing high levels of moisture to the inside of the RV (bathing, showering, cooking, washing dishes. etc.) will help control the environment needed for mold to grow.
  • Clean any spills immediately.
  • Avoid leaving damp towels, clothes, etc. to dry inside the RV.
  • On safe surfaces, use mold or mildew-killing cleaning products.
  • Check sealants regularly and reseal when necessary to avoid water leaks. Proper preventative maintenance to the RV and its accessories, as described both in this manual and in accompanying literature, will provide the best protection for your RV.
  • In extreme conditions, a dehumidifier may be necessary.