Stopping RV inside condensation

Waking up to windows covered in condensation is no fun. Not only can’t you see outside, but cleaning them can be messy and tiring.

Condensation happens when the air in your RV has a high level of humidity and that warm, moist air meets a cold surface, such as an outside window. It’s important to keep condensation under control in your RV. Otherwise, you could develop a mold problem, experience wood rot, and even corrosion on metal parts, fixtures, and even appliances.

In normal conditions, condensation is created when water vapor becomes a liquid. Think of it as the opposite of evaporation.

Unlike a residential home, RV’s don’t include the same amount of insulation and rarely include double pane windows.

There are some ways you can combat this common problem, condensation:

Eliminate the source
There are many sources of condensation in your RV: Cooking that releases water vapor, hanging wet clothing or other laundry to dry, taking a hot shower, even breathing. Now, you can’t stop breathing nor taking showers, but you can open vents and fans during cooking or in the bathroom area. Another idea might be to use a campground’s or RV park’s shower house. If you can, use a dryer to dry your clothes or hang them outside.

Add window insulation
Do-it-yourself window insulation kits — this 3M version is a great option — are available at home improvement stores and online. Once installed, they create a barrier between the cold window glass and the humid air in your RV, reducing condensation.

Use moisture absorbers
These can be a tremendous help in reducing RV condensation. When placed in your RV, they will soak up a great amount of water vapor and humidity. One option is DampRid, however, be careful not to place these where children or pets can easily access them. Eva-Dry is a mini-dehumidifier that uses a rechargeable battery to remove moisture from the air in your RV.

Use a dehumidifier
Regular use of a dehumidifier can reduce levels of humidity in your RV without increasing the temperature. There are small, compact dehumidifiers designed specifically for RV camping. Pay attention to size, noise, energy efficiency, and capacity of the holding tank. Two great options are this one from Pro Breeze and this other one from Frigidaire.

Ventilate
Properly ventilating your RV can drastically reduce condensation. Again, open vents and use exhaust fans when possible. If you have a Fantastic Fan or Maxxair MaxxFan, keeping the hood open and the fan blowing out on low periodically may help to reduce humidity and condensation. Even keeping a couple of windows cracked may help to reduce the problem.

Wiping down surfaces
When you see condensation starting to form on windows and other surfaces in your RV, be sure to wipe them down with a cloth or paper towel.