Protect Yourself Against A Cold and Moldy Winter
11-24-2017
Author: in We Wander Wherever
The cold weather is here to stay, and those of us who are brave enough to be staying in our RVs are taking all the precautions we can to keep our rigs in good shape throughout the chilly season.
From placing skirting around the bottoms of RVs to having space heaters aimed at pipes, there are many ways winter campers protect their tiny homes from cold weather. However, many RVers forget to consider mold.
Mold is sneaky, and can easily creep in the nooks and crannies of your rig when you aren’t paying attention. This can happen at any time—and is especially likely if you have a leak—but winter is a time when mold tends to pop up even in the most waterproof RVs.
The reason for this is condensation, meaning it is crucial that you keep the condensation in your RV in check this winter. You will also want to be very wary at all times, watching for any and all signs of mold growth.
Here are the steps my family takes each winter in order to prevent this common issue.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
First and foremost, you will want to invest in a dehumidifier. This should be run enough to keep the relative humidity between 30% and 50%. Be sure to empty the water container often—it will fill quickly!
Install Reflectix
Reflectix is a simple, reflective material that many RVers put in their windows as added insulation. This stuff is great during the summer for blocking out heat, but also works well in winter for keeping heat in and reducing moisture at the same time. Simply cut to size and use hook-and-loop fasteners to keep the shiny product in place.
Crack a Window
Sometimes the dehumidifier just can't keep up. If you find this is the case for you, consider cracking a window when you notice excessive condensation. The outside air will help balance things out and keep the moisture in check.
Use Vent Fans
In addition to cracking windows when things get especially wet, it also helps to use vent fans during especially humid activities such as cooking and showering. If you can't stand to run the fan while you shower, consider using the campground bathhouse instead.
Put Out Damp Rid
A nifty product that literally absorbs moisture out of the air, Damp Rid is the perfect solution for moist corners and cabinets. Simply place the open container in the humid area and allow it to do its thing. This will need to be replaced from time to time.
Watch for Mold
Finally, be sure to keep an eye out for mold. Watch under mattresses, near windows, inside of cabinets, and in any little corners or nooks. These are the places where mold likes to hang out, and therefore, the places you are most likely to find the stuff.
I hope these tips help you keep nasty, destructive mold out of your RV while still enjoying the cold in your tiny home-on-wheels. Enjoy the lovely wintery weather!
From placing skirting around the bottoms of RVs to having space heaters aimed at pipes, there are many ways winter campers protect their tiny homes from cold weather. However, many RVers forget to consider mold.
Mold is sneaky, and can easily creep in the nooks and crannies of your rig when you aren’t paying attention. This can happen at any time—and is especially likely if you have a leak—but winter is a time when mold tends to pop up even in the most waterproof RVs.
The reason for this is condensation, meaning it is crucial that you keep the condensation in your RV in check this winter. You will also want to be very wary at all times, watching for any and all signs of mold growth.
Here are the steps my family takes each winter in order to prevent this common issue.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
First and foremost, you will want to invest in a dehumidifier. This should be run enough to keep the relative humidity between 30% and 50%. Be sure to empty the water container often—it will fill quickly!
Install Reflectix
Reflectix is a simple, reflective material that many RVers put in their windows as added insulation. This stuff is great during the summer for blocking out heat, but also works well in winter for keeping heat in and reducing moisture at the same time. Simply cut to size and use hook-and-loop fasteners to keep the shiny product in place.
Crack a Window
Sometimes the dehumidifier just can't keep up. If you find this is the case for you, consider cracking a window when you notice excessive condensation. The outside air will help balance things out and keep the moisture in check.
Use Vent Fans
In addition to cracking windows when things get especially wet, it also helps to use vent fans during especially humid activities such as cooking and showering. If you can't stand to run the fan while you shower, consider using the campground bathhouse instead.
Put Out Damp Rid
A nifty product that literally absorbs moisture out of the air, Damp Rid is the perfect solution for moist corners and cabinets. Simply place the open container in the humid area and allow it to do its thing. This will need to be replaced from time to time.
Watch for Mold
Finally, be sure to keep an eye out for mold. Watch under mattresses, near windows, inside of cabinets, and in any little corners or nooks. These are the places where mold likes to hang out, and therefore, the places you are most likely to find the stuff.
I hope these tips help you keep nasty, destructive mold out of your RV while still enjoying the cold in your tiny home-on-wheels. Enjoy the lovely wintery weather!
Related Tags:Chelsea Barron
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Author: Chelsea Barron
