Protect your valuable camping equipment by reducing the places water and moisture see into your RV, travel trailer or pop up camper. Over time water and moisture causing mold and rot will damage the structure creating costly repairs. It's a good idea to use the following camping comfort tips before each travel season. There is nothing worse than finding the cause of the problem after you had to replace the floor boards and the carpet. Trust me; I've had personal experience on this one! This is what the EPA has to say about indoor mold.
The US Environmental Protection Agency states in their recent Energy Star article:
Mold, Mildew, or Musty Odors
"Diagnosis: A water leak or high humidity can lead to mold, mildew, or other biological growth. your house from the outside through a leak in your roof, foundation, or small gaps around windows or doors. Water can also come from inside your house from a leaking water pipe, toilet, shower or bathtub. daily living such as showering cooking, and drying clothes, can also be a source of mold, mildew, or musty odors. Indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% are ideal. "
Chasing leaks in the RV or travel trailer is no fun! We own a vintage, '77 Airstream and spent an entire travel season with wet carpet in the bedroom. We did not change our vacation schedule, but water problems did "dampen" our travel spirits. Every time it would rain, we would all groan, knowing we just added more work to our day; soaking up water out of the carpet and laundry for the towels afterwards. Post travel season we spent the winter removing walls, testing seals for leaks with a water hose and assessing water damage. We found five leaks, in various locations, but the water all traveled to one corner of the trailer. Aha! That's why all of our previous "fixes" had failed! There was a significant damage to the floor and we had to replace a third of the entire trailer's floor boards, along with the carpet. We have had a "dry" Airstream since, but we faithfully inspect the trailer each season for moisture and dampness so we can proactively address problems before they become destructive water / mold issues. We use several compact dehumidifiers to help us maintain a mold free trailer. No more damp stale smells, even after winter storage! I'm all about check lists with our Airstream! I hope this one will help you as much as it has us.
Reduce Indoor Humidity
RV Camping Comfort Top Tips:
1. Inspect and repair water pipes, toilet, bathtub or shower
2. Check and repair damaged or brittle window and vent seals
3. Inspect walls for evidence of hidden water problems annually
4. Inspect your roof annually, and seal if needed
5. Control moisture in your kitchen and bath with ventilation fans
6. Make sure refrigerator and air conditioner vents, typically vented outside, are clear of debris
7. Clean or replace all filters once a year
8. Professional inspection of your furnace and air conditioner ensures proper operation
9. Use moisture-thirsty micro-fiber cloths and towels whenever possible
10. Hang eva-dry E-500 High Capacity Humidifiers in closets, bathroom and any other small enclosed space (Even storage containers)
Reducing the places moisture collections keeps your camper from smelling damp, Promotes healthy air quality in your RV or trailer, and adds comfort to your travels.