12 Tips for Leaving your RV in Summer Heat & Humidity
Summer is quickly approaching and the humidity is on the way! I was recently asked by a customer here at The Tides for some tips on, “Do you have any tips on leaving an RV here for the summer?” It can definitely be a nerve-wracking thought, but using these tips can help settle your concerns and minimize unwanted surprises upon your return. Hope this helps!
1. Run the A/CThis is your very best way to keep the humidity out of your RV. Humidity + RV = NOT GOOD! Humidity is our enemy, but by running your A/C you will have your best chance to get through the hot summer months.
2. Run a dehumidifierThe smaller-sized ones on the market do a great job. I recommend one that has a drain hose to keep it functioning smoothly throughout the summer. You can run the drain to a sink or depending on your rig, you can set it up to run in your tub base.
3. Use Charcoal or Silica AbsorbersThese can be found online but you can even find them in products you buy from the store. We keep these whenever we get them and re-use them. They are small but every little bit helps…plus they are free!
4. Run a small fan for circulationEven a small/medium size fan can do wonders for air circulation.
5. Keep your window shades downKeeping the sunlight out will help your A/C and dehumidifiers run more efficiently. If the humidity does not enter, you won’t have to figure out how to get it out. The best option is using a product like Reflectix® but can be a little unsightly.
6. Use Quart-size Freezer Bags!Wait…what? Yes, freezer bags can be your friend in helping keep humidity and critters out of your RV. Fill freezer bags with water and seal them tight. Lay them across each sink and tub drain in the RV. This will make an air tight seal that will help protect your RV.
7. Increase Mattress Air-flowMost of us have our mattress laying on a bare piece of plywood. Tip your mattress to an angle, or add a product to increase air-flow underneath.
8. Crack Open Cabinets, Cupboards and Drawers*Have you ever opened a cabinet door and it felt much warmer inside? Humidity is trapped inside and needs to be released. This goes back to the thought of having good air circulation in your RV. By letting the humidity out of cabinets and drawers, it allows your AC and dehumidifiers to do their job. * Caution: Only open those that can safely be used without obstructing slide use.
9. Have Your Roof/Slide Seals Inspected Humidity can get in to your RV in many ways. When was the last time you had your slide seals and roof inspected? If they are brittle or have a tear in them, it can be a source of moisture entry.
10. Have a Reliable, Tested Surge Protector.We take the surge protector for granted. We plug it in and forget about it. Have it tested to be sure it’s in good running order. I cannot stress the importance of this enough.
11. Utilize Security CamerasIf you have the capability, it’s a good idea to be able to check-in on how your RV is doing by using a security camera. Sure, you won’t know the temperature inside but it will give you peace of mind being able to see your rig.
12. Have a friend check on your RV periodicallyLastly, if you have a trusted friend who will be braving the summer rains and heat, ask them to check-in on your RV periodically. If any issues arise, they can get a hold of you right away.
I hope these tips have been helpful to you. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance. Of course, no one method is infallible, but combined they can minimize your risk of damage. Please feel free to share any additional tips you use.