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How To Stop Condensation In Your Caravan
Have you found your caravan turning into a mobile rainforest during recent trips? Are you waking up to more moisture than when one of our epic Queensland storms is getting ready to hit? If so, it’s time to wage war on condensation and keep your home-on-wheels as dry as the Simpson Desert. Let’s learn how to stop condensation in your caravan, no matter its size or location.
Just Say No to Caravan Condensation
Before we dive into the solutions, though, let’s look at why condensation is more troublesome than a mozzie in your swag and is something you want gone ASAP:
- Mould and Mildew: These fungi are like unwanted hitchhikers, ready to set up camp in your damp caravan, and they tend to spring from too much moisture in a space. They’re not just unsightly; they can be harmful to your health, too.
- Damage to Your Beloved Van: Excess moisture can lead to rot, rust, and deterioration of your caravan’s structure. It’s like watching your prized possession melt away like a Tim Tam in the sun! The less condensation in your van, the happier both it and you will be.
- Stinky Situations: Damp caravans often develop musty odours, which is really no fun, especially when you’re trying to chill out in more compact spaces!
- Electrical Hazards: Water and electricity mix about as well as Vegemite and chocolate. Condensation near electrical fittings can be downright dangerous, so is something to avoid accumulating whenever possible.
- Comfort Concerns: Damp bedding and furnishings can make your caravan about as cosy as a soggy sandwich, which is definitely going to put a “dampener” on your grand adventures.
So, now that we know condensation is about as welcome as a shark at a beach party, let’s get cracking on how to show it the door!
Let’s Get Ventilated
One of the key aspects of saying goodbye to caravan condensation is ventilation. Remember: your caravan needs to breathe easier than a barramundi in a QLD dam. Here’s how to help make that happen:
- Crack open those windows, even just a smidge, to let the air circulate.
- Invest in some whirlybird roof vents. They’re like little helicopter additions for your van! You can contact us for a quote for this and other caravan updates.
- When you use the shower, close the door so that the steam doesn’t go through the whole caravan.
- Use extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom, too. They’re not just for getting rid of the smell after your burnt snags, but will also help to keep your van better ventilated.
Temperature Tango: Hot, Cold, and Just Right
Playing Goldilocks with your caravan’s temperature isn’t just for comfort – it’s a condensation killer. Here are some tips to keep caravan condensation at bay:
- Avoid dramatic temperature changes wherever possible. Your caravan isn’t a soap opera, so keep the drama to a minimum! A more consistent temperature will reduce condensation throughout your van or RV.
- Use a dehumidifier in your van, too. It’s like a water-sucking superhero for the space.
- In winter, it pays to keep a low level of heat on constantly in your home-on-wheels. When the temperature is low but humidity is still around, as we often have here in Queensland, condensation can build up. If you boost the temp, though, this should help.
Hang It Out to Dry
Drying laundry inside your caravan? That’s a bigger no-no than putting pineapple on a meat pie! Here’s the drill:
- Always dry your clothes outside. Your caravan isn’t a clothesline on wheels and you’ll notice a big difference if you keep wet clothes and towels from hanging around inside it.
- Invest in a good quality clothesline or airer that you can set up outside – a portable, fold-up version is best.
- If the weather’s being a bit of a galah, such as during summer storm season in Queensland, use a local laundromat or caravan park facilities to dry your goods.
Service with a Smile (and a Wrench)
Regular servicing isn’t just for your trusty SUV or ute – your caravan needs some TLC over the years, too! Regular caravan servicing is important because it will ensure you’re able to address any issues before they become bigger and more costly problems.
- Get your caravan serviced regularly to check for any leaks or seal issues. We offer a comprehensive caravan health check that’s a great place to start.
- Make sure your gas appliances are working efficiently. Burning gas produces water vapour, so inefficient appliances lead to more condensation.
- Check and replace any worn weather stripping around doors and windows, too.
Extra Tips to Keep the Drops at Bay
To stop condensation in your caravan, here are a few extra, condensation-busting tips:
- Cook with lids on your pots and pans.
- Add some moisture absorbers around your van or RV. These can help reduce condensation both when you’re on the road and when your mobile home is being stored.
- Use a squeegee or cloth on walls and windows in the morning to remove any condensation that’s built up overnight.
Take Action Today
By following these tips, you’ll be driving condensation out of your caravan before you know it. In the battle against condensation, you’re not just fighting the good fight – you’re fighting the dry fight!
A well-maintained caravan is your best defence against the dreaded drip. For trusted caravan servicing on the Gold Coast and in surrounding areas, get in touch with our friendly team. Book a free onsite quote for any service, repair, or update requirements. Then, go forth, stay dry, and enjoy your explorations!