RV FAQ's & Tips: Condensation

This section of the web site is a collection of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) and Tips about RV's and the RVing lifestyle.

What are common sources of air moisture in an RV?

The following are the most common sources of air moisture:

• Humidity outside the RV
• Showering and bathing
• Steam produced by cooking
• Water vapor as byproduct of burning propane
• Exhaled air by people and pets

Steps to reducing condensation

The precise conditions under which condensation will form varies due to numerous factors, such as: outside & inside temperature differential, size of recreational vehicle (air volume), ambient humidity, number of occupants and their living habits, etc.

To reduce condensation, take one or more of the following steps:

• Run a ceiling exhaust fan while showering
• Run the stove hood exhaust fan to expel moisture caused by cooking
• Run a dehumidifier
• Leave closet doors open to prevent condensation in corners
• Leave cabinets and drawers slightly open to prevent condensation on back walls
• Use a fan to circulate air in trouble spots

Under extreme conditions it may not be possible to completely eliminate condensation. In those cases make it a point to wipe down wet surfaces with a dry towel and consider adding insulation to the affected areas, if possible.

For a narrative on how we discovered and dealt with condensation, see RV Moisture Control.