How Can You Stop Condensation in a Motorhome?

It’s great getting away in your motorhome. The chance to explore new places but move on to another one at a moment’s notice gives you a sense of freedom you just don’t get with other holidays. That sudden movement can be disrupted though when you notice the condensation has reared its head again and made your motorhome not quite as enticing as you first hoped.

Luckily, there are ways you can stop it and continue making your motorhome like your house on wheels.

Let’s dive in.

When does condensation occur?

Condensation occurs when warm air hits a cold surface. This sees moisture appearing which then covers windows, doors and any other cool surfaces the warmer air may make contact with.

You’ll see it frequently in more enclosed spaces. With less room for the air to dissipate, it becomes easier for it to find a surface to call home. This means your motorhome can be a prime area for condensation to cause havoc. With breathing, cooking, bathing and more all taking place, the humid air finds itself in contact with your windows, doors and more.

What will cause condensation to occur in my motorhome?

As you’ll have seen above, condensation occurs when warm air hits a cold or cooler surface. Now think about what takes place in your motorhome.

Cooking, showering, breathing, talking, washing up. All see moisture expelled which then lands upon a cool surface. Condensation then forms. Add in damp clothes, wet towels and more and pretty much any aspect of your day could lead to condensation in the motorhome.

Sometimes though, it’s nothing to do with you directly. The motorhome itself may not be in its best condition. Poor insulation, inadequate seals and leaks can all cause moisture to make its way in and cause condensation to appear.

What kind of damage can condensation cause to my motorhome?

Condensation should be tackled as soon as possible. Excess moisture that isn’t dealt with immediately can cause long-term problems that could lead to not only cosmetic and structural issues with your motorhome but health issues too. Sometimes though, it’s an invisible problem. You might clean off the condensation each day, but where do you put the cloth you cleaned the window with?  It still harbours moisture, and it will still want somewhere to go.

As a result, you might not notice anything until any of the following becomes evident.

• Mould patches: Mould will appear where there is a lack of ventilation and show that moisture levels are excessive. Untreated, they will spread fast and can cause damage to the décor and your health.
• A distinct smell: You might not be able to see anything to indicate moisture or condensation, but you might be able to smell it. If there is a musty smell in your motorhome, there is a lack of airflow somewhere.
• Black spots: Black spots are the first signs of mould. They will grow fast and turn into the patches we mentioned earlier. They will damage the surfaces they come into contact with and possibly lead to health issues for you too.

How can I stop condensation and moisture in my motorhome?

There are a few things you can do to stop condensation in your motorhome. Some are simple common sense. Others might require a little more work. Let’s take a look.

Improve the ventilation

As mentioned earlier, condensation stems from warm air making contact with colder surfaces. Why not give the air somewhere else to go? Use roof vents, windows and doors to improve airflow. Think about this especially when cooking or using the bathroom. If you open windows on opposite sides of the motorhome, the air from outside can pass through and take the moisture with it.

Dry your items outside

If you have wet towels or clothes, drying them inside is a surefire way to encourage condensation. Instead, set up an airer outside and allow the items to dry naturally.

Use extractor fans

If you have them, use them! Especially in the bathroom. The steam build-up from a shower can linger for a long time and eventually, that moisture will want to land somewhere. The extractor will suck it out and put it into the outside atmosphere, protecting your bathroom from mould. Remember, it is wise to wipe down any surfaces after showering too, this will stop moisture build-up.

Invest in dehumidifiers

Sometimes, it might not be possible to increase the airflow significantly. Perhaps it’s very cold outside and you don’t want the cold air coming in. Use a dehumidifier and it will pull the moisture out of the air by reducing the humidity. If you add a heater too, use it to increase the amount of dry heat. Just avoid propane heaters as they release water vapour which then delivers you the condensation conundrum again.

Keep up with maintenance and repairs

Your motorhome may have a few small signs of damage but these could lead to huge problems. Regularly check for leaks and inspect the roof, door and window seals and the extractors. If you find a problem, you need to remedy it fast. Leaving it could lead to massive problems that could cost loads to repair.

How do I stop condensation on the windscreen of my motorhome?

The windscreen is likely the prime area for condensation. It’s the largest piece of glass on the vehicle and therefore a perfect place for the hot air to call home. Common on cold nights, you could consider applying insulated covers to the inside of the windows. This will stop the warm air from reaching the cooler glass and, as a result, stop condensation from forming.

Shall I get a moisture meter?

You can do and it can definitely help. It will indicate how much moisture is within the motorhome and whether it likely needs addressing. Readings of below 15% are seen as good with anything higher meaning you should investigate further.

If you have been considering a motorhome purchase, use our tips to help keep your home on wheels in its best possible condition. You don’t just have to use our tips though; you can use our lending facility! We are among the leading direct lenders for motorhome finance in the UK. With affordable finance for new drivers as well as those with plenty of experience, we ensure everyone can get behind the wheel if they want to. We even offer finance to those with poor credit! Get your quote today and see how easy it can be to secure motorhome finance.