This guide outlines important recommendations to manage moisture in your Airstream to avoid moisture-related damage, such as mold which is caused by moisture. The materials and methods used to construct your RV were selected in part to minimize air leakage and to create a weather tight exterior shell. However, in order to protect your investment and reduce the risk of moisture-related damage and costly repairs, attention and care has to be taken to manage moisture inside your RV.
This moisture management guide covers:
1.0 - Interior Care of Your RV
2.0 - Exterior Care of Your RV
3.0 - Use of Your RV
4.0 - Severe Environments
5.0 - Storage of Your RV
6.0 - Modifications to Your RV
7.0 - Wet Areas
8.0 - Additional Resources
These suggestions are intended to minimize moisture-related issues with your RV. To maintain the value of your investment, please read and follow your owner's manual and the suggestions provided in this guide. Contact Airstream Support if you have further questions!
1.0 - Interior Care of Your RV
2.0 - Exterior Care of Your RV
3.0 - Use of Your RV
4.0 - Severe Environments
5.0 - Storage of Your RV
6.0 - Modifications to Your RV
7.0 - Wet Areas
8.0 - Additional Resources
These suggestions are intended to minimize moisture-related issues with your RV. To maintain the value of your investment, please read and follow your owner's manual and the suggestions provided in this guide. Contact Airstream Support if you have further questions!
1.0 - Interior Care of Your RV
Signs of excessive moisture can be obvious, such as water droplets forming on surfaces or wet carpet.
Conversely, signs of excess moisture can be subtle, such as condensation forming on metal surfaces.
When symptoms appear it is important to timely determine the cause of the excess moisture and take
appropriate corrective action to prevent moisture related damage.
1.1 - Control Relative Humidity
Monitoring and controlling relative humidity within the RV is one of the most important steps to minimize the risk for moisture-related damage. Ideally, relative humidity should be at 60% or less. Relative humidity can be monitored utilizing a portable hygrometer, a small device that measures temperature and relative humidity. Hygrometers are available at electronics or building supply stores for approximately thirty dollars ($30).
Monitoring and controlling relative humidity within the RV is one of the most important steps to minimize the risk for moisture-related damage. Ideally, relative humidity should be at 60% or less. Relative humidity can be monitored utilizing a portable hygrometer, a small device that measures temperature and relative humidity. Hygrometers are available at electronics or building supply stores for approximately thirty dollars ($30).
Use exhaust fans, the air conditioner, and/or a portable dehumidifier to manage moisture inside the RV to maintain relative humidity at 60% or less. In cold climates, relative humidity may need to be at 35% or less to avoid window condensation issues.
If the RV is used the majority of the time in a hot-humid climate, it may be difficult to keep relative
humidity below 60%. A dehumidifier will help, but it is important to check the condensation (water)
collection bucket regularly or discharge the condensation (water) directly to a drain.
If the RV is used the majority of the time in a hot-humid climate, it may be difficult to keep relative
humidity below 60%. A dehumidifier will help, but it is important to check the condensation (water)
collection bucket regularly or discharge the condensation (water) directly to a drain.
1.2 - Avoid Drastic Thermostat Setbacks
Cooler surface temperatures increase the potential for condensation and surface mold growth. To
minimize the opportunity for condensation to form on interior surfaces, maintain a comfortable
temperature in your RV, and avoid nighttime setbacks of 10 degrees or more. Drastic setbacks that
reduce the indoor air temperature quickly can increase the chance for airborne moisture to condense on cool surfaces such as windows. If you are away from your RV for an extended number of days,
recommend that you do not set the temperature back without taking other measures to manage relative
humidity, including operating a dehumidifier with a continuous drain.
1.3 - Manage Window Condensations
Window condensation issues can be identified by water or ice-build up, usually at the base of the window. The majority of these problems can be addressed by managing moisture generated inside the RV. Minor condensation issues are not unusual, especially for RVs used in colder climates. The key is to manage this small amount of moisture if evident by wiping the surface, and as discussed in 1.1 above, maintaining a reasonable relative humidity within the unit.
Window condensation issues can be identified by water or ice-build up, usually at the base of the window. The majority of these problems can be addressed by managing moisture generated inside the RV. Minor condensation issues are not unusual, especially for RVs used in colder climates. The key is to manage this small amount of moisture if evident by wiping the surface, and as discussed in 1.1 above, maintaining a reasonable relative humidity within the unit.
To help minimize window condensation, use exhaust fans vented to the outside, avoid drastic changes in thermostat settings, do not use 'vent-free' heaters and use window coverings wisely. For example, make sure to open curtains or blinds during the day to allow air to circulate and warm the window surface.
1.4 - Carpet Care and Moisture Management
To keep your carpet serviceable and looking new for years to come, the carpet should be cleaned when it shows signs of discoloration or traffic patterns. A steam cleaning system should be used to clean the carpet unless otherwise noted in your owner's manual or warranty information. To manage moisture from the cleaning process, the cleaning system needs to be capable of extracting the excess water from the carpet after it has been cleaned. Important: Be sure the carpet is thoroughly dry before closing up the RV for storage. Water from the cleaning process can cause significant damage to the RV if the carpet is not completely dry before closing up the RV for an extended period.
1.5 - Cleaning Tile and Wood Floors
Please refer to your owner's manual or warranty information for cleaning instructions for the tile or wood floor installed in your RV. Most floors only require a mild detergent and warm water for cleaning. More water on the floor is not always better for cleaning. Use a damp cloth to clean on a regular basis rather than wet mopping each time.
1.6 - Storage & Other Isolated Areas within the RV
Storage areas are more difficult to condition since the areas are isolated from the main body of the RV.
The surfaces of these areas are more at risk for condensation and surface mold growth. To minimize this risk, clean storage areas regularly, and allow an air space between stored items and the exterior wall to promote air circulation.
Storage areas are more difficult to condition since the areas are isolated from the main body of the RV.
The surfaces of these areas are more at risk for condensation and surface mold growth. To minimize this risk, clean storage areas regularly, and allow an air space between stored items and the exterior wall to promote air circulation.
1.7 - Use of Unvented Combustion Equipment
Un-vented combustion equipment, such as propane stovetops is a source of moisture within the RV. For every gallon of fuel consumed, approximately one gallon of water vapor is evaporated into the air.
Whenever possible, operate an exhaust fan in combination with the use of any un-vented combustion
appliance within the RV. Water vapor and other combustion byproducts should be vented to the exterior of the RV. The RV owner should strictly follow use and maintenance instructions for safe operation of any combustion equipment, particularly unvented equipment.
Un-vented combustion equipment, such as propane stovetops is a source of moisture within the RV. For every gallon of fuel consumed, approximately one gallon of water vapor is evaporated into the air.
Whenever possible, operate an exhaust fan in combination with the use of any un-vented combustion
appliance within the RV. Water vapor and other combustion byproducts should be vented to the exterior of the RV. The RV owner should strictly follow use and maintenance instructions for safe operation of any combustion equipment, particularly unvented equipment.
2.0 - Exterior Care of Your RV
The exterior shell of the RV is the primary weather and moisture barrier. Over the life of the vehicle, the shell will require regular care and maintenance in accordance with the owner's manual. The shell includes the roof, sidewalls, windows, doors, and under-floor of the vehicle. Particular attention needs to be devoted to ensure these components are maintained to ensure a tight barrier against bulk water intrusion. The shell should be inspected periodically for tears, gaps, and condition of sealants in accordance with your owner's manual. Areas that require maintenance should be re-sealed utilizing a similar, high quality sealant used by the manufacturer.
Particular attention should be devoted to ensure the slide out is functioning properly. Each time a slide out is used it should be inspected to ensure proper operation and sealing. The slide out gaskets should also be inspected to ensure proper sealing when the slide out is operated.
3.0 - Use of Your RV
It is important to remember that the square footage of an RV is significantly less than that of a single-
family residence. This fact alone will elevate the relative humidity because there is less volume of air to help absorb or dissipate the humidity. For example, showering and cooking creates a lot of humidity in a small area. In these instances, use of an exhaust fan and opening windows should reduce the relative humidity, particularly when living in the RV for an extended period.
4.0 - Severe Environments
Prolonged use of your RV in severe environments, for example in extremely cold or hot/humid climate will require extra care and maintenance to avoid moisture-related issues.
In both extremely cold and hot/humid climates, more attention needs to be focused on controlling relative humidity within the RV. It also may require the use of a portable dehumidifier to manage relative humidity within an acceptable range. This is discussed further in section 1.0.
If you have any questions about moisture related issues in the environment you plan to use the RV in for a majority of the time, contact your manufacturer's representative.
5.0 - Storage of Your RV
During those periods when your RV is not in use, care must be taken to ensure moisture sources are
addressed. Ideal storage of your RV would be in an enclosed climate controlled environment. When this is not possible, the following steps should be taken to ensure moisture is controlled:
a. Turn off all water sources;
b. Turn off all combustion appliances;
c. Drain the water tank(s);
d. Drain the water heater;
e. Open all closets, cabinet doors and drawers;
f. Close all windows and entrance doors;
g. Open a vent or a window enough to allow for some limited ventilation airflow, but not so far as
to allow snow or rain to enter;
h. When storing the RV in high humidity climates (ambient relative humidity is greater than 60%
year round), add a dehumidifier drained to exterior to control humidity inside the RV during
storage; and
i. Check your owner's manual for any additional recommendations
6.0 - Modifications to your RV
Consult your manufacturer for guidance prior to making any modifications to your RV. It is important that
changes be completed by a qualified service firm to ensure moisture intrusion or accumulation problems
do not occur.
7.0 - Wet Areas
Areas that are exposed to water spills or leaks should be dried as soon as possible and definitely within 24-48 hours. Drying areas quickly minimizes the chance for moisture damage and possible mold growth, which can begin to form colonies in 48 hours. A variety of methods can be used to help the drying process:
- Remove excess water with an extraction vacuum.
- Use a dehumidifier to aid drying.
- Use portable fans to move air across the surface.
- Because moisture is key to mold issues, treat all signs of condensation and spills seriously and
deal with promptly. Failure to deal with a moisture issue promptly may cause more severe issues
where none initially existed, or may make a small problem much worse. - Learn to recognize signs of mold - don't paint over or cover up suspicious discoloration until you are sure it is not mold. The affected surface must first be cleaned and dried; residual staining may be painted.
- Be sure to understand and eliminate the source of moisture accumulation as a part of the
cleanup. Otherwise, the same issues will simply reoccur. - Small amounts of mold should be cleaned as soon as it appears. Small areas of mold should be
cleaned using a detergent/soapy solution or an appropriate household cleaner. Gloves should be
worn during cleaning. The cleaned area should then be thoroughly dried. Dispose of any sponges
or rags used to clean mold.
8.0 - Additional Resources
If you are interested in more information on moisture management, here are some resources to review.
A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home, by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Air and Radiation Indoor Environments Division (6609J) 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC. EPA Publication # 402-K-02-003.
Moisture Problems in Manufactured Homes: Understanding Their Causes and Finding Solutions, by the Manufactured Housing Research Alliance, 2109 Broadway, Suite 200, New York, NY 10023. (212) 496-0900
Mold in Residential Buildings, by the National Homebuilders Association Toolbase Technote July 2001
c/o NAHB Research Center, 400 Prince George's Bivd, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774. 301-249-4000
c/o NAHB Research Center, 400 Prince George's Bivd, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774. 301-249-4000
Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Office of Air and Radiation Indoor Environments Division (6609J) 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW,
Washington, DC 20460 EPA Publication # 402-K-01-001
Office of Air and Radiation Indoor Environments Division (6609J) 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW,
Washington, DC 20460 EPA Publication # 402-K-01-001