Keeping Humidity Down: What Is The Best Dehumidifier For RV Living
Keeping Humidity Down: What Is The Best Dehumidifier For RV Living
If you’re an avid camper, you know that keeping your RV comfortable and well-maintained is crucial to having an enjoyable trip. One of the most common issues that RV owners face is humidity. This can lead to a host of problems, from mould and mildew growth to musty odours and even damage to your camper’s structure. But don’t worry, there’s an easy solution: a dehumidifier. In this post, we’ll take a look at the best dehumidifiers for your RV, and discuss why humidity is a problem for your camper in the first place.
The one thing I check more often than the weather is the humidity inside my RV. Humidity in your RV can be really destructive. Unchecked moisture can cause rot, mould, and rust. We all worry about leaks in our RV’s but humidity can be just as problematic if you don’t stay on top of it! Humidity is moisture in the air, this happens when cooking, breathing, showering, or just living causes humidity inside your RV. The first thing I recommend any new RV owner buys is a ‘weather station’.
This will show you the temperature inside, and outside, and if you buy one with multiple sensors you can keep one outside and keep one in your tank area. Read my blog post about RV winter living tips. Humidity can be environmental but it also happens when there is a drastic difference in the inside temperature versus the outside temperature. It’s this temperature difference that puts that condensation on your windows in the winter. Not only is it annoying it can cause mould to grow and it can drip down your walls to cause the wood to rot and any metal to rust. But don’t worry there are many things you can do to keep the humidity down in your RV.
Humidity Basics
A good quality dehumidifier is a great place to start, we will discuss the Best Dehumidifier for RV life a bit later. First, let’s start with the basics. When you cook inside in your RV you want to open a window or a rooftop vent and if you have a hood vent for sure turn the fan on in that! This is a good practice when you cook anything not just if you’re boiling water or some other super steamy dish. The way your propane cooktop, if you have one, works is by sucking the oxygen out of the air. Your propane furnace and your propane hot water heater do not create unwanted moisture in the air because they both draw from and vent to the outside, or they should if installed properly.
Increased airflow in your RV is a great way to keep the humidity down and having your vent cracked even in the dead of winter will help keep your humidity down. Humidity isn’t just a winter problem, many of us full-time RVers are in hot humid climates. Running your AC in the hot summer months should help keep your humidity down.
Humidity – Tips and Tricks
Running the fantastic fan in your bathroom when you take a shower will also help keep humidity down, we all thought that was for keeping any embarrassing smells from permeating your small living space! Yes it’s great for that, and masking any embarrassing sounds, but it’s also there to help get rid of the condensation/humidity created by the hot steamy shower water. If your bathroom mirror is steamed up you are creating humidity. It’s also good to make sure to use a rubber squeegee every time you shower. It also makes your shower easier to keep clean! Win Win in my opinion.
If your hygrometer aka the gadget that detects your humidity has you at above 50% regularly you may want to see what’s going on in your Rig. It could mean you have a leak somewhere. If you’re running at 70% when not cooking or showering you might have a bigger fish to fry. I don’t want to alarm you, but it’s really important to understand how your RV operates. I had a pretty significant leak a while back and now I know if my humidity is above 50 I need to take a look at my previous problem areas.
If you use a condensing dryer in your RV this can cause excessive amounts of moisture, you should definitely be running your fantastic fan at the same time as your dryer. I know for many of us turning that fan on feels like it’s just going to suck all the warmth out of our tiny space, but believe me, humidity can be more damaging than being uncomfortable! Allowing your laundry to air dry also creates humidity in your living space. I have one of those super skookum wall mount air drying racks in my bathroom. Please be very careful before screwing through any walls in your RV! You really have no idea what’s behind there. Make sure to pop the vent open if you’re air drying your clothes.
Why You Need a Dehumidifier in Your RV
An RV dehumidifier is important for several reasons:
- Moisture control: RV’s, like any other enclosed spaces, can suffer from high levels of humidity, which can lead to condensation, mould, and mildew. A dehumidifier helps reduce humidity levels, keeping the interior of the RV dry and preventing moisture-related problems.
- Improved air quality: High humidity levels can also lead to poor air quality, which can be particularly problematic for people with allergies or respiratory issues. A dehumidifier helps improve air quality by removing excess moisture from the air.
- Protection of RV’s interior: Excess moisture can cause damage to the interior of an RV, such as the warping of wood, peeling of paint or wallpaper, and corrosion of metal components. A dehumidifier helps protect the interior by reducing moisture levels.
- Comfort: High humidity levels can make an RV feel stuffy and uncomfortable. A dehumidifier helps to create a more comfortable living environment by reducing humidity and improving air quality.Humidity can be a major problem for RVs, especially in areas with high levels of moisture. Without proper ventilation and air circulation, excess moisture can lead to a host of issues, such as mould growth, musty odours, and damage to your RV’s structure. A dehumidifier can help to remove excess moisture from the air, preventing these problems from occurring. In addition, a dehumidifier can also help to improve air quality, reduce the risk of allergies and respiratory problems, and create a more comfortable living environment. Overall, investing in an RV dehumidifier is a smart choice for any camper owner who wants to protect their investment and enjoy their travels in a healthy, comfortable, and safe environment.
Choosing The Best Dehumidifier For RV
When choosing an RV dehumidifier, here are some factors to consider:
- Size of the RV: The size of your RV will determine the capacity of the dehumidifier you need. You should look for a dehumidifier with a capacity that matches the size of your RV.
- Humidity level: You should consider the level of humidity you want to maintain in your RV. Some dehumidifiers have adjustable settings, allowing you to choose the desired level of humidity.
- Portability: RV’s are designed for mobility, so it’s important to choose a dehumidifier that is easy to move and store. Look for a compact, lightweight model with wheels or a handle for easy transport.
- Energy efficiency: RV’s are often powered by limited energy sources, such as generators or batteries, so it’s important to choose an energy-efficient dehumidifier. Look for a model with an Energy Star rating or one that uses a low amount of electricity.
- Noise level: If you’re planning to use your dehumidifier while sleeping, you should look for a model with a low noise level.
- Maintenance: Consider the ease of maintenance when choosing a dehumidifier for your RV. Look for a model with a washable air filter, for example, to save money on replacements.
- Price: Dehumidifiers for RVs come in a range of prices, from budget models to more expensive ones with more features. Consider your budget and determine which features are most important to you.When it comes to choosing the best dehumidifier for your RV, there are many factors to consider, such as size, type, and features. A good dehumidifier should be effective at removing moisture from the air, easy to use and maintain, and ideally suited to the unique needs of your RV. By selecting a quality dehumidifier, you can ensure that your RV stays dry, comfortable, and free from the damaging effects of excess humidity. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time RV traveler, investing in a dehumidifier is a smart choice that will help you enjoy your travels to the fullest. So, take the time to research your options, consider your needs, and choose the dehumidifier that’s right for you. Your RV will thank you!
What Are The Different Types of Dehumidifiers?
There are a few different types of RV dehumidifiers available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types:
- Refrigerant dehumidifiers: These are the most common type of dehumidifiers and work by drawing in moist air, passing it over a cold coil to condense the moisture, and then collecting the water in a reservoir. They are effective in a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels, and are available in both portable and built-in models.
- Desiccant dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers use a special material, such as silica gel, to absorb moisture from the air. They are generally quieter and more energy-efficient than refrigerant dehumidifiers, and can be used in lower temperatures. However, they may not be as effective in very humid conditions.
- Thermoelectric dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers use a thermoelectric cooling module to cool a surface, which then condenses the moisture from the air. They are very quiet and energy-efficient, but may not be as effective in high humidity conditions.
- Ionic membrane dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers use an ionic membrane to remove moisture from the air. They are quiet, energy-efficient, and effective in a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels, but are not as widely available as other types of dehumidifiers.
When choosing a dehumidifier for your RV, it’s important to consider the size of your RV, your budget, and the specific features you need. A portable dehumidifier may be a good choice if you only need to use it occasionally or in different locations, while a built-in dehumidifier may be a better option if you’re looking for a more permanent solution.
The Desiccant style might be the best RV dehumidifier for RVs that are in storage. They usually don’t require any electricity and there is no risk of flooding if left unattended.
Top 3 Desiccant Dehumidifiers
Eva Dry
There are a few different types of small RV dehumidifiers that I use specifically. I have the EVA Dry renewable wireless mini in my camper van and also in my Big Class A.
Safe And Nontoxic, Eva-Dry Is A Natural Defense Against Moisture And Mildew In Larger Places. Fight Dampness In Boats, Safes, Rv’ S, And Big Closets. Works In A 500 Cu Ft Area And Lasts Approximately 30 To 60 Days Before Renewing. Renewable Eva-Dry Dehumidifiers Are Filled With Silica Gel, A Very Thirsty Substance. These Orange Odorless Silica Beads Absorb Many Times Their Weight In Moisture And Lock It In So Water Can’t Leak Or Spill Out. When The Eva-Dry Is Full, The Beads Will Turn Green. You Renew The Silica Inside By Plugging The Unit Into Any Power Outlet. Heat Gently Releases Water Vapor In A Few Hours. When The Indicator Is Orange Again, Eva-Dry Is Renewed And Ready To Go Back To Work. You Can Repeat The Process For Up To 10 Years. Reduces Allergens And Eliminates Odors. Spill And Mess-Free. Absorbs Humidity Silently. Operates Without Electricity Or Batteries. Simply Renew When the Indicator Changes Color. Uses Natural Silica Gel Crystals. Child And Pet Safe. Nontoxic, Colorless, And Odorless.
I like the simplicity of The Eva-Dry dehumidifier. It’s a plug-and-play device it might not be the best dehumidifier for Rv but it’s one of the easiest to use. You look at the window in the device if it’s orange it’s ready to work, if it’s green it means you have filled the moisture catcher and you need to plug it in to discharge the humidity you caught. I personally try to ‘charge’ these guys up outside of my RV… I just can’t help but think I am dispersing the caught humidity right back into the RV if I “empty” it inside. I feel like this is a bit confusing.. how this device works is you plug it in and it empties the humidity it has caught. I keep one in my campervan, one in the bathroom of my Big Rig and another in the basement.
I personally have been using this exact dehumidifier and I find it to be the best rv dehumidifier for small problem areas and prevention.
Dri-Z-Air
Another style of dehumidifier I have used in my RV is the Dri-Z-Air. This style utilizes highly concentrated salt crystals that are ordorless and non toxic.
Use Dri-Z-Air dehumidifier products to safely remove and absorb excess moisture and musty smells from the air. Dri-Z-Air helps maintain woodwork and items in your home, boat, RV, garage, closets, and storage units. The units are refillable and very easy to use and operate. They recommend using one unit for every 10×10′ space. The Dri-Z-Air unit does not have to be emptied until all the crystals have dissolved. The liquid in the bowl will not evaporate, but will continue to collect moisture. They do want to caution not to spill the liquid, since it collects moisture. If you have the Dri-Z-Air units where they might get bumped or kicked, please put the unit on a Dri-Z-Air tray or in a plastic bowl to catch any spills.
This type of small RV dehumidifier is really easy to use, super reasonably priced and you can keep them almost anywhere. The problem is, if you tip it over you have made a mess and are reintroducing moisture into your camper environment. That being said, it’s relatively easy to not spill them! Make sure you stabilize them before you travel. Make sure you empty them regularly. It’s really cheap to get the refill beads and I have them on subscribe and save from Amazon takes the guesswork out of it!
Damprid
I also have used a similar style called Damprid. For people living without full hookups, these styles are perfect they do work, they require no electricity and they are really reasonably priced. If you’re storing your RV for the off-season put a couple of pots of damprid or dri-Z-air in your rig to help keep the humidity down. Depending on the size of your camper you could really put a pot in every room.
Think of DampRid as a small RV dehumidifier that doesn’t need electricity. It’s a convenient, all-natural way to absorb excess moisture in the air that can cause stale, musty odors while preventing damage to your valuable possessions. DampRid’s crystals absorb excess moisture in the air to create and maintain the optimal humidity level in your home, storage areas, cabin, boat, car, RV or wherever moisture is a problem.
Many RV folks will tell you this is the best RV dehumidifier. There is also a version that you can hang in closets that many folks recommend.
Top 2 Refrigerant Dehumidifier
Afloia HEPA Air Purifier/Dehumidifier
Now let’s talk about the big guns, the Best Dehumidifier for RV! By that, I mean the average to small-sized dehumidifier I bought for my Class A RV. I based my decision on the HEPA filter, the fact it will run continuously and the fact I can either use the drain reservoir or drain it right into a sink or tub. I am always also taking into account the price. When I make a purchase like this it takes me days of research and comparing prices and reviews before I make my final choice.
I like this unit because it has three different timer settings or you can let it run indefinitely. There are three fan speeds and you can use it as an air filter or a dehumidifier or you can run both with the touch of a button. When I leave my class A empty I usually will open the drain on this little unit open the grey water tank and let the dehumidifier empty directly into my kitchen sink. It has a flashing purification light to indicate that the filter needs changing here’s what my dirty filter looks like right now!
I have been really happy with my purchase, it’s under 150$, currently on sale 30$ off! I mentioned I had a fairly significant leak in my RV the air purification and dehumidification is double the peace of mind. We really have no idea what’s going on behind these walls until we tear one down! Afloia 2 in 1 Air Purifier combines both functions of purification and dehumidification. The max capacity of the water tank is 1000ml, absorbing up to 650ml water per day. It’s not quite as whisper-quiet as the manufacturer claims I am usually running the fan on high in the winter months. My only complaint is the control buttons are located in the very spot you would put your hands to move the device. I turn it off by accident every time I move it. Can’t seem to teach this old dog a new trick!
Fehom 4500
If you’re stationary, if you have a really big rig, if humidity is a big problem for you then you might want to consider picking up a larger unit that can handle the workload. If power and space are not a problem I say go for it. Humidity is not something to ignore. The Fehom 4500SqFt Dehumidifier can hold up to half a gallon of water. It might seem like overkill and at this price tag, you need to NEED it. Please note I did not buy and try this unit myself. The previous 4 dehumidifiers I talked about have been tried and tested by me.
- DEHUMIDIFIER FOR LARGE ROOMS UP TO 4500 SQ. FT: This Fehom dehumidifier removes up to 50 pints (It is the maximum dehumidification capacity under 95°F, 90%RH condition) of moisture per day from large rooms up to 4,500 Sq. Ft. It allows you to adjust the humidity from 30%RH to 80%RH, which is perfect for humidity control in basement, bathroom, bedroom, and crawlspace. Maintaining the healthy humidity between 45%RH – 55%RH has never been this easy!
- INTELLIGENT & CONVENIENT: The home dehumidifier will smartly sense and reduce the room humidity until your preset humidity is reached. It will automatically restart again to dehumidify when the humidity becomes higher than the preset humidity. For your convenience, you can check the water level at a glance through the transparent tank window. Our dehumidifier also comes with a 6.56 feet drain hose for hassle-free, continuous drainage.
- INNOVATIVE & SAFETY DESIGN: This Fehom dehumidifier has overflow protection that will alarm you when the water tank is full. With the Child-lock Setting and Sleep Mode function, you can press the “LOCK” button for 2 seconds to lock the dehumidifier, protecting your children from getting hurt when you are not around.
- THREE-MODE DEHUMIDIFIER: Our dehumidifier sports three working modes switched with one click to accurately meet your various needs. DEHU mode: Used at your home to keep the appropriate humidity level in your wine cellar and storage room where needs space humidity. DRY mode: Used to dry wet clothes and cotton items. CONT mode: Used to continuously remove moisture in damp spaces.
- SUPPORT: All of Fehom Dehumidifiers are covered with 30-Days Money Back if you are not satisfied with the product, 1 year warranty, 2nd year warranty extension and lifetime expert tech support. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if there is any question, we will reply to you within 24 hours and help you solve the problems. Fehom customer support team is always just one-email away.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, managing humidity levels in your RV is an important step in maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment. By investing in the best RV dehumidifier, you can protect your RV from the damaging effects of excess moisture, such as mold, mildew, and structural damage. When choosing a dehumidifier, consider the size of your RV, your budget, and the specific features that will best meet your needs. With the right dehumidifier, you can enjoy your RV adventures without worrying about the harmful effects of excess humidity. So, go ahead and hit the road with confidence, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to keep your RV dry and comfortable. Happy camping!
Directly realated to humidty is warmth. Find out my thoughts on What is the Best Heater for your RV.