Motorhome Guide: Damp and Condensation Control

Camping out during the colder months is a fun experience. However, the idea of dealing with condensation in your motorhome is the opposite of fun.

So, to avoid discomfort, hassle, and possible extra expense, make sure you protect your motorhome in all weathers. Whether you’re camping in rain, wind or shine, colder conditions can lead to potential motorhome condensation issues, which can cause damage to your interior if left untreated.

In this mould and condensation guide, we’ll discuss our top tips on how to control such issues in your motorhome.

What causes condensation in a motorhome?

There are factors which can cause an increase in humidity, resulting in motorhome condensation. We’ve listed the most common ones below:

Age of your motorhome

If you’ve purchased an old motorhome, there may be some noticeable signs of aging, including side panel degradation. If these are damaged, your motorhome’s interior may start to become damp, causing wood rot and decay. For extra peace of mind, you could consider performing a habitation check to ensure your living conditions are suitable, especially after long periods of winterisation .  Alternatively, you could purchase a damp meter where you can carry out regular checks yourself to make sure there are no hidden surprises behind the walls.  Click here for a few examples of damp meters.

Window seals

Your motorhome’s window seals will deteriorate over time with natural wear and tear. This can cause potential moisture issues and leaks, so it’s important to ensure that the correct seals are fitted accurately around your windows and that these are regularly checked.

Accident damage

Your motorhome may have experienced an accident that has gone unnoticed. If you’ve spotted condensation in your camper, it could be worth checking your roof joints for any damage. These joints can be resealed every few years to ensure the exterior of your motorhome is in tip-top condition.

Body heat

The natural heat from your body and breath can create humidity in confined spaces. This heat will increase the level of moisture in the air, causing condensation on your windows.

Showering

Moisture from your shower will be trapped inside your bathroom. Once your bathroom door opens, this moisture will escape and hit the cold surfaces of your motorhome, increasing the amount of excess water inside.

Damp clothes

If you’ve been out for a walk during wet weather conditions, it’s likely you’ll have to dry out your damp clothes. However, drying these out inside your motorhome will increase moisture levels in the air, which will get trapped inside your camper.

What are the signs of condensation?

Prolonged condensation in your motorhome can lead to tell-tale signs that something needs to be done. Here’s what you should look out for:

Mould

Reduced air circulation can lead to patches of mould appearing inside your motorhome, particularly during the colder months. It’s important to check for mould in areas where air gets trapped, including behind furniture that’s against walls or down the side of mattresses.

Odour

Camping in the countryside usually means you’ll be out experiencing lots of fresh air whilst surrounded by nature. The last thing you want is to wake up with a lingering smell within your motorhome. This could be a result of dampness and if not treated, the smell could worsen.

Spongy surfaces

If the walls in your motorhome become soft and spongy to touch, this indicates that your camper is full of damp air. You’ll likely need to seek professional help to further identify the problem and to help improve the air circulation.

Are there any dangers associated with condensation?

Ensuring the airflow in your motorhome is well-circulated and that temperatures are regulated is essential, as condensation can cause problems for both you and your camper.

• The presence of mould can trigger several health issues, such as respiratory problems and infections, allergies, or asthma.
• If you have metal window covers or handles in your motorhome, these can become prone to rust due to the amount of excess water, potentially making them susceptible to corrosion.
• Wooden furniture may start to rot, due to the combination of moisture and mould. This will release musty odours and could cause structural damage.
• Electrical appliances are vulnerable to condensation, especially if moisture gets into the internal circuits, leading to damage or electrical failure.

Motorhome condensation dos and don’ts

If you’re hoping to prevent condensation from occurring in your motorhome, follow our handy dos and don’ts list to stop any potential damage happening in the future.

Do

• Keep the temperature consistent

Ensuring the temperature in your motorhome remains consistent will help keep the cooler surfaces warm, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming. This will only be necessary in the colder months.

• Increase ventilation

Maintain a regular airflow to prevent any moisture in the air becoming trapped in your motorhome. You can increase ventilation by leaving windows open or fitting vents in your doors or walls to allow air to circulate. For further information on this, check out our guide to motorhome winterisation.

• Consider furniture placement

Avoid placing furniture against external walls, as this can cause moist air to become trapped and react with the cold temperatures outside. Or, simply leave gaps between all your furniture and walls so air can easily circulate around your motorhome.

Don’t

• Dry clothes indoors

Drying damp clothes indoors produces moisture, so avoid this. As an alternative, dry your clothes outside if weather permits. If you must dry your clothes indoors, ensure all windows are open so moisture can escape. If you use a tumble dryer, make sure it is in a well-ventilated room.

• Use a liquid propane heater

It’s easy to find a heater that can help warm up your motorhome throughout winter. However, avoid using a liquid propane heater as these can generate more moisture in your camper.

• Ignore excess water

If you notice excess water forming on your windows, don’t just wipe it away and forget it. If you’re noticing you’re having to do this every day, it’s worth improving the air circulation in your motorhome or seeking help from a professional to help remove any form of condensation.

Best gadgets to reduce/remove condensation

These products will help you reduce and/or remove any build-up of motorhome condensation.

Squeegee

This handy, inexpensive tool is ideal for reducing condensation on flat, glass surfaces. The smooth rubber blade naturally absorbs and removes excess water, giving your windows a streak-free finish.

Dehumidifier

Electric dehumidifiers absorb moisture from the air. They are simple to use and easily transportable, plus they are safe and efficient.

Extractor fan

Installing an extractor fan can help remove moisture in the air created by activities such as showering or cooking. For when you’re away from your camper for long periods, continuous extractor fans are a good choice – they have humidity sensors that adjust to rises in moisture levels.

Protect your motorhome throughout winter

Ensure your motorhome is protected with our top-quality motorhome insurance, so you’re covered if things go wrong. Even if you’re not using your camper during the colder months, it’s important to always have the relevant cover in place.

At Comfort Insurance, we have over 30 years’ experience protecting motorhomes. Get in touch with our friendly team today so we can help you find a policy that best suits you. Simply call us on 0208 984 0666 or drop us an email at info@comfort-insurance.co.uk.