Summer is the prime season for RV travelling, but rising temperatures can make camping sticky and uncomfortable. Here are 15 tips for keeping your RV cool so you can beat the heat and stay comfortable all summer long.
1. Visit a Cool Destination
Almost every destination in Canada will be hot during the summer season. But wooded areas in high elevations may experience cooler temperatures. Research your options and choose a destination that matches your climate preferences.
2. Verify AC Hookup Specs
When booking your campsite, verify the amperage availability and check the campground’s generator guidelines. Ensure you have access to adequate power, so your AC operates correctly. If you’re boondocking, make sure you have permission to run the generator and AC when you want to stay cool during the day or night.
3. Park Under Trees
Select a campsite with plenty of trees, if possible. Then, park where the trees can shade your RV, especially the windows, in the afternoon. In a shaded spot, your AC doesn’t have to work as hard when the sun is at its hottest.
4. Improve Air Flow
Before you park your RV, figure out which direction the wind blows. Then, position your RV so you can open the windows at night and take advantage of the breeze. Remember to close the windows in the daytime to keep the hot, humid air outside where it belongs.
5. Create Your Own Shade
Lower the temperature around and in your RV with artificial shade. Pack awnings, canopies, tarps, sails, or umbrellas, plus straps and stakes to secure these shade options. As a bonus, you can move artificial shade when the sun moves or as you change activities.
6. Maintain Your RV’s AC
With regular air conditioner maintenance, the unit should operate efficiently all season. First, inspect the filters, shroud, gasket, seals, and condenser fins. Clean or replace them as needed. Next, clean the entire unit. Finally, check the interior temperature to ensure the unit works properly. When in doubt, always call a professional.
7. Check the Windows
Opening your RV windows improves ventilation and allows cool air to circulate. But older windows are not insulated. When you’re purchasing an RV, remember to check the quality of the windows. If your unit has older windows, keep the sun out by covering them with reflective insulation, blinds, curtains, or exterior awnings. Don’t forget to cover the skylight!
8. Take Care of Your Vents
Proper ventilation is important when it comes to keeping your RV cool in the summer. Vent covers allow fresh, cool air in but keep rain, bugs, and dirt out. Make sure you maintain and keep your vent covers in good condition so can take advantage of them all summer long. Also, clean the refrigerator and stove vents regularly so the hot air from these appliances can be released outside where it belongs
9. Shut the Front Door
Keep the cool air inside your RV when you avoid opening the door during the day. Ask your travel companions to cooperate so they can stay cooler. For example, agree to play outside in the morning and hit the lake in the afternoon rather than switching between inside and outside activities throughout the day.
10. Utilize Fans
Sitting in front of a portable fan provides instant daytime relief from hot temperatures. Fans can also serve as one of your overnight RV cooling tricks. Arrange one fan to push hot air out a window and set another fan to pull cool air in.
11. Open the Cabinets
Closed cabinets retain heat during the day. Open the doors at night to release hot air and cool your RV.
12. Replace Light Bulbs
Indoor lights allow you to see after dark, on cloudy days and during inclement weather. However, regular light bulbs emit heat. Stay cooler with LED bulbs throughout your RV.
13. Cook Outdoors
Instead of operating your indoor oven or stove, prepare meals on your grill or over a campfire. You can also dine on cold options like salads or sandwiches. If you must cook hot foods, use the microwave, or slow cooker.
14. Power Off Electronics
While electronic devices provide entertainment, they also emit heat. Unplug and turn off electronics to stay cooler. Then, spend your time playing games, reading books, hiking, or engaging in other fun activities.
15. Enjoy Water
In addition to practicing interior RV cooling tricks, remember to keep your body comfortable. Drink plenty of water, go swimming, soak your feet in cold water, or apply a damp towel to your head and neck.
These 15 tricks for keeping your RV cool in the summer will help make your adventures more comfortable as you make memories and enjoy the great outdoors.