Airstream Basecamp 2007 Owner's Manual page 38

CAMPING
EFFECTS OF PROLONGED OCCUPANCY
Your trailer was designed primarily for recreational use and short-term occupancy.
If you expect to occupy the trailer for an extended period, be prepared to deal with
condensation and the humid conditions that may be encountered. The relatively small
volume and tight compact construction of modern recreation vehicles mean that the
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normal living activities of even a few occupants will lead to rapid moisture saturation
of the air contained in the trailer and the appearance of visible moisture, especially in
cold weather.
Just as moisture collects on the outside of a glass of cold water during humid weather,
moisture can condense on the inside surfaces of the trailer during cold weather when
relative humidity of the interior air is high. This condition is increased because the
insulated walls of a recreation vehicle are much thinner than house walls. Estimates
indicate that a family of four can vaporize up to three gallons of water daily through
breathing, cooking, bathing, and washing. Unless the water vapor is carried outside
by ventilation, or condensed by a dehumidifier, it will condense on the inside of the
windows and walls as moisture, or in cold weather as frost or ice. It may also con-
dense out of sight within the walls or the ceiling where it will manifest itself as warped
or stained panels. Appearance of these conditions may indicate a serious condensa-
tion problem. When you recognize the signs of excessive moisture and condensation
in the trailer action should be taken to minimize their effects. For tips on controlling
condensation see the "Tips To Controlling Condensation" section.
Note: Your trailer is not designed, nor intended, for permanent housing. Use of this
product for long term or permanent occupancy may lead to premature deterioration
of structure, interior finishes, fabrics, carpeting, and drapes. Damage or deterioration
due to long-term occupancy may not be considered normal, and may under the terms
of the warranty constitute misuse, abuse, or
TIPS TO CONTROLLING CONDENSATION
Allow excess moisture to escape to the outside when washing dishes, hair drying, and
using appliances and non-vented gas burners.
Always use the vent when cooking.
Do not hang wet clothes in the trailer to dry.
In hot weather, start the air conditioner, if so equipped, early as it removes excess
humidity from the air while lowering the temperature.
Keep the temperature as reasonably cool during cold weather as possible. The warmer
the vehicle, the more cold exterior temperatures and warm interior temperatures will
collide on wall surfaces, thus creating condensation.
Use a fan to keep air circulating inside the vehicle so condensation and mildew cannot
form in dead air spaces. Allow air to circulate inside storage areas (leave doors par-
tially open).
The natural tendency would be to close the vehicle tightly during cold weather. This
will actually compound the problem. Simply put, you need to remove some of the
warm air, and allow some cool outside air to get inside the vehicle.
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