Tiffin Motorhomes 2014 Allegro Owner's Manual page 93

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TIFFIN MOTORHOMES –ALLEGRO® Chapter 13 ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
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.
Control Relative Humidity
Monitoring and controlling relative humidity within the motor home 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 (Figure 13-5), a small device that measures temperature and relative humidity.
Hygrometers are available at electronics or building supply stores. 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 motor home 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 is important to check the condensation (water) collection bucket
regularly or discharge the condensation (water) directly to a drain.
Figure 13-4. Portable
Avoid Drastic Thermostat Setbacks
Hygrometer
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, it is recommended that you do not set the temperature back without taking other measures
to manage relative humidity, including operating a dehumidifier with a continuous drain.
Manage Window Condensation
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 motor home. 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 the "Control Relative Humidity" section, 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.
13-6