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EFFECTS OF PROLONGED OCCUPANCY
Your motorhome was designed primarily for recreational use and short-term occupancy. If you expect to
occupy the motorhome 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 normal living activities of even a few occupants will lead to rapid
moisture saturation of the air contained in the motorhome 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 motorhome 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 condense 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 condensation problem. When you recognize the signs of excessive moisture and condensation in
the motorhome, action should be taken to minimize their effects. For tips on controlling condensation see
the "Tips To Controlling Condensation" section.
Note: Your motorhome 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
neglect, and may therefore reduce the warranty protection.
TIPS TO CONTROLLING CONDENSATION
To avoid condensation problems, try to follow these tips to help alleviate excess moisture.
Allow excess moisture to escape to the outside when bathing, washing dishes, hair drying, laundering, and
using appliances and non-vented gas burners.
Always use the vent hood when cooking.
Keep the bathroom door closed and the vent or window open when bathing and for a period of time after
you have finished.
Do not hang wet clothes in the motorhome to dry.
In hot weather, start the air conditioner 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 closets and cabinets (leave doors partially open). Please keep in
mind that a closed cabinet full of stored goods prevents circulation and allows the exterior temperature
to cause condensation.
CAMPING
D-10
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