Ever tried driving your recreational vehicle through a heat wave? The summer months can turn your camper into a rolling oven. Keeping cool while on the move presents unique challenges. So here’s how to keep an RV cool while driving.
To keep a motorhome cool while driving, use the vehicle’s air conditioning system, ensure all windows and doors are closed, and utilize reflective window shades to block sunlight. For travel trailers, turn on any roof vent fans and open windows to allow air to circulate.
Smart cooling strategies make a big difference in comfort during hot summer days. From managing your RV windows to maximizing energy efficiency, small changes add up to noticeable improvements. The key is combining different cooling methods to combat extreme heat.
Electric fans and evaporative coolers offer alternatives when shore power isn’t available. Many experienced RVers use portable ACs powered by solar panels to supplement their main cooling system. Even your driving schedule affects how well you can maintain comfortable temperatures.
Let’s explore practical solutions that work while you’re rolling down the highway. These tips help preserve your sanity and protect sensitive equipment like your RV refrigerator from overheating. Stay comfortable without draining your power source or your wallet.
Can You Run an RV Air Conditioner While Driving It?
Yes, you can run an RV air conditioner while driving, but it depends on your RV type and power setup. Motorhomes often allow AC use because their generators can run while moving. Travel trailers and fifth wheels typically can’t use their roof AC units while driving.
Class A, B, and C motorhomes usually have dash air conditioning separate from the roof unit. The dash AC cools the driving area while running the rv’s generator powers the roof AC for the living space. However, some campgrounds and states restrict generator use while moving.
Always check your owner’s manual before running appliances while driving. Some RVs have special wiring that lets the alternator power the roof AC. If your RV can’t run its main AC while moving, focus on other cooling methods like ventilation and window coverings.
Remember that running your generator while driving uses extra fuel and requires proper maintenance. But frankly, the fuel consumption is minor. I have run my generator all night and barely noticed a change on my gas guage.
How to Insulate Your RV for Optimal Cooling
Proper insulation is essential to maintaining a cool and comfortable driving experience in your RV. Without proper insulation, the summer heat can quickly penetrate your RV and make it difficult to stay cool on the road. Here are some effective tips for insulating your RV and keeping the heat out:
1. Seal any gaps and cracks
Check your RV thoroughly for any gaps or cracks that can allow hot air to enter. Seal them with caulk or weatherstripping to provide an extra layer of protection against heat infiltration.
2. Invest in RV-specific insulation materials
There are specialized insulation materials on the market that are designed specifically for RVs. These materials are lightweight, easy to install, and can provide excellent protection against heat and cold. Consider investing in RV-specific insulation to keep your RV cool on the road.
3. Add window insulation
A significant amount of heat can enter your RV through the windows. Consider adding window tint film, which can reflect sunlight and keep the interior of your RV cooler. You can also use insulated window covers, which are easy to install and can provide a significant cooling effect.
Upgrade Your Trailer’s Ventilation System to Help With Cooling
As I mentioned, typically in travel trailers, you can’t run the generator to power the rooftop air conditioner units. And if it’s hot outside and you have a long drive, that can make for an uncomfortably warm camper when you get to your campsite.
Here are some summer driving tips for a cool RV to upgrade your RV’s ventilation system:
- Install a Roof Vent Fan: Roof vents are an excellent way to enhance your RV’s ventilation system is to install a roof vent fan. It helps to circulate fresh air, remove hot air, and prevent humidity buildup.
- Open Windows and Use Fans: Another simple way to keep your RV cool while driving is to open windows and use fans to create natural ventilation. A cross breeze helps in circulating fresh air and reduces the temperature inside the RV.
- Clean or Replace AC Filters: To improve the airflow and efficiency of your RV’s air conditioner, it’s essential to clean or replace the filters regularly. A clean air filter ensures the proper functioning of the AC system, increasing its cooling capacity.
By upgrading your RV’s ventilation system, you can beat the heat and enjoy a comfortable journey. Remember to keep the air flowing by opening windows, installing fans, and cleaning AC filters often. Check out this table for a summary of how to upgrade your RV’s ventilation system.
Utilize Window Shades and Reflective Covers on Your RV Windows
Window shades and reflective covers are effective tools in blocking excessive heat and sunlight, maintaining a cool and comfortable RV interior. When used correctly, they can be essential driving strategies for a comfortable and cool RV. Installing UV-protective window films is also an effective means of blocking the sun’s harmful rays.
Reflective covers can be used on windows and skylights, reducing the amount of heat that enters the RV. They are made of reflective material that bounces off the sun’s rays, keeping the cooling system of the RV from working excessively.
Combined with window shades, reflective covers can significantly reduce heat buildup and create a more comfortable environment. The table below compares different window shades and covers:
| Type | Material | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Reflective covers | Reflective material | Highly effective |
| Insulated window shades | Foam and reflective material | Highly effective |
| Blackout shades | Reflective and light-blocking material | Effective |
| Mesh shades | Mesh material | Less effective but allows better visibility |
Choose the best option according to your preferences, budget, and RV model. With the right window shades and reflective covers, you can stay cool and refreshed on your summer trips.
Run the AC When Driving in Motorhomes to Keep Cool
When the temperature rises, optimizing your motorhome’s air conditioner usage becomes crucial for a pleasant driving experience. Here are some RV cooling tips that can help you maintain a cool temperature inside your RV:
- Set the temperature appropriately: Setting your air conditioner to the right temperature can make all the difference. Aim for a comfortable temperature rather than a freezing one.
- Clean the air filter: A dirty air filter can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner, resulting in poor cooling performance. Make sure to clean or replace the air filter before your trip.
- Park in the shade: Parking your RV in a shaded area can significantly reduce the temperature inside, allowing the air conditioner to work efficiently.
- Circulate the air: Running your air conditioner on the “fan” mode for some time can help circulate the cold air and bring down the temperature without using too much energy.
Remember, overusing your air conditioner can put a strain on your RV’s battery and result in unnecessary energy consumption. Follow these RV cooling tips to optimize your air conditioner usage and enjoy a comfortable temperature while driving!
Manage Humidity Levels Inside Your RV
When temperatures rise, the humidity levels inside your RV can sometimes also go up. Unfortunately, high humidity can make the heat feel more intense and cause discomfort. To stay comfortable while driving, follow these practical RV cooling tips to manage humidity levels:
- Use a dehumidifier: Consider investing in a portable dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels inside the RV.
- Use moisture-absorbing products: Products such as moisture absorbers and silica gel packs can help absorb excess moisture inside the RV.
By managing humidity levels inside your RV, you can create a more comfortable environment while driving. For more RV cooling tips and temperature control solutions, continue reading.
Be Mindful of Heat-Generating Activities Inside a Motorhome
When traveling in your motorhome, there are certain activities that can quickly heat up the interior, making it uncomfortable to drive. To keep your RV cool and comfortable, it’s essential to be mindful of these heat-generating activities:
- Cooking: Preparing hot meals can cause a significant increase in inside temperature. Consider cooking outdoors or during rest stops.
- Using electronic devices: Appliances, computers, and other electronic devices can generate heat and should be used sparingly.
- Driving during peak hours: Avoid driving during the hottest part of the day to reduce heat buildup in your RV.
By avoiding these heat-generating activities, you can significantly reduce the temperature inside your RV while driving and arrive at your destination feeling cool and comfortable.
Does Running an RV Fridge While Driving Generate Heat?
Yes, RV refrigerators produce heat during operation, even while driving. The cooling process creates warmth that vents through the exterior refrigerator panel on your RV’s outside wall. This heat generation happens whether your fridge runs on propane or electricity.
Good airflow around your fridge helps minimize heat buildup inside your RV. Make sure the exterior vent cover stays clean and unobstructed. Some RVers install small fans behind their fridges to improve ventilation and reduce heat accumulation.
Running your fridge on electric power while driving generally produces less heat than using propane. Most newer RVs can power the fridge through the vehicle’s alternator or battery system. If possible, cool down your fridge extra cold before a hot travel day.
Consider using a 12-volt cooler for drinks and snacks during your drive. This allows you to run your main fridge at a slightly warmer temperature, reducing heat output.
How to Cool Down a Travel Trailer After Driving
First, park your travel trailer in a shady spot and open all windows and roof vents to release trapped heat. Set up your awning immediately to create additional shade. Position a few portable fans near the doors and windows to help push hot air out.
Start your air conditioner as soon as you connect to power. Place reflective window covers on the sunny side while the AC works to cool things down. If you have an electric dehumidifier, run it alongside your AC to remove moisture and help the space cool faster.
Create cross ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of your trailer. Set up any external shade solutions like window awnings or portable canopies. Some RVers use a misting system around their trailer’s exterior to cool the air entering through windows.
Remember that cooling down a hot trailer takes time. Focus on blocking new heat while removing what’s already built up inside.
Conclusion
Keeping your RV cool while driving doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. A swamp cooler combined with proper ventilation helps maintain cooler air throughout your journey. Remember that blocking sunlight remains one of the best ways to prevent heat buildup.
Take breaks at rest stops during the heat of the summer, setting up under shade near a picnic table when possible. Your RV AC works hard enough without fighting direct sunlight. Setting up a canopy creates an extra barrier against intense rays.
Monitor your RV’s temperature and adjust your driving schedule on warm days. Early morning and evening drives often provide more comfortable conditions. Keep electric fans ready for extra circulation when needed.
With these cooling strategies in place, you’ll find summer travel much more enjoyable. Stay flexible with your plans and remember that sometimes the smartest choice is simply parking in the shade until temperatures drop.