Monthly Archives: October 2023

Reduce & Remove Mold & Mildew In Your RV

04 Wednesday Oct 2023

Posted by in RV Information, RV Safety, Tips & Tricks

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Mold and mildew can form on several RV surfaces such as the roof material, awnings, and exterior sidewalls. It can also be found inside cabinets, around the toilet, and shower stalls. The growth of mold and mildew is primarily influenced by 3 factors: moisture, warmth, and organic materials for them to feed on. It grows by tiny spores that start invisible and typically float through the air land on wet surfaces and then begin to grow and darken.

Here are some common ways mold and mildew can form on the interior of RVs:

High Humidity And Condensation

RVs are often exposed to high humidity levels, especially when used in areas with a lot of moisture, like when near lakes or rivers. The moisture in the air can condense on cool surfaces inside the RV, providing an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow.

Water Leaks

Leaking roofs, windows, or plumbing can introduce water into the RV’s interior. If not promptly addressed, this moisture can accumulate in hidden areas, such as inside walls or under flooring, and lead to mold growth.

Poor Ventilation

Inadequate ventilation can also trap moisture inside the RV, especially in bathrooms and kitchens where steam and humidity are common. Proper ventilation, like using roof vents and opening windows, can help reduce moisture buildup. This is especially important during storage when condensation can occur with temperature changes.

Tips To Reduce Mold and Mildew On Interior Surfaces

Reduce interior moisture such as wet clothing, cooking, and condensation. Identify what might be adding moisture to the air such as showers, boiling water for cooking, and wet clothes or towels hanging in the bathroom. Make sure all surfaces are clean and dry such as shower curtains, and countertops, and don’t leave any items standing around wet such as dishes. Increase airflow with roof vents and fans, and use dehumidifiers such as damp rid or even portable units. Open cabinets and closet doors to allow more air circulation.

This winter I tried a renewable dehumidifier called H2Out in a Thor Challenger and it was outstanding. They have different sizes that cover anywhere from 25 sq ft to 900 sq ft and all you need to do is put them in an oven to dry out the proprietary beads.

We put a couple of the 600 sf models in the bedroom and a couple in the living room with the cabinets open and had no condensation and zero mold!

Exterior Mold

Mold represents a type of fungal growth that adheres to dirt on surfaces, and once it reaches the black stage, eradicating it becomes notably challenging. Furthermore, it has the potential to cause permanent staining on roofing materials, especially rubber membranes. This underscores the significance of not only periodically cleaning rubber membranes like TPO and EPDM but also conditioning them.

Since fiberglass roof material is flat, it is less likely to house dirt, dust, and moisture like the rubber membrane which has pockets and can produce a perfect environment for mold to form.

Preventative Maintenance

Periodically clean the roof with Dawn Dish Soap and water by parking the rig on a slanted driveway for moisture runoff. Make sure the ladder is at the back or high point so you can get down safely when done.

Put a ¼ cup of Dawn in a 5-gallon bucket of water and fill it with warm water. Have someone periodically spray down the sides of the rig so no chalk or dirt from the roof sticks to the sidewall and windows. Using a mop or foam brush on a stick, start at the front spray a 4’ corner with a hose, and mop it down. Rinse it off and move over to the right side. Doing this in 4’ sections and working your way to the back ensures you are always walking on dry material.

Removing Existing Mold

If your roof material already shows signs of mold and mildew buildup, I would first start by cleaning it with Dawn Dish Soap and if it needs more treatment, you can use a variety of products including over-the-counter bathroom products such as Tilex Mold Remover or Mold Armor. For years I have used a ¼ cup of bleach in 5 gallons of water and it has worked very well, however, some people claim bleach is not environmentally friendly and will harm the environment and sewer systems. I have worked with our local Department Of Natural Resources (DNR) and Sanitary District and they stated that 1/4 cup mixed in one gallon of water and then diluted by 15 gallons of water would not affect a septic system. It would need to be 3/4 cup in every gallon to qualify as too powerful a solution.

I have also used Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) found in the paint section of home improvement stores, however, several states have banned this product but I do see TSP alternatives.

Awnings

Another exterior material that can develop mold and mildew is the vinyl and acrylic fabric used in awnings. Once again, the mold is attaching to dirt, dust, and moisture on the material, not the material itself so it is important to periodically clean the awning material as well using the same Dawn Dish Soap. The main culprit when it comes to awnings and mold is rolling the awning up when it is wet, or letting it sit out long enough to develop condensation. Periodically cleaning and letting it dry completely is the best way to prevent mold and mildew on awning fabric.

Remember, keeping your RV mold and mildew-free is not only about maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment but also ensuring the longevity of your RV’s materials. By taking these preventive measures and addressing issues promptly, you can enjoy your RV adventures with peace of mind and a clean, mold-free space. Happy RVing!

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Joan M. ~ “The entire process couldn’t have been more seamless. We have used other roadside programs in the past and none of them have lived up, that’s why we went with Coach-Net! There is no comparison! We absolutely recommend you to everyone!’’

An RVers Guide To Camping In The Mountains

03 Tuesday Oct 2023

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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An RV adventure in the mountains is an absolutely amazing thing! There’s nothing quite like fresh mountain air, and the altitude allows you to escape the summer heat. Additionally, the scenery up on a mountain really can’t be beat.

Yes, if you’re considering camping in the mountains, we highly recommend it. That said, we also recommend you do a bit of research and preparations beforehand.

Here’s what you need to know before you go RV camping in the mountains.

Know Your Rig’s Abilities

First, it’s important that you make sure your RV can safely make it up the mountain you intend to climb (and back down again). Generally, this shouldn’t be a problem, but if you have an older gas truck or weighed-down motorhome that struggles even on flat roads, taking it up a steep mountain road may not be your best bet.

Time It Right

Higher-elevation campsites are extremely cold and snowy during the winter months and can even stay cold well into the spring. For this reason, we think summer is the very best time to go camping in the mountains. The nights will still be chilly even in July, but you’ll have beautiful daytime temperatures and we find the weather is perfect for dry camping.

Download a Map

Because cell service can be spotty when in the mountains, you’ll also want to download your GPS map for the entire area to avoid getting lost as you wind your way down the mountain roads. It doesn’t hurt to carry an old-fashioned road map as well, just in case the GPS somehow fails you. Being lost in a rural area is no joke and something you will absolutely want to avoid.

Go In with Tools

Ensuring you have adequate directions to your campsite is one way to prepare for camping in the mountains, but it’s far from the only step you should take. We also recommend packing plenty of tools in case of a breakdown or broken parts. Carrying extra parts can be helpful if you know acquiring those parts will be difficult in the area you plan to visit.

We also recommend taking a book of matches, as lighters do not always want to cooperate at higher elevations.

Get Roadside Assistance

While it isn’t likely that you go in prepared, it is still possible that you will experience vehicle issues you can’t deal with on your own while camping in the mountains. In these cases, Coach-Net roadside assistance is incredibly valuable. Be sure you sign up for the program before you hit the road so you can travel with ease of mind.

Carry Water

It’s easy to become dehydrated when at higher altitudes. To avoid this problem, be sure you take plenty of drinking water when you head out, especially if you’ll be dry camping, as you may not have easy access to potable water. Carrying a water bottle as you drive through the mountains—and when you go hiking or enjoy other outdoor adventures—is also recommended.

Take Alternatives to Appliances

We mentioned above that lighters have a tough time lighting at higher elevations. The same is true for propane appliances. Therefore, those who will be boondocking and plan on using their RV fridge in propane mode might want to grab a cooler in case the fridge decides not to work properly.

It’s also a good idea to take an alternative way to cook in case the stove and oven won’t light. A charcoal grill is good for this, as is cooking over an open fire. Just know you might have a harder time keeping the campfire going.

Go Easy on Yourself

Lower oxygen levels at high altitudes can make it really difficult to participate in strenuous outdoor activities. Top that off with a bout of altitude sickness and you won’t be able to do anything for a couple of days.

For this reason, we recommend avoiding making plans for the first couple of days of your trip into the mountains in case you need to rest and let your body adjust. While resting, be sure to drink plenty of water and take acetaminophen and anti-nausea medicine as needed.

Despite the challenges it brings, we truly do believe camping in the mountains is a worthwhile adventure. Simply heed the advice above and you should be able to enjoy a safe and wonderful trip into the beautiful mountains of North America.

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About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Debra R. ~ “I wouldn’t be back on the road without Coach-Net!”

Pros & Cons Of RVing In National Parks

03 Tuesday Oct 2023

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Tips & Tricks, Travel Destinations

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RV camping is great no matter where you do it, but in our opinion, camping in national parks is one of the very best RV camping options out there. There are a number of benefits to camping in national parks that make the in-park campgrounds really desirable. That said, there are also some drawbacks to staying in these campgrounds.

If you’re thinking about camping in national parks, we encourage you to go for it, but we also think it’s a good idea to do a bit of research before diving in. That’s where this article comes into play. Below, we will tell you everything you need to know before you stay in a national park.

The Benefits of Camping in National Parks

First let’s talk about the pros of camping in national parks—the reasons we love it and recommend it to all RV campers out there. Once you read through these benefits, we’re guessing you’ll be itching to get out there and try it yourself.

Ideal Locations

Clearly, the best part about national park camping is the fact that you are camping right in the middle of the action. This makes it easy to get to whatever it is you want to see or do in the park. It also makes it easier to attend early-morning or late-night events and talks.

Awesome Wildlife

Pretty much every national park plays host to local flora and fauna, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see these critters as you hike and explore. That said, it’s even better when those animals wander right through your yard. When you’re camping in national parks, this happens often.

Beautiful Views

Another thing that goes hand in hand with national parks? Beautiful views, of course! Camping in national park campgrounds means you will be treated to amazing scenery right outside your window. You can enjoy mountain views while drinking your coffee, and gorgeous sunsets while cooking dinner.

No Day-Use Reservations

A few national parks require day-use visitors to make reservations. Sometimes, these can be very difficult to snag. When you’re camping in a national park, you no longer need day-use reservations to visit. That said, you might still need a reservation to enjoy certain activities within the park.

Discounted Stays for Some

National park campgrounds are generally pretty affordable. They are even more budget-friendly if you happen to have a national parks access pass or senior pass. People with these special cards can camp for half-price in any national park campground (as well as a number of other government-run campgrounds).

The Cons of Camping in National Parks

Of course, there are also a few cons you’ll want to keep in mind when deciding whether camping in national parks is right for you. Below, we’ve listed the two major drawbacks to national park campgrounds so you can be prepared before you head out.

Rig Size Matters

In many cases, national park campgrounds cannot accommodate big rigs. Instead, these campgrounds are made with shorter sites and often require campers to drive on narrow and/or winding roads. Therefore, you should consider purchasing a small trailer or van rather than a large fifth wheel if you plan to do a slot of camping in national parks.

Limited Amenities

On top of the small sites, many national park campgrounds also have very limited amenities. Rarely will you find a campground in a national park with any electric hookups at the sites, and sewer connections are nearly unheard of.

That said, there are a number of national campgrounds that provide potable water, dump stations, and restrooms with flush toilets.

Booking Your National Park Campsite

Ready to book a national park campsite? All you have to do is head to the recreation.gov website and reserve the campground you think will work best for you. Generally speaking, reservations open six months in advance at 7:00 AM Pacific Time, and we recommend booking as soon as your window opens up, as many of the more popular campgrounds do fill up.

Some national park campgrounds are first-come, first-served only. Other campgrounds have some sites that are similarly on FCFS basis but do have a separate set of sites that can be reserved. We recommend making reservations whenever possible.

If you do decide to try for an FCFS site, we recommend arriving about an hour before check-in time on a weekday in order to give yourself the best chance of snagging a spot. Of course, going during off season is also helpful!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

JACQUELINE J. ~ “I absolutely love Coach-Net, and the call center is so amazing! We have used the service twice now, and in both cases, the issue was resolved or the next action was recommended. We are very satisfied with our overall experience!”