Summer is a popular time of year for RVing. Family vacations and long road trips are fun to plan and even more exciting to experience. Keep your family members and friends more comfortable with these tips to beat the heat. Here are a few ways to keep your RV cool this summer.
1. Use LED light bulbs
Standard incandescent light bulbs generate a lot of heat. You’ll quickly warm the inside of an RV if you’re lighting the entire space exclusively with incandescents. Before heading out for your summer vacation, update the lights in your RV to LED light bulbs. This style of bulb lasts longer and generates considerably less heat to produce light. You might also choose “smart” LEDs that you can manage via a mobile app. If you accidentally leave the lights on when you take the kids swimming, use your smartphone to power them off while you’re sitting by the pool.
2. Keep Your RV Cool by Installing Window Shades
The windows and skylights in your RV are a significant source of heat gain. Windows are not good insulators, contributing to heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Especially if you’ve parked so that the windows are facing the sun, cover them. Hang blind or curtains or use specially designed insulated window shades to block sunlight. Cover the windshield and any skylights during the heat of the day.
3. Unplug Appliances and Electronics
Electronic devices, including computers and TVs, generate heat. If you are not using a device, unplug it. Limit the use of electronics and appliances in the hottest part of the day. Spend more time outdoors and turn off laptops and televisions.
The refrigerator is a common source of heat that cannot be unplugged. To help the appliance function efficiently, keep the vents clean and free of dust and pet hair. It will use less energy and generate less heat as it cools your food.
4. Cook Outdoors to Keep Your RV Cool
Cooking indoors on the stove will create enough heat to warm the interior by a few degrees. If you’re camping in a warm part of the country, plan meals that don’t require heat. Cold salads and sandwiches are delicious, healthy, and easy to prepare. You won’t have to turn on the stove to get lunch ready. If you are planning to cook, use an outdoor grill or cook over a campfire to keep the inside of the RV cooler.
If you’ll be spending a lot of time in the RV this summer, you might find it challenging to keep your family cool and comfortable. Use these tips to manage the heat in your rig and boost the enjoyment of your summer vacation.
RV Home Inspections offers RV inspection services to customers in Houston, Texas. Contact us to request an appointment.