How to Keep Your RV Cool This Summer
Hot weather is here for the next few months (with many states experiencing record-high temperatures!) but there are many simple solutions (and some DIY fixes) that are guaranteed to keep your RV cooler whether you are boondocking or camping at your favorite RV park.
Here is a helpful checklist that will let you swap out the summer heat for cool air in your RV—and keep your camper cool during even the hottest part of the day.
1. Air Conditioner: A worthy splurge
The most obvious cooling fix is an air conditioner. But owners of an RV ac unit are often reluctant to use one because of the power usage involved. However, remember that your RV air conditioner is specially designed to run for a long time—especially when the power source is a 30 or 50 AMP electrical hookup or generator.
Smaller campers typically have only one ac unit and only require a 30 AMP hookup while larger campers typically have two ac units and require a 50 AMP hookup. Still, if you don’t have the correct hookup, you can easily supplement your power source with a generator.
2. Awnings: Here comes the (indirect) sun!
To reduce the cost of air conditioning, look no further than an RV awning on the side of your RV. These fixtures prevent direct sunlight from seeping into your camper—and stop the sun’s heat from infiltrating your camper by as much as 77 percent. It’s an incredible way to cut the cooling costs of your ac unit.
Other helpful sun-deflecting devices include: Reflectix®, vent covers, or other reflective insulation on anything that the sun hits. Think: skylights, roof vents, vent fans, RV windows, etc. Of course, RV window covers and window shades may make you feel boxed in, so consider opting for window covers only during the hottest part of the day.
Also, consider parking (if possible) in a shady spot or cover your RV roof with a tarp. Any of these hacks can significantly reduce the extreme heat from the dreaded greenhouse effect.
3. Cook Outside: Old school is summer cool
Air circulation can be a challenge in any RV, but the summer heat makes cooking indoors doubly unappealing. Set up a small grill or plug in a hot plate on a picnic bench outside and enjoy a home cooked meal in the fresh air.
However, if cooking outside is not your style—remember that you can get air circulation (and eliminate hot spots and odors) by simply opening your door. You’ll also gain some much-needed cooling airflow.
4. RV Vents: I’m your biggest fan
This economical approach is a built-in feature for most campers and motorhomes. Full-time RVers know that this vent prevents stale air, odors, and mold from accumulating in your RV. However, some RV vents are better at circulating the air in and out of your RV because they come with a built-in fan that works even when the vent is closed.
This vent fan acts as a ceiling fan—but if your motorhome doesn’t have this feature consider buying a portable fan. Even a small fan can help eliminate hot air. Plus, some fans are battery-powered, allowing you to carry them with you as you move around your camper.
5. Cooling Sleep Tech: The cool sleep solution
RVMattress.com keeps RVers cool at night with our Aurora Luxe, Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector, and gel-infused Luxury Cooling Pillows. The cooling science is powerful—and we are proud to implement the research into great sleep for you and your family.
6. Buy LED: Let there be (cool) light
A simple light bulb replacement can ease the strain placed on your ac unit in the summer. Simply switch out the old fluorescent and incandescent lighting in your camper with LED light bulbs. Those LED bulbs with an ENERGY STAR rating use at least 75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than an incandescent light bulb.
Less expended energy means less radiating heat—which translates to more cold air and less warm air in your RV.
We hope you give some of these cooling tips a try! Remember that Amazon, Walmart, or Target can be a great one-stop-shop for all your DIY needs. :) Happy camping!
