Caravanning is a popular way to explore the great outdoors and enjoy the freedom of the open road. However, with this freedom comes the responsibility of maintaining your caravan to ensure it stays in good condition.
One of the biggest challenges faced by caravan owners is moisture control. Too much moisture can lead to mould and mildew growth. Subsequently, this can cause far-reaching damage to your caravan and your health.
That’s where a dehumidifier for your caravan comes in. It can help reduce the humidity levels in your caravan and prevent moisture problems from occurring.
However, buying a dehumidifier is not as easy as heading to the store and grabbing the first one you spot. You must determine the right type, size, and performance efficacy for your caravan and usage demands.
Whether you are curious about the importance of moisture control in caravans, the benefits of using a dehumidifier, or how to install one, this guide covers all that and more.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the ins and outs of buying the best dehumidifier for your caravan. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to keep your motor home dry, comfortable, moisture-free, and in tip-top condition.
Choosing The Right Dehumidifier For Your Caravan
The Different Types Of Dehumidifiers
In relation to dehumidifier types, there are two main options to consider for your caravan: desiccant and compressor.
- Desiccant dehumidifiers work best in cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels, making them perfect for use in caravans. This is because they actively heat the air which makes them very effective for use when your caravan is not being used during the winter. They use a moisture-absorbing material to extract moisture from the air and are typically quieter than compressor dehumidifiers. However, they are generally less energy-efficient and are better suited to smaller spaces.
- Compressor dehumidifiers work by sucking in air and passing it over a cold coil. This intricate process causes the moisture in the atmosphere to condense into water droplets, which then collect into a tank. Compressor dehumidifiers are generally more powerful and energy-efficient than desiccant dehumidifiers, making them better suited to larger spaces. On the flip side, their high performance means they can be noisier than their counterparts. They work best in warmer temperatures and higher humidity levels, making them a good choice for caravans during the summer months.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Dehumidifier For Your Caravan
In quick summation, there are a few key factors to consider when choosing a dehumidifier for your caravan. They include:
- Size: For a dehumidifier to effectively reduce humidity levels in your space, its dimensions must be proportionate to the size of your caravan.
- Noise: If you plan to use your caravan dehumidifier when sleeping or relaxing, consider a quiet option to avoid disturbing your peace. A moisture trap unit like the Unibond Aero 360 is silent thanks to having no loud fan or moving parts, but this comes at the cost of being much less effective than electric dehumidifers.
- Energy Consumption: Consider the energy consumption of the dehumidifier to ensure it will not strain your caravan’s power supply and potentially cause electrical issues.
- Portability: If you plan to move your dehumidifier around your caravan, consider a lightweight and portable option. For instance, the ProBreeze 500ml is a compact Peltier unit that only weighs about 1.04 kg.
- Budget: Dehumidifiers can vary considerably in price. Consider your budget and compare the features of various options to find the best value for your money.
How To Size A Dehumidifier For Your Caravan
The size of your chosen dehumidifier is a make-or-break determinant in ensuring it effectively reduces the humidity levels of your space. Settling on the correct size for your caravan starts with calculating the cubic feet of the caravan interior. This information will help determine which dehumidifier will be the appropriate pint capacity.
The pint capacity indicates the moisture quantity the dehumidifier can remove from the air within 24 hours. A general rule is to aim for a pint capacity of roughly 10-12 pints for a small caravan and up to 18 pints for a larger caravan or motorhome.
For example, if your caravan measures 10ft x 8ft x 6ft (480 cubic feet), you should look for a dehumidifier with a pint capacity of at least 6 pints.
Installing And Using A Dehumidifier In Your Caravan
Where To Place Your Dehumidifier In Your Caravan
How To Properly Install A Dehumidifier In Your Caravan
Before installing your dehumidifier, you must read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Most units require a simple plug-in installation. Others demand a more complicated fitting.
For a plug-in installation, you only need to plug your dehumidifier into a nearby electrical outlet and turn it on. Many units come with a built-in humidistat that automatically turns the appliance on and off to maintain the desired humidity level in your caravan.
For more complex installations, such as units that need hard wiring into your caravan’s electrical system, you should seek the help of a professional electrician to ensure safe and correct installation.
How To Use And Maintain Your Dehumidifier
To begin with, set your dehumidifier to the desired humidity level, typically between 40-50%. Also, make it a habit to monitor the water collection basket from the get-go and empty it as needed to prevent overflowing or leaks.
Additional Tips For Moisture Control In Your Caravan
Other Methods For Reducing Moisture In Your Caravan
While a dehumidifier is a valuable tool for reducing moisture in your caravan, it is not the only solution. Here are some other methods you can use to reduce moisture:
- Use moisture-absorbing products like desiccants or silica gel packets
- Open windows and doors when weather permits to allow for ventilation
- Avoid drying clothes or towels inside the caravan
- Cover pots when cooking to prevent excess steam and moisture in the air
- Use extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom areas
How To Prevent Mould And Mildew Growth In Your Caravan
Mould and mildew thrive in damp and humid conditions. Therefore, deploying moisture-control measures in your caravan is essential to prevent their growth. To that effect, you can carry out these simple steps:
- Regularly clean and dry the surfaces in your caravan
- Remove any mould or mildew spots as soon as they appear
- Use mould-inhibiting products or natural remedies such as white vinegar and tea tree oil
- Monitor and control the humidity levels in your caravan
How To Properly Ventilate Your Caravan
Good ventilation is essential for controlling moisture and preventing the growth of mould and mildew. Here are some tips for proper ventilation of your caravan:
- Open windows and doors when weather permits
- Install extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom areas
- Use vent covers to allow for air circulation while keeping insects and rain out
- Use roof vents or skylights to allow warm, damp air to escape and fresh air to enter
- Consider installing a solar-powered fan to increase ventilation on hot, sunny days
Conclusion
Moisture control in caravans is crucial to prevent mould and mildew growth, which can lead to serious health issues. While there are many ways to reduce humidity levels in a vehicle, such as proper ventilation, using a dehumidifier is the most effective method.
When choosing a dehumidifier for your caravan, make it a point to consider the size, type, and features of the unit. A unit that is the right size will ensure optimal moisture control without wasting energy.
Besides choosing the right dehumidifier for your caravan, it is essential to install it properly so that it can serve you well. Performing regular maintenance will also keep it running smoothly.
A dehumidifier is a must-have addition for any caravaner who wants to maintain a safe and healthy living environment. With the help of a dehumidifier, you can significantly reduce moisture levels, prevent mould and mildew growth, and improve the air quality in your caravan.
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Prices & information last updated on 2024-01-09
