R O U T I N E M A I N T E N A N C E
14-7
Avoid Drastic Thermostat Setbacks
Cooler surface temperatures increase the potential for condensation and surface mold growth. To
minimize the opportunity for condensation to form on interior surfaces, maintain a comfortable
temperature in your RV, and avoid nighttime setbacks of 10 degrees or more. Drastic setbacks that reduce
the indoor air temperature quickly can increase the chance for airborne moisture to condense on cool
surfaces such as windows. If you are away from your RV for an extended number of days, it is
recommended that you do not set the temperature back without taking other measures to manage relative
humidity, including operating a dehumidifier with a continuous drain.
Manage Window Condensation
Window condensation issues can be identified by water or ice-build up, usually at the base of the window.
The majority of these problems can be addressed by managing moisture generated inside the motor
home. Minor condensation issues are not unusual, especially for RVs used in colder climates. The key is to
manage this small amount of moisture if evident by wiping the surface, and as discussed in the “Control
Relative Humidity” section, maintaining a reasonable relative humidity within the unit. To help minimize
window condensation, use exhaust fans vented to the outside, avoid drastic changes in thermostat
settings, do not use “vent-free” heaters and use window coverings wisely. For example, make sure to open
curtains or blinds during the day to allow air to circulate and warm the window surface.
Carpet Care and Moisture Management
To keep your carpet serviceable and looking new for years to come, the carpet should be cleaned when it
shows signs of discoloration or traffic patterns. A steam cleaning system should be used to clean the
carpet unless other noted in your warranty information. To manage moisture from the cleaning process,
the cleaning system needs to be capable of extracting the excess water from the carpet after it has been
cleaned.
Important
: Be sure the carpet is thoroughly dry before closing up the RV for storage. Water
from the cleaning process can cause significant damage to the RV if the carpet is not completely dry
before closing up the motor home for an extended period.
Cleaning Tile and Wood Floors
Most floors only require a mild detergent and warm water for cleaning. More water on the floor is not
always better for cleaning. Use a damp cloth to clean on a regular basis rather than wet mopping each
time. For more information regarding the maintenance of the tile and wood floors, see the section
entitled, “Woodwork and Floors.”
Storage and Other Isolated Areas within the RV
Storage areas are more difficult to condition since the areas are isolated from the main body of the RV.
The surfaces of these areas are more at risk for condensation and surface mold growth. To minimize this
risk, clean storage areas regularly, and allow an air space between stored items and the exterior wall to
promote air circulation.
Summary of Contents for 2011 Phaeton
Page 8: ...G E N E R A L I N F O R M A T I O N 1 1 GENERAL INFORMATION Chapter 1 ...
Page 15: ......
Page 16: ...D R I V I N G S A F E T Y I N S T R U C T I O N S 2 1 Driving Safety Instructions Chapter 2 ...
Page 28: ......
Page 29: ...H E A T I N G A I R C O N D I T I O N I N G 3 1 Heating Air Conditioning Chapter 3 ...
Page 36: ......
Page 58: ......
Page 59: ...C A B I N E T S F U R N I T U R E 5 1 Cabinets Furniture Chapter 5 ...
Page 65: ......
Page 66: ...S T R U C T U R A L F E A T U R E S 6 1 Structural Features Chapter 6 ...
Page 68: ......
Page 69: ...E L E C T R I C A L F E A T U R E S 7 1 Electrical Features Chapter 7 ...
Page 81: ......
Page 82: ...S L I D E O U T F E A T U R E S 8 1 Slide Out Features Chapter 8 ...
Page 86: ......
Page 87: ...E X T E R I O R F E A T U R E S 9 1 Exterior Features Chapter 9 ...
Page 94: ......
Page 95: ...I N T E R I O R F E A T U R E S 10 1 Interior Features Chapter 10 ...
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Page 99: ...P L U M B I N G B A T H F E A T U R E S 11 1 Plumbing Bath Fixtures Chapter 11 ...
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Page 111: ...C O N S T R U C T I O N F E A T U R E S 12 1 Construction Features Chapter 12 ...
Page 113: ...C O N S T R U C T I O N F E A T U R E S 12 3 ...
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Page 115: ...W I N D O W S A W N I N G S V E N T S D O O R S 13 1 Windows Awnings Vents Doors Chapter 13 ...
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Page 121: ...R O U T I N E M A I N T E N A N C E 14 1 Routine Maintenance Chapter 14 ...
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Page 164: ...M A I N T E N A N C E D A T A C H A R T S 15 1 Maintenance Data Charts Chapter 15 ...
Page 173: ...M A I N T E N A N C E D A T A C H A R T S 15 10 ...