12-1
5 - DASH / AUT
O
SECTION 12 – MISCELLANEOUS
EFFECTS OF PROLONGED
OCCUPANCY
Your trailer was designed primarily for
recreational use and short-term occupancy. If you
expect to occupy it for an extended period, be
prepared to deal with condensation and humid
conditions that may be encountered.
Humidity and Condensation
Moisture condensing on the inside of
windows is a visible indication that there is too
much humidity inside the coach. Excessive
moisture can cause water stains or mildew, which
can damage interior items such as upholstery and
cabinets.
When you recognize the signs of excessive
moisture and condensation, you should take
immediate action to minimize their effects.
You can help reduce excessive moisture
inside the trailer by taking the following steps:
•
Ventilate with outside air:
Partially open one
or more windows and a roof vent to circulate
outside air through the coach. In cold weather,
this ventilation may increase use of the
furnace, but it will greatly reduce the
condensation.
•
Minimize moisture released inside the
trailer:
Run the range hood fan while cooking
and open a bath vent while bathing or
showering to carry water vapor out of the
coach. Avoid making steam from boiling
water excessively or letting hot water run.
Avoid bringing in extra moisture by way of
soaked clothing or snow on shoes. Do not
hang-dry wet overcoats or clothing inside to
dry.
MOLD, MOISTURE, AND YOUR
TRAILER
What is Mold?
Molds are part of the natural environment.
They are as old as the Earth itself and mold
spores are almost everywhere at some level
waiting to grow. Mold plays a part of nature by
breaking down dead organic matter, such as
fallen leaves and dead trees. Indoors however,
mold growth should be avoided. Molds
reproduce by means of tine spores. Those spores
are invisible to the naked eye and float
throughout the outdoor and indoor air. Because
of the nature of the use of a trailer, it is natural for
a trailer to be introduced into an environment
with mold spores.
Mold is a plant and requires its own special
environment to grow. That environment includes
organic materials, nutrients, moisture, and proper
temperature.
How Can I Avoid Mold?
To reduce the ability for mold to grow, you
must reduce what constitutes its growth
environment. Mold can grow with the smallest of
a nutrient base. Just small amounts of dirt or dust
on the carpet can be enough to allow the mold
process to begin. Keep the environment as clean
as possible. Vacuum the carpet. Clear food spills
thoroughly and quickly. Avoid grease buildup
near the stove or sink. Clean the exhaust fan
above the stove often.
Minimize moisture in your trailer and keep
humidity low. Clean spills quickly. Do not allow
condensation to build up. You can open windows
and vents to minimize condensation. Use of the
air conditioner can assist in removing moisture
from the air. Avoid leaks, but if leaks do occur,
make repairs promptly.
Avoid bringing mold into your trailer. Plants,
cloths, books, and other household items may
already have mold present. It is easy to transfer
mold into your trailer environment.
