Condensation
Condensation needs to be considered in both the Air OPUS
®
camper tent and the
annex.
Condensation is caused by warm, moist air coming into contact with cold surfaces.
This can occur inside most tents and annexs, which may sometimes be misinterpreted as
the fabric leaking.
There is always moisture in the air when you pitch a waterproof fabric above damp
ground; however the situation is made worse by adding people who are breathing out
warm water vapour. When the warm moist air inside comes into contact with the fabric
of the Air OPUS
®
camper tent or the annex\material, which is cooled by the outside air,
condensation forms.
While the Air OPUS
®
is stored away condensation may occur we highly recommend you
open the Air OPUS
®
on a monthly basis for long term care of the canvas.
During rain more condensation can form due to lower outside temperature and drops
can form and run down seams or fall on internal poles, giving the appearance of a leak.
There are a few main causes of condensation:
• Ground moisture rising inside your annex.
• Your breath - when sleeping at night you will exhale approximately 34 oz of water.
This water vapour is trapped within your OPUS
®
or annex - this will escape
through opening windows, doors or vents.
• Storing damp or wet accessories e.g. floor mats, chairs, clothes etc.
• Cooking by gas - 0.5 hours of cooking can produce 17 oz. of water.
It is natural for the body to perspire (sweat) during the night; please ensure the camper
is WELL VENTILATED to avoid excessive condensation which could result in issues such
as mould or damp if adequate care is not taken.
After a night’s sleep please INSPECT the mattress to ensure no condensation is present
and the mattress is properly aired.
If in storage for a long period of time such as 4 weeks or longer, its recommended to
open and let it breathe for 24 hours. If the Air OPUS
®
is based in tropical warm areas
it will cause condensation when closed & may need to be opened & aired more
regularly.
Air OPUS
®
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
29
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Ventilation
Ventilation is more important than is generally realised - your Air OPUS
®
camper and
annxe have several windows/vents that can be opened to help increase air ventilation.
An increase in ventilation will result in a decrease of condensation. Under extreme
conditions, condensation cannot be completely avoided.
Condensation nearly always occurs on the roof poles and therefore it is often
confused with leaks.
Leave the ventilation panels open as much as possible. To prevent ground moisture
rising inside the awning, a plastic underlay can be placed underneath, but this will
cause the grass to die and may contravene some caravan/camp site rules.
When cooking in the Air OPUS
®
Annex it is crucial to ensure the ventilation
vents located above and below kitchen slide out are clear and not covered.
Air OPUS
®
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
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30
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IMPORTANT
WHEN COOKING DO NOT
HAVE THE ROOM DIVIDER
CLOSED BEHIND KITCHEN
SLIDE OUT. IT MUST BE OPEN.
