12. Maintenance and upkeep
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12.6
Ventilation
Sufficient ventilation and de-aeration of the vehicle interior is essen
-
tial to maintaining a comfortable climate. You will notice an increased
amount of condensation inside the caravan on cooler days or after it
has not been used for a prolonged period of time. This condensation
may be particularly heavy on single-glazed windows. Damp spots are
sometimes even noticeable on furniture surfaces, the inner side of
outside walls, and often also in cupboards. Furthermore, such damp
-
ness can cause mould to build up, which then rapidly spreads to other
surfaces. This situation not only impairs your sense of well-being, but
can also lead to damaged components. This condensation is generally
caused by the air in the room. One of the properties of air is that it
can absorb water. The hotter the air is, the more water it can absorb
(relative humidity). If air that is totally saturated with water vapour
cools down and reaches its saturation point, it gives off part of the
water in the form of condensation. This is also known as a “cold bridge”.
However, condensation occurs primarily when there is little airflow
due to structural conditions or insufficient airing.
Condensation forms most readily
- in tight spaces,
- from the breath and perspiration of the
passengers,
- by having damp clothing, inside the caravan,
- Operating the gas cooker and oven*.
- Showering, washing or doing the washing-up with very warm or
hot water
Ensure sufficient air circulation to prevent damage from
the collection of condensation!
To ensure the ideal air exchange, open all of the cup
-
board and wall cabinet doors when airing and reheating
the caravan.
A high level of humidity can cause the edge of the mirror
to corrode. After airing, dry any remaining damp spots
with a cloth that has not been sprayed with or dipped
in cleaning agents.
Air the caravan as required in an energy-conscious
manner. Although this means that some heating ener
-
gy will be lost, it is in the interests of a healthy room
temperature and to prevent any damage from moisture.
What is important is to ensure that the loss of heating
energy is kept as low as possible. This is best achieved
by airing intensively for a brief period at regular intervals.
Therefore, you should open the skylights, windows and
doors as far as possible for a short time, thus creating a
draft. After approx. 10 to 15 minutes the stale, moist air
in the room will be replaced by fresh, dry air which, after
heating up, can again absorb additional water vapour.
While sleeping, a person loses about one litre of water per night
through the pores of their skin and breathing. The additional water
vapour in the air must be discharged from the recreational vehicle
by airing it sufficiently at regular intervals. An air change of 0.5 to 1
ACH (Air change per hour) is required if only for reasons of hygiene
to ensure that the level of toxic substances and odorous pollutants in
the air in the room remains low.
