Living
With
Your
Motor
Home
"cure-all," and ventilation, storm windows, and
moisture reduction continue to
be
important,
operation
of
the dehumidifier will reduce the
amount
of
outside air needed for ventilation.
Heating load
on
the furnace will
be
reduced, and
the interior will
be
less drafty.
Dripping Ceiling Vents
During cold weather condensation frequently
forms on ceiling vents and may even accumulate
to the point
of
dripping onto the surfaces below.
This is frequently misinterpreted as a
"leaking"
roof
vent but is most often condensation drip-
page. Follow the preceding steps to control
moisture condensation, and protect surfaces with
plastic sheeting until the moisture has dissipated.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Mold is a fungus that occurs naturally in the
environment and serves necessary functions
including aiding in the decomposition
of
plant and
other organic material. Mold spreads by means
of
microscopic spores borne
on
the wind and is
found evelywhere life can
be
suppOlted. Mold has
existed for millions
of
years, and human beings
have coexisted despite their exposure to mold and
mold spores.
]f
the proper conditions are present, mold can and
will grow
in
your recreational vehicle. Most
RV
owners are familiar with mold growth
in
the form
of
bread and cheese and on bathroom tile. In order
to grow, mold requires a food source. These food
sources might be supplied
by
items found in the
RV such as fabric, carpet, Wallpaper, or building
materials (i.e., wood, and insulation). Also, most
mold growth requires a temperate climate. The
best growth occurs at temperatures between
40°F
and
100"F.
Most importantly, mold growth
requires moisture, and moisture is the ouly growth
factor that can
be
controlled. By minimizing inte-
rior sources
of
moisture,
an
RV
owner can reduce
or prevent mold growth. However,
if
optimal
growth conditions persist, mold can develop
within 24 to 48 hours.
06-10
Moisture in the RV can stem from a variety
of
sources such as spills, leaks, overflows, condensa-
tion, damp or standing water and human activity
such as showering or cooking. Good maintenance
practices are essential in the effort to prevent or
reduce mold growth.
What the
RV
Owner Can Do
The
RV
owner can take positive steps to reduce
the occurrence
of
mold growth in the
RV
and
thereby minimize any possible adverse effects
that may
be
caused
by
mold.
These steps
may
include, but are not limited to,
the following:
• Before bringing items into the RV check for
signs
of
mold. Potted plants (root and soil),
furnishings, or stored
clothing and bedding
materials may also contain mold spores.
• Regular vacuuming and cleaning will help
reduce levels
of
settled mold spores.
Additionally, detergent solutions and most
tile cleaners are effective
in
controlling
mold growth
on
surfaces.
• Keep the humidity in the RV below 40%.
Ventilate kitchens and bathrooms by open-
ing windows, using exhaust fans, or mnning
the air conditioning to remove excess mois-
ture in the air and to facilitate evaporation
of
water from wet sUifaces. In general, win-
dows or doors throughout the RV should
be
opened periodically to ventilate the
RY.
• Promptly clean
up
spills, condensation, and
other sources
of
moisture. Thoroughly dry
any wet surfaces or material.
Do
not let
water pool or stand
in
or
under your
RV.
• Inspect for leaks on a regular basis.
Look
for discolorations or wet spots. Repair any
leaks promptly. Inspect condensation pans
(refrigeration and air conditioners) for
mold growth. Take notice
of
musty odors
and any visible signs
of
mold growth.
Other actions the RV owner can take
to
prevent
moisture issues include the following:
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