Living With Your Motor Home
peratures between 40
0
P and
lOO°F,
Most impor-
tantly, mold growth requires moisture, and
moisture is the only growth factor that can be
controlled. By minimizing interior sources
of
moisture, an
RV
owner can reduce or prevent
mold growth. However,
if
optimal growth con-
ditions persist, mold can develop within 24 to
48 hours.
Moisture in the
RV
can stem from a variety
of
sources such
as
spills, leaks, overflows, conden-
sation, 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
OCCU1Tence
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 sUlfaces.
• Keep the humidity in the RV below 40%.
Ventilate kitchens and bathrooms by open-
ing windows, using exhaust fans, or run-
ning the air conditioning to remove excess
moisture in the air and to facilitate evapo-
ration
of
water from wet surfaces.
In
gen-
eral, windows
or
doors through out the
RV
should be opened periodically to ventilate
theRV.
• Promptly clean up spills, condensation, and
other sources
of
moisture. Thoroughly dry
any wet sUlfaces
or
material. Do not let
water pool
or
stand in
or
under your
RY.
06-10
• 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:
• Do NOT use unvented Propane, kerosene,
or
other unvented combustion heaters;
• Do NOT cover
or
close
off
the floor regis-
ters (if equipped);
• Check your cooling equipment filter on a
monthly basis;
• Use the air conditioner or a dehumidifier
during humid months, particularly during
the summer in hot, humid climates;
• Use exhaust fans in kitchen and bathrooms
to remove excess moisture;
• Clean the bathroom with mold-killing
products
For more information about mold, and what you
can do to reduce moisture and remediate mold
growth in your
RV,
please refer to the following
websites and literature;
1.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Mold Remediation in Schools and
Commercial Buildings
2001.
http://www.epa gov/iaq/molds/moldremediation.html
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your
Home,
2002.
http:Uwww.epa.goV/iaqimolds/moldquide.html
The patiicle board, hardwood plywood,
or
pan-
eling used in your motor home are made with
urea-formaldehyde resin. The companies that
supply us with these materials have asked that
we tell you about urea-formaldehyde with the
statements on this page.
Ventilation is important for making the interior
of
your motor home comfortable. Please read
the section about ventilation and prolonged
occupancy in the
Living With
YOUI'
Motor
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