SECTION 10
CAMPING & OPERATING
CONDENSATION
Condensation is a natural phenomenon. The
amount of condensation will vary with climate
conditions, particularly the relative humidity.
Condensation occurs because there is water
vapor present in the air, which each of us
adds to by breathing, bathing or cooking. The
water vapor usually collects on the coolest
surfaces. When the temperature reaches the
“dew point,” the water vapor in the air
condenses and changes to a liquid form. If
moisture is unable to escape the RV, you will
experience condensation.
Most people have experienced this
phenomenon when a moisture forms on their
windows. Outside air is cooling the window on
the outside while inside air is warming the
window on the inside; the resulting moisture is
attracted to that surface and the windows
begin to sweat.
To reduce condensation
Proper ventilation and, if needed, the use of a
dehumidifier (customer supplied) will assist in
controlling condensation. Many RV and
marine dealers carry small dehumidifiers
sized for RV use. Other suggestions are:
Crack open windows and roof vents to
allow warm moist air to escape.
When taking a shower open the bath roof
vent (if so equipped) approximately ½”
allowing the moisture to escape.
Use the range hood fan (if so equipped)
when cooking or washing dishes.
Avoid hanging wet towels (or clothes)
inside the RV to dry.
If condensation is found in cabinets or
closets, open those doors slightly to
equalize the temperature and provide
ventilation.
SETTING UP YOUR CAMPSITE
Fig. 10.1 Blocking the wheels
Un-hitching your fifth wheel
1. Pull into the site, and park the RV where
you want it.
2. Block the wheels securely to prevent the
RV from moving.
3. Drop the landing gear (important!) Refer
to the operator’s manual for proper
operation.
4. Disconnect the wire harness/connector
plug and breakaway switch lanyard.
5. Drop the truck tailgate (unless you have a
tailgate specially designed to
accommodate a fifth-wheel hitch).
6. Gently put your truck into reverse (don’t
give it any fuel/acceleration).
This effectively moves the kingpin off the
locking bar that will allow you to
disengage it.
7. Step on brake and apply parking brake.
8. Disengage the locking bar and unhitch.
9. Drive away.
10. If applicable, raise truck tailgate.
11. Adjust the fifth-wheel height for proper
front to back leveling of the RV.
Leveling the RV
Now that you have parked your RV, you need
to ensure it is level. Leveling is very important.
A level RV is more comfortable for sleeping
and walking. The refrigerator is designed to
operate when level for best performance due
to the absorption system. The water drainage
systems are designed with proper slope and
must be level for proper operation. The
appliances perform best when level.
Condensation needs to be taken seriously.
Ignoring it can damage the RV (damage
caused by condensation is not
warrantable), and more importantly could
lead to mold or mildew issues which could
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