How to prevent mold in your RV

When looking at an RV, making sure it is well insulated to keep heaters and A/C units run efficiently is definitely a consideration. Modern energy practices use high performance building techniques to create the most energy efficient spaces possible. High R-factor insulation, double and triple pane windows, air tight building wraps, all contribute to a very efficient package. Add to this the relatively small interior space of an RV, and it is easy to see how just our own body heat and breathing can cause condensation on the windows. And where there is condensation, mold is not far behind.

The key solution to this is proper ventilation. However, when you try to keep the cold outside in winter, or cold inside in summer, opening the windows is not usually the best option. Just running your exhaust or bathroom fan is also not a very effective option. Enter Heat Recovery Ventilation systems.

A Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) system, also known as an Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) system in some cases, is a mechanical system designed to improve indoor air quality while also conserving energy. HRV systems are particularly effective in climates with extreme temperature variations, where heating and cooling are necessary throughout the year.

Here's how a typical HRV system works:

Ventilation: The HRV system continuously exchanges indoor air with fresh outdoor air. It typically consists of two separate air streams, one bringing in fresh outdoor air and the other expelling stale indoor air.

Heat Exchange: The key feature of an HRV system is the heat exchanger core. This core allows the outgoing warm indoor air to transfer its heat energy to the incoming cold outdoor air in the winter. In the summer, it can do the reverse, cooling the incoming hot outdoor air with the cool indoor air, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

Filtration: Both the incoming and outgoing air streams typically pass through filters to remove particles like dust, allergens, and pollutants, improving indoor air quality.

Distribution: The HRV system then distributes the conditioned, filtered fresh air throughout the RV, ensuring that occupants have a continuous supply of clean air.

Benefits of Heat Recovery Ventilation systems include:

Improved Air Quality: HRV systems provide a constant supply of fresh air while filtering out pollutants and allergens, contributing to healthier indoor air.

Energy Efficiency: By recovering and transferring heat or coolness between the incoming and outgoing air streams, HRV systems can significantly reduce the energy needed to heat or cool the RV.

Moisture Control: HRV systems help manage humidity levels by transferring moisture, which is particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of mold and dampness.

Cost Savings: Although HRV systems require an initial investment, the long-term energy savings and potential health benefits can make them cost-effective.

It's important to note that HRV systems are most effective when properly sized, installed, and maintained. Regular maintenance, such as filter replacements, is essential to ensure optimal performance and air quality. Overall, HRV systems are a valuable addition to RVs, helping to create a more comfortable and healthy indoor environment while reducing energy consumption.

At Custom Travel Homes, we use the Lunos e2 HRV system and it runs 24/7, 365 days a year. We never had moisture or mold build up. It provides peace of mind.