RV Vents 101 - What You Need to Know
Stagnate air in your RV is never something you want. Thankfully, your RV is equipped with a ceiling vent that helps keep the air circulating and comfortable. Here is a closer look at what the vent does, how you can take care of it and when it may need to be replaced from time to time.
The Basic Makeup of an RV Vent
Most RV ceiling vents have a similar design. They have a fan with a vent cap that can open, either manually on older models or electronically on newer ones. The fan pulls air out of the RV, venting it to the outdoors. Fresh air then enters through open windows, or the heating and cooling system, keeping the home well ventilated. The vent cap provides a tight seal when needed, such as when you are moving from spot to spot or when it rains. The vent also has a screen on the inside of the RV that keeps debris out.
How to Maintain an RV Vent
RV Vents are fairly easy to maintain. First, when you handle your regular maintenance, check to ensure that the screen on the vent is clean. It can get clogged with grease from the kitchen or just plain old dust and grime. If it looks clogged, consider soaking it in soapy water to clean.
Next, take a look at the fan. Make sure it is not dirty or grimy, and remove any debris that may have fallen inside. This will help prevent future damage. Check it for proper function and unhindered movement.
Where the real problems can occur is with the vent cover or cap. These are constantly exposed to the elements, and because of this they can wear out more quickly than the fan. Inspect these regularly, and if you notice cracks or missing caulking, replace the cover immediately. Faults with the vent cover will provide an open door for water to get in to your RV causing costly damage. If you cannot fix the cracks, you will need to replace the vent cap.
Signs Your Ceiling Vent Needs Replacement
Even with proper care, your ceiling vent will not last forever. You will eventually need to replace the vent. Knowing the indicators to watch for will help you know when it is time for a replacement, and therefore will protect you from a costly problem or hot, stuffy air inside your RV.
If your vent no longer seals properly, it needs to be replaced. This can let moisture into your RV, creating mold and mildew problems. Sometimes you can just replace the cover, but sometimes you will need to replace the entire ceiling vent, including the fan. If the fan has become too noisy or has stopped functioning, then the entire vent needs to be replaced. Without a working fan, the air inside your RV will not properly circulate, becoming stale and uncomfortable.
RV ceiling vents, like all of your RV’s components, are there for a reason. Take time to appreciate the function of this important component, make sure you maintain it properly and be ready to replace it when needed.
