Though some people park their RV and winterize it, many RVers are on the road full-time. When the weather is colder, you have the advantage of enjoying areas that are usually packed with tourists, all to yourself. Crowds are smaller and you’ll be more likely to find a campground in a usually-booked location. Being on the road in winter does present some challenges. Here are a few ways to stay warm in your RV.
Boost the Insulation to Stay Warm in Your RV
Before cold weather arrives, inspect your RV to find areas where you can add insulation. Here are some tips to better insulate your rig.
- Windows are a common spot for heat loss. Check the caulk and weather stripping around the windows and replace it if the product is cracked, damaged, or aging. In the colder months of the year, change the window coverings for warmer insulated ones.
- Check the door and replace worn weather stripping there as well. A fabric door snake provides extra insulation to block the airflow from beneath the door.
- Often a camper’s slide-outs are poorly insulated. Don’t use your slide-outs in colder weather or, if you must, install a foam board on the bottom to add some protection from the cold. Remove the foam board before sliding it back in.
- Heavier curtains, warmer blankets, and adding a rug or two to the interior of your RV will also help to warm up the space.
- Use spray foam insulation to fill gaps and holes that allow service lines into your RV. This will block airflow and keep the interior warmer.
Choose a Sunny Campsite
Take advantage of the radiant heat from the sun to warm your RV. Park in a location that gets plenty of sunlight. In the day, open the curtains and blinds to allow the sun to warm your living spaces. You can increase the interior temperature by a few degrees with the heat of the sun.
Stay Warm in Your RV by Installing Skirting
Skirting helps protect your tanks and pipes and makes your RV a warmer place to be. There are several types available and the one that is best will depend on if you’re moving around a lot this winter, or planning to stay in one place.
If you’re staying put, build a DIY skirting with foam insulation boards from a local hardware store. There are also vinyl skirtings you can purchase online or at your favorite RV supply shop. These are easier to install and break down when you’re moving from place to place. Another option is inflatable skirts. These inflate with an air pump and provide good insulation around the entire perimeter of your RV. After winter, deflate them and they can be packed flat until next season.
Gneiss Goods offers RV inspections to customers in San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule our services.