Tips for Keeping Your RV Cool in the Summer Heat

It's hot outside, and the weather report predicts it will only get more desirable in the coming days, weeks, and months. That doesn't mean you have to give up your RVing plans just because the mercury rises, though! With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your RV stays cool no matter how hot it gets outside. 

The summer heat can be tough on RV owners. While the A/C keeps your home cool and comfortable, the same cannot be said of your RV while parked outside in the hot sun all day long. RVs are often used as summertime getaways from the heat of city life, and many models come with built-in air conditioning units to keep things cool on the inside. But if you're not using your RV daily, it can lose its cooling capabilities, especially if you don't remember to run the AC while parking it in the sun all day (which you should do). 

Luckily, you can do many different things to beat the heat in your RV and make it as marvelous as possible during hot summer days. So we've put together this list of 11 tips for keeping your RV cool in the summer heat.

Turn the AC down

It is generally said that turning your air conditioner down as low as it will go will keep your RV cool. However, contrary to popular belief, can turning it up a notch or two make things worse? For example, if your thermostat is set at 80 degrees, and you set it back to 78, it can help keep those cool air temperatures from getting too hot inside. This simple trick can save a lot of money on cooling costs.

Block direct sunlight

Most RVs come with awnings, but you might not use them. Take advantage of your awning, particularly on days when temperatures soar. Pull it out and stow it at night to keep cool during those summer nights. If your RV doesn't have an awning, consider investing in one that extends over two sides to block direct sunlight. At least shade one side of your rig so you can take advantage of cross breezes even if you're parked next to someone else.

Make window covering

It may seem counterintuitive, but when your motor home is parked outside on a sweltering summer day, you should block out as much of that sun as possible. Window shades will help cut down on heat by blocking heat and UV rays while still letting air flow through. They are also relatively inexpensive (depending on what type you choose) and easy to install.

Park in the shade

It sounds obvious, but don't park it in direct sunlight if you want to keep your rig cool and comfortable. Though some RVs have tinted windows or awnings on their sides, these coverings won't do much good if you park your RV in direct sunlight. Look for a shady spot when possible; failing that, set up reflective screens outside your windows to bounce away some of that sun.

Close the windows every morning

You'll lose precious body heat if you leave your windows open overnight, especially with no breeze. Please turn on your air conditioner at least a half-hour before heading out: This will give it time to cool off before getting too hot. Park in a shaded area: Parking an RV directly under direct sunlight can make it feel like an oven—even if your air conditioner is running full blast.

Turn up the airflow.

If you're feeling a little warm, turn up your air conditioning and get cozy under a blanket or light sheet. Staying cool doesn't mean turning down the AC; it means keeping heat from building up inside your RV. Unplug any appliances that use energy but don't contribute to keeping you cool (for example, game consoles), and use fans to help circulate air around your vehicle.

Open windows at night

When parked and not driving, open your awning and roll down all of your windows at night. This will give you an extra breeze while you sleep, and most RVs come with an automatic shut-off switch that won't allow the AC to keep running when it's not plugged into a power source. In addition to using less electricity (and therefore gas), opening up your RV can also reduce condensation buildup during rain storms.

Clean fridge vents regularly.

When camping, it's important to remember that things heat up fast. And if you have a refrigerator with an ice box vent, you can watch your cool air escape quickly. Make sure to clean these vents frequently and replace any filters as needed. You'll avoid increased cooling costs and can spend more time outside enjoying your trip. Cleaning these vents is especially important before cooking or eating—you don't want grease fumes coming into contact with your food!

Use a fan

It may seem obvious, but using a fan inside your RV will lower its temperature. Even better, try pointing a fan at an open window to help cool down your rig without you needing to run up your generator. Just be sure not to aim it at anything that might blow around and damage things!

Take some time off

Sometimes it's good to take a break from riding to enjoy life because your RV isn't just an appliance but a part of your life. This can mean taking some time off driving or even going out on occasional weekend jaunts around town. Make sure you schedule regular maintenance and service checks, too—even if it isn't due yet—so that you can notice the problems before they become expensive (and possibly dangerous).

Is your RV too hot when you get there? Leave Early

Many RVs indeed have top-of-the-line cooling systems, but these systems have limits. When your destination is cooler than your current location, it's a good idea to get moving early to ensure that you reach your destination with a comfortable temperature inside your RV.