I bought my first R.V. since retiring. A 31 foot Montana 5th wheel. I'm 78 and opted out for this summer with the heat wave,... Figured it was safer for my age. I'm taking the summer to prepare my R.V. for travel later this year. I've probably watched 400 hours (400 hrs and 8 minutes now:-) on R.V.ing to better prepare. It was not time wasted. I feel like I've made some old friends who don't even know me. I have watched a few tips on your subject but your message is well done and is now bookmarked to re-review. I must say, The folks (including yourself) who posts this kind of video deserve a high five along with a few blessings. I'd like to talk with the 3 idiots who gave you a thumbs down. They need some serious counseling .lol Again sir, thank you for your passion for helping those in need. My kindest regards, keith norris PS: See ya on the road:-)
@PATH LIGHT TRIPWIRE No one can say your a pessimist. lol Anyway, I never watch the news any longer. If I want bad news I check out my E.D. I'm looking forward to meeting some cool old free spirit guys and gals... You know, the folks who remember the good old day:-) I'm a somewhat retired magician/comedian/ventriloquist and looking forward in just having a good time. A friend suggested I contact parks and trade my services for camping fees. That might work out... I'll probably be performing when they drop the bomb. lol I wish you the best on your quest. Look for Keith@AmazinKeith.com on my home on wheels. Setting up my web site as we speak. Your Name?
i recently purchased a 10000 btu black and decker from amazon for 400 dls that vents through a window. it is an incredible air conditioner that has helped with temps of 110 and have kept our 45 ft rig between75-76 degrees.
Nice tips! An additional tip to add is that to get the real benefit of reflectix as a radiant heat barrier, it is necessary to leave a gap between the material and the outer wall of the RV. Reflective heat barriers applied directly to the wall or ceiling offer very little energy benefit. I've read anywhere from 1/4" to 1" gap is needed with the larger gap being more effective at reflecting the radiant heat back and creating the necessary air space buffer.
Great video! Lots of good tips. I do the awning thing for my fridge vents, if I can't face my truck camper the direction I want. My tip is, if you have a choice, always try to have you fridge vents on the north side so they are shaded by the camper all day. So face your camper East or West depending on which side your fridge is on.
Good info. We practiced a lot of these on our recent trip to Hells Canyon Id. It was literally Hell at 116-117 for 4 days. The A/C kept the inside ~80 which actually felt good compared to outside. I'll add opening of the interior cabinet doors next time though. I do open the exterior storage doors in the night for a bit then again in the early a.m.
@ Taylor Ass ell Wow, brilliant! Wasting water by watering the concrete so you could stay cool.... And you can't take the stupid RV somewhere further north? Wait, let me guess, you're a trumpster! 😲
@@geoben1810 , being mean doesn't make you better. Yeah, Trump sucks, but damn, come on. Technically it's not a waste if it serves the intended purpose, and water always finds its way back into the system. The more water we drop on the ground doesn't translate into less water we have to drink? It isn't garbage. As to where people take their RV, that's nunya.
I also put a plastic tub with a block of ice in my frig, so it doesn't need to work as hard in the extreme heat. This also provides cold water to mix with my gallon jug fruit drinks. Plus, I've installed black-out curtains inside that block the outside heat. With these and your ideas, I only used a dollar a day for power during last month's 105 deg. plus, heat..!
Keeping the fridge full helps, too, even if it's just water bottles/jugs. It's meant to keep stuff cold, not make it cold. Ex: A full trailer of frozen bread will use less fuel than a half-full (by cubic ft capacity) trailer of heavy refrigerated produce.
I would like to add one more tip about refrigerator if you don't mind. If you have to run on propane in the heat, and the fridge can't keep up, before anything else, replace the burner tube. Its cheap to buy and it makes a world of difference. I had a huge problem. The extra thermo fans I installed burnt out after about a week. The fans are design to come on around 85 F. Down here, that means they never shut down day or night. They are not designed for these conditions. Anyway, I put a new burner tube in, and presto, a cold fridge with no fans. That flame is critical.
The biggest a/c issue is the air handler separator. Remove your cover inside and make sure it's lined up correctly and there are no gaps. There are several tip videos showing how the separator is actually allowing cool air to go right back in the intake side. Therefore, you're not getting all of your cool air that it's generating. Tape off any openings, since I've seen some gaps going into the roofs. Another tip is for those of us with outside kitchens. Don't leave those doors open all day. I can see into the camper and you can feel the heat inside. I keep it down but not closed. I also run a fan in mine to help push hot air out from the dorm sized frig and ice maker. That ice maker puts off a lot of heat.
Great tips! This heat has been crazy! Our problem has been having enough cool temperatures in order to get the work done on our RV! Trying to repair water damage from too many winters on Vancouver Island, we are on a southern exposure hillside here in the Okanagan now. From years of living in a flat tar and gravel roofed RCMP house in Lytton, with no AC!!! I found allowing windows to be open and uncurtained on the side of the house the sun was not shining on, and then switching over to the other side of the house as the sun moved over. Always keeping the sunny side closed and curtained. Then throwing everything open as soon as it began to cool off in the evenings. That house is now in ashes, sadly. Stay cool, Ray and Anne!
I like your tip about the fridge giving off heat , to me it would be worth removing the fridge from the interior in the summer time and finding a alternative location. I'll add shade cloth to your list. Thanks for the tips
You're welcome, the True North heater was featured in my winter tips www.loveyourrv.com/10-things-that-help-us-winter-in-our-rv-reviews-updates/ Great products! Cheers, Ray
Well done Ray. I was in my rv in Boston Bar during the peak, I measured 46c outside my coach. I no sooner leave and Lytton just 40km up the road burn't down.
We we camping in northeastern Washington during the heat wave (114°), I took the outside cover off the fridge and put one of the snail style Stanley Blower on the ground and angled it up so it was blowing air straight up the fridge cooling stack, helped keep the fridge working great.
...also put a plastic tub with a block of ice in your frig, so it doesn't need to work as hard in the extreme heat. This also provides cold water to mix with your gallon jug cold drinks.
“Cheers” to you as well on this USA Independence Day ! A big shout out to the last few remaining free people on earth 🌎. Godbless them, keep fighting the good fight !
Hey Ray, over here in New York 'State', it hasn't exactly been too fun either in terms of temperature. It has gotten up into the upper 80s into 90s F a few times so far this year. It was even that hot for a few days last year too. For in the winter time there right around December 17th to about the 18th, where my grandfather's friend lives, I decided to stay with him for a couple nights or so, we got almost 2 feet, if I remember, my grandfather's friend actually measured, it was about 19 to about 20 inches, We're both about 5' 7 roughly, so, yeah, both our man junk were in a sense swimming around in snow for several minutes until we could move the snow for paths.
If humidity is low, and water is available, then evaporative coolers work wonders with relatively little power input, much as misting the A/C condenser does. If conditions are not manageable.. then just hit the road.
Isnt it Interesting your btu size 13,5K is the same size that comes with the RV I want to buy next year. A Little Guy Mini Max teardrop 8X17. You rig looks 2 to 3 times larger. Of course the best way to cool is to remove heat from a source. I really like what youve done with your circulating fans and roof and other fans, solar etc. Great vid.
I noticed the same thing recently also, a Starcraft popup camper parked next to me had the exact same Coleman AC unit as my 30ft motorhome has? Even being a ducted system it struggles in extreme heat to keep my rig cool enough that I had to supplement cooling with a window unit to make it comfortable.
❤ Thanks Ray, more great info. Lately I've been developing an interest in IR cameras. I came across something I think you may be interested in. It's an adapter that connects to your phone and allows you to have IR ability without the hi cost of the camera. I have seen videos on TH-cam about them. I think it runs around $200 or $300 USD. Love the Eagle photos.👍👍 One last thing, these are also good after a rain to locate leeks.
You could also get a $25 temperature gun to scan the interior surfaces where it is cool inside and hot out (or the reverse) and see if any surfaces run hot (try in where sunlight is not skewing the result). For example, single-pane glass would show up hot. You could also check the RV surfaces at sunset or dawn to set if they show up as cool anywhere indicating radiating temperature. I know, IR is cooler.
It's been 100 degrees in central Az. I get by with just a portable swamp cooler. It holds 5 gal. Of water. Uses 0.9 amp. Cools 12 degrees cooler inside plus gives nice air movement. I like a cooler with a high cfm. ( fan power) I got two Hessairs at home depot. One for camper, one for cargo trailer
I had trouble at my last PA state park with my AC. I notice when plugged in with a portable fan going and using my water boiler, the fan would slow down. That night when trying to run the AC I noticed it wouldn't get cold. Normally it would freeze me out. When I got home I hooked up the generator and ran the AC. Works fine. I noticed at the campground it was using a single pole 30 amp breaker. I put the 2 together and figured there wasn't enough power at the park to get my compressor going.
Why would the number of poles make a difference for a 30 amp breaker. Maybe I’m not understanding enough. Isn’t wattage = amps * volts? So on 110 @ 30amps you would have 3,300 watts, regardless of whether the breaker had 2 switches vs 1? Or maybe I’m missing something
@@iceefrags8770 I measured the volts before plugging in which were 110. I don't have an amp meter and the only thing I can compare is other campgrounds use a dual breakers for their 30 amp plugs. My AC compressor didn't kick in which told me there wasn't enough amperage.
Volts in a modern feed should be closer to 120 not 110. One hundred ten is inadequate. Also I understand the 30-amp plug is just a doubled up 15, not a true 30 amp. The 50 amp inputs are true. It’s a good idea to meter the input or have a surge protector that does it for you.
@@stevepowsinger733 I have a habit of measuring voltage before plugging in. Most I tested was 120 and double pole. This was the 1st that measured 110 and single pole. Good thing it was hot just for one day, Thanks for your input.
Great tips. Thanks so much. I have reflectics over all my windows. I put the reflectics up in the morning over closed windows (tinted windows) and pull the reflectics off and open the windows around 6 to 7 pm. We normally get a breeze about that time. I also made blackout curtains for all windows. Fortunately, right now I have lots of pine and cedar trees overhead but shade does not last all day. Can't use air conditioner only the fan boondocking. Hoping to get solar soon. Anyway, doing OK despite triple digit temps. My dog, cat and I stay outside in shade and move back inside around 7 pm. They have cool pads to lay on. Oh, and I remove the outside panel from the back of the fridge once camped and make sure that side of the camper is in constant shade. I like what you did with the two fans in your exterior section of your fridge. Do you have a video of that install? Also like that you put reflectics in your cabinets. Will try that for sure. Thanks again from an Oregon nomad 🌲❤🐶😽❤🌲
Here is the install video from about 3 years ago - www.loveyourrv.com/installing-titan-rv-fridge-and-roof-vent-cooling-fans/ Actually the company is sending me their latest generation of fans to have a look at, so may be another video on the new fans soon. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Great!!! Thank you so much. I'll watch the one on the link and keep an eye out for a possible new one. Never ever considered putting fans in there. Super idea. 👏👏👏 Hey there, I just read about the install. NICE! Also nice that they sent you three fan options. As to the largest unit, I have to agree. Hard to beat Fantastic fans. There is one in my rig but, like you, I'd like one in the bathroom too. It's on my wish list LOL. Thanks again.
They are called EZ Snap, ordered them online attached with plastic stick-on snaps. Here is my install video www.loveyourrv.com/simple-to-install-exterior-window-shades-for-a-cool-rv/
Great tips. We are in Oak Harbor, WA and about to head east. Just ordered a solar shade for my awning. I'll watch the sun and see how it hits mt refrigerator exterior wall with the awning open on that side (driver's side). How did you attach the solar shades on your ceiling hatch/window. That is a great idea.
I used the 3M EZ Snaps and stuck them on the skylight dome shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1623429&u=2125881&m=101431&urllink=ezsnapdirect%2Ecom%2Fproducts%2Frv%2Dshades%2F&afftrack=
Try living in the RV down here in Vegas all summer. Your experience last week is a typical day for us as you know.. Only our overnight lows usually never below 85-90 F. Thats the crappy part. No relief at night.
Yes, it was nice at night went down to around 70F and sometimes had winds off the cool waters, the ocean here is around 55F in the summer. Though compared to Vegas our humidity was higher so when the air was still felt much hotter than what the thermometer told us. I imagine people down there would be able use swamp cooler on the RVs.
@@LoveYourRV Actually, we do get a lot of humidity because summer is "monsoon" season. Today was one of those days. Not untypically hot, but quite humid. Weird, I know.
@@LoveYourRV As a former resident of Vancouver Island, believe me, I am one step ahead of you. I dont know why I continue to stay here during the summer. Scrambled eggs for brains I guess.
Do you think you're raised solor panels on your roof helps to keep your roof cooler much in the same way your patio awning keeps the side of your RV cooler?
Some handy tips, thanks Ray. I see people using aluminized, black or tan colored shade cloth. Have you any thoughts on which works best to ward off heat from the sun?
You should put a mister of some sort on those air conditioners I did this a few years ago kept my RV 75° when it was 110 out here in Redding . However use a calcium filter when you do this
I didn't know you could get a mister addon. I wonder if it would work well on the coast with the extra humidity we have. I know swamp coolers work well in the dry desert but not so much on the coastal moist air.
@@LoveYourRV i’m talking about a Mister on your compressor on the roof have it blow on that coil and will keep that head pressure down and the air will be colder inside I’m an air conditioning guy here in Redding
Interesting, I have never heard of that before for RVs. But I usually don't ever RV in really hot temps, this was an all time record streak for these parts. Here on Vancouver Island 85F is a hot summer day, usually we are in the 70s but I guess things are changing. Time to summer in the Yukon I guess. :)
Good list, Ray. Would there be any way to put shade over the roof Air Conditioner? Maybe use some of the window shade mesh to make a little canopy/awning over it? Or wouldn't it make that much of a difference?
Could be tricky as you would have to have the shade far enough away from the AC unit to not interfere its air flow. There are vents on the sides of the AC that its large fan sucks air in from and blows it out the back to cool the condenser coils. My feeling is it wouldn't make too much difference as the white plastic cowling is already shading the insides. Cheers, Ray
Probably depends on the layout of your cabinets but I wonder if you could put a computer fan in one end, punch a air transfer hole in the side of each cabinet and a vent on the far side, flick a switch and have it suck the hot air out through the night.
Could do but opening them up wide and turning on the roof vents on high for 15 minutes does a pretty good job. I think if I was in hot temps for long periods I'd do some kind of extra ventilation like that though. Cheers, Ray
Refletex in the back of cabinets? Hmmm... Interesting. I have a piece cut for every single window but never thought to put it in the cabinets. One of the challenges of living in Las Vegas, Nevada, is the heat. Later this month we are going to Utah where it will be some 30 degrees colder but to get away from the heat here we have to travel through even hotter areas. LOL Thanks for the tips.
I think in Arizona the best bet is to have a shade cover building for the whole RV if possible. The AC has its own cover though I would just make sure its not one of these new black ones. That seems like a dumb plan the OEMs had making the covers black on the AC and the fridge. I guess you could build a little cover but have to make sure it has good airflow as the inside the AC is a high speed fan that blows hot air out of the AC so can't be impeded or the AC won't work right. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV yep I have a black one sucks up the heat, I was a refrigerator service guy in the air force so I know air flow lol 175.00 plus shipping for a cover but a can of white paint should be less right
@@LoveYourRV i was thinking of that wink wink we are heading out tomorrow morning for our home base in sun city, do the projects then end of May try another trip back to saddle mountain. My channel is youtube.com/@Yukonjackman1
Thank you for the video.. Has anyone tried the patio misting systems for the outside of the rig, for evaporative cooling.? If so, did it work.? Or, why wouldn't you want to do it.?
Someone in the comments recommended doing that with a soaker hose on the roof. Another talked about a mister for the AC to improve performance. Only downside I can see is some places in drought would not want to have the water wasted. Cheers, Ray
I apologize for this question being off-topic, but I’m trying to find the video that shows how you added the bar to your screen door? I’d love to add that easy fix to our door; I’m short and can never reach that chintzy black handle without stepping outside of the camper to get it🙁 Do you know the one I’m talking about?
Here is a video where I talked about it but I don't think I have an actual install video th-cam.com/video/Svpuvw83beQ/w-d-xo.html It was pretty easy, I just needed to drill a few pilot holes in the soft aluminum screen door to run the screws into. But one of the best simple mods I've dome. Cheers, Ray
They are Titan brand fans designed for the task, really nicely built Here is a link - www.titan-cd.com/en/product/TTC-SC20-Series.html They are somewhat water resistant at IP55 rating. Actually they are sending out a few of their latest models to review, so will have a video later this month.
@@LoveYourRV Yes those are quality fans! I thought they were just the computer cabinet cooling fans (I have a few of those from a project I never completed...) Do you use the fan timer/speed controller?
I currently have the older models that didn't have the timer feature, I just leave them in auto mode and they come on when needed. Installed them 3 years ago. www.loveyourrv.com/installing-titan-rv-fridge-and-roof-vent-cooling-fans/ They are nice and quiet compared to the usual OEM fridge fans some fridges have.
A product called EZ Snaps - www.loveyourrv.com/simple-to-install-exterior-window-shades-for-a-cool-rv/ Basically plastic snaps that stick onto the camper wall via high bond 3M
No, to much of a pain in the windy times and we see quite a lot of strong winds on the ocean here and when in the desert. Usually I can setup my rig to have the slide in the shade for the most of the day.
awesome tips, Ray... When you recoated your roof, did you also coat on top of the eternabond tape? We did the same thing you did in running the Eternabond tape around all the seals of the RV.. I didn't tape up the vents or skylight though... I saw that trick from one of your other videos sometime last year... lol Do you recommend taping up the vents and skylights or just keeping an eye on the dicor? God bless you guys!!! Kevin
Yes, I coated right over the Eternabond figured I'd see if it would stick, so far it looks like it will. I taped the vents and skylight about 5-6 years ago and it work well, saved me lots of maintenance. I just cleaned and taped right over the existing Dicor. www.loveyourrv.com/rv-roof-repair-eternabond-review/
I resealed all my roof seams and around all the vents with Eternabond tape. It looks great and will outlast any sealant. My truck camper ('98 Lance) has a metal roof. The hardest part was the prep. The prep is also the most important part. Really pleased with the results. Did it last summer and it still looks brand new.
40 c ,hell im in the uk just spent 2 weeks in Scotland now on yorkshire coast for a week then next week the Yorkshire dales highest temperature so far as been 21c feeling sorry for the usa hope it gets cooler soon
Sammy Molina - Good catch on location for that pic! I live near there, have camped there, but only thought how that scene looked familiar, didn't stop to figure it out!
Hey Ray a little off topic but have you ever looked into 12 volt rv fridges? I've tried to research it but it seems to be very exaggerated as to the real truth of these fridges. I'm getting a Cougar 24rds and they are not giving my an option on a gas electric fridge only the 12 volt. The Cougar is coming with a 170 watt starter solar kit and I'm telling the salesman that won't be near enough for me to run it without another source but he saying I'll be fine....what do you think?
I haven't given too much thought to it as our current absorption fridge works pretty good, but if it packs it in I think I may go that way. Here was a discussion about 12V fridges on the forum - forum.loveyourrv.com/discussion/930/12-volt-refrigerators
In our RV the room that has the toilet is a separate little room. In its roof vent opening I have a Vortex fan, it doesn't have a skylight www.loveyourrv.com/rv-bathroom-fan-upgrade-hengs-vortex/ and covering it a Fantastic Vent Cover amzn.to/3jSHZEo I also have them on my bedroom and living room vents.
I've got an off topic question for ya Ray, do you know a good online RV parts supplier? Preferably Canadian as I would assume they are quicker but any will do. I just moved to the Creston area and got into a park thankfully before this heat wave hit it's highest point. But my rig is in need of a lot of parts and the local napa is telling me everything is back ordered at the moment. I keep going down rabbit holes looking for parts and would of just drove to the next town if the truck A/C hadn't kick the bucket lol Cheers and say cool man!
I usually get stuff I need when I'm in the USA as it saves money but in Canada I often use Amazon.ca as I have a prime membership for free shipping. I've also ordered a few things through www.rvpartsonlinecanada.com/ Cheers, Ray
Its not a mobile version. Since I had planned to be stationary for a while I decided to give the residential unit a try. Works great www.loveyourrv.com/starlink-satellite-dish-internet-first-look-setup-test-on-the-rv/ Some people are using it for travel by updating the address to the new one each time they move to a new area.
Yes, good tip! I swapped mine out over 7 years ago mainly for off-grid camping. They do run much cooler. The OEM incandescent bulbs ran so hot that some of the fixtures were already suffering heat damage to the plastic after 3 years.
We are in a row that gets lots of turn over. RVs come and go all summer. Also, not as packed as usual summertime because Americans and the usual Europe RV rental crowd can't get into Canada yet.
They are out there for a lot less. If I remember right when I installed it 3 1/3 years ago was around $100 www.westmarine.com/buy/caframo--sirocco-ii-cabin-fan-multi-position-white--17744988 www.marineoutfitters.ca/index.cfm?category=10011%7C10429&product=45200526&code=062503701013
A few reasons. Some Covid restriction were still in place and we had reserved this RV site in advance no refunds. Also the heatwave only lasted about 5 days and was wide spread by the time we drove in blistering heat to a cooler place it would have been pretty well over. See here , its been gorgeous here now - www.accuweather.com/en/ca/campbell-river/v9w/july-weather/52857 Back to normal
*See Other RV Cooling Related Posts and Videos* - www.loveyourrv.com/tag/cooling/
I bought my first R.V. since retiring. A 31 foot Montana 5th wheel. I'm 78 and opted out for this summer with the heat wave,... Figured it was safer for my age. I'm taking the summer to prepare my R.V. for travel later this year. I've probably watched 400 hours (400 hrs and 8 minutes now:-) on R.V.ing to better prepare. It was not time wasted. I feel like I've made some old friends who don't even know me. I have watched a few tips on your subject but your message is well done and is now bookmarked to re-review. I must say, The folks (including yourself) who posts this kind of video deserve a high five along with a few blessings. I'd like to talk with the 3 idiots who gave you a thumbs down. They need some serious counseling .lol Again sir, thank you for your passion for helping those in need. My kindest regards, keith norris PS: See ya on the road:-)
Thanks Keith. :)
@PATH LIGHT TRIPWIRE No one can say your a pessimist. lol Anyway, I never watch the news any longer. If I want bad news I check out my E.D. I'm looking forward to meeting some cool old free spirit guys and gals... You know, the folks who remember the good old day:-) I'm a somewhat retired magician/comedian/ventriloquist and looking forward in just having a good time. A friend suggested I contact parks and trade my services for camping fees. That might work out... I'll probably be performing when they drop the bomb. lol I wish you the best on your quest. Look for Keith@AmazinKeith.com on my home on wheels. Setting up my web site as we speak. Your Name?
i recently purchased a 10000 btu black and decker from amazon for 400 dls that vents through a window. it is an incredible air conditioner that has helped with temps of 110 and have kept our 45 ft rig between75-76 degrees.
Lived in Fl since '78 and the trick with the cabinets is new to me - GREAT IDEA!
Nice tips! An additional tip to add is that to get the real benefit of reflectix as a radiant heat barrier, it is necessary to leave a gap between the material and the outer wall of the RV. Reflective heat barriers applied directly to the wall or ceiling offer very little energy benefit. I've read anywhere from 1/4" to 1" gap is needed with the larger gap being more effective at reflecting the radiant heat back and creating the necessary air space buffer.
Great one, Ray. And much needed. It was 115 for us in Vancouver, WA! 🥵 Going to start implementing some of these this next week. 👍🏼 -MarkD
Great video! Lots of good tips. I do the awning thing for my fridge vents, if I can't face my truck camper the direction I want. My tip is, if you have a choice, always try to have you fridge vents on the north side so they are shaded by the camper all day. So face your camper East or West depending on which side your fridge is on.
Yep, that's what I do. I also remove the panel on the outside back of the fridge once camped. I like his fan idea.
Good info. We practiced a lot of these on our recent trip to Hells Canyon Id. It was literally Hell at 116-117 for 4 days. The A/C kept the inside ~80 which actually felt good compared to outside. I'll add opening of the interior cabinet doors next time though. I do open the exterior storage doors in the night for a bit then again in the early a.m.
One thing I did that really helped was soak down the surrounding concrete and asphalt, it made a huge difference
@ Taylor Ass ell
Wow, brilliant!
Wasting water by watering the concrete so you could stay cool.... And you can't take the stupid RV somewhere further north? Wait, let me guess, you're a trumpster! 😲
@@geoben1810 , being mean doesn't make you better. Yeah, Trump sucks, but damn, come on. Technically it's not a waste if it serves the intended purpose, and water always finds its way back into the system. The more water we drop on the ground doesn't translate into less water we have to drink? It isn't garbage. As to where people take their RV, that's nunya.
I also put a plastic tub with a block of ice in my frig, so it doesn't need to work as hard in the extreme heat. This also provides cold water to mix with my gallon jug fruit drinks. Plus, I've installed black-out curtains inside that block the outside heat. With these and your ideas, I only used a dollar a day for power during last month's 105 deg. plus, heat..!
Put it on the bottom of the fridge so the ice air has a chance to rise
Keeping the fridge full helps, too, even if it's just water bottles/jugs. It's meant to keep stuff cold, not make it cold. Ex: A full trailer of frozen bread will use less fuel than a half-full (by cubic ft capacity) trailer of heavy refrigerated produce.
I would like to add one more tip about refrigerator if you don't mind. If you have to run on propane in the heat, and the fridge can't keep up, before anything else, replace the burner tube. Its cheap to buy and it makes a world of difference. I had a huge problem. The extra thermo fans I installed burnt out after about a week. The fans are design to come on around 85 F. Down here, that means they never shut down day or night. They are not designed for these conditions. Anyway, I put a new burner tube in, and presto, a cold fridge with no fans. That flame is critical.
Even if youjust clean it out it works way better.
Thanks Ray.
The biggest a/c issue is the air handler separator. Remove your cover inside and make sure it's lined up correctly and there are no gaps. There are several tip videos showing how the separator is actually allowing cool air to go right back in the intake side. Therefore, you're not getting all of your cool air that it's generating. Tape off any openings, since I've seen some gaps going into the roofs.
Another tip is for those of us with outside kitchens. Don't leave those doors open all day. I can see into the camper and you can feel the heat inside. I keep it down but not closed. I also run a fan in mine to help push hot air out from the dorm sized frig and ice maker. That ice maker puts off a lot of heat.
Good tips, I'm in Arizona and talk about heat! We head to the mountains to get away....
Agreed. We are in Las Vegas, NV, and are off to 30-degree-cooler Utah next week.
Great tips! This heat has been crazy! Our problem has been having enough cool temperatures in order to get the work done on our RV! Trying to repair water damage from too many winters on Vancouver Island, we are on a southern exposure hillside here in the Okanagan now. From years of living in a flat tar and gravel roofed RCMP house in Lytton, with no AC!!! I found allowing windows to be open and uncurtained on the side of the house the sun was not shining on, and then switching over to the other side of the house as the sun moved over. Always keeping the sunny side closed and curtained. Then throwing everything open as soon as it began to cool off in the evenings. That house is now in ashes, sadly. Stay cool, Ray and Anne!
I like your tip about the fridge giving off heat , to me it would be worth removing the fridge from the interior in the summer time and finding a alternative location.
I'll add shade cloth to your list.
Thanks for the tips
Thanks so much, Ray, for your savvy Beat-the-Heat tips.
Very good information! Thank you for your time !
Great tips for staying cool! Thanks for highlighting the Sirocco II cabin fan.
You're welcome, the True North heater was featured in my winter tips www.loveyourrv.com/10-things-that-help-us-winter-in-our-rv-reviews-updates/ Great products! Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Awesome, thank you!
Well done Ray. I was in my rv in Boston Bar during the peak, I measured 46c outside my coach. I no sooner leave and Lytton just 40km up the road burn't down.
Wow!
Pretty much same as I do, good of you to share.
You could also put perforated white vinyl on the exterior of the black windows.
We we camping in northeastern Washington during the heat wave (114°), I took the outside cover off the fridge and put one of the snail style Stanley Blower on the ground and angled it up so it was blowing air straight up the fridge cooling stack, helped keep the fridge working great.
...also put a plastic tub with a block of ice in your frig, so it doesn't need to work as hard in the extreme heat. This also provides cold water to mix with your gallon jug cold drinks.
Yeah the fridge part of my fridge got to 60f did not expect that, I only keep drinks in it so no loss, I gotta put some fans in
“Cheers” to you as well on this USA Independence Day ! A big shout out to the last few remaining free people on earth 🌎. Godbless them, keep fighting the good fight !
Up in north east wet chilly cold holiday weekend 2nd on this year but thank for the tips i will try
Cold fridge, cold beer!🍻
Hey Ray, over here in New York 'State', it hasn't exactly been too fun either in terms of temperature. It has gotten up into the upper 80s into 90s F a few times so far this year. It was even that hot for a few days last year too. For in the winter time there right around December 17th to about the 18th, where my grandfather's friend lives, I decided to stay with him for a couple nights or so, we got almost 2 feet, if I remember, my grandfather's friend actually measured, it was about 19 to about 20 inches, We're both about 5' 7 roughly, so, yeah, both our man junk were in a sense swimming around in snow for several minutes until we could move the snow for paths.
If humidity is low, and water is available, then evaporative coolers work wonders with relatively little power input, much as misting the A/C condenser does. If conditions are not manageable.. then just hit the road.
Thanks, Ray. This was very helpful.
I was concerned about you folks up in that part of the world.
Best Of Luck
Good helping hints. I’ve been shopping for an RV but am exasperated at the lack of info on R-values and other factors.
Isnt it Interesting your btu size 13,5K is the same size that comes with the RV I want to buy next year. A Little Guy Mini Max teardrop 8X17. You rig looks 2 to 3 times larger.
Of course the best way to cool is to remove heat from a source. I really like what youve done with your circulating fans and roof and other fans, solar etc.
Great vid.
I noticed the same thing recently also, a Starcraft popup camper parked next to me had the exact same Coleman AC unit as my 30ft motorhome has? Even being a ducted system it struggles in extreme heat to keep my rig cool enough that I had to supplement cooling with a window unit to make it comfortable.
Reflectix inside the rv against single pane windows works fantastic. My rv doesnt get warmer than outside until about 4PM when it is 105.
Great tips Ray
Many thanks for this!
Lots of fans!!
❤ Thanks Ray, more great info.
Lately I've been developing an interest in IR cameras. I came across something I think you may be interested in. It's an adapter that connects to your phone and allows you to have IR ability without the hi cost of the camera.
I have seen videos on TH-cam about them. I think it runs around $200 or $300 USD.
Love the Eagle photos.👍👍
One last thing, these are also good after a rain to locate leeks.
Interesting, thanks for the heads up. Cheers, Ray
You could also get a $25 temperature gun to scan the interior surfaces where it is cool inside and hot out (or the reverse) and see if any surfaces run hot (try in where sunlight is not skewing the result). For example, single-pane glass would show up hot. You could also check the RV surfaces at sunset or dawn to set if they show up as cool anywhere indicating radiating temperature. I know, IR is cooler.
Great ideas, thx for sharing them.
keep the ice cream frozen! a man with his priorities straight
It's been 100 degrees in central Az. I get by with just a portable swamp cooler. It holds 5 gal. Of water. Uses 0.9 amp. Cools 12 degrees cooler inside plus gives nice air movement. I like a cooler with a high cfm. ( fan power) I got two Hessairs at home depot. One for camper, one for cargo trailer
Swamp coolers are great if you are in dry climates, but not if you are in an area with high humidity.
I had trouble at my last PA state park with my AC. I notice when plugged in with a portable fan going and using my water boiler, the fan would slow down. That night when trying to run the AC I noticed it wouldn't get cold. Normally it would freeze me out. When I got home I hooked up the generator and ran the AC. Works fine. I noticed at the campground it was using a single pole 30 amp breaker. I put the 2 together and figured there wasn't enough power at the park to get my compressor going.
Why would the number of poles make a difference for a 30 amp breaker. Maybe I’m not understanding enough. Isn’t wattage = amps * volts? So on 110 @ 30amps you would have 3,300 watts, regardless of whether the breaker had 2 switches vs 1? Or maybe I’m missing something
@@iceefrags8770 I measured the volts before plugging in which were 110. I don't have an amp meter and the only thing I can compare is other campgrounds use a dual breakers for their 30 amp plugs. My AC compressor didn't kick in which told me there wasn't enough amperage.
Volts in a modern feed should be closer to 120 not 110. One hundred ten is inadequate. Also I understand the 30-amp plug is just a doubled up 15, not a true 30 amp. The 50 amp inputs are true. It’s a good idea to meter the input or have a surge protector that does it for you.
@@stevepowsinger733 I have a habit of measuring voltage before plugging in. Most I tested was 120 and double pole. This was the 1st that measured 110 and single pole. Good thing it was hot just for one day, Thanks for your input.
I run mini split AC with solar power and was able to survive few days of 115 in Lake Huvasu city
Great tips. Thanks so much. I have reflectics over all my windows. I put the reflectics up in the morning over closed windows (tinted windows) and pull the reflectics off and open the windows around 6 to 7 pm. We normally get a breeze about that time. I also made blackout curtains for all windows. Fortunately, right now I have lots of pine and cedar trees overhead but shade does not last all day. Can't use air conditioner only the fan boondocking. Hoping to get solar soon. Anyway, doing OK despite triple digit temps. My dog, cat and I stay outside in shade and move back inside around 7 pm. They have cool pads to lay on. Oh, and I remove the outside panel from the back of the fridge once camped and make sure that side of the camper is in constant shade. I like what you did with the two fans in your exterior section of your fridge. Do you have a video of that install? Also like that you put reflectics in your cabinets. Will try that for sure. Thanks again from an Oregon nomad 🌲❤🐶😽❤🌲
Here is the install video from about 3 years ago - www.loveyourrv.com/installing-titan-rv-fridge-and-roof-vent-cooling-fans/ Actually the company is sending me their latest generation of fans to have a look at, so may be another video on the new fans soon. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Great!!! Thank you so much. I'll watch the one on the link and keep an eye out for a possible new one. Never ever considered putting fans in there. Super idea. 👏👏👏 Hey there, I just read about the install. NICE! Also nice that they sent you three fan options. As to the largest unit, I have to agree. Hard to beat Fantastic fans. There is one in my rig but, like you, I'd like one in the bathroom too. It's on my wish list LOL. Thanks again.
Where would you find the shade screens you put on the outside and how did you attach them?
They are called EZ Snap, ordered them online attached with plastic stick-on snaps. Here is my install video www.loveyourrv.com/simple-to-install-exterior-window-shades-for-a-cool-rv/
Great tips. We are in Oak Harbor, WA and about to head east. Just ordered a solar shade for my awning. I'll watch the sun and see how it hits mt refrigerator exterior wall with the awning open on that side (driver's side). How did you attach the solar shades on your ceiling hatch/window. That is a great idea.
I used the 3M EZ Snaps and stuck them on the skylight dome shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1623429&u=2125881&m=101431&urllink=ezsnapdirect%2Ecom%2Fproducts%2Frv%2Dshades%2F&afftrack=
@@LoveYourRV Looks great
Great ideas, Thanks
I cover my windows with mylar blankets it keeps the cool inside and heat out
Try living in the RV down here in Vegas all summer. Your experience last week is a typical day for us as you know.. Only our overnight lows usually never below 85-90 F. Thats the crappy part. No relief at night.
Yes, it was nice at night went down to around 70F and sometimes had winds off the cool waters, the ocean here is around 55F in the summer. Though compared to Vegas our humidity was higher so when the air was still felt much hotter than what the thermometer told us. I imagine people down there would be able use swamp cooler on the RVs.
@@LoveYourRV Actually, we do get a lot of humidity because summer is "monsoon" season. Today was one of those days. Not untypically hot, but quite humid. Weird, I know.
Oh man, I'd lose my mind if I lived there during the summer! I don't do well in the heat.
@@jasonfrodoman1316 And by 'quite' he means ~20% LOL
@@LoveYourRV As a former resident of Vancouver Island, believe me, I am one step ahead of you. I dont know why I continue to stay here during the summer. Scrambled eggs for brains I guess.
Do you think you're raised solor panels on your roof helps to keep your roof cooler much in the same way your patio awning keeps the side of your RV cooler?
Yes, I'm guessing the solar panels help out, they get hot but there is some air flow under them and it doesn't feel hot on the roof underneath.
Can't wait to get solar for my truck camper. Still saving up. 😉
Some handy tips, thanks Ray. I see people using aluminized, black or tan colored shade cloth. Have you any thoughts on which works best to ward off heat from the sun?
I'd think white would likely work a little better but would yellow over time and show the dirt more.
thanks Ray.
Great advice, thanks.
You should put a mister of some sort on those air conditioners I did this a few years ago kept my RV 75° when it was 110 out here in Redding . However use a calcium filter when you do this
I didn't know you could get a mister addon. I wonder if it would work well on the coast with the extra humidity we have. I know swamp coolers work well in the dry desert but not so much on the coastal moist air.
@@LoveYourRV i’m talking about a Mister on your compressor on the roof have it blow on that coil and will keep that head pressure down and the air will be colder inside I’m an air conditioning guy here in Redding
Interesting, I have never heard of that before for RVs. But I usually don't ever RV in really hot temps, this was an all time record streak for these parts. Here on Vancouver Island 85F is a hot summer day, usually we are in the 70s but I guess things are changing. Time to summer in the Yukon I guess. :)
@@LoveYourRV I’ve built mine look up my americanair.com to get my information and I’ll tell you how I did it .
Would putting Refletix in all of my cabinets covering the ceiling and outside wall help?
Should help as it will reflect the heat radiation back out. I've also heard of people putting the Reflectix on the outside.
May I plz inquire about the fan I saw on one of your walls in the RV? I’m trying to find one. Let me know plz where to find one
You can find my install and demo of it here with links - www.loveyourrv.com/more-rv-gadgets-candle-powered-lamp-12v-360-degree-fan/
Good list, Ray.
Would there be any way to put shade over the roof Air Conditioner?
Maybe use some of the window shade mesh to make a little canopy/awning over it?
Or wouldn't it make that much of a difference?
Could be tricky as you would have to have the shade far enough away from the AC unit to not interfere its air flow. There are vents on the sides of the AC that its large fan sucks air in from and blows it out the back to cool the condenser coils. My feeling is it wouldn't make too much difference as the white plastic cowling is already shading the insides. Cheers, Ray
Probably depends on the layout of your cabinets but I wonder if you could put a computer fan in one end, punch a air transfer hole in the side of each cabinet and a vent on the far side, flick a switch and have it suck the hot air out through the night.
Could do but opening them up wide and turning on the roof vents on high for 15 minutes does a pretty good job. I think if I was in hot temps for long periods I'd do some kind of extra ventilation like that though. Cheers, Ray
Can't beat simplicity sometimes.
Nice list. Question, do you think the shade on the roof from solar panels is helpful?
Yes, I'm guessing the solar panels help out, they get hot but there is some air flow under them and it doesn't feel hot on the roof underneath.
Refletex in the back of cabinets? Hmmm... Interesting. I have a piece cut for every single window but never thought to put it in the cabinets.
One of the challenges of living in Las Vegas, Nevada, is the heat. Later this month we are going to Utah where it will be some 30 degrees colder but to get away from the heat here we have to travel through even hotter areas. LOL
Thanks for the tips.
I'm also wanting to put some in my pass thrus under my bed and closet this winter!!
Great tips thx.
I was wondering about a shade cover for the ac when its running we live in Arizona so any help for the ac unit might be good.
I think in Arizona the best bet is to have a shade cover building for the whole RV if possible. The AC has its own cover though I would just make sure its not one of these new black ones. That seems like a dumb plan the OEMs had making the covers black on the AC and the fridge.
I guess you could build a little cover but have to make sure it has good airflow as the inside the AC is a high speed fan that blows hot air out of the AC so can't be impeded or the AC won't work right. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV yep I have a black one sucks up the heat, I was a refrigerator service guy in the air force so I know air flow lol 175.00 plus shipping for a cover but a can of white paint should be less right
I'd think I'd try white paint first. :)
@@LoveYourRV i was thinking of that wink wink we are heading out tomorrow morning for our home base in sun city, do the projects then end of May try another trip back to saddle mountain.
My channel is
youtube.com/@Yukonjackman1
Where did you buy the window meah shades? Thanks in advance 🤠
Thank you for the video..
Has anyone tried the patio misting systems for the outside of the rig, for evaporative cooling.?
If so, did it work.?
Or, why wouldn't you want to do it.?
Someone in the comments recommended doing that with a soaker hose on the roof. Another talked about a mister for the AC to improve performance. Only downside I can see is some places in drought would not want to have the water wasted. Cheers, Ray
I apologize for this question being off-topic, but I’m trying to find the video that shows how you added the bar to your screen door? I’d love to add that easy fix to our door; I’m short and can never reach that chintzy black handle without stepping outside of the camper to get it🙁 Do you know the one I’m talking about?
Here is a video where I talked about it but I don't think I have an actual install video th-cam.com/video/Svpuvw83beQ/w-d-xo.html It was pretty easy, I just needed to drill a few pilot holes in the soft aluminum screen door to run the screws into. But one of the best simple mods I've dome. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV thank you so much!
Stay safe in the extreme heat! We have had just the opposite weather; colder and wetter than normal.
Excellent ideas Ray. Are the fans in the frig chimney rated for wet/outside environments? These are 12V computer fans aren't they? Stay cool!!!
They are Titan brand fans designed for the task, really nicely built Here is a link - www.titan-cd.com/en/product/TTC-SC20-Series.html They are somewhat water resistant at IP55 rating. Actually they are sending out a few of their latest models to review, so will have a video later this month.
@@LoveYourRV Yes those are quality fans! I thought they were just the computer cabinet cooling fans (I have a few of those from a project I never completed...) Do you use the fan timer/speed controller?
I currently have the older models that didn't have the timer feature, I just leave them in auto mode and they come on when needed. Installed them 3 years ago. www.loveyourrv.com/installing-titan-rv-fridge-and-roof-vent-cooling-fans/ They are nice and quiet compared to the usual OEM fridge fans some fridges have.
What you using to attach the screen material over your exterior windows and skylights on the roof?
A product called EZ Snaps - www.loveyourrv.com/simple-to-install-exterior-window-shades-for-a-cool-rv/ Basically plastic snaps that stick onto the camper wall via high bond 3M
#11 mist/sprinkle the roof with water. Put a sprinkler type nozzle on a hose and wet the roof. The evaporation will cool down the roof.
PS - if you have some old towels; you can put those on the roof and wet them down with the hose for longer evaporation.
I did this for the first time in my rv this week was 40c in radium bc
Made about 6 deg differences all us Canadians are melting 🇨🇦
Good job on the tips. Have you considered adding a slide topper?
No, to much of a pain in the windy times and we see quite a lot of strong winds on the ocean here and when in the desert. Usually I can setup my rig to have the slide in the shade for the most of the day.
awesome tips, Ray... When you recoated your roof, did you also coat on top of the eternabond tape? We did the same thing you did in running the Eternabond tape around all the seals of the RV.. I didn't tape up the vents or skylight though... I saw that trick from one of your other videos sometime last year... lol Do you recommend taping up the vents and skylights or just keeping an eye on the dicor? God bless you guys!!! Kevin
We did the same and had the same question, ...Roberts.
Yes, I coated right over the Eternabond figured I'd see if it would stick, so far it looks like it will. I taped the vents and skylight about 5-6 years ago and it work well, saved me lots of maintenance. I just cleaned and taped right over the existing Dicor. www.loveyourrv.com/rv-roof-repair-eternabond-review/
@@LoveYourRV awesome!!! Thanks, Ray. You are most definitely the go to RV guy.
I resealed all my roof seams and around all the vents with Eternabond tape. It looks great and will outlast any sealant. My truck camper ('98 Lance) has a metal roof. The hardest part was the prep. The prep is also the most important part. Really pleased with the results. Did it last summer and it still looks brand new.
Do the external shade coverings fo the windows make it very difficult to see out from the inside of the rv?
Yes, if you are close to them its hard to see out properly. Here is a demo - th-cam.com/video/id9jbvrwRks/w-d-xo.html
40 c ,hell im in the uk just spent 2 weeks in Scotland now on yorkshire coast for a week then next week the Yorkshire dales highest temperature so far as been 21c feeling sorry for the usa hope it gets cooler soon
Isn't that first pic down here in New Mexico
Yes, Caballo Lake State Park :)
Sammy Molina - Good catch on location for that pic! I live near there, have camped there, but only thought how that scene looked familiar, didn't stop to figure it out!
Good to know.😎👍
Hey Ray a little off topic but have you ever looked into 12 volt rv fridges? I've tried to research it but it seems to be very exaggerated as to the real truth of these fridges. I'm getting a Cougar 24rds and they are not giving my an option on a gas electric fridge only the 12 volt. The Cougar is coming with a 170 watt starter solar kit and I'm telling the salesman that won't be near enough for me to run it without another source but he saying I'll be fine....what do you think?
I haven't given too much thought to it as our current absorption fridge works pretty good, but if it packs it in I think I may go that way. Here was a discussion about 12V fridges on the forum - forum.loveyourrv.com/discussion/930/12-volt-refrigerators
What do you use to cover the Sky light over the rest room?
In our RV the room that has the toilet is a separate little room. In its roof vent opening I have a Vortex fan, it doesn't have a skylight www.loveyourrv.com/rv-bathroom-fan-upgrade-hengs-vortex/ and covering it a Fantastic Vent Cover amzn.to/3jSHZEo I also have them on my bedroom and living room vents.
Middle of Summer PHX. 2 roof ACs, one window unit. It’s the only way, 24/7. 113-115 deg F.
Your Rv has wheels … use them to escape!
What brand of fans have you installed and how did you run the wiring ? What year Cougar is that ?
Titan, here is the install video - www.loveyourrv.com/installing-titan-rv-fridge-and-roof-vent-cooling-fans/ 2011 Cheers, Ray
I've got an off topic question for ya Ray, do you know a good online RV parts supplier? Preferably Canadian as I would assume they are quicker but any will do.
I just moved to the Creston area and got into a park thankfully before this heat wave hit it's highest point. But my rig is in need of a lot of parts and the local napa is telling me everything is back ordered at the moment.
I keep going down rabbit holes looking for parts and would of just drove to the next town if the truck A/C hadn't kick the bucket lol
Cheers and say cool man!
I usually get stuff I need when I'm in the USA as it saves money but in Canada I often use Amazon.ca as I have a prime membership for free shipping. I've also ordered a few things through www.rvpartsonlinecanada.com/ Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Thank you very much Ray, I am looking forward to that border opening since I'm basically living right on it now haha.
Cheers
Aluminet!
Hey, wait... WTF? HOW do you have a Mobile STARLINK setup??????????????
Its not a mobile version. Since I had planned to be stationary for a while I decided to give the residential unit a try. Works great www.loveyourrv.com/starlink-satellite-dish-internet-first-look-setup-test-on-the-rv/ Some people are using it for travel by updating the address to the new one each time they move to a new area.
Change light bulbs to led. They operate a lot cooler.
Yes, good tip! I swapped mine out over 7 years ago mainly for off-grid camping. They do run much cooler. The OEM incandescent bulbs ran so hot that some of the fixtures were already suffering heat damage to the plastic after 3 years.
where your neighbors go?
We are in a row that gets lots of turn over. RVs come and go all summer. Also, not as packed as usual summertime because Americans and the usual Europe RV rental crowd can't get into Canada yet.
AC was number 3 😂
... # 11 ... RV in yer Underwear!! Coolness Unlimited +, the neighbors will LUV IT!! (or, ... not)
Wow almost $300 for that 12v fan…
They are out there for a lot less. If I remember right when I installed it 3 1/3 years ago was around $100 www.westmarine.com/buy/caframo--sirocco-ii-cabin-fan-multi-position-white--17744988
www.marineoutfitters.ca/index.cfm?category=10011%7C10429&product=45200526&code=062503701013
Tell me about your flag?
Here is the info - www.canadiannativeflag.ca/
Thank you 👍
It's an RV. Why are you still there? Move to a cooler place.
A few reasons. Some Covid restriction were still in place and we had reserved this RV site in advance no refunds. Also the heatwave only lasted about 5 days and was wide spread by the time we drove in blistering heat to a cooler place it would have been pretty well over.
See here , its been gorgeous here now - www.accuweather.com/en/ca/campbell-river/v9w/july-weather/52857 Back to normal
Tip 1: Don’t buy an RV because being stuck on pavement isn’t fun.