Keep Your RV Cool
Summer RV trips are all about sunshine, cookouts, and beautiful views—but they can also bring sweltering heat that turns your home on wheels into a rolling sauna. Sitting inside an RV during hot weather can be uncomfortable, so it’s important to find ways to stay cool. Whether you’re traveling through the desert or parked under the sun at a lakeside campground, knowing how to keep your RV cool in summer is essential for comfort and safety. At Delmarva RV Center, we’re here to help you beat the heat with smart, simple strategies for keeping your RV cool in extreme heat.
1. Park Smart
Start by choosing your spot wisely. Whenever possible, park in shaded areas to lower the temperature inside the RV, and position your RV so that the largest windows face away from the sun. This alone can make a huge difference in internal temperatures.
2. Maximize Ventilation
Use roof vents and fans to circulate air and push hot air out. Installing vent covers is crucial to enhance air circulation and ventilation within the RV. A combination of intake and exhaust fans can create a breeze that cools your RV naturally.
3. Use Reflective Window Covers
Wondering how to insulate RV windows for summer? Upgrading to dual pane windows and using window treatments like blackout curtains or thermal blinds can significantly improve insulation and reduce heat exchange. Try reflective shades or insulating bubble foil (like Reflectix). These materials bounce sunlight away from your rig and help keep cool air in.
Bonus tip: Insulated curtains or blackout panels also reduce heat gain through windows.
4. Does RV Skirting Help in the Summer?
Yes! While often associated with winter use, RV skirting can also be effective during summer by blocking hot air from circulating beneath your RV, which can reduce the heat that seeps through the floor. It’s a great way to maintain a more stable interior temperature—especially when parked for longer stays. Additionally, proper sealing and weatherstripping can prevent warm air from entering the RV, ensuring that cool air remains inside.
5. Upgrade to LED Lighting
Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs, which run cooler and are more energy-efficient, helps reduce interior temps and eases the strain on your A/C.
6. Use Appliances Wisely
Ovens, stovetops, and even some electronics can raise the temperature inside your RV. Cooking outdoors while at campgrounds not only helps keep the RV cool but also enhances the overall camping experience. Cook outdoors when you can or switch to electric griddles and slow cookers to minimize indoor heat.
7. Maintain Your A/C Unit
Your A/C is your best friend on hot days, but it works hard! Checking air filters and ensuring proper maintenance are crucial to keep it operating efficiently. Keep filters clean, inspect seals, and make sure your RV is properly ventilated to help it operate efficiently. If your unit struggles to keep up, a portable A/C or second rooftop unit might be a smart investment.
8. Add Extra Insulation
If you’re really serious about how to keep a camper cool during summer, consider adding extra insulation to walls, doors, and slide-outs. Using foam board and spray foam insulation can significantly enhance the RV’s climate control by keeping the interior cool and blocking drafts and moisture. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can also prevent hot air from sneaking in.
Stay Cool With Delmarva RV Center
From recommending the best accessories to performing seasonal A/C tune-ups, the team at Delmarva RV Center is here to help you stay cool no matter how hot it gets. Properly installed insulation and a well-maintained cooling system are essential for optimal performance and comfort during your travels. Whether you’re shopping for a new RV or prepping your current rig for summer, we’ve got the tools and know-how you need.
Visit us today or schedule service to make sure your RV is summer-ready. With a few upgrades and some smart cooling strategies, your next road trip will be a breeze—even in the heat.
