A Complete Guide to RV Vent Covers
Owning a recreational vehicle gives you the freedom to travel at will, yet with that comes maintenance of the vehicle for comfort and safety on the road. Amongst the most important parts of your RV, often neglected, is the vent cover. They are crucial for air flow, temperature control, and even for protecting from the elements.
In this comprehensive tutorial, we learn what one needs to know about RV vent covers: the types, benefits, tips on installation, and how to choose the best for one's vehicle.
How to easily put on rv cover?
What Are RV Vent Covers?
Installed over the roof vents of your RV, a protective covering called vent covers provides a way for air to circulate inside the vehicle and prevents the build-up of moisture, humidity, and unwanted odors inside. Vent covers enable you to keep the vents open in bad weather, too, without the risk of water, debris, or insects entering your RV.
Types of RV Vent Covers
You can find several types for buying RV vent covers that provide a set of different features. The most common options look something like this:
1. Standard Roof Vent Covers
These are the most simple kind of vent covers, protecting your roof vents against rain, snow, dirt, and every other form of debris. Most of them come in durable plastic and are pretty straightforward to install. Standard vent covers remain the best option in case you need only basic protection against elements.
2. MaxxAir Vent Covers
Some of the most popular ones in the market are the MaxxAir vent covers. Because of the innovative louvered design, these covers allow one to open their RV vents even when it is raining or during storms. Durability and maintenance of airflow in any kind of weather make MaxxAir covers one of the favorites for RV owners who travel year-round.
3. Fan-Tastic Vent Covers
Fan-Tastic vent covers are designed specifically to work with the Fan-Tastic fans installed in RVs. These types of covers enable the fan to continue working even when the vent is closed, enabling airflow while keeping rain and debris out. If you have a Fan-Tastic fan installed in your RV, getting a compatible cover would upscale its performance.
4. Solar-Powered Vent Covers
Solar-powered vent covers are suitable for those who want to help save Mother Nature. They contain the solar panels that allow powering a small fan to increase airflow inside your RV. Ideal for keeping your RV well-ventilated without having it consume so much electricity.
Advantages of Using RV Vent Covers
RV vent covers have a number of advantages, which every owner should have. Here are some key benefits of using RV vent covers:
1. Protection from the Elements
The first and foremost reason for putting a vent cover on is to protect against rain, snow, and debris getting into your RV. With a vent cover, you'll be able to keep your RV properly ventilated in any kind of weather, never having to worry about water damage.
2. Enhanced Air Circulation
These vent covers will enable you to keep your RV vents open even while driving or at the instance of a storm outside, which means constant air circulations. That serves to reduce humidity levels inside and gets rid of musty odors.
3. Temperature Regulation
Since these vent covers allow the free flow of air, they regulate the temperature inside your RV. They prevent it from becoming too hot during summer and too cold during winter by allowing the escape of heat or the inflow of fresh air.
4. Insect and Debris Prevention
Vent covers have inbuilt screens that will keep out insects, leaves, and other debris. Besides the neatness of your RV this way, it's a guarantee that your vents are functional and that at no time are they going to be blocked.
5. Extended Life for Components on Your RV
The covers can help protect your RV's interior components, like fans and air conditioning units, from exposure to elements that may unnecessarily wear them down. In this case, they can prevent the degradation of these components and, thus, save you money from repairs or replacements.
How to Choose the Right RV Vent Cover
Choosing the right vent cover for your RV will depend on several factors. Here's a guide to help you make the best choice:
1. Material
They are usually made of plastic and metal. The plastic cover is lightweight and cheap while the metal covers are strong and more resistant to bad weather conditions.
2. Size
It is about finding a vent cover that can fit the vent opening of your RV. While most vents are usually standard in size, it will be great if you take some measurements around your vent just before making the purchase of a cover. The most common size is 14" x 14", but always check your RV's specifications.
3. Weather Resistance
If you drive regularly in rainy, snowy, or windy areas, then you need a vent cover that is constructed for terrible weather. UV-resistant covers and those with weather-tight seals can be found for extending service life.
4. Ventilation Requirements
Think about how much ventilation you'll need for your RV. If you are going to be in a hot climate or usually travel with pets, you may want a vent cover that can allow the most airflow possible, like a MaxxAir cover. You could get away with a regular cover if you will be traveling in cooler climates.
RV Vent Cover Installation Guide
An RV vent cover installation is a pretty easy process. Most RVers could do this on their own, but here is a step-by-step guide to help:
Tools You'll Need:
- Screwdriver
- Ladder
- Sealing tape or caulk
- Installation hardware for vent cover, usually provided with the vent cover
Step-by-Step Installation:
- Clean the Area Around the Vent: Before installing the vent cover, make sure to clean the area around the vent of dust and any other debris.
- Position the Vent Cover in Place: Place the vent cover over the vent using it to fit with the screw holes.
- Secure the Screws: Screws should be tightened using the furnished screws. Ensure that it is tightly fastened.
- Seal the Edges: Use sealing tape or caulking to seal the edges around the vent cover to make it watertight.
- Test the Vent: Open and close the vent a number of times to make sure that the cover doesn't catch in its operation.
How to Care for Your RV Vent Covers
The vent covers on your RV would last far longer if maintenance is conducted regularly. Here's a couple of tips that might be helpful:
- Clean Regularly: Wipe down your vent covers with a soft cloth and mild detergent every few months to prevent the building-up of dirt and grime in your vent covers. Check for any damage to your vent covers, such as cracks, warping, or other signs that it needs replacement. Apply lubricant on moving parts. Periodic lubrication of those vent covers with hinges or other moving parts is what keeps moving parts running smoothly.
- Seals Check: Make sure the seals of your vent covers are whole, and whenever there are gaps, reseal them to prevent water from leaking into your RV.
Top Brands of RV Vent Cover
Regarding buying RV vent covers, quality and durability must be considered seriously. Some of the top brands in this respect include:
- MaxxAir: This is one well-recognized brand name for high-quality all-weather ventilator covers.
- Camco: Offers a wide range of affordable and durable vent covers.
- Fan-Tastic Vent: Offers vent covers created specifically for use with their high-powered RV fans.
- Heng's: Manufacturing heavy-duty, long-lasting vent covers that protect really well.
FAQs
Is it safe to leave my RV vent open with a cover on while raining?
Yes, most vent covers are designed to allow ventilation even in rainy weather, so you can leave your vents open without the worry of water intrusion.
Are RV vent covers universal?
Not all vent covers are universal. Be sure to measure your vent and then get a cover that fits the specific size and shape of your RV's vent.
How often should I replace my RV vent cover?
You can expect RV vent covers to last several years, although you may want to replace them earlier if they become cracked, warped, or otherwise damaged.
Do vent covers restrict airflow?
Higher-quality vent covers are designed to do neither detract from nor reduce airflow but actually can help to enhance airflow within your RV.
Conclusion
RV vent covers are among those indispensable means of enhancing any RV. They offer protection against weather conditions, ensure good airflow inside your vehicle, and block the entry of small debris inside your RV. Whether you need a standard cover or high-performance MaxxAir model, the right vent cover can make a big difference in your RV experience. Pick one out that fits your needs, and don't forget maintenance so that it will last for many years to come.