Summer is just around the corner, and that means it's time to hit the road in the Airstream for some epic adventures! But let's be honest, those sleek aluminum beauties can turn into ovens under the hot sun. Who wants to spend their camping trip sweating it out? Not us!
That's why we wanted to share our Top 5 Tips to keep our Airstream cool and comfortable during the hottest summer days.
Tip 1: Finding Shade is Key
This one might seem obvious, but it's the most important tip! Parking your Airstream in the shade whenever possible makes a huge difference. We're talking a 10-15 degree drop in temperature inside – that's a game-changer! Anytime we are traveling in the summer month we will always look for camping areas that can provide so shade.
Tip 2: Make Some Shade
Of course, finding shade at every campsite isn't always guaranteed. That's where our trusty awnings come in. Extending them outwards helps provide enough shade for the windows and doors, keeping the inside cooler for longer. If you’re buying an Airstream we would highly recommend get one with the full awning package. It is a small investment that will pay big dividends over the years of ownership.
Tip 3: Block the Heat
This next tip involves a little material called Reflectix. It's basically a lifesaver for keeping heat out of your Airstream. You can cut this reflective material to fit your windows and easily place it in the window frame. It's a cheap and easy DIY project that makes a huge difference. Think of it as a shiny shield deflecting the sun's rays before they can heat things up inside.
Tip 4: Air Circulation is My Mantra
A good quality fan is a must-have in our Airstream. It helps circulate air and makes the whole space feel more comfortable. Think cool breeze on a hot day – that's the feeling we're going for! When choosing a fan, we opted for the Dyson Hot+Cool fan. It is quiet and compact with multiple speeds. This way, we can adjust the airflow depending on how toasty things get inside. It is also a space heater for the cooler months as well as an air purifier.
But air circulation isn't the only weapon in our arsenal. A Midea dehumidifier is another great tool for keeping things cool. By removing moisture from the air, it makes the whole space feel less muggy and more comfortable. Especially helpful in those humid summer months, a dehumidifier is a lifesaver for keeping that sticky feeling at bay. When selecting one make sure it's the right size for your Airstream especially if you will be camping in hot and humid climates (think the deep South).
Tip 5: Maintaining My Cool Machine
Just like any other appliance, our Airstream's air conditioner needs some routine maintenance to function at its best. Luckily, maintaining it is a simple DIY task we perform twice a year. It involves cleaning the air filter and condenser coils – pretty straightforward stuff! Here is a step-by-step DIY video to keep your air conditioner in tip top shape. With a clean filter and coils, our air conditioner can work more efficiently, keeping us cool without breaking a sweat (the machine, that is).
Bonus Tip: Air Vent Hack (For the Ambitious)
For those of you wanting to go a step further we have a bonus tip that's a bit more on the complex side. It involves modifying the air conditioning vents to improve airflow. We didn’t care for the OEM vents that came with our Airstream. We felt they really restricted the airflow so we decided to replace the stock vents with homemade ones that allow for better air circulation. While this hack promises significant improvement, it's definitely for the more adventurous DIYer. If you have some basic handyman skills then this is an easy modification that will provide some great benefits! Here is the Amazon link for the vent modification.
Conclusion: A Cool and Comfortable Airstream Awaits!
By following these simple tips, we are confident you can keep your Airstream cool and comfortable all summer long. From seeking shade and using Reflectix to investing in a good fan and dehumidifier, these common sense strategies can make a world of difference. Maintaining your air conditioner is also key to ensuring it runs efficiently. So, here's to cool and comfortable summer adventures in your Airstream!
Happy Camping & Safe Travels
Rick & Lisa
The Wright Life
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