Forum Discussion

fulltimecanada's avatar
Nov 25, 2016

What size of dehumidifier do I need?

Hi there, we're looking for some advice on what size of dehumidifier we should purchase? We're currently in Tofino, BC where it's very humid and rains a lot. We've wrapped windows, keep our ceiling fan going, and have both a small dehumidifier and a refillable dehumidifier.

We're still getting some condensation on the walls as the temperature starts to cool down more. We realize it's time to get serious about purchasing a full-size dehumidifier but we're unsure of what size. We've seen the sizes range from 30-70 pints. We really need this unit to solve our condensation problems so we'd love to know your thoughts/recommendations about sizes and even models. This is one we were looking at: http://amzn.to/2gdMbLz

Thanks in advance!
  • We have vent covers on all the roof vents. We have the bathroom vent open most of the time. The warm moist air leaves through the open vent.
  • Heating your rv will help. The furnace blowing helps dry out and circulate the air.
  • pianotuna wrote:
    Hi fulltime,

    I'm from SK.

    As outside air is cold the relative humidity is often high. When that cold air is heated to room temperature the relative humidity drops.

    Opening the roof vent allows humid hot air to escape from the RV, while the window allows cold air in.

    To stop condensation on the walls, their temperature must be above the dew point. Running an electric heater beside or below the open window will help that happen.

    If the ambient temperature is warm enough to run the roof air conditioner safely, it can be run, while running an electric heater at the same time. That turns the roof air into a giant dehumidifier.

    Try to avoid cooking on the propane stove. Use an induction cooker (NuWave is the best of the best) or hot plates.

    Don't forget to protect the fridge from freezing.

    There is a lovely long thread on cold winter camping under the Full Time forum.


    Thanks for that explanation, I appreciate it and will give it a try!
  • Hi fulltime,

    I'm from SK.

    As outside air is cold the relative humidity is often high. When that cold air is heated to room temperature the relative humidity drops.

    Opening the roof vent allows humid hot air to escape from the RV, while the window allows cold air in.

    To stop condensation on the walls, their temperature must be above the dew point. Running an electric heater beside or below the open window will help that happen.

    If the ambient temperature is warm enough to run the roof air conditioner safely, it can be run, while running an electric heater at the same time. That turns the roof air into a giant dehumidifier.

    Try to avoid cooking on the propane stove. Use an induction cooker (NuWave is the best of the best) or hot plates.

    Don't forget to protect the fridge from freezing.

    There is a lovely long thread on cold winter camping under the Full Time forum.
  • pianotuna wrote:
    Crack a roof vent and crack a window. Put an electric heater near the window.


    Can you please elaborate on this thought. Would love to know how this can specifically solve my problem. Thank you.
  • Crack a roof vent and crack a window. Put an electric heater near the window.