Our 2002 Lance 811 has the crank-up hatch over the bed that also has the quick-release as an escape hatch. With cool weather outside, the aluminum frame produces condensation like crazy, to the point where it drips on the bed.The factory did provide an insulated vinyl cover that snaps to the ceiling around the hatch. The problem is it doesn't form an air tight seal to the ceiling, so condensation still forms and just puddles on the top of the vinyl cover.Obviously what's needed is a way to stop the inside air from contacting the aluminum frame of the hatch. I thought about spraying some of that Flex Seal liquid rubber on the exposed aluminum but not sure if that would insulate it enough. What have you guys figured out for this?

What I did and it did not cure the condensation completely it did lessen it some what. I went to HD and bought a roll of the foil backed foam pipe insulation. I cut it to fit. Now it does eliminate light transmission but that doesn't bother me.Then I using the snap cover I put some insulation in the opening held up by the snap cover.

cut a square of Styrofoam to fit tight into opening.Better yet, you can buy polyurethane boards at HD with foil on both sides. Put some masking tapes on the edges to prevent scratching the foam.

Dog's recommendation is a last resort problem solver IMO.

Escape Hatch Condensation | Good Sam Community

Bedlam
Moderator
Nov 22, 2020
We have small dehumidifier that runs on 9vdc. It sits in the dry bath and runs anytime we have shore power. I didn't look into 12vdc model and just looked for something compact that could run for a couple days without emptying.
covered_wagon
Explorer
Nov 21, 2020
I wish they made a small build in unit dehumidifier. One that self drains so you don't have to empty the tray all the time. Now this idea has gone on for a long time really, but no one builds one for RV's unless I missed it.

Just did a search for '12 volt dehumidifiers' and a few came up.... not too expensive, they also help clean the air of mold and bacteria laden moisture. Seems like a good product to look into.
Deb_and_Ed_M
Explorer II
Nov 21, 2020
One of my first experiences with truck camper camping was unpleasant: it was a cold rainy night in the Pac NW; and I was getting "rained on" by our ceiling vent. I wrongly assumed it was leaking, but it was simply condensation. After getting some advice on this forum, I learned that no matter what the weather, that vent needs to be cracked to allow moisture created by us simply breathing, to escape. My current truck camper just got a new Fantastic Fan installed, to deal with any possible condensation problems.
Eric_Lisa
Explorer II
Nov 19, 2020
+1 on venting. The condensation on the aluminum is a symptom, not the problem.

I have added memory foam and a down pad on top of the mattress pad. Under them I have an electric blanket (we are not sleeping directly on the blanket). So when we are hooked up, the bed stays nice and toasty warm. This allows me to have the vent over the bed open. The air cools off, but it does keep the camper from filling with stale moist air.
JimK-NY
Explorer II
Nov 18, 2020
My Heki has a screen that stop moist air from causing the frame to sweat. Unless it is not sealing well, I would think your vinyl cover would act the same way. Another option would be to tape a piece of plastic sheeting to the vent to seal moist air from the frame.

Regardless venting moisture out of the RV is a big issue in cold weather. You need some ventilation. Also you need to vent out moisture from cooking and showers.
specta
Explorer
Nov 18, 2020
BurbMan wrote:
stickdog wrote:
Quit breathing.

Did my wife tell you to post this?

LOL too funny :B
covered_wagon
Explorer
Nov 18, 2020
I used the foam padding that comes in a roll for under your sleeping bag when your sleeping on the ground. Easy to cut and flexible, you can cut it a bit large and stuff it tight. This has helped a lot. I lined the underside of the hatch cover as well using contact cement. Remember to cut a bit larger for snug fit.

If you don't do a good job remember the hungry Grit Dog will bite you right where it counts.
Bedlam
Moderator
Nov 17, 2020
billtex wrote:
Open the hatch a crack.

X3
zulu52
Explorer
Nov 16, 2020
billtex wrote:
Open the hatch a crack.

I agree with this. Just 1/4" worked for me. No condensation.
Zulu
BurbMan
Explorer II
Nov 16, 2020
stickdog wrote:
Quit breathing.

Did my wife tell you to post this?