Winter Van Life Condensation Hack

Living in a camper van full time comes with many challenges one of the biggest issues for me has always been condensation in the winter
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‪@johnmandy‬
#melsvanlife #melsvanworld #overlanding

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

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[@grandvoyager]

To prevent moisture build up on your windows , apply shaving foam on them clean it up and you'll be fine for 4 days but at least you don't have to vacuum them every day.

[@DaveSander]

Can't get them anywhere in UK and the few available suffer the usual greedy twice or treble the price

[@jamesgibb9737]

Hi Mel I'm a huge fan of yours, but I've got to point out a few things. Condensation is not attracted to glass, it simply forms on any cold surface. This is usually is a window as they're very poor insulators. With regards to water vapour and condensation, temperature is your friend. A basic rule of gasses like air is the higher the temperature the more water vapour they can hold, so keeping you van warm (must be the whole van, cold spots will cause condensation) will keep the moisture in the air rather than in you bed. The second is ventilation. If you can blow this warm air out, them hey presto along goes the dissolved water with it. Obviously it's a fine balance. Having a window wide open will cool the van or cost a fortune to heat, but a small fan and aperture coupled with a steady low heat should do the trick. Keep the videos coming really love your projects!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you James that’s some great advice 👍

[@theknightcrossing]

@@vancouvervanagon9453 absolutely. I've run mine well below zero, with clear windows the whole time. The only way the windows would steam up is billing the kettle, but cleared again within five minutes. Apart from the noise of the stupid fuel pump, I love my 5kw heater.

[@mosam5097]

Any advice for bedrooms windows please…

[@dickfitswell3437]

@@theknightcrossing I saw a video with a guy that put a muffler on the air intake and then the filter and the sound went almost invisible.

[@mommag3600]

@Mo Sam I purchased a smaller Damp Rid bucket on my last trip. I know it does work bc I used to work at a popular hardware store and we sold a lot of it. It’s basically a manual dehumidifier. I kept checking it to see if there was water in the bottom but there wasn’t yet, however, the granules that is used did turn into the hard brick like they’re supposed to so that means it had to absorb moisture to create the brick. I do run my ceiling fan when I boil water.

[@sidsidsidsid]

We have a dehumidifier on the landing in our house. Works a treat in the winter....gets so much moisture out of our 1930's built house

[@johnphilip6609]

Thanks for the tip Mel and taking the time to share it. Will differently getting a window vac for the van, will work great in the winter months.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for the positive feedback really appreciated 👍😊👍

[@chrisb5839]

I think whatever you use, you are creating moisture quicker than you can absorb it, especially when it's cold. Best thing to do is to have a constant heat and ventilate.

[@jwatkins5155]

Yeah I wipe any off with a sponge straight away, no mess no fuss.

[@Chequr_Prostate]

Yes your correct, you really need to be extracting the air constantly, all camper/caravans should have a dehumidifier extract fan, that’s comes on automatically when required and then your not using power needlessly. Just taking it off your glass isn’t enough to be honest.

[@pavel9652]

I noticed his little dehumidifier gadget and I think it is too small. I have a proper dehumidifier and it removes non-trivial amounts of moisture from the air. Ventilation is good, but how good is it during wet and cold months? Heating and dehumidifier should work well, plus some ventilation. My experience is a lot of moisture comes from the outside and dehumidifier works harder in rainy days.

[@williamwatson3810]

We've had a window vac for a number of years now, it's Beldray brand which we bought from the local B&M store and it's still going strong a great idea .

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 😊

[@arturarthur5368]

thanks from germany, mate. hope you're all right up there!!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you buddy I’m doing ok 👍 same to you too

[@silviasanchez7619]

Hi Mel - came across your channel today and really enjoyed it! Thanks for the info. Loved your dehumidifyer idea and also came across another tip- bubblewrap on the windows (bigger bubbles than regular works best) and it seems to work great as an option to avoid condensation. So the combo of a dehumidifyer a d the bubblewrap should be great!! 👏👏. I'll check out your other vids - stay safe, healthy and keep smiling 😃👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi Silvia thank you for taking the time to comment especially for such positive encouragement that’s really kind of you 👍🤓👍

[@ZolaBolingo]

I have the same condensation in my Tiny House on wheels especially after using gas butane stove. Thank you for sharing, i will buy this Karcher.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you happy new year too 🥳

[@551moley]

When you burn butane or propane water vapor is given off, flueless cooking appliances should only be used with good ventilation....Van life and Tiny houses have a massive potential to undo years of CO poisoning awareness. Please get a CO alarm less than £20 and can save lives, not just for faulty appliances but possibly drawing attention to the lack of proper ventilation in many home built Van's and house's.

[@catvando3209]

Cheers for that information Mel, I already have a version of the karcher but will definitely look into getting the dehumidifier. Stay safe and dry, catch you later. 👍😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Cheers buddy merry Christmas 🎄

[@tomrickard3136]

I only joined Xmas eve and iv been glued to ur videos love the van can't wait to get out in mine keep up the good work Mel and merry Christmas

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you Tom that’s really appreciated merry Christmas buddy 👍🎄👍

[@williamlemon2954]

I lived in a shared house, and my shower room was full of black mould. I cleaned it , and it kept coming back because there was a serious damp issue. I ended up with a chronic cough . Roll on 10 years later.. I ended up in hospital because I couldn't breath. After lots of tests and scans in May last year I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. A terminal lung condition 😢. Mould is a killer

[@Camperjazz]

Really enjoying the videos thanks for posting your tips too

[@nvw2978]

I got a Karcher window vac last month......didn’t even know they existed until I spoke to a guy (weirdly also called John)! It’s changed my life! Can’t believe I’ve had my van for so many years not knowing they existed. Glad you found it too xx

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you they are definitely a game changer and my windows have never been so clean 👍😂👍

[@nvw2978]

@@BigVanSmallWorld I know!! Thought it was a bit overpriced at first and was going to go for a cheaper one...glad I got the Karcher though, quality product! Haven’t used it to clean my windows yet but wow what a difference it makes to spending time in my van? I’m currently working at the hospital in Shetland over lockdown, thought I’d escape, bring my campervan up here for an adventure. Just love it here and would of been lost without the van. Enjoy your adventure Mel, thanks for replying. Xxx

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

They are a little pricey for sure I’m with you on that when I say windows I mean my windscreen I don’t seam to get that white over when the sun is low in the sky anymore especially in winter I bet it’s beautiful up there how wonderful for you hope you’re staying safe And it’s not to cold 👍

[@MG-cp8xk]

Thanks for the advice for using window vac - nice one. I use mine after a shower on the ceiling, walls and floor. Happy Safe New Year to ONE AND ALL.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you that’s a great idea 👍🎄👍🍻

[@MG-cp8xk]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Window vac is probable good on getting some / alot of water out wetsuites .

[@billkrause4585]

The Diesel Heater has dry heat that eliminates the excessive moisture problem in Van Living.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes it does work extremely well 👍

[@tomtrottersdrumsesh3688]

That is if you run it enough to keep the van warm at all times. If you let the van cool down then the windows get cold again and once you warm it back up - bam, condensation.

[@projectsinmotion1405]

Useful video mel ,Merry Christmas to all, stay safe and well and have a nice new year.🤓

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you and you 👍🎄👍

[@inlinefourtr]

That's a great water 'Karcher' Will try the upside down method with my Vax one.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Good luck buddy hope it works for you 👍🎄👍🍻

[@stuartchapman5171]

Great vid. As you mentioned before, a slatted bed is vital. I had a beautiful mk1 17ft Safari caravan. The sofa/pullout double bed had solid boards. The foam wicks away your sweat, gravity pullls it to the bottom and on occasion it freezes in the depths of winter! Tbh I hadnt noticed till I propted up the cushions to air them one frosty morning but the thought of it wasnt great. Cracking windows and doors and firing up the stove to pants only furnace temperatures is a great option as well. Maybe not in Morrisons car park though.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s funny thank you 🙏

[@redrum7014]

Such a genuine fella. Keep up the good work mate. Im based in Essex and currently converting a mk7 tranny welfare van.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you and good luck with your build I had a welfare van it made an extremely good camper 👍😊👍

[@LostNative]

Awesome #Melsvanworld, really nice job, I've been looking at what to buy to help with condensation. Cheers Mel, I'll be buying the same bits. 👍👍👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re absolutely welcome merry Christmas 🎄

[@clarkspiemuncher24]

like your crook lock lol when i was putting one on my van in Portugal this woman said i knew you were a brit the moment i saw that

[@XVeganDaveGodFreeX]

The moisture on the windows is just a tiny percentage of what's in the vehicle, absorbed in the bedding, clothing, mattress, wood, etc. Removing the condensed moisture will do little, esp since it won't collect more throughout the day. Best to just open a vent or crack a window at night, or run your A/C.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for that

[@minisurfboardscouk]

Two great little products mel I was of adding something similar Have a great Christmas mate

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you and you

[@BruceLauderdale]

Great little video..

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you buddy 👍🎄👍🍻

[@DaveTheDasher77]

Great idea mate , Will be getting a dehumidifier.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

They’re great 👍

[@sarahfreeman3268]

Hi Mel have you ever thought about running the roof fan above you bed to move the warm air about this shoud keep the condensation away or just getting a little fan pluged into a Jackery this is what we do and fingers crossed its worked for us because we dont have any blinds on our little motorhome just curtains on the front window . This was advice given to us on our first trip away after waking up to a front window full of condensation . x

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi Sarah yes air movement is definitely the best way to keep condensation at bay but unfortunately the colder it gets the harder it is to stop it from building up on the front windows it’s all part of camping in winter 🥶 thanks for taking the time to comment 👍😊👍

[@andredejonge5255]

Great hack !👍👍

[@jackiesmithsmetaldetecting]

We got a cheap silver screen from Aldi it is for a car but fits almost over front hold it with the wipers and it does help a lot and we got one of those window vacs , Doesn't stop my hair from getting frizzy when i wake up though lol i may wear a hat :) Merry Christmas Mel and best wishes for 2021

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s brilliant 👍🎄👍

[@GCODEODDITY]

Great vid fam!!!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for the visit

[@linz_in_NZ]

Liking the Amazon store - so easy to find things later, rather than having to scan back through videos to find something. 👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you Linz for the positive feedback I do so really appreciate your encouragement 👍😊👍

[@linz_in_NZ]

@@BigVanSmallWorld No problem - I really like how you have laid the store out in different sections with pictures of a few items. 👍😊👍

[@bouydogsbus3672]

I have the anniversary edition of the karcher comes with two blades one the same as yours and one smaller, easier for fiddly windows.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Brilliant 👍

[@glennfryer1539]

Happy Christmas Mel .... take care mate over Xmas ... you’ll have to light that stove, and get rid of that condensation... great channel, really enjoy it .. all the best mate ..

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you buddy all the best to you too 👍🎄👍

[@dawnhill539]

Window vacum 😂😂😂. Who woulda thought. Love it

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I know rite but tell you what I use it most mornings in the winter 👍

[@kevinfletcher7471]

Nice one picked up some good tips

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 😊

[@CLdriver1960]

Great moisture hacks. I assume that your van also has a moisture barrier along with the insulation. You’ll need to ventilate as well as use that wood burning stove more if you want to completely rid yourself of condensation. I suggest getting well insulated window covers for your cab windows, isolate (via insulated curtains) the cabin from the cockpit, and leave your front windows open a crack to allow air to come in for ventilation. The aim is to leave the cockpit unheated, allow some cold air to ‘leak’ past the curtain, warm up, and then get expelled via your roof van. The incoming cold air will not get any colder when in the cockpit, will warm up in the cab, and will take out any increased moisture (from your breathing, etc) through the roof van.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 😊

[@mingxuanfan]

His accent is so much like bear grills I feel like I’m watching a man vs wild episode

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you I’ll take that 🤓👍

[@tybrady4598]

Unvented propane heaters give off water vapor. It’s just the chemistry of how it works. (I read once a gallon of propane will give off about a gallon of water in vapor form.) The gadgets on this video are not the answer. You need a vented heater. He’s right, black mold is deadly. Do the right thing.

[@whippetsadventuresandoneman]

Aww I love the mug mel 🥰🥰🥰🤗🤗😊 wow I didn’t know they made a dehumidifier that runs off a usb :) that’s amazing how much water it has taken, the window vac is an amazing idea ;) Sorry to hear you had a lunge infection last year :( that’s terrible 😢 hope you been ok through this winter living in your van ;) always look forward to seeing your out takes ;) I fitted my solar pannel last night, thank you 🙏 after watching your video how to put one up I copied your idea, was a nightmare as that pannel I showed you was huge 😂 struggling to lift that up on my own was a challenge, plus dodging the rain 😂 I’ll finish the wires in side in a bit :) Have a lovely weekend bud 😊🤗👍👊🏻💪

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you and good luck with your panel it’s not stopped raining here for days now 👍😊👍🍻

[@whippetsadventuresandoneman]

@@BigVanSmallWorld it’s been the same here weather been awful here too :( 😊🤗

[@mclucky7086]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Hi Mel. No rain here in Vegas for over 230 days. 78DEG. Wish you were here? LOL.

[@flbeachinggirl]

I use two “Ivation” small dehumidifiers in my small home. They look like yours. One in the kitchen and one in the bathroom. They are terrific! Also monitor the humidity with a little battery powered reader about the size of a matchbook ☺️

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s a really good idea to get a sensor I’ll have to have a look for one 👍🍻

[@flbeachinggirl]

Amazon Harbor thermometer two pack is what I use. They are small. Temp and humidity. They are not always exactly the same reading, even when next to each other but close enough.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you ☺️

[@pavel9652]

Clearly it doesn't work in his case otherwise he would be getting condensation on windows. One can't cheat laws of physics, though. Condensing water takes a lot of energy, as much as boiling away.

[@broadsword6650]

Those Karcher window vacs are great. Remember to regularly take it to pieces (they clip apart very easily) and clean/dry the internals and blades as best you can, otherwise the dreaded black mold can grow inside the damp gizmo.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Ohh that’s good advice thank you buddy 👍😊👍

[@AimsyCost]

Beautiful campervan.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 😊

[@martandgerry]

Yep on our second one now.. 4 years of use.. Of course an outside thermal cheap window cover and never any condensation on the windows.

[@mikewestermann1]

Nice subject, I have that dehumidifier and the internal chill fin's only get so cold dropping the efficiency level the colder the weather is, it works great at room temperature. I use a USB driven computer fan to exchange the cabin air with very little moisture built up. You do sacrifice the warmth.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you buddy for the positive feedback really appreciated 👍

[@robertlee3734]

nice one fella

[@GrantTravels23]

Use kitty litter in a couple long tube socks. It'll suck up the moisture all the time including while you sleep

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Brilliant I would if I had any socks without holes in lol 😂 👍😊👍

[@dianal.1279]

Very nice!🌻👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for the positive feedback 👍

[@wayne1243]

I wondered what we going to see in your morning routine Mel 😜

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Haha i

[@travelingchalksworld5138]

Morning Mel, I’ve just watched your video about the condensation. And as you know I have a professionally shop bought van. When I changed my wall coverings I noticed that my van was insulated but with no vapour barrier, I have plastic double glazed side and rear window and the only condensation I get is about 45 inches up my windscreen I have the concertina blinds and I don’t get hardly any condensation. So I conclude that using a vapour barrier doesn’t really work as the air cannot circulate. I’ve built my previous van myself with a vapour barrier and got condensation much like yourself. I have one of those Karcher window vacuums and are use mine for drying my van off after I’ve washed it we live in a hard water area and it stops streaking, another fine well put together video. Merry Christmas and stay safe🚐☕️☕️👍🏼🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🌈🙏🏼💙❤️💙❤️

[@travelingchalksworld5138]

It’s ment to say 4 to 5 inches up my front window 🚐☕️☕️👍🏼🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🌈🙏🏼💙❤️💙❤️

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Merry Christmas buddy thank you for all the positive feedback 👍😊👍

[@pavel9652]

Wrong conclusion. Preventing condensation on windows isn't goal of vapor barrier on the walls. In fact you get condensation because of no vapor barrier on glass, which would defeat the purpose of having window in the first place.

[@robinbean6716]

Like the good old days you on the tools Mel ,,,only thing missing is th cats lol I'm really looking forward to this build mate

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Awww thank you 😊

[@VL-xp8pt]

I can’t wait this long Mel - I need to know now 😇👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Not long to go 👍🎄👍

[@markwhite2207]

He's got more waffle than McCain's! 😂

[@stellarandrews9538]

Happy New Year Mel

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you buddy happy new year to you too 👍🥳👍

[@grumpygrandpa3640]

Dehumidifier don’t work that well them windows are soaking 🤦🏻‍♂️. Top tip fella get a tubaware container fill it with salt and tea bags pop the lid on poke some holes in the top and leave that under your bed it will soak up the moisture 👍👍. When it’s full bin the contents and start again 👍.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Sweet I’ll do that too 👍

[@13yearsaprepperr.jtilbury.51]

G`day Mel , I feel very lucky to be living on the east coast of Australia , we have a dry heat so we don`t get condensation to much , if it gets cold we run the aircon in heat mode that's dry air also ,, anyhow hope your lungs feel better soon mate , I lived on a boat for a while and that was a drama due to the temp differential from the air to water , mould was a problem , and cooking with gas is bad as propane is heavy with water ,, stay safe mate , Rob in sunny Jervis Bay NSW Australia

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you Rob have a great Christmas and all going well I’ll be seeing you next year 👍😊👍

[@13yearsaprepperr.jtilbury.51]

@@BigVanSmallWorld sounds great buddy I will have the beer in the fridge

[@carold8308]

I put my homemade window covers on = little or no condensation. Like Mel I leave my cab windows slightly open & and my little sliding window slightly open (tho if it’s really cold I might close this one) so have air circulation and window protection.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for the positive feedback really appreciated 👍🎄👍

[@markbajek2541]

Mel, have you tried the laundry basket over your pillow and head idea with a blanket covering the whole of your head, supposedly it traps your breath condensation in the blanket that is suspended over your head by the laundry basket. You take a rectangular basket , cut out one of the longer sides that open side is face down onto the bed, slide a pillow inside that and have a blanket tossed over the basket. I saw that on a YT channel this year 23 and , it might actually work.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Oh my goodness me don’t know if I could get to sleep like that 👍

[@marklowry8799]

I lived in a similar sized space that would condensate like this, my solution was a 5” computer fan continually extracting and a small oil filled electric radiator. Even when boiling food the condensation was minimal and short lived. Those pound shop gadgets are gimmicks in my opinion though the big dehumidifiers are great for drying clothes in small spaces.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you buddy that’s really good advice and quite interesting really appreciate you taking the time to share 👍🤓👍

[@steveffuksake]

It's just that it's visible on the windows buddy but it's everywhere else as well.

[@jbsmith1]

Happy New Year Mel. Bit late to the party but great products you have shown there. I have read through all 338 comments so I'm not repeating a question already asked as I'm sure it gets tiring being asked the same thing over and over lol.:) I have read that you can't sleep with the diesel heater running. I'm guessing this is because of the ticking pump? I also read that the wood burner it out by the early hours and your fast asleep by then. So knowing these two things helps me understand the situation.:) From your answers I see this is from breathing through the night as you ventilate when cooking etc. As many have said the wood burner is the best way to reduce humidity followed by the diesel heater and having some small ventilation moving air through the van. But how much would be enough to see you through the night so no condensation built up? If you had a temp/hum meter we could calculate dew point (there are meter that show all 3). This is a moving temperature that condensation will form at but it can be quite low and possibly a temperature attainable with some experimenting without running anything. Let me explain.:) For example say your van temp is 21c and your hum is 50% using a dew point App gives a Dp of 10.2c. So you only need to maintain the internal space above this temperature to stop condensation forming over night. Now we know any surface that is single skinned and in contact with the outside will be the fastest to cool so the glass in your living area needs to be insulated like the vanex style edge to edge or d.i.y insulation cover. Then what about that curtain between cab and living area? Could that be a tightly fitting insulated door, this would help keep your heat in the living space longer. Finally what about putting storage heater bricks around the wood burner flue? We only need to maintain a little over ten degree's in my example and I'm wondering if all these measures would just about do it until you wake up and can get that stove fired up!:) Hope there is something here that helps. All the best.:)

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you mate. That’s all very interesting 🤔. All the best 👍❄️👍

[@eddvanlife7396]

Gadjet John is the Doyen... We have our Karcher too!

[@flybobbie1449]

Sure you not suffering from long covid, it's been around before last Christmas. I tried a dehumidifier in my caravan. But pulled a couple of litres a day. Ended up too much trouble. I did use the disposable/refillable silica powder types in cupboards. I made for my motor van some polystyrene sheets covered with sticky backed plastic outside and carpet liner inside. They fit tight to surface of flat windows. That hoover is good, never seen those before. My caravan windows would stream with condensation. The healthiest i have been was living in caravan. Never caught a cold for two years.

[@GF-pc5bt]

New here and enjoyed, subscribed, hit the notifications!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you I really appreciate your encouragement and support 👍🤓👍

[@valerief1231]

I love how intelligent your followers are, so many great explanations here in the comment section. I didn’t think for one minute that you literally meant that glass works the way with water the same way honey works with Winnie The Pooh lol, it’s not a science video, it’s a van life hack video. My friend started out putting Kitty litter in a couple of tube socks, and lays them on the dash board near the wind screen. It really helped absorb the moisture. He was living in his car, so a much smaller space, but he went on to make a few more, put them in his rear window, and he also put rock salt in a couple of used food containers that could slide under his front seats, and each morning they would have water in them, he’d just open the door snd drain them out, and put them back. So if one is on a budget, these tips might help in the mean time.

[@tomasthomas7407]

i live in a van RV also. i use those little microfiber cloths to wipe condensation off glass windows. Ring them out and i can get up to a cup out of front area. Like primitive camping, routine airing of bedding is important too. Every couple weeks, time in low heat dryer to minimize that mustiness in bedding. i am gonna check out dehumidify gismo though ☝🏻☝🏻

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you iv ordered some window covers now 👍

[@6969SpAcE6969]

Wood burner coupled with a diesel heater for the spaces between not having the wood burner going, that combined with a few moisture bags and air circulation and you are set. I haven’t added the diesel heater yet nor the bags because my stove does a great job, but once I add those then I’ll be able to forget about it.

[@patriciawatt5647]

I recommend damp rid or similar products I also have heard of bamboo charcoal bags are worth trying as is normal kitty litter

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you I’ll have a go next winter 🤓👍

[@patrickpirelli7897]

I just fitted a fletner wind driven vent above my bed and leave the front windows down and inch and don't close the bulk head curtain and don't any condensation at all and there's two of us in my van, happy days

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Ooh yes I had two in my transit they were brilliant now I’m thinking maybe I should look at getting one for my sprinter thank you I completely forgot about them 👍👍😊

[@conor909]

Do they only pull air in when the van is driving? Or do they let air out also, without having to drive?

[@patrickpirelli7897]

@@conor909 they don't pull air in they take stale air out and no as long as there's a breeze it will spin and take air out. If ya leave the front windows open an inch itl keep the air flowing. My van feels warmer for it as theres no stagnant air anymore or so they say.

[@conor909]

@@patrickpirelli7897 I see. Thanks!!

[@fraserhardmetal7143]

Good ventilation is a must - all that water vapour in your breath has got to go somewhere. I fitted a low profile Flettner roof ventilator that extracts air in the slightest breeze and doesn't require any power. It vents even when there is no breeze . With that and keeping the van heating on tickover , the side windows opened a few millimetres, all should be well. It also pays to cover windows internally , not only from a condensation point of view, but for added insulation.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Ohh you’re absolutely rite I had one of them vents in my Ford transit mate thank you I’ll be looking into getting one 👍🎄👍

[@laughinglikefuck297]

Be looking to get AC retro fitted to your van if not already installed as standard, would help quite a lot.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s brilliant

[@1981MJD]

Try 500g Bags of Silica Gel. We use them where I work to protect aircraft engines during storage (Stored outside!). I had a problem with condensation in my car, and after chucking a couple of bags of gel in the door card pockets, I'd find the windows were perfectly clear in the mornings. Great stuff. You need to replace it after a while, or you can reuse it - by putting the packs of gel in a very low set oven for an hour or so. It should help - if only reduce the issue.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 👍

[@stezie1]

So you wipe the window with a towel? How / where do you dry the damp towel? Do you just dump it? Do you dry it in the van? If you do does it mean you aren't removing the water from the van. Only way to remove condensation is with a roof vent and front windows cracked ever so slightly for air flow(like you have). It will get cold so you will need the heater running all night. I had to mount the pump better to reduce the clicking noise. It works for me and I have minimum insulation in my van, and zero vapour barriers.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re absolutely right 👍

[@death9222]

🤯🤯🤯 when he broke out that vacuum thing for the windows

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

😂🤣😂me when I see your comment 👍😊👍

[@in-the-vanpeter5157]

That sounds like good old COVID last year , I use a dehumidifier in the cab but a must is the silver thermal screens I reckon it stops 90% of it obviously they need to be on the side windows too, the lowest temp I’ve been down to is -26. Mind you the problem I did have was the antifreeze in the engine, how low could I go before that froze. Had to call a garage in the U.K. to find out what mix I had . Great vid have a happy Christmas and a lovely lock down .

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Ohhh thanks for the reminder I got some antifreeze for my camper I must put it in when it stops raining merry Christmas 🎄

[@AnOldSod]

Make sure that Prestone coolant/antifreeze is the choice for ALL vehicles. It can be added to whatever brand you already have in the system, but obviously a good flush and a full Prestone refill is best. Full instructions are on the bright yellow container and it protects from -37C to +129C. Sorted

[@markbajek2541]

Even by using a window screen that moisture may not be landing on the windows any longer but it still is in the van's fabric and other surfaces. Probably the dehumidifier along with an extractor/air exchange fan is a better solution for capturing or getting rid of the humid air created by your breathing and or water in the fuel for cooking..

[@miladyanne8411]

There used to be a squeegee/scraper that collected condensation, similar to the vacuum devise but without the need for electricity. It worked really well but haven't seen one for years. I guess nearly everything is electric these days.

[@nightofthe8765]

I would consider putting in ome of those house window trickle vents. Their Small , can be opened and closed easily enough.

[@kielcopeland1644]

Would some kitty litter tied in a few old socks help? I’m car living, trying to figure this out as well. I woke up coughing, felt wet everywhere and it was 30f degrees. When everything is so cold you can’t tell if it’s damp or just cold, is a miserable place to be. I got a room for the next few nights until I can solve the condensation problem, or at least help. Thanks for your videos!

[@ExploreVanUK]

A Window Vac is a good solution to the symptom, but not a cure for the cause (they are good for drying out our shower room after use too!) The condensation revelation for us was moving to an external windscreen cover since then no condensation at all with a bit of heating and ventilation.

[@gailwilliams9798]

ExploreVan UK yes they make a huge difference but not ideal if you have to move pronto!

[@gacattack1234]

You have a curtain up front to divide the cabin, to stop moisture you could put a door there. Ive heard that it can stop the front fogging up. Even a moisture barrier curtain that is well sealed would do a good job. Nothing like built in safety.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you that’s a great idea 👍🎄👍

[@stephenwalczak3166]

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but that tiny thermoelectric dehumidifier may be collecting water but it's not reducing the humidity in the air, which is obvious with the amount on your windows. So you either have to stop breathing or heat with a diesel heater that exhausts outside, to lower the humidity levels inside or a larger compressor dehumidifier. If you can't do the above, very well fitting insulated window covers will help stop condensation, but you'll still have high humidity, that is working it's way into everything. Good luck.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 😊

[@bonafideadventures8425]

I do realize you were trying to sell some products on Amazon but as a truck driver I know you only need to run the engine for about five minutes with the defroster on or just plain AC to totally dry your whole vehicle completely. Defrosters in vehicles make the AC run which will dry you up quickly that’s why you never drive with your defrosters on because it dries your eyeballs. Really neat gadget though and I enjoyed your video thanks.

[@CoolMusicToMyEars]

My wife had a water leak into her car, i removed all the moisture with a great mains driven dehumidifyer unit, after that i have trays of Cat litter, not a single indication of moisture on her cars windows even now at -5C I tried it in my car works fantastic,

[@cloggsy1971]

You can get a smaller head for the window-vac; perhaps may be more useful in the van than the large head?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I’m not sure 🤔

[@skunklepew6469]

I use a shower squeegee then sop up the water at the bottom with a towel. Then use damp towel to swipe up dust on the dash.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Brilliant 👍

[@richardp4548]

How about using a heat exchanger from a condensing tumble dryer? That way you you can just run a small fan to pull in colder dryer air and vent out your warm damp air. The heat exchanger will improve efficiency and warm up the incoming air. If your van has deep sills you can pull air in through them as they are well vented at the base. The rest is ducting. Why waste power keeping a small plate cold in a dehumidifier - the whole of the outdoors is colder than that! Use the fan to remove air from around a composting toilet, and you can duct the fresh air around the heater flue or into the cabin heater. You may just be able to use the heater fan but depends on how well your van is sealed.

[@mejoe943]

Genius!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 👍😊👍

[@naughtysquirrelontheroad1542]

I am putting a sliding secondary glazing layer over my windows in my van to help with condensation and insulation 😁 also have two fans (so I and push out and pull in) and was planning on leaving my front windows a little open like u are 😁 maybe it is worth getting the gadget too 😁

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Sounds like a great idea 👍😊👍

[@naughtysquirrelontheroad1542]

@@BigVanSmallWorld when I have them in I will share the link to the photos 😁

[@chatteyj]

With some ventilation eg cracking roof fan open a bit plus a dehumidifier running do you think that would suffice to keep condensation at bay? I'm not a fan of having multiple gadgets plus vacuuming the windows every morning doesn't sound that much fun to me. Thanks for the video very helpful.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 😊

[@stellarandrews9538]

I knew 1 day you’d wake up beside me 😂😂😂😂

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Be careful what you wish for lol 😂

[@stellarandrews9538]

@@BigVanSmallWorld 😂😂😂😂 be careful what you wish for ! Happy New year Mel hopefully I’ll get round to starting my van in 2020 Looking forward to some more great videos and a meet! Take care. 🤗

[@beastman.330]

Get a tray of kitty litter to suck all the moisture.

[@bobscullion3533]

Hi Mel, says in the description of that dehumidifier that its re chargeable, is that right and if so why do you need it plugged into the power oak all night? Also, do you need to charge the power oak every day just using the dehumidifier? Try and keep the van warm, even keep the diesel heater on low and crack your front windows a little and that should make a difference especially in the winter months. all the best, stay safe, Merry Christmas

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you Bob really appreciate your encouragement 👍🎄👍

[@Gmanxie]

Hi Mel, is the Karcher vac chargeable with USB? Thanks bud

[@sarahmcloughlin4910]

I'll be bringing my essential oils and diffuser with us on our travels to kill off any impurities in the air. They'd be good for your lungs too Mel.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Ohhh that’s a great idea 👍👍

[@sarahmcloughlin4910]

@@BigVanSmallWorld I'm good with oils if you need suggestions let me know x

[@Dronerangerspro]

Interesting that I use a Olympia Wave propane heater and as long as I provide ventilation, I have not had any issues with condensation. On a van build I had years ago with the same heater, I did have condensation issues and I believe it was due to inadequate ventilation. My current build is with Havelock Wool and it might be possible that that is also soaking up some as well. So far so good, but eventually I will install a gas Webasto, and then I will be there!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you and good luck with your build 👍🎄👍

[@LucScheffers]

Burning propane is actually producing watervapor. For every molecule propane: C3H5 burn with 5 molecules oxygen 5O2, results in 3 mol. CO2 and you produce 4 molecules of water 4H2O. You can observe this putting cold water filled kettle on the burner. the produced water vapour will partly condensate on the lower side of kettle. Until the water in de kettle is heated enough, and condensation can not occur. Then all you produce goes into the air. Next to that when the water boils. So your venting specially while cooking on propane is a very good thing.

[@Dronerangerspro]

@@LucScheffers Thanks for the very detailed explanation.

[@jacksmith4266]

People also use all sorts of glues and other chemicals, sprayed without any thoughts about how they effect our healthy while they absord to the air we breath in our vans

[@nedanother9382]

im trying to sort out a build now. Thank you for your efforts. Im wondering how you get so much condensation. I see you have a good fan above your bed. I could see that you cracked windows to allow for ventilation. Is that not sufficient or did you just not use the fan. Thanks and cheers from Southern California

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi I didn’t run my fan at night I just crack the windows open iv just made another video all about this and in that video I try different approach it’s definitely down to ventilation good luck with your build and thank you for taking the time to comment 👍🤓👍

[@markwhite5465]

Take 100ug B12 from holland and barratt..I've had similar problems, low B12 makes it worse ..

[@The_Joker_]

Double/triple glazed windows would be the job with a solar dehumidifier. If only.

[@kayceegreer4418]

If you had one of those new modern technology doohickies that produces water from the air ( which, essentially, in a small space, would/should be a dehumidifier), it produces clean water for you to drink - you'd have it made.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Oh that’s really good idea I wonder if it would work thanks for taking the time to comment really appreciated 👍

[@kayceegreer4418]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Also, I'm not sure of the arrangement of your bed, but if it is on a pedestal and you have storage beneath it, you could put a little fan , like a computer fan 3×3/4×4" In the panel to ventilate underneath your bed. Turn it on during the day. Or maybe during the night in summer, Maybe if you get just the right size it will keep you cooler. I was watching one of your other videos and you were talking about having an infection in your chest because of mold or something I was dozing off so I really don't know. But when this video came on I figured I would say something. I don't know what year these videos of years were made but I do hope you are quite fit now.

[@kayceegreer4418]

@@BigVanSmallWorld According to the things I've learned, your heat source has a lot to do with moisture inside. It seems that woodburners are the best at keeping the inside drier. . other heat sources actually create water in the air. Also, is your Van actually sealed tight or does it "breathe". I tried to sit through one of your videos wherein you were installing the vapor barrier.. I wasn't in a patient mood to see an outcome of that so I moved to another video Because I'm not gonna be building mine anytime soon. But from what I've learned, having watched about 3000 videos, people whose vans "breathe" don't have condensation. Do you have a store associated with your channel maybe you could sell that windshield water sucker doohickie and get a cut of the money. You could advertise it for all the people who are having a problem with window water, who haven't found or cannot facilitate a change just now.

[@andrewpoynter7887]

External silverscreen, padded ones does the job for no condensation on the windows, and ventilation

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 😊

[@fluentpiffle]

I bought one on your recommendation.. Cheers mate! - The 240v adapter puts out 5.5v, so there might be the potential for a USB charge lead hack in there somewhere!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for your support really kind of you and yes I did think about that 👍😊👍

[@fluentpiffle]

@@BigVanSmallWorld I just ordered a cheap replacement PSU and a USB end-connected lead, total cost £5 from eBay.. i'm going to try a frankenstein experiment, so I'll let you know how it goes.. (if I survive!) :o)

[@garycurtis3441]

If I remember right Gadget John did a USB hack on his.

[@fluentpiffle]

@@garycurtis3441 Thanks! Yeah, I'm optimistic.. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKiXlWOlgtFjg8k