This week on the RV Podcast:
Beating the Heat: Protecting Your RV From Summer Stress
Wildfires roar through two national parks, causing campground evacuations and destroying an iconic hotel
The health dangers of wildfire smoke and why you should drive around it, not through it.
All this plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode #555 of the RV Podcast
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RV CONVERSATION OF THE WEEK
Jen: Today, we’re diving into a hot topic—literally! We’re talking about how to keep your RV in top shape during scorching summer trips. We’ve had our fair share of sweaty adventures, so we’re excited to share what we’ve learned about the systems that get stressed in hot weather and how to avoid those pesky problems.
Mike: Oh yeah, Jen, remember that time in Texas when it felt like we were camping on the sun? Our AC was working overtime, and we learned some hard lessons. Let’s break it down for our listeners so they can stay cool and keep their RVs happy.
The RV Air Conditioning System
Jen: First up, the air conditioning system. Mike, you know how much we rely on that AC when it’s 100 degrees outside. It’s like the heart of the RV in summer, but it takes a beating.
Mike: Totally. The compressor and fans are grinding away to keep us cool, and if you’re not careful, you’ll end up with a broken AC or a tripped breaker. I remember when we didn’t clean the filters regularly—yep, rookie mistake. The airflow got so bad, it was like the AC was just blowing warm air.
Jen: So, here’s what we do now to keep it running smoothly. We set the AC to a reasonable temp, like 75 or 80 degrees, to avoid overworking it. We also clean those filters every month during summer trips. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Mike: And don’t forget shade! Parking under trees or using reflective window shades makes a huge difference. We got these silver thermal curtains last year, and it’s like night and day inside the RV. Oh, and a surge protector is a must—saved us when the campground power got wonky.
Jen: Pro tip: Get your AC serviced before the season starts. Check the refrigerant and clean the coils. It’s worth the investment to avoid a sweaty breakdown.
The RV Refrigerator
Mike: Next up, the fridge. Jen, tell ‘em about that time we thought we could just throw warm groceries in there and call it good.
Jen: Oh, Mike, that was a disaster! In hot weather, our RV fridge was struggling to keep up, and we ended up with some spoiled milk. Lesson learned: pre-cool the fridge before loading it by turning it on the night before you leave for a trip. And when it comes time to pack the next day, don’t pack it to the brim.
Mike: That’s because ventilation is key. Give some space between items, especially at the back of the fridge. A lot of RVers add a small fan back there to help the cooling unit breathe. And make sure the exterior vents are clear of dirt and bugs. Check them before each trip.
Jen: We also started using a portable cooler for drinks. It means fewer door openings, which keeps the fridge colder. And if it’s really hot, we crank the fridge setting up a notch.
The RV Electrical System
Mike: Now let’s talk about the electrical system. Hot weather means we’re running the AC, fans, maybe even a blender for those fruit smoothies. But all that power drain can overload your system.
Jen: We learned this the hard way when we kept tripping breakers at a campground in Maine. Now, we use a surge protector every time we hook up. It’s saved our electronics more than once.
Mike: The big drain appliances are the AC, the microwave, a hair dryer, a toaster, an air fryer. When you run them, make sure you use only one of those at a time. Also, if you have AGM batteries, keep an eye them—heat can zap ‘em fast. It’s another reason to use lithium-ion batteries. They handle the heat so much better.
The RV Water System
Jen: Now, the water system. Hot weather makes you use more water for drinking and cooling off, but it can also mess with your tank. I was shocked to learn how fast bacteria can grow in a warm fresh water tank.
Mike: A good tip is to empty your fresh water tank after every trip. Don’t let it sit in the heat for a couple of weeks. Some RVers sanitize the tank before every big summer trip. We prefer bleach free sanitizers, but a little bleach solution—about a quarter cup per 15 gallons—wont do any real harm. You just have to rinse it well, two or three times to get rid of the bleach smell and taste. We also use a water filter for extra peace of mind. And change that twice during the summer camping season.
Jen: And keep your hoses in the shade! We had one crack from sitting in the sun too long.
RV Tires and Suspension
Mike: Tires and suspension take a real hit in hot weather. I’ll never forget checking our tire pressure after a long drive on hot pavement—way higher than it should’ve been. Having a Tire Pressure Monitoring System for the RV is really a convenience.
Jen: Always check tire pressure when they’re cold, using the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, which is on a sticker on every RV. And when out west or in places with strong pervasive sun, a lot of RVers swear that tire covers are a lifesaver when parked for longer periods—they protect from UV damage. We also make sure we’re not overloading the RV. Stay under that Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
Mike: Driving at moderate speeds helps, too. Keeps the tires from heating up too much. And don’t skip suspension checks—grease those components to keep things smooth at least once every year.
RV Roof and Seals
Jen: The roof and seals are another big one. The sun just bakes them, and before you know it, you’ve got cracks or leaks. We had a small leak once that turned into a big headache.
Mike: Now we inspect the roof of our fifth wheel before every summer season. A little UV-resistant sealant goes a long way. We also clean the roof regularly. Some RVers use a reflective coating — they say it really cuts down on heat inside.
JEN: We had one RV service shop in Elkhart tell us those seals should be inspected and touched up every two to three months.
RV Batteries
Mike: Batteries are another thing heat loves to mess with. The old lead-acid ones we used to have lost charge so fast in the summer.
Jen: We tried to keep them in a shaded, ventilated spot and check the electrolyte levels regularly. Topping off with distilled water helped. But honestly, upgrading to lithium-ion batteries was one of our best moves—they’re way more heat-tolerant.
RV Awnings and Exterior
Jen: Last but not least, the awning and exterior components. Our awning started fading after one hot summer, and we learned to retract it when we’re not using it. Besides, summer storms can happen so fast. And it doesn’t take much wind to shred an RV awning. The new motorhome we just bought doesn’t even have an awning and we’re good with that. Awnings can be a real hassle.
Mike: In the Social Media Buzz segment coming up, we’ll hear some more awwing tips. But if you have and regularly use an awning on your RV, UV protectant spray is something you should use. Regularly clean and check the awning for tears or mildew. And don’t forget the plastic fittings and decals—give ‘em a quick spray to keep them from cracking.
Jen: So, there you have it—our hard-earned tips for keeping your RV in top shape during hot weather. It’s all about preparation and staying proactive.
Mike: Totally. Shade, maintenance, and a little TLC go a long way. We hope these tips help you stay cool and enjoy your summer adventures.
Jen: If you have got your own hot weather RV stories or tips, share them with us in the comments below.
RV NEWS OF THE WEEK
Our lead story this week is what has been happening out west.
Wildfires caused by lightning strikes have forced mass evacuations at not just one, but two of our premier national parks. We’re going to go in depth on this, and the larger issue of wildfires – both in the U.S, and the massive first fires that continue for the third summer in a row to rage across parts of Canada.
And we’re going to talk about the danger of wildfire smoke, even if you are driving through it in an RV or tow vehicle.
Let’s start with what happened this last weekend.
At Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado, the South Rim Fire exploded to more than 1,600 acres within 24 hours, remaining completely uncontained despite emergency crews deploying every available resource.
Meanwhile, Arizona’s Grand Canyon North Rim was devastated by a fast-moving fire. The historic Grand Canyon Lodge was tragically destroyed. Built in 1937, it was the only hotel in the national park on the north rim. About 50-80 other structures were also destroyed, including the visitor center, wastewater treatment plant, a gas station, an administration building, cabins, and employee housing.
There were actually two wildfires affecting the North Rim. One, called the White Sage Fire, doubled in size Sunday, going from 20,000 acres to more than 40,000 in just 24 hours.
Firefighters at the North Rim, hikers in the inner canyon, and nearby campers were evacuated over the weekend. The park said along with the fire risk, they could potentially be exposed to chlorine gas after the treatment plant burned.
Rafters on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon also were told to bypass Phantom Ranch, which has a set of cabins and dormitories along the river.
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon will be closed to visitors for the rest of the season.
In Colorado, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison fire burned 5.6 square miles and forced the evacuation of campgrounds and homes near the park. It was one of several fires raging in Western Colorado, all started by the same storm. Colorado’s governor issued a disaster declaration.
This has become a familiar story, year after year, in the American West.
As crews battled the flames, visitors saw their summer vacation plans disrupted, and local communities braced for economic impacts from the park closures.
Park officials and firefighters responded quickly and effectively, clearing vegetation, treating structures with fire-resistant materials, and evacuating all visitors safely. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.
However, this incident raises a persistent concern: why do our parks continue to face these recurring fire threats despite ongoing hearings, increasing budgets, and discussions about forest management practices that seem to get entangled in regulatory complexities rather than focusing on practical solutions?
Everyone acknowledges that wildfires pose a significant risk in the drought-prone, high-desert West. Yet a concerning pattern emerges: government agencies point to climate change and drought conditions, then shift attention to the next crisis while local communities and small businesses bear the economic consequences.
Each summer, small towns near these parks prepare for vital tourist season revenue, only to face potential closures, evacuations, and the demanding cycle of rebuilding and recovery that threatens their economic survival.
Meanwhile, federal resources remain overstretched, with millions more in taxpayer funds directed toward emergency response while forest thinning, controlled burns, and other established management practices frequently become delayed by lengthy environmental reviews and legal challenges. The political dimensions of wildfire season are difficult to overlook.
The National Park Service, state firefighting agencies, and county sheriffs demonstrate clear commitment and effectiveness during immediate crises. Yet as the fires have been slowly brought under control, critics are left questioning why these recurring issues persist. Why does it require a crisis to prompt action, while forest management plans remain unimplemented and responsibility seems to shift between agencies?
And it’s not just wildfires in the west drawing criticism. Wildfires in Canada have been totally out of control this summer, once again – as they have been for the past two years – sending sky-darkening plumes of smelly smoke into the upper Midwest of the United States.
In Southwest Michigan, where we currently are, there was an air quality alert issued this past weekend because of the smoke from the Canadian forest, with people sensitive to respiratory issues being warned to stay inside.
Canada has experienced widespread wildfire activity since spring, with 2,672 fires recorded to date and approximately 354 fires currently burning. Natural Resources Canada’s National Wildland Fire latest Situation Report indicates that 105 of these active fires remain uncontrolled.
Canada’s policy is to let the fires burn out naturally, unless they pose a threat to populated areas. Most of the fires are in remote wilderness areas, and the smoke is so thick that it shows up on satellite images, drifting east and south into the U.S., affecting air quality in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and even as far as the east coast on some occasions.
It has become so bad that a half dozen U.S. members of Congress sent a letter to Canadian officials last week demanding “better forest management” in Canada, saying “suffocating” wildfire smoke is dangerous and makes it difficult to “get outside.”
Said the letter: “With all the technology that we have at our disposal, both in preventing and fighting wildfires, this worrisome trend can be reversed if proper action is taken.”
That same statement, critics say, could apply to forest management in the U.S.
Smoke hangs over much of the west, and we need to talk about the danger of that, as many RVers will be driving through areas affected by it. The biggest health threat from smoke is from fine particles.
Experts warn that these microscopic particles can enter your RV or tow vehicle even when driving, and they can penetrate deep into your lungs. They can cause a range of health problems, from burning eyes and a runny nose to aggravating chronic heart and lung diseases. Exposure to particle pollution has even been linked to premature death.
Have you ever driven through neighborhoods in your car during the fall when people are burning leaves? You instantly know when you are doing so because you smell the smoke. But as you keep breathing it, you don’t notice the smell quite so much. The smoke is still in the vehicle, but you’ve gotten used to it.
It is the same with wildfire smoke. Smoke particles permeate an RV just as much as they do in a car. If you drive long enough in those conditions, you may not notice it. But the wildfire smoke is still in the vehicle. And you are still breathing in those fine particulates.
It’s impossible to be completely safe from breathing smoke from wildfires when it is all around you. And not all people will be severely affected. But prolonged exposure will eventually affect everyone to one degree or another.
So, be aware of air quality through the areas you are traveling. An excellent resource is AirNow.gov, which lets you lookup air quality by state, city or zip code. It also has information on wildfire smoke.
Now… on to more news:
No Relief for RV Industry as Retail Registration Slide Continues
RV retail registration data is continuing its year-after-year drop. RV Business reported that Statistical Surveys, Inc. recorded a 5.5% decrease in May 2025 compared to May 2024. The decreases in RV retail registrations are for every type of on the market travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Class As, Bs, Cs, and more. In the past, industry leaders have blamed the high interest rates for the steep sales slump.
Ohio Sam’s Club Gas Station Mixes Diesel and Gasoline, Strands Drivers
We all know how important it is not to mix diesel and gasoline while filling your tanks (we recently did a podcast on that here), but could you imagine the frustration if the gasoline station mixed them? That is exactly what happened at the Sam’s Club gas station in St. Clairsville, Ohio, where a third-party supplier accidentally mixed fuels and numerous people unknowingly filled up, and then a short time later experienced serious engine trouble.
From Vacation to Near Death: Glacier Tourists Slip into Gorge while Posing for Photo
Tourists gathering to take a photo on the rocks above Avalanche Gorge at Glacier National Park had to be rescued after one slipped in and two others trying to help also fell in. While one was able to grab onto a tree branch and hold on for help, a husband and wife were swept away. Other park visitors waded into the chest-high ice-cold water first pulling out the wife, who was submerged and unconscious, and then pulling out the husband, also submerged and unconscious. One of the rescuers was a doctor, the other a dentist. Each started CPR and told the incredible rescue story to KRTV.
Dog Days of Summer? More Like Hot Dog Days!
And finally, as this episode of the podcast is being released on Wednesday, July 16, you should know it is National Hot Dog Day, and to celebrate, Love’s Travel Stops is providing a free hot dog to customers at select locations July 14-18. Customers need to redeem the deal on the Love’s app. They’ll receive a barcode to scan at checkout.
SOCIAL MEDIA BUZZ – Wendy Bowyer
Wendy Bowyer reports on the hot issues most talked about this past week on social media and our RV Lifestyle Community group.
Hi Everyone! Two posts to share with you today.
The first is from Barry, who shared a quick tip for all dog owners in our RVLifestyle Facebook Group.
Barry shared a picture of a piece of medical tape attached to his dog’s collar with his campsite number on it . He said he does this at each new campsite he visits, “just in case”.
Brilliant idea. Effective. Many people loved it, and hopefully it can help one of you.
And the second post I have is from Connie who had the unfortunate experience of leaving her awning out at night. And, well, let me read her words to you:
“I’m just nauseous. Last night at about 11:45 during heavy rain I heard a large boom and the camper shook. I thought a tree fell on it. Rainwater accumulated on the awning, and it bent the arm and ripped the awning. There were no winds, just heavy rain. The forecast did not call for any rain so I didn’t pull it in for the night. Luckily my mom and I were able to get out of the camper this morning and assess the damage. … Now we got to figure out how to temporarily get the awning back in so it can be moved.”
Poor Connie! Have you ever accidentally left your awning open at night? It sounds like she checked the weather forecast before bed and there was no mention of rain, and yet it rained heavily and her awning is now severely damaged.
This post had nearly 1,000 comments. Many expressed sympathy, like Jeff, who wrote:
“Happens to the best of us. Ours broke from the weight of rain and then we could hear it slam the top of the trailer from the wind …. This is after my wife asked me THREE times to pull it in and I said it was fine and go back to sleep. I can tell you it was a tough “I told you so morning” and my wife has a campfire story for life.”
Beside the sympathy, Connie got some great advice about how to safely handle the broken awning so she can leave the campsite and go home.
But what I’d like to share are three tips the community shared to help prevent this from happening in the first place.
1. Bring the awning in each night.
Weather, as we all know, can change on a dime, so if you are asleep – or if you leave your campsite for any length of time, roll the awning in.
2. Lower one side
Many suggested lowering one side of your awning when it is up so there is a natural slope and if it rains, the water will run off.
3. No saggy awnings.
Connie mentioned that she had noticed the awning was sagging the last time she camped. This is not a good sign. The moment you notice a sag in your awning, get it repaired or replaced because that sag will collect water, and the awning will fail.
Hopefully these prevention tips can help one of you.
And that is it for me this week.
RV QUESTION OF THE WEEK
QUESTION: “For those of you that have ovens in your RVs, do your ovens cook evenly? I would like to use mine but it seems to bake unevenly.” – Michelle
ANSWER: RV ovens are often considered unreliable or “wonky” due to several design and operational challenges that differ from residential ovens:
RV ovens are compact, which limits heat circulation. The heating element, typically a single propane burner at the bottom, creates hotspots, leading to uneven cooking—burned bottoms and raw tops are common complaints.
You have to rotate the pans frequently to compensate for that, and every time you open the door, you lose heat, making it hard to keep a consistent temperature.
Another thing to note: Most RV ovens lack precise thermostats, and the temperature settings on the knobs are often inaccurate. You usually need an oven thermometer to gauge the actual temperature, which can vary significantly from the dial setting. On the oven in our fifth wheel, I usually have to set it to 400°F to achieve 350°F.
RV ovens are often built with lightweight, less durable materials to save weight and cost. Components like door hinges or igniters can fail easily, and I’ve read on social media of users reporting issues like doors not closing properly after leaning on them.
As a result of all this, many RVers opt for convection/microwave ovens, air fryers, or outdoor griddles, which are often more reliable and don’t heat up the RV interior as much.
Bottom line, for the reasons I just mentioned, it’s been our experience and that of many others that RV ovens just aren’t as reliable as residential ovens.
