As an RV owner, you may be curious to know, ‘How to clean RV roof vent screen?” It is different from the car’s sun visor. The screen is a dome of aluminum, plastic, steel, and fabric attached to the roof just before the vent, extending a few inches over and around it. The screen also helps to keep out the wind and rain, and it protects the vent and the fan beneath it.
If you have a new model of RV, the roof vent has a mesh screen that is full of grimy, dried-up dust. And when you try and clean the screen, you may still be able to see some icky, grimy dust and dirt (moisture attracts dust). So keep those bird cages clean). Now you are wondering what to do! Don’t get stressed out.
How to clean RV roof vent screen : Steps
You’re already aware of the limitations of your RV rooftop vent. But cleaning its mesh can be a challenge for the vent screen. You may want to check out these steps on how to clean RV vent screens conveniently and quickly.
Required Tools and Materials to Clean and Remove RV Vents
– Warm soapy water
– Screwdriver
– Extra Caulk
– Large soft bristle brush
– Plastic garbage bag
– Several soft cloths
– Sealing tape
Removing the RV Roof Vent Screen Indoors
These RV vent screen removal processes are straightforward to follow:
The very first step before going up on the RV roof, the first step is to remove the vent screen from the inside. It is very easily removable from the inside. This self-help cleaning guide will explain how to clean RV bathroom vent screen and kitchen vents.
Remove all the screws from the inside shaft with the help of a screwdriver and remove the crank handles first. Check how many screws there are, and most importantly, use the right kind of screwdriver so that you don’t have to struggle.
Most of the time, one screw in the middle on both ends of the vent screen needs to be removed. After that, you have to remove the four corners screw on the plastic molding. You will see the vent screen and molding will come down easily together.
Disassemble the Vents
Now climb up on top of your RV vent and check if there is any vent shroud. If there is a shroud, uninstall it by taking off the screws joining it over the vent hatch. Disassemble RV vent screen parts one by one; inspect every seam and opening space on the roof.
Remember that an annual roof inspection is crucial to ensure no water gets inside your RV. It may look challenging, but after a few attempts at cleaning, you will eventually learn, “How to clean RV roof vent screens” properly.
Brush off the Exterior Surface (and Latch)
To clean the exterior surfaces, pull off the wooden trim (if you have any). If there is a thick layer of grimy dust vacuum will not do any work. You may use a soft cloth or brush to clean out any debris or leaves. For better airflow or circulation, wipe the vent pipes as well.
To ensure no water leakage from the rooftop, make sure the caulking isn’t broken or lost and cautiously inspect the openings. If you doubt, reapply the caulk and tighten the vent hatch seal.
Washing the RV Roof Vent Screen Outdoors
As we know how to remove the trailer vent screen now, let’s check how to clean the dirt. It is best to clean the vent monthly and wash it with a pressure washer.
If you don’t have any water irrigation system, clean the vent screen in a sink, use warm soapy water and keep it there for 10-15 minutes and clean. Wait for 15 minutes and check for sticky residue.
An antibacterial multi-surface cleaner can work as a wonder for the icky, stubborn, moisture-locked dirt. Keep repeating the steps and set them aside to dry up.
Cleaning the fan blades
We have also covered if you wonder how to clean an RV vent fan. Twice an annual cleaning, the fan blades can give extra pleasure, and you will feel the airflow difference in your RV. So sterilize your vent screen system with a little extra effort for a better outcome.
Take off the fan blades and clean each in the basin. You can use a brush and warm soapy water for this, and using soda and vinegar mix can make this hard work easy.
If you don’t want to avoid fan removal hassle, stand on a stool to clean the fan blades and vent hatch with a soft, damp cloth. Finally, reattach the vent shroud and get off of the roof.
Reassemble the vent screen
RV vent screen removal can be challenging but reassembling and installing the vent screens requires extra attentiveness. Make specific fan engines are operating proficiently and making no noise. Remember these annual maintenance efforts are essential to keep RVs’ air ventilation flowing smoothly.
Removing Signs of Mold and Mildew
It is better to track down signs of mold and mildew inside your RV, and you should make a detailed inspection with your nose and eyes. Dive into solving the problem if you get any funky smell, notice mildew in the bathroom, or see any dampness anywhere on the wall or floor.
You should pay attention to cleaning the RV bathroom and kitchen screen, as it can pay off much more in the long run.
Finishing up
Ensure you have reinstalled the vent screen properly and put back the trim. Inspect well so that you haven’t missed anything. Turn on the switch, see the ventilation system working in both the kitchen and bathroom, and breathe fresh air. Now, you can reward yourself with a chilling soda or drink! You have earned it!
FAQ
Why is it important to Clean the RV Vent Screen?
The RV fans and vents are very significant for essential air circulation and cooling. These central components of an RV vehicle must be maintained with proper care, specifically with the vent screens and shields.
How often should you clean the RV vent screen?
Cleaning of the vents and fan propellers depends on the rate of use. Again it also depends on the weather. However, paying attention to the fan and screen every month and ensuring a good clean twice or thrice every year should be adequate.
How Long can the RV Vent Screens sustain?
A well-maintained RV vent screen can last up to five years. Sun exposure, the maker of the system, material used, and weather are the crucial factors impacting the screen’s lifespan. Moreover, it mostly depends on personal maintenance and extra attention.
How to Clean Vent Covers made with Plastic?
Most of the RV vent covers are made of plastic. To clean, soak the caps in soapy water. Use a damp cloth or brush to rub the residue and dry well before installing.
Is it necessary to Remove the RV Vent Fan?
Cleaning only the vent screen is not enough. You should remove the fan to clean it properly. It is doable to sterilize the propellers while still connected to the motor. But if you want to cleat it better, it’s best to take it off.
Final Words
All these steps are common for, “How to clean RV roof vent screen?” and all trailer roof ventilation systems. So don’t hesitate to give it a try.
Nevertheless, cleaning and maintenance of the RV vent screen vary on its makers, and they also provide a maintenance manual for you to go through. It is wise to check that before you follow our guidelines.
