concern - fridge vents when washing

[mat1]

whilst washing the caravan yesterday, i suddenly thought.

all the water from the sponge and hosepipe will have gone into the fridge vent.

anyone else thought of this, and have any preventative suggestions.

mat

 

[Damian]

Mat, the best way of reducing the likleyhood of water entering the vents is to use winter covers whilst washing the van and take extra care around the vents by not directing the hose at them.

Also with the sponge, do not use a soaking wet sponge on the vents themselves, squeeze it out a bit before cleaning that area.

 

[Guest]

If you are really worried then the vents can be removed and you can check inside. However as mentioned by Damian, do not point the hose in there. They are designed to stop rainwater getting in so wash downwards and you will be fine. A few drops are not going to hurt as they will evaporate quickly.

 

[Northwood]

Reading through yours your replies it would suggest that water can enter a caravan via the fridge vent.

I experienced damage in my new van in the area of the fridge vent. With the van placed side on to the wind and rain over a long period of time, would you agree that it could be possible that water moisture (rain) has been entering my van through this grill, taking into account that no winter grill plate was fitted or supplied to prevent water ingress. You could have well answered a problem that the professionals are reluctant to answer.

 

[Guest]

The vents are designed to provide an air cooling system to the back of the fridge therefore it is logical that if air is able to enter, then water can also follow. However, under normal circumstances there is little chance of water entering and as it is a heated area from the fridge, the small amount of water usually disappears quickly.

If you have the van facing into driving rain, then yes, I am sure water will get in, just the same as leaving the window open in your house. For damage to have occured must have meant a lot of water over a long period of time, which does suggest some form of negligence. Where there may be cause for complaint is if the fridge has not been installed correctly and the area at the rear of the fridge is open to the inside of the van. This can usually be confirmed by the presence of a draught from around the fridge. However, this does not in itself mean the vents are not doing their job correctly.

Basically we have had vans fitted with fridges in this format for the last 50 years and I suggest that water damage must rate very low on the problem list, unless exacerbated by human error.