How Do You Reduce Moisture in a Cargo Trailer?

How Do You Reduce Moisture in a Cargo Trailer?

You can control the moisture levels in your cargo trailer in several ways. Because every situation is unique, you can experiment with various solutions to manage the moisture content in your cargo trailer or camper. First, we need to understand how moisture builds up inside an enclosed trailer.

Moisture Causes in Cargo Trailers

The dew point is the level when the air becomes saturated with water vapour. This dew point typically takes place when a notable temperature change occurs between the trailer’s interior and exterior. Due to this change, the trailer walls start sweating. This moisture problem often affects the cargo. Fortunately, you can manage this moist air to prevent or limit mildew damage.

Managing Cargo Trailer Moisture Problems

If you have an air conditioner in the cargo trailer, this is the most convenient and effective way to manage moisture buildup. But if you don’t have an air conditioner in the unit, there are several other methods that you can use to control condensation problems.

Invest in a Dehumidifier to Control Moisture Levels

A dehumidifier offers a convenient solution to dealing with moisture content. If you’re storing items long-term, it’s best to buy a larger unit that can maintain a healthy air flow and humidity at 40%.

However, after connecting a dehumidifier, you must empty the water regularly unless you install a pump to do this automatically. You also need a power source to operate the dehumidifier. If you choose this option, you can also use the dehumidifier to decrease the moisture levels in wooden pallets.

Pick the Proper Pallets

Plastic pallets are the best for long-term storage or any kind of storage because they don’t retain moisture. In contrast, wooden pallets do attract and absorb water, leading to condensation problems and possible health problems.

Additionally, a lack of effective airflow can lead to high humidity levels. This humidity causes condensation on the trailer walls, which causes content damage.

Use Desiccants

Desiccants are ideal for absorbing moisture and keeping the inside of the cargo trailer dry. Typical desiccants include products like calcium chloride or sulphate, silica, or charcoal. Damprid is an example of a dehumidifier that uses crystals to maintain moisture levels.

Ventilation To Keep the Air Moving

Installing ventilation such as side vents will help to maintain a balance between internal and external conditions. The ventilation extracts warm air while drawing in cooler air to maintain water vapour and drier internal conditions. Side vents and other types should be readily available at the local Home Depot.

Cargo Trailer Insulation

Owners can use cladding to maintain container temperatures. They can also use silicone caulk to seal the container. Other insulation methods include using spray foam, bubble wrap, polystyrene, or aluminum flooring.

Using these methods to control the dew point is often cheaper than the others. Still, regular checks are necessary to determine if these methods are keeping the air moving enough to prevent an excessive amount of moisture from collecting.

Protect Your Vehicles

Use the insulation methods above to protect everything from your ATVs to your watercraft and motorcycles. Contact us for your next recreational investment or for services and parts in Saskatchewan. We are always happy to help you make the best purchase decision for your FFUN needs.