Triple digit temps in an RV can be a challenge. Using Reflectix can help keep the interior cooler.
New Mexico in July.
This wasn’t in the original plans.
Most of the time we can follow the weather and not stay where it’s too cold or too hot.
But plans are Jello. Ours jiggled in an unexpected way and so here we sit in temps ranging from 95-105.
Single AC
We optioned our trailer with a 50A package. This package added the wiring for a 2nd AC unit up in the master bedroom. We opted for a powered vent fan with a cover instead. That fan runs almost constantly, helping make up for having only a single bedroom window.
We could add the 2nd AC unit, but don’t want the expense and would rather not lose the natural light that still filters through the vent.
Reflectix to the Rescue
Reflectix is a flexible bubble wrap and foil insulation commonly available at home improvement stores. I bought one of these 48” x 50’ rolls of Reflectix for just over $40 at a local Home Depot.
It comes in narrower widths but our main dining area window is tall - I needed the 48” width to cover it in one piece of Reflectix.
Cutting Reflectix
Reflectix cuts easily with a scissors. I marked out the sizes using a Sharpie marker and cut the pieces out a little bigger than I thought I needed.
Working with each “plug” I trimmed corners and edges until the fit was right. If you leave a little extra material you can run your finger along the edge and “smoosh” the Reflectix into place.
Command Hooks
There are places - like our shower skylight - where I couldn’t make the Reflectix smoosh-fit.
The hack I found there is using these Command brand decorating clips. They are the perfect size to slip Reflectix into.
I used a series of these hooks around the plastic trim on our shower skylight to secure a Reflectix plug. This blocked a significant source of heat coming into the RV.
Truck Windows
I cut plugs for the truck side and rear windows as well.
We often use the truck while parked. It’s our podcast recording studio. It’s a private place to read. It’s a place to work on secret Mother’s Day projects.
We have a foil sunshade for the windshield - but that’s not aways where the sun is. I cut Reflectix plugs for all the door windows and rear window as well.
If you subscribe to HelloFresh meal service, each delivery box comes lined with a huge bag made of the same material as the Reflectix insulation. So far I’ve collected enough to cover our cab windows, all the skylights, and a few of the windows in our rig. I secure them with velco so they’re easy to remove and replace.