DIY: Cleaning Dust Reduction System
We looked at how a dust system works, why it is important to keep it clean and how to do it.
To state the obvious, dust reduction systems are designed to help keep out dust. Dust and other airborne contaminants getting into caravans can be a major challenge when travelling on dirt roads. Dust gets into your van through vents and gaps where seals are not adequate.
There is a temptation to cover up vents to prevent dust getting in, but they are an important safety device for gas appliances. Keeping vents clear could save your life. Therefore, using a dust reduction system is a much better idea.
The dust reduction system here is basically a big scoop mounted on the caravan roof that forces air into the cabin while the caravan is moving. This creates a positive pressure inside the caravan making it difficult for airborne dust to work its way inside the van through the various vents and other openings. (For interest, there are other systems that rely on an electric fan to create positive pressure.)
As a high volume of air is forced through this system it has a filter to catch airborne dust and other debris. If this filter becomes clogged there will be insufficient airflow to create positive pressure and the dust reduction function will stop working.
Below are the simple steps for cleaning the filter:
1. Locate the dust reduction system cover
2. Open the cover
3. Unlatch the cassette by pressing on the tabs
4. Remove the filter from the cassette
5. Replace the filter with a new one or blow it out with compressed air
6. Identify the correct location to reinsert the cassette
7. Reinsert the cassette
8. Ensure the cassette is latched in
9. Close the cover
IF IN DOUBT, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL
Improper maintenance can lead to injury, death or property damage. Maintenance work of this nature should only be undertaken by people with suitable competence. Information provided is general in nature, not comprehensive and should only be taken as a guide. Individual discretion must be exercised and persons undertaking described tasks do so completely at their own risk. Publishers and creators of this content accept no responsibility for loss or damage.
Thanks to Andrew Phillips and the team from the RV Repair Centre for their assistance.