Best RV Roof Vents: Let the Fresh Air In | Autance

Keep clean and fresh air circulating through your motorhome at all times

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Best RV Roof Vents: Let the Fresh Air In | Autance © Best RV Roof Vents: Let the Fresh Air In | Autance
Best Overall Camco 40480 Roof Vent Kit Camco 40480 Roof Vent Kit
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This unit features a seamless, one-piece frame that is weather tight and leak-resistant. It’s compatible with RV roofs measuring 1-1 x 4 to 2-1 x 4 in thickness.

Pros
  • One-piece frame is seamless for added leak protection
  • Louvered open and close is simple and easy to operate
  • Lid is translucent and UV-resistant
Cons
  • Not compatible with all RVs
  • Shallower design that previous models
  • Crank handle is not as strong as on previous models
Best Value Heng’s Standard Mount Universal Vent Heng’s Standard Mount Universal Vent
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This is a simply designed and very affordable vent that features a galvanized metal base that’s corrosion- and leak-resistant.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Compatible with most standard roof vent openings
  • Features a self-centering metal base
Cons
  • Vent lid is not as substantial as some other models
  • Only available in white
  • Mounting holes may not line up with your original vent
Honorable Mention Maxxair RV Roof Vent Maxxair RV Roof Fan Vent
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This vent features a built-in automatic fan with ten different speeds that will ensure you stay cool and comfortable on those hot summer nights.

Pros
  • Includes a powerful 10-speed fan
  • Fan can also double as exhaust to move air out of your RV
  • Includes remote control for added convenience
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Lid on the vent has to be opened manually
  • Might not be compatible with your existing rain cover

When you think of picking out fun items to outfit your RV, you’re probably not thinking about RV roof vents. Granted, it’s not a glamorous accessory, but it is one of your more important ones. Ensuring proper airflow and ventilation in your RV is key to maintaining a healthy and comfortable environment that makes for a more enjoyable experience. Having optimum air circulation isn’t really one of those things you think about until you don’t have it, then it becomes an all-consuming thought, especially on those really hot days. So, if you’re in the market for a new RV roof vent, look no further. We’ve got you covered with our list of top picks and a handy buying guide that will have you picking the perfect RV roof vent and sleeping comfortably again in no time.

Best RV Roof Vents Reviews & Recommendations

Camco has been making top-quality RV products and accessories since 1966, so it’s no surprise that we chose the Camco 40480 Roof Vent Kit as our top overall choice for the best RV roof vent. This unit features a seamless, one-piece frame that is weather tight and leak-resistant. It’s compatible with RV roofs measuring 1-1 x 4 to 2-1 x 4 in thickness. It features a UV-resistant lid that’s designed to hold up reliably in harsh sunlight and extreme temperatures. It’s translucent enough to let some light through.

This unit works with a simple and straightforward louvered system that’s easy to open and close quickly. The built-in mesh screen is substantial and allows air flow through while keeping most bugs and debris out. This particular model is designed to replace Ventline, Jensen, or Elixir vents, making it a versatile option that will be compatible with a wide range of RVs, although certainly not all. The drawback is that this unit doesn’t come with installation hardware, so be prepared to purchase that separately. The crank handle on this one doesn’t seem to be as strong and solid as on older models, so if you have one from a previous vent, consider keeping it as a back-up.

Specs
  • Brand Camco
  • Model 40480
  • Weight 4.72 pounds
PROS

One-piece frame is seamless for added leak protection

Louvered open and close is simple and easy to operate

Lid is translucent and UV-resistant

CONS

Not compatible with all RVs

Shallower design that previous models

Crank handle is not as strong as on previous models

If you’re in the market for a replacement vent, but aren’t looking to spend a ton of cash, check out Heng’s Standard Mount Universal Vent. This is a simply designed vent that features a galvanized metal base that’s corrosion- and leak-resistant. It also features a self-centering base with radius corners, an interior garnish, and a wider 1 1/4-inch flange. You get a closely sealed watertight weather stripping for added peace of mind and protection from heavy rains.

This vent is made to fit all standard 14 x 14-inch roof openings, so it’s a versatile choice. One drawback is that it’s only available in white, however, since it’s on top of your RV’s roof, this may not be a big concern. One other thing to note is that this vent may not be an exact replacement for certain others. The mounting holes don’t line up exactly with some Elixir vents.

Specs
  • Brand Heng’s
  • Model 71111-C1G1
  • Weight 4 pounds
PROS

Affordable

Compatible with most standard roof vent openings

Features a self-centering metal base

CONS

Vent lid is not as substantial as some other models

Only available in white

Mounting holes may not line up with your original vent

Best Premium

The functionality of the Maxxair Vent Corp RV Roof Vent is top-notch. This vent features a built-in automatic fan with 10 different speeds that will ensure you stay cool and comfortable on those hot summer nights. The fan can also run with the lid closed, in “ceiling fan mode” to continuously circulate air throughout your RV, even if it’s raining outside. This unit comes with a convenient and easy-to-use remote control. You also get a flush, ceiling-mounted backup control panel. The controls are easy to access and clean.

Another great feature of this fan is that you can also use it in reverse to act as a cooking exhaust vent to pull air up and out. It’s capable of moving 900 cubic feet of air per minute. This particular model only comes with a white lid and the lid must be opened manually. This model is designed to fit all 14 x 14-inch openings and comes with an easy to remove and washable bug screen. One thing to note is that you cannot use your existing rain cover with this vent. You’ll need to purchase one from Maxxair, adding to the overall cost of this unit.

Specs
  • Brand Maxxair Vent Corp
  • Model 00-04000K
  • Weight 12 pounds
PROS

Includes a powerful

10-speed fan Fan can also double as exhaust to move air out of your

RV Includes remote control for added convenience

CONS

Pricey

Lid on the vent has to be opened manually

Might not be compatible with your existing rain cover

The Ventline White Ventadome gets a nod for being an affordable, but highly durable option that has some nice added touches to it. It’s designed to fit a 14.25 x 14.25-inch rough opening, so it may not be fully compatible with your original vent. Just double-check prior to purchase. The lift mechanism on this model offers a smooth, chatter-free operation. It also comes with a convenient and easy-to-use knob crank that allows for quick opening and closing without getting in the way for taller users.

The screen comes in two pieces for easy removal and cleaning while the slide mechanism of this model offers more surface contact than its predecessor. Another improvement on this model is the inclusion of a stronger guide bar that helps to better distribute stress throughout the vent. The dome of this vent is constructed from rugged and durable polypropylene that offers four times the impact strength of some competitors’ models. This unit doesn’t include mounting hardware, unfortunately. All in all, it’s still a great bargain for the price, though.

Specs
  • Brand Ventline
  • Model 44363
  • Weight 4.7 pounds
PROS

Polypropylene dome is aerodynamic and strong

Opening crank knob sits flush and detaches easily for taller users

Flange is constructed from durable galvanized steel

CONS

Doesn’t include mounting hardware

Not compatible with all RV models

Only available in bright white

The RVLovent 12V RV Roof Fan Vent is a powerful and efficient automatic roof fan that provides a high level of air circulation to give you the greatest level of comfort on hot days and nights. As an added bonus, it’s one of the only fans on our list that comes with a dark smokey vent cover instead of bright white, like most others. This 12-volt roof fan comes with three fan speeds and can also do double-duty as an exhaust fan to remove smoke and steam when you’re cooking inside.

This fan, like most others, fits all 14 x 14-inch roof openings. It features a built-in fuse for added circuit protection and includes two extra 5-amp fuses for replacement. This unit also comes with an extra screen, screws, and a white interior garnish, making it a very comprehensive and all-inclusive kit. This vent gets high marks for being easy to install, but loses points for being a little pricey and not offering as many fan speeds as some other models. It also doesn’t come with a remote control for added convenience.

Specs
  • Brand RVLovent
  • Model B096Q6NBTR
  • Weight 12.47 pounds
PROS

Automatic three-speed fan

Doubles as an exhaust fan

Includes extra fuses and a replacement screen

CONS

Somewhat pricey

Only offers three different speeds

No remote control function

How We Selected The Products 

When selecting our favorite RV roof vents, we wanted to provide you with a diverse selection, so we included some that were automatic fans and some that are simply vents. We selected only those from well-reputed, long-standing companies that are known for producing good quality products. We also tried to select options that were more of a universal fit than ones that were designed to be RV make and model specific. 

Our product selections, rankings, and awards for this story are based on research. While we haven’t conducted real-world testing on all of these products yet, we’ve looked at consumer testimonials and data, tutorials, and general discussions on social media and in forums. We also consider price and specification in the context of the segment. And, of course, we rely on our institutional knowledge of the automotive landscape to weed out weak products.

Buying Guide/What to Look For 

There are plenty of things to consider when looking for a new RV roof vent. Do you want just a vent, or do you want one that comes with a fan function? How can you ensure you’re getting a vent that will last longer than just one season and provide solid leak protection and user-friendly features? We’ve got all the answers for you in the following buying guide.

What to Consider When Buying RV Roof Vents

Energy Consumption

This only comes into play, obviously, if you opt for a roof vent with an automatic fan feature. If this is you, your fan is going to add a little something to your electricity bill at the end of each stay. If energy savings are a consideration for you, look for roof vent fans that draw three amps or less. This will keep your power consumption and your electricity bill to a minimum. 

Air Circulation

You have a roof vent in your RV specifically to allow for circulation of fresh air in and out of your rig. Manual vents without fans allow breeze in, but don’t offer powerful and customizable airflow. So decide if that’s something that is a huge priority for you. If you want a roof vent with a fan feature, it’s going to up your cost significantly. Depending on how often you camp and what climate you’re in, it may be well worth it, though.

Opening Mechanism

The opening mechanism of the lid is also important and varies across different models. Some models allow you to open the lid automatically using a remote control and this feature can come in handy if the ceiling of your RV is high or if someone suffers from an injury and needs to open and close the lid from afar. Manual lids come with cranks that you need to twist in order to open them.

Ease of Installation

Look for roof vents that will fit easily with the set-up of your old roof vent if you want something that’s super easy to install. Getting one in which the mounting holes line up with your existing holes will ensure that you don’t have to drill more holes into your roof, saving you time and the chance of increased leaks.

Frequency of Use

If you’re a frequent user of your RV, you may want to splurge for a durable and high-end option that will withstand plenty of use. Getting a vent with an automatic fan included will also be a welcome feature if you spend lots of time in sunny, hot climates with your RV.


RV Roof Vent Tips and Tricks

As with something you do for decades upon decades, you pick up a few tips and tricks along the way in terms of selecting the right product, and/or using it. That’s the case with us and RV roof vents. To help you bridge the information gap, here’s a selection of what we’ve learned along the way.

  • Try to park your RV on sites that are shaded. This will help not only keep your rig cooler, but will cut down on UV damage and protect against rain and hail, extending the life of your RV roof vent.
  • Buy a protective cover for your RV roof vent that you can put on when you’re not using it. This will also ensure the vent cover lasts as long as possible.
  • Try cooking the majority of your meals outside of your RV in order to promote maximum cooling and comfort inside your rig.
  • If you buy a vent similar to your old one, keep the leftover cranks and screens as backup, just in case. 

FAQs

Q: Are RV roof vents necessary?

Depending on the type of climate you spend the majority of your time in, an RV roof vent can be a game changer. It offers another angle of air circulation that adds greatly to just having your windows open. Most RVs come with roof vents already installed.

Q: Can you drive with your RV roof vents open?

We don’t recommend it without a roof vent cover, as it puts a lot of added stress on the vent cover and the frame while underway and can shorten the lifespan of the vent and its components.

Q: What size are RV roof vents?

Most RV roof vents are universally sized at 14 x 14 inches, with a rough opening in your roof of 14.25 x 14.25 inches. Always double check prior to purchase that your roof vents will measure properly with any replacements that you’re looking at purchasing.

Q: Do I need an RV vent insulator?

Yes. Insulation can make a world of difference when it comes to your road trips. Having that extra layer of protection helps stop heat transfer and keeps the interior cool and inviting in the summer and warm during winter.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a straightforward, dependable RV roof vent that combines durability with functionality and price, our top pick is the Camco 40480 Roof Vent Kit.
For a great budget-friendly option, check out Heng’s Standard Mount Universal Vent.

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