Let’s Talk About MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade
The MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade promises to be a simple, effective solution for blocking out light and UV rays in your RV or camper. This product, manufactured by MAXXAIR, is a retractable roller shade designed to fit non-powered roof vents or 12-volt powered ventilation fans. Its reflective backing aims to keep your interior cool and comfortable, making it an attractive option for those long summer road trips or extended stays in sunny locations.
My family and I recently embarked on a cross-country RV adventure, and one glaring issue quickly became apparent: the skylights and roof vents acted like miniature suns, baking the interior even with the AC running full blast. We needed an effective way to control the light and heat, and the MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade seemed like a promising solution. I had originally considered custom-made shades or bulky vent covers, but the Maxxshade’s retractable design and easy installation were major selling points.
Upon unboxing, the Maxxshade felt surprisingly lightweight yet sturdy. The material of the shade itself felt durable, and the reflective backing had a noticeable sheen. The spring-loaded mechanism seemed smooth and reliable, and the snap-lock closure felt secure. Comparing it to other vent covers I’ve used in the past, the Maxxshade seemed much less cumbersome and more aesthetically pleasing. I briefly considered a similar product from Fan-Tastic Vent, but the reviews highlighted potential issues with their mounting system, pushing me towards the MAXXAIR option.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design seemed well thought out, and the materials appeared to be of decent quality. I was eager to install it and see if it lived up to its promise of blocking out sunlight and keeping the RV cool. I hoped this simple shade would be a game-changer for our comfort on the road.
Real-World Testing: Putting MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade in our RV’s main living area vent just before a camping trip to Moab, Utah. Moab is known for its intense sun and heat, making it the perfect testing ground. The first day was brutally sunny, and the difference with the shade deployed was immediately noticeable.
The interior temperature felt noticeably cooler, and the harsh glare was completely eliminated. The Maxxshade made a significant difference in the overall comfort level inside the RV. We were able to enjoy our time indoors without feeling like we were trapped in a solar oven. The ease of use was a pleasant surprise; the shade retracted and deployed smoothly, and the snap-lock closure held firmly even during bumpy drives.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, the MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade has held up admirably. The shade material shows no signs of fading or wear, and the spring mechanism remains smooth and reliable. The snap-lock continues to function perfectly, even after repeated use. Cleaning is surprisingly simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dust and debris.
Compared to previous attempts at vent covers and makeshift solutions, the Maxxshade is a clear winner. It’s more effective at blocking light and heat, easier to use, and significantly more durable than anything else I’ve tried. I was initially concerned about the long-term reliability of the spring mechanism, but it has proven to be surprisingly robust. It outperforms my expectations by a wide margin, making our RV trips far more comfortable.
Breaking Down the Features of MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade
Specifications
- The MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade is designed to fit standard 14″ x 14″ non-powered roof vents or 12-volt powered ventilation fans. This is the standard size for most RVs and campers.
- The shade is constructed from a durable, reflective material designed to block sunlight and UV rays. This material is key to the shade’s effectiveness in reducing heat buildup.
- It features a fully retractable, spring-loaded roller shade mechanism. This allows for easy opening and closing of the shade as needed.
- The Maxxshade includes a secure snap-lock closure to keep the shade in the closed position. This prevents the shade from retracting unexpectedly.
- Installation is designed to be easy, utilizing the existing garnish ring of the vent. This avoids the need for drilling or complicated modifications.
These specifications are important because they dictate the Maxxshade’s compatibility, effectiveness, and ease of use. The reflective material is critical for blocking heat, and the retractable design allows for flexibility in controlling light and ventilation.
Performance & Functionality
The MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade performs its primary function exceptionally well: blocking out sunlight and UV rays. It noticeably reduces heat buildup inside the RV, creating a more comfortable environment.
The shade operates smoothly and reliably, and the snap-lock closure keeps it securely in place. One minor weakness is that the shade isn’t completely opaque; some light still manages to filter through. However, the reduction in glare and heat is significant enough to outweigh this minor issue. It definitely meets and often exceeds my expectations for a simple, easy to install vent cover.
Design & Ergonomics
The Maxxshade’s design is simple and functional. The materials feel durable and well-made, and the shade is lightweight enough to not add unnecessary weight to the vent.
The retractable design is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to open and close the shade. The installation process is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of time. There is virtually no learning curve to using the MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade is built to last. The materials are durable, and the construction seems robust.
Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean. I anticipate that the Maxxshade will provide years of reliable service with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It’s designed to be a standalone product.
There are no officially supported customization options. However, some users have reported success in adding additional insulation or reflective material to the back of the shade for even greater heat reduction. Be sure to check with MAXXAIR first before attempting any modifications.
Pros and Cons of MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade
Pros
- Significantly reduces heat and glare, making RV interiors more comfortable.
- Easy to install, utilizing existing vent garnish ring.
- Retractable design allows for flexible light control.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple to operate with a smooth spring mechanism and secure snap-lock closure.
Cons
- Not completely opaque, allowing some light to filter through.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade?
The MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade is perfect for RV owners, campers, and van dwellers who want to block out sunlight and reduce heat buildup inside their vehicles. It’s especially beneficial for those who spend time in hot, sunny climates.
Those who need a completely dark environment, such as for daytime sleeping, might find the Maxxshade insufficient due to the small amount of light that still filters through. A custom-made blackout shade may be a better option in that scenario. A must-have modification is to ensure a good seal between the shade and the garnish ring to eliminate drafts or gaps in light blocking.
Conclusion on MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade
The MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for controlling light and heat in your RV or camper. It delivers on its promise of blocking out sunlight and UV rays, creating a more comfortable interior environment.
The price is more than justified by the improved comfort and ease of use compared to other vent cover options. The MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade is a worthwhile investment for any RV owner looking to enhance their camping experience.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the MAXXAIR 00-03900 Maxxshade. If you’re tired of your RV feeling like an oven, this simple shade could be the answer. Don’t hesitate – add this to your RV and enjoy a cooler, more comfortable adventure.