RV Spring Prep: Don’t Skip These Checks
It may still be winter, but now that the holidays are over, you’re probably finding yourself dreaming more and more about the upcoming travel season. Before you head out on your next RV adventure, you need to make sure your rig is ready for the road. Tackle these seven spring checks before you hit the ground rolling.
1. Batteries
All throughout your RV, you have batteries that power everything from your smoke detectors to the engine. You may have removed some of these for winter. If so, put them back in and confirm they’re working well. Test any remaining batteries in your camper and make certain they’re fully charged.
2. Water System
If needed, de-winterize your water system, then check it thoroughly for leaks and other problems. Double-check that all of the faucetsare running properly and that the toilet flushes correctly. If the unit had antifreeze, flush it out before you hit the road. Prepare the fresh water holding tank and water filter cartridges, as well as the water pump and hot water heater, for use.
3. Plumbing
As you test your water system, look at your plumbingas well. Verify that nothing is leaking by visually examining your RV both inside and out. To check for leaks that you may not be able to see, use the water pump on the fresh water holding tank to pressurize the water system. If the pump does not shut off and stay off after fully pressurizing the water system, then you likely have a leak somewhere.
4. Water Pump
After getting the water system and plumbing up and running, check the water pumpitself. First, sanitize it using a quarter-cup of bleach for every 15 gallons in your water tank. Fill the tank with water after adding bleach, and turn the water pump on, running the hot and cold faucets until the smell of bleach is noticeable. Turn off the faucets and let the system sit for at least 12 hours. Then, drain all of the water with the bleach and re-fill with clean water. Run the water until you can no longer smell bleach, and re-fill the system again.
5. Appliances
More than likely, part of the reason you have an RV is so you that you can enjoy travel without giving up some of the comforts of home, but if your appliances aren’t working, your trip may be less pleasant. Check the operation of all of your appliancesbefore you leave. Sometimes pests will be attracted to the odor from your LP gas, and their nests can create problems for your appliances. Take care of these issues so you can fully enjoy your appliances when you arrive at your first campsite of the season.
6. Tires
Your tires probably lost air pressure while they sat unused. Before heading out, check them to ensure they are properly inflated. You should also confirm that they have good tread, and that you have a spare handy should you face a problem on the road.
7. Seams and Seals
Every seam on your RV is an opportunity for moisture and pests to get inside, so you need to inspect all of them. Determine that the seams and other sealsare in good condition and properly sealed. If you see any signs of damage or cracking, you will want to repair them before you take your RV out of storage to avoid water damage.
As you prepare for spring and summer travel, don’t neglect to properly look over and check your RV from top to bottom. While this takes a little bit of time, the result is the peace of mind that comes from knowing your RV is primed and ready to serve you well all season long.
