The same effort that goes to care and maintenance of your vehicle is the same effort that should go to your recreational vehicle (RV), if not more. Your RV should receive daily and scheduled checkups before, during, or after a vocational trip. As with any vehicle, you may undertake preventive maintenance, planned maintenance, or emergency maintenance. All these can help you have an RV ready to go whenever you need it. Additionally, it avoids costly repairs and accident risks.
RV Storage
One key point to note is that your RV spends most of its time stored away till the next trip. During this time, it`s exposed to various weather conditions, which might be too extreme. Therefore, it can help if the RV is under a shade or a cover to reduce the weather effects on the RV`s body and components.
You can visit your local dealership or buy an RV cover online. For example, when you visit metalcarports.com you can get a range of RV covers to choose from depending on the size of your RV. Overall, ensuring that your RV has an outer protective material is the base for caring for your mobile home.
Coupled with the below tips, you can ensure that your RV is in mint condition all year round.
- Regularly Check And Maintain The Plumbing And Sewerage System
Your RV`s plumbing and sewerage system require regular flushing to prevent unnecessary build-up that can cause blockage or malfunctions. If it`s during the winter period, such build-up can freeze and break the pipes, which can cause a complete overhaul of the piping. Additionally, without the flushing, you`ll experience odors as well.
You can check with your RV dealership on the compatible chemicals you can use on the RV`s plumbing system. When you consult, you avoid using chemicals that may damage the plumbing system, costing you more. During the flushing schedules, it`s also recommended to run a sanitizing solution through the water pipes. Generally, keeping a regular flushing schedule keeps your plumbing system running smooth and hygienic.
- Check And Replace Filters
You should check filters for clogging or depreciation and replace them where necessary. This applies to both oil and air filters. If any of these filters clog up, it may over-work the engine or the air conditioning system. Thus, increasing the wear and tear of the RV as a whole. With frequent checks, you can quickly notice any changes and replace them.
- Care For The Brakes And Brake Pads
During road trips, the condition of your brakes determines your stopping distance. As such, you should ensure they aren`t grinding while braking. Any unusual sounds during braking can mean worn-out brake pads, and you can get into an accident. You can have an expert check them before every trip.
In addition, you should also keep checking on the RV`s brake fluid. If you are storing the RV for more extended periods, you can ensure the breaks are well-oiled to prevent drying, as this can affect their effectiveness on your next trip.
- Always Check And Maintain Tire Pressure
Whether the RV is on the road or in storage, you should ensure you frequently check its tires and keep the correct pressure on them. If the RV sits in storage for long and the tires get deflated, the weight of the recreational vehicle can damage the tires, and you may have to buy new ones. Similarly, keeping the correct tire pressure is vital to reduce the risk of an accident while on the move. This means that you shouldn`t have over or under-inflated tires, as this can affect the RV`s handling.
- Check And Maintain The RV`s Electrical System
Unlike in a house where electrical connections are static, an RV is mobile, and this means that any loose or naked wires can move around and cause a fire or accident. Therefore, always inspect all connections and ensure they don`t pose any danger.
While in storage, you can cover any wires that may be visible. Without the covers, rodents can access the cables, and you may find yourself incurring purchasing and reconnection costs for the electrical system.
- Check And Replace Fluids
As a vehicle, your RV uses various fluids for its optimum functions. Thus, checking and replacing these fluids frequently is essential. For example, you should check the engine and air conditioning coolants often and replace them if necessary. It`s vital to top up the engine coolant if it`s low as it`s crucial in preventing the engine from heating.
Additionally, always check all other oils as they keep the moving parts of the RV running smoothly. If the RV is in storage, it`s recommended to always run the RV for a few minutes to circulate the oil and keep parts lubricated. Generally, keeping a tab of every fluid in the RV ensures your RV`s performance isn`t affected by low levels. As a rule, you should also follow the manufacturer`s recommendation on the mileage and dates for the different oils.
Conclusion
In summary, your RV carries every bit of maintenance of both a car and a home. Therefore, regular care and maintenance ensure that you have your mobile home in good condition for your next trip. In addition to cleaning and covering, the above tips can help extend the lifespan of your RV.
