Logan Voss
Nothing sparks the desire to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather like the arrival of spring. RV owners across the country are bringing their RVs out of hibernation and setting out on their long-awaited camping trips. However, before you hitch up and head out, you should first follow these crucial steps in order to get your RV travel ready.
Clean and Inspect the Exterior
Water leaks are a common occurrence in RVs that have been sitting idle during the winter months. Because of this, one of the first things you should check when preparing your RV is for any possible entry points. Areas such as the roof, windows, vents, air conditioners, and doors are all extremely susceptible to leaks, so it’s also crucial that you caulk any points of entry you find.
You’ll also want to check and, if necessary, change the tires as well. The harsh cold of winter can cause the existing tires to become brittle, making them susceptible to cracking. It’s recommended you replace your RV tires every five years to ensure they’re in peak condition.
Maintain the Battery
Because batteries can lose their energy when they’re not in use, it’s crucial that you fully charge your battery before you take your RV on the road. You also might want to test the battery to be sure it doesn’t need replacing. Make sure that you’re taking the proper safety precautions as you inspect and maintain your battery. Safety glasses and protective gloves are recommended during this process.
Check and Fill Your Water System
If you’re going camping in your RV, you’ll need running water. However, your RV’s water system is also prone to leakage. Checking all the system’s parts is crucial to avoiding issues during a trip. Monitoring what kind of water you’re using in the RV is important, as well. Hard water, which contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, can build up a residue in your pipes over time. Eventually, those pipes can break from the strain and leave you without running water for your trip. To avoid this issue, it’s recommended that you use a water softener to control the amount of build-up in the water system.
Test the Appliances and Clean the Interior
When the RV is up and running again, don’t forget to pay attention to the interior as well. Making sure your appliances work should be your first step before you try using them. You should also do a thorough cleaning. Opening up the windows and doors will get the musty air out, and deep cleaning the interior will revive your home away from home for a new season.
