RV Maintenance Tips
Good RV maintenance is a year-round activity and can save you a fortune in repair costs over the long run. Listed below are ten basic maintenance tips to keep your RV in top condition and prevent those unexpected headaches.
1. If you plan to store your RV, Make sure to seal all of the vents and cracks with tape. A lot of times, little critters try to hide out in the warm shelter of stored RVs. This makes for an unpleasant motor-homecoming to unsuspecting RV owners. Protect your RV from sun, water and wind damage by covering it with an RV cover.
2. Set up a regular maintenance schedule for tune-ups and engine care. Regularly clean the battery connections with baking soda and water. Top off your batteries with distilled water so they will last longer.
3. Caulk any gaps and use an indoor window insulator kit to keep air from escaping. If an RV is properly insulated, hot air will escape slower in the winter, and cool air will escape slower in the summer. Installing good insulation is a cost-effective way to help moderate the temperature of your RV year-round and will save you money in energy costs.
4. Never use an abrasive cleaner on your RV’s sinks, showers, tubs or toilet. It can scratch the surfaces of your RV and can damage the holding tanks. Bleach will deteriorate the seals in your plumbing, causing leaks. Instead, opt for a fiberglass or plastic-friendly cleaner.
5. Make sure that tires are properly inflated, especially with the change of
temperature in the winter and late spring. Always distribute the weight of the RV evenly throughout the tires. If you plan on parking your RV for an extended period of time, raise the RV off of the ground to avoid flat spots.
6. Black and white streaks are caused by dirt and chalk that accumulate on an RV roof and run off the sides when it rains. To avoid these streaks, thoroughly wash the top of your RV.
7. Remove all food and defrost the refrigerator when it’s not in use. Place an open box of baking soda and leave the door open to freshen up a musty refrigerator. Clean all of the seals.
8. Wash the exterior using regular carwash soap and water. Regular washing and waxing of fiberglass exteriors will help the RV to retain its glossy finish.
9. Dump your tanks when they become full to avoid causing the waste system to fail. Dump the tanks in order from dirtiest to cleanest. Dump your black water tank first, then the grey water tank, then the shower and bathroom sink tank. In doing so, you will be flushing out the dirty water with cleaner water. Use a water filter on your freshwater intake line to prevent sediments from collecting in your holding tanks.
10. Use a drain valve lubricant down the drains to lube the valves and keep them working properly. Always keep the black tank valve closed when parked to avoid solids from clogging up the plumbing system.