The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer and the excitement of hitting the road in your RV is setting in again. Unless you are a full-time RV-er, this means bringing your rig out of storage and performing RV spring maintenance to get your camper ready for the season. This involves several important steps to ensure it’s in top condition for the upcoming travel season. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you start up your RV in the spring:
- Exterior Inspection and Maintenance:
- Wash and Inspect: Give the exterior a thorough wash, checking for any damage, cracks, or leaks that may have occurred over the winter.
- Roof and Seals: Inspect the roof, seams, and seals for any signs of wear or damage and reseal as necessary.
- Tire Check:
- Inflate Tires: Check tire pressure and inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
- Tire Condition: Inspect tires for any signs of wear, cracks, or other damage. Rotate or replace if needed.
- Battery Care:
- Reconnect Batteries: Reconnect the batteries if they were removed during winterization.
- Charge and Test: Fully charge and test the batteries to ensure they are holding a charge.
- Water System Preparation:
- Flush Antifreeze: If RV antifreeze was used during winterization, flush it out of the plumbing system by running fresh water through all faucets and showers.
- Sanitize Water System: Sanitize the freshwater system by filling the tank with a mixture of water and household bleach (1/4 cup bleach per 15 gallons of water). Run the mixture through the system, let it sit for a few hours, then flush with fresh water until the bleach smell is gone.
- Propane System Check:
- Test Appliances: Turn on and test all propane appliances (stove, refrigerator, water heater, furnace) to ensure they are functioning properly.
- Check for Leaks: Use a soapy water solution to check propane connections for leaks. If bubbles appear, tighten connections or consult a professional.
- Electrical System Check:
- Inspect Wiring: Check for any visible damage to wiring and connections.
- Test Outlets and Lights: Test all electrical outlets, lights, and devices to ensure they are working correctly.
- Interior Preparation:
- Clean and Organize: Clean the interior thoroughly and reorganize your belongings.
- Check Safety Devices: Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to ensure they are in working order.
- Engine and Generator Maintenance (For Motorhomes):
- Oil and Fluids: Check and change the engine oil and other fluids (coolant, transmission fluid) as necessary.
- Air Filter: Inspect and replace the air filter if needed.
- Generator: Check the generator, change the oil, and test its operation.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your RV is in excellent condition and ready for all your spring and summer adventures. Happy travels!