7 most common RV maintenance mistakes to avoid
Travel provides a much-needed retreat from mundane life. However, there’s nothing better than exploring new lands in a home away from home. Recreational vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers offer people this incredible advantage. Many RVs have modern facilities, including solar panels, water heaters, and television sets. This also means they require thorough upkeep for long-term performance. Here are a few of the most common maintenance mistakes RV owners should avoid.
Not checking for water damage
Water damage may eventually result in mold and mildew growth in the vehicle, accelerating wear and tear and increasing the risk of other problems. Therefore, one must check all the seals and look for signs of leakages and damage due to water seepage. In case of such issues, one should immediately replace the seals so the problem does not escalate.
Using the wrong toilet paper
Interestingly, RV bathrooms can develop serious plumbing issues if one uses regular toilet paper. RV toilet papers have a different glue or binder, which allows the material to break down faster. Owners should stay up-to-date with the importance of these unique toilet papers and avoid investing in the regular ones while setting out on a journey.
Carrying out RV maintenance all by oneself
Although one may have sound knowledge of RVs and their maintenance requirements, it may not always be possible or wise to carry out maintenance by oneself. It helps to seek assistance from an RV repair company whose staff members possess expertise and experience in maintaining heavy vehicles. Individuals must find authorized repair companies with proficient staff members genuinely inclined toward enhancing the vehicle’s performance and longevity.
Not having a pre-vacation checklist
Before setting out on a vacation, RV owners should prepare a comprehensive pre-vacation checklist. Besides the top places to visit, this checklist must include RV maintenance products like batteries and seals. These tools can help one perform urgent repairs and eliminate the possibility of getting stranded along the way.
Forgetting to check the tire pressure
Tires are indispensable components of RVs, enabling one to travel thousands of miles without hassle. Hence, owners should check tire pressure regularly, especially before a long journey. If unsure whether all the tires have the correct air concentration, one can get them rechecked by an RV repair company.
Not cleaning the RV from time to time
RV owners should clean their vehicles from time to time, particularly before and after a vacation. All trash gathered during the trip should be disposed of promptly to ensure optimal cleanliness and maintenance of the vehicle.
Failing to cover the roof
An open roof can cause water to seep into the vehicle, causing water damage and increasing the risk of mold and mildew. One must cover the RV’s roof adequately to prevent hassle.
Maintenance may seem challenging initially, especially for those who have never owned an RV or travel trailer before. However, seeking timely assistance and knowing certain basics can help individuals figure out the nuances of RV upkeep and enjoy hassle-free vacations in their house on wheels.