Spring will be here before you know it, and when that happens, RV owners everywhere will be itching to hit the open road. After a long winter of sitting in the driveway, your RV may need some basic repairs and maintenance. These tips will help you prepare your RV for spring, so you'll be ready when it's time to go on your first road trip.
Perform a Visual Inspection
Before you decide what does and doesn't need to be done to your RV, walk around the interior and exterior of the RV. Inspect all the major systems of the RV, including the tires, windows, awnings and mechanical parts. Turn on the RV and check that the lights are working. Look at the tires and inspect them for cracks and bulges. Open and close the awning to ensure that it can be done easily and smoothly. As you inspect your RV, make a to-do list of things that need to be accomplished before the RV can be considered to be road worthy.
Make an Appointment for a Tune Up
Your RV will need professional attention before you can be sure that it is ready for a long road trip. Have your mechanic inspect the brakes, filters and hoses. While you're at it, have your mechanic change the oil, top off any fluids and check the battery life. These little details will prevent a breakdown in the middle of your vacation.
Get the Water System Ready
Sanitizing the water system will keep your water lines clean and safe for use with cooking and cleaning. After sanitizing the water, fill and drain the tank several times, then flush the lines. This will get rid of any harmful bacteria in the system.
Check Smoke Detectors
After several months of sitting unused, your smoke detectors may have lost their battery charge. Test all your smoke detectors and replace the batteries if necessary. If your RV doesn't have a carbon monoxide detector at this point, pick one up at the hardware store.
Test the Stove
Fire up the stove to ensure that the gas is running through the lines and the stove is functional. Test the gas leak detector to ensure that your stove and other gas-operated appliances are safe to use.
Getting an an early start on your RV repair and maintenance will ensure that your RV is ready to go when spring arrives. For more suggestions and ways that you can prepare your RV for your next road trip, speak with an auto and RV repair shop like Central Body Co Inc.