As winter fades away and the first hints of spring emerge, it’s time to start thinking about getting your RV ready for the upcoming camping season. Just like a bear emerging from hibernation, your RV needs some attention before it can hit the road. Dewinterizing your RV is a crucial step to ensure everything is in working order and safe for your next adventure.
To ensure a successful and stress-free camping trip, it’s important to follow a set of steps to dewinterize your RV properly. Think of it as a spring cleaning ritual for your home on wheels.
In this article, we will provide you with 17 spring steps for camper prep, including everything from inspecting the exterior for damage to sanitizing your water system and checking your propane and electrical systems. By following these precise steps, you can rest assured that your RV is ready to hit the road for a season of adventure and exploration.
Exterior Inspection
The first step in dewinterizing an RV, as part of the 17 spring preparation steps for camping, is to conduct an exterior inspection. This involves checking for any damage to the RV’s exterior, such as cracks, dents, or leaks. Any damage found should be promptly repaired to prevent further damage and to ensure that the RV is safe for use.
To ensure that the RV is watertight, it is recommended to use Flex Seal on any surfaces that may be prone to leaks. Flex Seal is a versatile rubberized coating that can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, plastic, and more. It forms a watertight seal that is resistant to extreme temperatures and weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for RVs that will be exposed to the elements.
By conducting an exterior inspection and applying Flex Seal where necessary, RV owners can ensure that their vehicles are ready for the camping season ahead.
Water System
Flush and sanitize the water system of your RV to prepare for the upcoming camping season. This is an essential step in dewinterizing your RV, as it eliminates bacteria and contaminants that may have accumulated in the system during the winter months.
To do this, connect a garden hose or city water connection to your RV’s water inlet and open all faucets and valves to allow the water to flow through the entire system. This will flush out any remaining antifreeze or stagnant water.
Next, mix a solution of one-quarter cup of bleach for every 15 gallons of water in your RV’s fresh water tank. Then, fill the tank with the solution and turn on all faucets and valves to allow the solution to flow through the entire system. Let the bleach solution sit for at least 12 hours to ensure that all bacteria and contaminants are eliminated. After the 12 hours, drain the tank and flush the system with fresh water until the bleach smell is gone.
In addition to sanitizing the water system, it’s important to check and replace any damaged or worn-out water filters. This will help ensure that your water is not only clean, but also free of any impurities that may affect its taste or quality.
Remember to also check for any piping leaks or damage in the water system, and address any issues before hitting the road. By taking care of your RV’s water system, you can have peace of mind knowing that you and your family will have access to clean and safe water during your camping trips.
General Maintenance
Proper maintenance of an RV involves regular inspection and servicing of various components to ensure their functionality and longevity.
The engine is the heart of the RV, and regular checks of fluid levels, lights, and control functionality are necessary. Air and water filters should also be changed regularly to prevent engine damage. Lubricating all moving parts is crucial to prevent wear and rust, which can cause the components to fail.
In addition to the engine, the tires and batteries are essential components that should be checked regularly. Checking tire pressure and degradation prevents tire blowouts, while charging batteries while stored ensures they are ready for use when camping season arrives.
The propane and electrical systems also require inspection, with propane tanks and expiration dates, propane appliance functionality, and 120-volt equipment checks being necessary. Any propane leaks should be repaired by an expert, and efficient air ventilation is crucial to prevent hazardous gas buildup.
Proper maintenance of these components ensures a safe and enjoyable RV experience.