As the winter chill gives way to warmer temperatures and the scent of blossoming nature fills the air, the call of the open road beckons RV enthusiasts. However, before succumbing to the allure of spontaneous getaways, it’s essential to bring your RV out of winter storage with a meticulous plan. Winter weather, with its freezing temperatures and adverse conditions, can leave your vehicle susceptible to unseen damages. This article outlines a comprehensive guide to readying your RV for the upcoming season, ensuring a seamless and trouble-free journey. From tire checks to critter inspections and battery assessments, follow these steps to guarantee a worry-free adventure when the travel bug bites and spring fever takes over.
Getting Your RV Ready for Spring Adventures
As the temperatures rise and nature comes to life, the allure of an impromptu weekend getaway in your RV becomes irresistible. However, before hitting the road, it’s crucial to bring your RV out of winter storage with care. Winter conditions can take a toll on your vehicle, and discovering issues during your first trip of the season is less than ideal.
Thorough Spring RV Inspection for a Seamless Getaway
Before succumbing to spring fever, take about a month to inspect and test your RV thoroughly. Many repair shops offer off-season discounts, making it an opportune time to address any issues and save some money.
- Tire Check: Start with a visual inspection of the exterior, paying attention to the tires. Ensure proper inflation, check for cracks, and, if you have a trailer, inspect the brake assemblies. Consider re-packing the bearings, a task often overlooked but essential for preventing damage.
- Critter Check: Unwanted guests like yellow jackets and mud daubers might have made nests during the winter. Conduct a thorough walk-around to ensure your RV is free of any critters. Check refrigerator vents and furnace exhausts for nests, and confirm that the water heater drain plug is securely in place.
- Battery Check: Examine the condition of your batteries and charge them if necessary. This step is crucial, especially if the RV was plugged in or the batteries endured freezing temperatures. Check the power inside the RV and verify the functionality of exterior lights.
- Service Check: Schedule an appointment for an LP-gas system inspection with your local RV dealer or repair center. This annual inspection, costing around $40 without leaks, ensures the safety of your family. Gas leaks can occur due to vibrations while driving or manufacturing issues.
- Water Check: Even if you drained the freshwater tank before winter, sanitize the freshwater system now. Run the water pump to ensure the water system functions properly. If the RV has been winterized, the hot-water tank is likely bypassed. Sanitizing the system is faster and easier without the water heater in the loop.
The spring and summer seasons are too short to waste precious travel time in the repair shop. Invest a little time now to evaluate your RV’s condition, ensuring maximum family fun once spring fever strikes. Don’t let unforeseen issues put a damper on your adventures – a well-prepared RV leads to a worry-free journey.
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