Pre-Holiday Caravan and RV Inspection
In Australia holiday season is pretty much every season with travelers heading north in winter and then heading south in summer. This means it is time to make sure that your RV, caravan, camper trailer or the like is ready to take on the new season of camping. Remember, just because your caravan or RV was in great shape at the end of your last trip doesn't mean that problems could haven't occurred due to it sitting for so long. This is why a pre-holiday inspection is needed before heading out to have fun.
You will need to inspect the:
- Tyres and brakes
- Plumbing and electrical systems
- Roof of the home and the entire exterior
Brakes and Tyres
One problem that occurs for those with caravans or RV's are having their brake lock up after the long winter, particularly in the colder parts of Australia. Hence, your brakes have to be checked before you take this on the road. If you find the brakes are locked, you may have to manually adjust these to get these back on the right track. But, it is better to do this now than have this happen to you while on the road.
The tyres need to have the air pressure checks and you need to visually look at the tyres. Check for cracks, wear and tear, and anything that may be sticking out of the tire. Be sure that you are including your spare tire in this inspection, since you never know when you are going to need this. Also, use this time to grease the wheel bearings, as this should be done at least once a year for those who travel frequently.
Plumbing and Electrical Systems
When it comes to the plumping be sure that you are checking the pressure of the lines, through letting the water run to ensure that you do have pressure. In addition, you want to check to make sure the lines are not damaged. It is best to drain all the lines through flushing the toilet, running water, and the like to check for leaks or cracks that could later turn into leaks. You should also check your fresh and waste compartments, as you do not want to have to deal with cracks and leaks while on the road.
The electrical system can be checked easily with a circuit tester. Utilize this tool to check the outlets and the like. Turn on the air and let it circulate to ensure it is working, and also check any appliances that you have on board your caravan or RV.
Roof and the Exterior
The roof and exterior of the RV or caravan often have seam that are sealed with a product to prevent issues. However, these sealants can break down leading to cracking and leaking into the RV or caravan. Visually check for cracks or holes that could lead to problems. If you find any cracks or holes be sure to use a sealant to prepare these and prevent problems while on the road.
You will need to inspect the:
- Tyres and brakes
- Plumbing and electrical systems
- Roof of the home and the entire exterior
Brakes and Tyres
One problem that occurs for those with caravans or RV's are having their brake lock up after the long winter, particularly in the colder parts of Australia. Hence, your brakes have to be checked before you take this on the road. If you find the brakes are locked, you may have to manually adjust these to get these back on the right track. But, it is better to do this now than have this happen to you while on the road.
The tyres need to have the air pressure checks and you need to visually look at the tyres. Check for cracks, wear and tear, and anything that may be sticking out of the tire. Be sure that you are including your spare tire in this inspection, since you never know when you are going to need this. Also, use this time to grease the wheel bearings, as this should be done at least once a year for those who travel frequently.
Plumbing and Electrical Systems
When it comes to the plumping be sure that you are checking the pressure of the lines, through letting the water run to ensure that you do have pressure. In addition, you want to check to make sure the lines are not damaged. It is best to drain all the lines through flushing the toilet, running water, and the like to check for leaks or cracks that could later turn into leaks. You should also check your fresh and waste compartments, as you do not want to have to deal with cracks and leaks while on the road.
The electrical system can be checked easily with a circuit tester. Utilize this tool to check the outlets and the like. Turn on the air and let it circulate to ensure it is working, and also check any appliances that you have on board your caravan or RV.
Roof and the Exterior
The roof and exterior of the RV or caravan often have seam that are sealed with a product to prevent issues. However, these sealants can break down leading to cracking and leaking into the RV or caravan. Visually check for cracks or holes that could lead to problems. If you find any cracks or holes be sure to use a sealant to prepare these and prevent problems while on the road.
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