Caravan Maintenance
Owning a caravan can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to have a home away from home while you travel. Even though caravans are a convenient and cost-effective method of living when on the road, they still require routine maintenance and a bit of preparation for the colder months. Here are some things to keep in mind when attempting routine caravan maintenance. Better to be safe than sorry, especially after the damage caused by this winter's "Beast from the East"!
Check your tyres, handbrake, and lights
One of the worst things that can happen on a road trip is a flat tyre. It costs you valuable time and money to replace, not to mention the loss of some of that relaxation you are expecting from a holiday. Before going anywhere, make sure your tyres are fully inflated and have no holes or increased signs of wear.
Making sure your lights work will also prevent a lengthy chat on the side of the road with a police officer. And most of all, make sure your handbrake works. If it is not properly lubricated, making a tough stop might cost you dearly.
Ensure your emergency equipment is functional
Caravans are equipped with cooking systems that can malfunction, so making sure you have a full and working fire extinguisher is a must. In case of an injury on your trip, a fully stocked first aid kit with up-to-date medication and ointments is important.
Make sure your pipes are insulated
During the cold winter months, it is imperative that the pipes of your water system remain insulated to prevent freezing and cracking. Give your pipes a good once over, making sure there are no gaps in insulation or any of the insulation is damaged. Having a pipe crack when you need water the most is a costly repair and could make your trip quite inconvenient. I'd recommend checking out www.pipelagging.com as they have a good selection of pipe insulation materials which are suitable for caravan pipes.
Prevent moisture from building up inside your caravan
Whether you are boiling water, taking a hot shower, or have leaks in your water system pipes, moisture buildup inside the caravan can damage the interior walls and some of the furniture. If you are showering or boiling water, some ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup. If the interior is already damp, using a dehumidifier will reduce the moisture in the air. Amazon has a pretty good range of dehumidifiers which you can take a look at here.
Keep your appliances and water system working properly
Having appliances that rely on gas can be a hazard if the equipment is not properly maintained. Making sure the pipes and hoses associated with the gas stove are free of wear and holes will prevent a major accident. Check the connections to the stove and to the gas tank to make sure they are free of rust or corrosion.
Caravan maintenance can be easy if you simply plan ahead and know what to look for. Keeping up with these things will ensure your family's safety and comfort for the long road trip ahead. And remember, if in doubt, the SCC Services team are always on hand to help if you have any questions or problems.