For many people, RVing is a pleasurable pastime to take up in retirement. No longer limited by work obligations, you can choose to go on extended journeys around the country, visiting various picturesque destinations. Before you hit the road, though, take time to get your RV ready for the many miles ahead. Here’s how to prepare your RV for a road trip.
Tires
Your tires directly affect your RV’s stability and safety, so check to see that they’re in good condition. Figure out what the air pressure in each should be according to your owner’s manual. Then, fill each tire up to the correct PSI if needed. Additionally, examine them carefully to look for any signs of necessary replacement. Cracking along the sides and worn-down tread are indicators that a tire is reaching its last legs. Even if your RV is newly purchased, you may still have a tire or two that is weak or torn, especially if you’re buying used. Don’t forget to inspect them for damage from the start.
Generator
The generator must function properly to supply your RV with electricity for your appliances, such as hairdryers, toasters, and computers. It’s a good idea, therefore, to ensure it’s working properly if you want to use these amenities. Unlike some other devices you may own, a generator requires periodic maintenance. This means that you should turn it on and “exercise” it about once a month so that the gasoline fuel does not gum up inside and clog it. Checking that all connections are sound and that the oil is adequate will also allow you to determine if the generator is okay.
Holding Tanks
In order to ensure that you don’t have any problems with your running water or plumbing, you should clean and protect your water holding tanks. There are specialized cleaners you can put in your black and gray water tanks to sanitize them from time to time and eliminate any odors. For the freshwater tank, many RVers use a mixture of bleach and water as a cleaning agent. If you know you’ll drive through some colder climates, you should also make sure that your tanks don’t freeze. Holding tanks with frozen water in them cannot be emptied and water cannot be drawn from the freshwater tank. By putting RV holding tank heaters on them, however, you can ensure that none of the water solidifies and causes issues. They’ll sense when the tanks’ internal temperatures fall too low and activate automatically, then shut off when they’re adequately warm, so you don’t have to worry about them while you’re on the road.
