Safety Check your RV like a pro!
Recreational vehicles (RVs) offer the freedom to explore the open road, but with that freedom comes the responsibility to ensure your vehicle is safe. Hidden dangers, from faulty detectors to neglected maintenance, can turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Regular safety checks are essential to protect you, your passengers, and your investment. Below are five critical safety checks every RV owner can perform to keep their rig in top shape and avoid potential hazards.
Legal disclaimer, this is not intended to be an exhaustive list – just a few that I have seen in my travels that are very often overlooked. All of these are easy tests, needing only a screwdriver at most, and is something you can do yourself if you are so inclined. If you want a more comprehensive inspection, or have questions — as always, get in touch with us. We’re here to help!
1. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors
Carbon monoxide is a silent killer, and a working CO detector is your first line of defense. Check the expiration date or lifespan recommended by the manufacturer — typically 5 years. Dust them off – keeping it clean by simply dusting the unit regularly with a soft, dry cloth will do wondes! Test the detector before every trip, or weekly by pressing the test button to ensure it’s operational. Replace batteries annually or as needed if it is not powered of your house batteyr. Most of all never ignore a chirping alarm other error indicator.
2. Propane Detectors
Propane leaks can be a very serious risk in RVs, where gas is commonly used for cooking, heating, refrigeration, and is even being used in air conditioners. Propane itself is odorless, and colorless. An additive called ethyl mercaptan is used to give it a distinctive “rotten egg” smell. However, sometimes it is faint enough you may not smell it. The propane detector sits low to the ground (propane sinks – its heavier than air) and is on constant vigil. Propane detectors have a lifespan of about 5 years, after which their sensors degrade and must be replaced. Check the manufacturer’s date on the unit to confirm its age.
Just like the CO detector, it needs to be kept clean, and tested on a regular basis – Weekly or before every trip.
This dector is located near the baseboards, as propane is heavier than air. If the alarm sounds, ventilate the RV immediately, shut off the propane supply, and call a qualified professional to find the source.
An interesting note, is that some individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 report changes in their sense of smell (parosmia), which can alter how ethyl mercaptan smells, potentially making it harder to detect. This underscores the importance of relying on a functional propane detector rather than smell alone.
3. Tires: The 5 year rule
We all know we need to check your tire pressure. You can verify the required pressure by looking at your VIN Tag, usually located on the exterior of the camper, on the driver’s side, near your baggage door, or behind the drivers seat on the wall in a motorhome.
But, did you know tires have birthdays? RV tires may look fine with plenty of tread left…but they degrade over time. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 5 to 7 years, regardless of tread wear. I recommend 5 year replacment.
To check the age, locate the DOT number on the tire’s sidewall. The last four digits indicate the manufacturing date: for example, “0619” means the tire was made in the 5’th week 2019. The example below is older than 5 years and should be replaced. While you are looking for this, keep an eye out for cracks, cuts, or uneven wear – anything that doesn’t look normal. Also look at your springs, shackles and the rest of the rv. If it doesn’t look right…seek a help of an expert.
4. Water Tank Sanitation: Keep It Clean
Your RV’s freshwater tank can harbor bacteria, mold, and algae if not properly maintained. Sanitize the tank at least twice a year or after long periods of storage. To do this, drain the tank completely, then fill it with a solution of 1/4 cup of unscented household bleach per 15 gallons of water. Run the solution through all faucets, let it sit for at least an hour, then drain and rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Regularly inspect the tank for odors or discoloration, which may indicate contamination.
5. Air Conditioner Cleaning: More Than Just Dust
The dust accumulating in your RV’s air conditioner isn’t just dirt—it’s a mix of bacteria, mold spores, fungus, and dead skin cells that can harm air quality and your health. Clean the AC unit’s filters monthly during use. Remove the filter, wash it with mild soap and water, and let it dry completely before reinstalling. Inspect the evaporator coils and fins for buildup, using a soft brush or compressed air to clean them. Annual professional servicing can help, but regular DIY cleaning keeps the system efficient and safe.
By performing these simple safety checks, RV owners can prevent dangerous issues and ensure a worry-free journey. Regular maintenance not only enhances safety but also extends the life of your RV, letting you focus on the adventure ahead.
Stay Where You Are, We’ll Be Right There
As with all of our work, our team will come to you. There is no need to transport your camper or RV to a facility, leave it for days or weeks, only to have to go pick it up again. Whether it is in your driveway, a camp-site, or in storage, we will do our best to accommodate your needs, schedule, and location.
Just contact us, and we’ll take care of the rest.
