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RV Maintenance Tips For Long Stays

RV Maintenance Tips For Long Staysproper drainage, especially during rain showers.
Maintenance Tip: A small maintenance journal tracks your daily checks. It might seem old-fashioned, but it helps catch issues before they become problems.

Seasonal System Maintenance Schedule

Your RV needs different care as seasons change. Just like your home, your RV needs attention in different areas for each season to keep it working great.

Summer cooling system care

Summers in Texas mean your AC system has to work. Start your summer prep early by cleaning or replacing AC filters often. The hot afternoons can push your AC to its limits, so clean your condenser coils before summer hits.

Winter freeze protection measures

Winters can surprise you with unexpected chilly weather. Here’s what you need to do!

  • Drain and flush all water tanks properly

  • Add RV-specific antifreeze to exterior termination pipes

  • Install heated water hose or wrap regular hose with heat cable

  • Think over RV skirting to block those cold winds

  • Check and reinforce window and door seals

Spring and Fall transition maintenance

These in-between seasons give you the perfect chance to check everything. Spring is the time to return your water system back to normal and look for any leaks. Fall is the time for preventive maintenance. Check your roof seals, test the furnace, and clean the vents before winter shows up.

Long-Term Site Setup and Care

Setting up your RV needs more than just parking and connecting utilities. A proper setup makes the difference between a comfortable stay and a bunch of frustration.

Proper leveling and stabilization

Your RV must be level to work right and stay comfortable. A slight tilt affects your appliances’ performance and that can be very frustrating when you need them to work right.
Maintenance Tip: The auto-leveling system isn’t enough on its own. An old-fashioned bubble level helps double-check everything.

Skirting and insulation considerations

Skirting works like a blanket in your RV. It keeps the temperature steady year-round. Here’s what you should know about skirting.
  • UV-resistant materials work best for a sunny climate

  • Good ventilation prevents moisture buildup

  • Flexible installation handles slight movements

  • Removable panels give easy access to utilities

Site drainage management

Water can damage your RV during long-term parking. Create a slight grade away from your RV with gravel or specialized drainage materials. Note that regular checks of your site’s drainage patterns help after heavy rains. Your sewer hose needs the right slope to prevent backups.

Preventive Maintenance for Extended Parking

Long-term RV stays offer a great opportunity to enjoy a home-on-wheels. Keeping the RV in good condition during longer stays is important to avoid maintenance issues down the road.

Tire care during long-term stays

Your tires actually need more attention when they’re stationary than when you’re on the highway.
  • Check pressure every two weeks

  • Use quality tire covers to shield against UV rays

  • Place your tires on specialized pads

  • Give your wheels a slight turn monthly to avoid flat spots

Protecting against UV and weather damage

The Texas sun can really beat down on your RV. Start by applying a quality UV protectant to your exterior surfaces. Sort of like sunscreen for your RV. Get up on that roof safely every now and then to check all your sealants. Also, a good wash every few weeks isn’t bad either.

You’re Ready For A Long Stay!

Smart setup choices and regular maintenance create the best long-term RV living. Dad’s RV Park’s spacious sites, full hookups, and excellent facilities help you handle these tasks no problem. Our friendly community of fellow RVers loves to share their proven maintenance tips and tricks. If you’re in the South Texas area and you’re looking for an RV Park to stay, look no further than Dad’s RV Park in Victoria, Texas!

RV Maintenance FAQs

To prepare your RV for long-term storage, remove all food and debris to prevent attracting pests. Clean both the interior and exterior. To get rid of moisture accumulation, use moisture absorbers. Disconnect the RV battery to prevent drain and cover your tires to protect them from weather damage.

Regular maintenance for an RV should include checking and resealing exterior surfaces, running the generator for at least two hours each month, maintaining battery fluid levels with distilled water, and replacing damaged vent lids & caps.

To extend the lifespan of your RV, inspect and maintain the roof seals and seams. Tighten wheel lug nuts and monitor tire pressure. Check the condition of your RV’s batteries and keep the waste water system functioning right.

When preparing for full-time RV living, consider the location and associated costs. Adopt a flexible mindset, downsize personal belongings, and prepare for diverse weather conditions.

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