Caravan Care Tips

When caravans are kept static that's when they stand the risk of extended damage. There are a number of steps you'll need to take in order to ensure that your static / standing caravan does not become a liability when the summer returns. The first thing you need to start with is annual servicing of your caravan's gas lines to keep them running efficiently. A fresh coat of paint should be enough in most cases to take care of cosmetic blemishes. Caravan owners should also drain the static in order to prevent rust and blockages.

Servicing

Off road and touring caravans should be serviced at least once a year. This will enable caravan owners or the service person to spot potential problems with it. Regular damp testing helps to keep often expensive repairs at bay. You can also opt to get your caravan serviced in winter because it is then when workshops are not as busy but gives you a chance to get everything ready in time for upcoming spring.

The Tires

During the winter a caravan will end up standing in one place for an extended period of time. This will cause the walls as well as the inside threads of your caravan to crack. In order to prevent this from happening the wheels will need to be turned on a regular basis, this will require a tire saving device underneath it.

Electricity and gas

All lights on the inside need to be checked on a regular basis, failing bulbs and holders should be replaced immediately. This is because a flickering fluorescent light can cause extended damage to the fitting. Ideally, caravan owners may want to consider switching to LED since with LED they can get longer backup time on battery.

External lights also need to be checked because many states will require that these lights be operating properly. Check external lights for dirty lenses, damage, and cracks. Also fuses and dim bulbs should be replaced on a regular basis. Occasionally spray the contacts of plugs and leads with WD40, and the battery should be charged every 5-6 weeks when the caravan is not being used. Also when not in use gas bottles as well as other appliances need to be turned off and winter covers should be used to cover the caravan.

Hitching and braking

The breakaway cable needs to be in perfect condition. Check the fastening mechanism and cover it with WD40 so that it does not become rusty. The handbrake and jockey wheel should also be operated a few times a week just to keep things running. The jockey wheel shaft should be re-greased if it feels stiff.

Blinds and furnishing

When your caravan is not being used the blinds shouldn't be left in the down position since this will put lots of pressure on the mechanism. Blinds are also reflective so leaving them down can melt plastic windows owing to the buildup of heat. Moisture traps should be setup around furniture and the kitchen to prevent damage from moisture.