De-winterizing an RV is basically reversing the steps that a person took to winterize it often in addition to oil changes on the RV engine and generators and an overall inspection of the RV. People use different routines for the process, and they usually involve a number of tasks. Some folks hate this part of RV ownership. If you happen to be one of them, our company, J & W Mechanical Fleet Services, offers top-notch RV de-winterization services. We can get your mobile home ready to take on the open road.
Leaving the matter to the pros can save people a lot of time. Instead of cleaning, sanitizing, and inspecting their vehicles, they can spend their minutes and hours planning trips. Professional RV de-winterizing companies like ours provide owners with peace of mind as well. They know that their vehicles are being well taken care of and that everything will be done correctly.
When owners do not complete some tasks while de-winterizing, all kinds of problems can arise. The remaining sections will focus on some of them and what can happen. Hence, curious RVers should stick around and read on to learn more.
Check For Propane Leaks
Anything is possible when RVs are in storage. Rodents could get inside and chew through wires, water pipes, or plastic gas lines. Additionally, if settling occurs while the recreational vehicle is parked, pipes and fittings can break. Things should never be left to chance with gas systems. Propane leaks can cause fires or explosions and leave occupants injured. Those issues can cut trips short by sending people to hospitals. Take the time to connect your propane tanks and check for leaks with a soap solution. Failing to do so could turn into a nightmare fast.
Check The RV’s Fluids
Although most RVs remain parked in the cold months after winterization, owners still need to check their oil, brake fluid, and antifreeze levels before taking off. They never know if a leak had developed when the unit was stored. If there is little to no antifreeze in the motor, it can overheat. When the brake fluid is low, the driver may not be able to slow the vehicle down or stop it.
Meanwhile, no oil could equal a blown engine. Therefore, you should check the fluid levels in your recreational vehicle when you’re de-winterizing it. If you don’t, you might find yourself stranded on the shoulder of a highway, at a campground, or an area where you can’t get assistance right away.
Inspect The RV’s Tires
It is no secret that tires tend to deflate after sitting up for a period. Those of recreational vehicles can also develop flat spots on the bottom when the RV is only supported by the tires all winter. Cracks and holes can form on tires due to them being exposed to the elements as well. It is never a good idea to drive around on bad wheels, so inspect your RV’s tires ahead of taking it out for a spin. With any luck, that will help you avoid blowouts and flats, which could lead to accidents.
Flush The Water System
Many RV owners put antifreeze in their water systems to prevent lines from freezing in the winter. They need to take the time to flush the pipes out thoroughly to ensure that no chemicals remain. They should also sanitize the water pipes with a solution of water and household bleach. All of these tactics will help keep mishaps at bay.