Make sure your RV is ready for the season.

As the weather begins to moderate across much of North America, thoughts turn to outdoor adventures and preparing the RV for the season. Before your first trip, consider some maintenance items.
Power Up!
After uncovering your RV, the first thing to check out is the electrical systems in your coach. If you removed your batteries over the winter, charging them before reinstalling them is recommended. Check the electrolyte level with flooded lead acid batteries and add distilled water as needed. You might also consider having the batteries tested. Many battery and RV dealers have computerized battery testers that can print a detailed analysis of your batteries. Alternatively, FLA batteries can be tested using a temperature-compensated hydrometer or purchase a load tester for $20 at Harbor Freight.

Take your shore power cord out and inspect it for damage. Here, we’re looking at the plug end to ensure the insulation isn’t damaged and the terminals are tight and free of heating damage. If they are discolored or burned, or the plastic at the base is melted, discard the cord and get a new one. Any replacement cord ends must be waterproof. Plug the coach in and check the charging system and all AC receptacles and appliances for proper operation.

Dewinterizing and Sanitizing the Water System
Often, the water system is the first thing folks think about when getting ready for the season. This makes perfect sense since that’s one of the most critical systems we prepare for winter storage.

The goals for the water system, in order, are:
- Flush- Replace the antifreeze with fresh water. Flush the entire system, including low-point drains, washer hookups, outside showers, etc., with filtered fresh water.
- Un-bypass water heater- Now is the best time to un-bypass because we have flushed the antifreeze from the system. Antifreeze in the water heater will give it a minty smell and flavor. If it happens, it’s not a big deal; flush the water heater through the unit’s drain (not for demand/instant water heaters). If you have a Suburban water heater, consider a new anode rod and install it.
- Sanitize the water system- The RV standard “requires” sanitizing the water system before using it. This is important with RVs because we connect to multiple water sources and empty the water system in storage. Sanitizing the water system is easy using plain chlorine bleach. The procedure is as follows:
Instructions for disinfection of freshwater systems on recreation vehicles (as approved by the U.S. Public Health Service):
Take ¼ cup of household bleach for every 15 gallons of water that your fresh water tank holds. Mix the bleach in one gallon of water and pour it into the freshwater tank. Fill the freshwater tank with potable water. Turn the water pump on and open all faucets, one at a time, and run water until you smell the bleach. If possible, drive or tow the RV to assist in cleaning the entire freshwater tank.Let it sit for 4 hours and then drain the entire system. Refill the freshwater tank and run water throughout the system (every tap) until you no longer smell the bleach at that location. It may be necessary to repeat this more than once. When you no longer smell bleach, the system is sanitized.
Be sure to monitor the system for leaks carefully. If the pump surges while no water is running, find out where the water is going.
Consider adding water and your preference of additive to the black tank.
Cleaning
A clean machine is a happy machine! I think a clean, sharp vehicle is a thing of pride. RVs get beat up over time, inside and out. Keeping things clean and protected is essential.

On the outside, washing and waxing are essential to RV ownership. Unless an RV is fully painted, exposed fiberglass and gelcoat will fail in the sun, as will vinyl graphics. Waxes and UV protectants will help prevent damage from the elements and keep the rig looking great.

It’s a tight environment inside, and traffic patterns are accentuated. Keeping flooring clean and protected will go a long way toward longevity. A thorough cleaning from ceiling to floor will result in a nice, fresh, and clean living space. Check cabinets for mice or other detritus that must be removed and surfaces cleaned or sanitized. If there have been mice, be aware they may have chewed something important, so be on the lookout. Try to find where they came in and seal it up. Make sure to vacuum the furnace compartment, if equipped, and clean or change your air conditioner filters. Your roof vent screens should also be cleaned.
Sealants
Sealants are a constant maintenance item on most RVs. When cleaning the RV’s outside, clean the roof and inspect and renew sealants as needed. Use the correct sealants for the type of roof you have.
As important as the roof, the sidewall seals must be inspected. If sealants are failing, they need to be cleaned and renewed. Again, use an appropriate sealant on the sides.
Chassis & Mechanicals
This is where the rubber hits the road, literally! Start with your wheels and tires (that you just washed) and inspect the tires for cracking, tread wear, and damage. Check and adjust the tire pressure, and service your tire pressure monitor system if needed. Check the torque on the lug nuts.

Most towables require annual axle and brake maintenance. Electric brakes should be opened and inspected every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Brakes, if not self-adjusting, should be adjusted about every 3,000 miles or when there is a noticeable decrease in braking efficiency. The bearings should also be repacked annually as part of this service.
Motorized RVs also need powertrain maintenance. Check all the fluids, belts, and hoses for condition and leaks. I usually recommend servicing the chassis before storage, but if it hasn’t been done, do it now.
Generators also need some love, including oil changes, plugs, and adjustments, depending on the make and model. Again, it’s better to do this before storage, including fuel treatments, but if it hasn’t been done, do it now.
Check all the chassis components, including mirrors, horns, wipers, lights, and so on, for proper operation and repair as needed. Also, test-drive a motorhome to check for any drivability concerns so you can get them fixed before leaving for a trip.
Awnings, hatches, and doors, oh my!
Inspect and operate all awnings, toppers, doors, hatches, locks, body electronics, and lighting for proper operation and condition. Awnings get wet throughout a season of outdoor storage and can grow mildew. So, while washing the RV, spend some time on your patio awnings.

Silicone spray lube works well on hinges and locks. If you have a combination entry lock, consider changing the battery. Adjust all windows, doors, and screen doors and repair as needed.
Safety Systems and Equipment
The safety and well-being of you and your family are paramount, so spend some time checking the safety equipment.
Emergency exits should all be operated and lubricated as needed.

Smoke detectors and battery-powered CO detectors should have their batteries changed. Wired CO and propane detectors should be tested. All detectors should have their dates checked, and if they’re expired, they should be replaced.
New RVs now come with A-10, B, C fire extinguishers mounted to the wall within 24 inches of the main entry door. Inspect them for pressure, damage, seal, and date, if applicable. Also, make sure the wall mount is secured well.
Emergency vehicles get much of this work done on every single shift. Doing this to your RV a couple of times a year and keeping up with the cleaning isn’t that difficult and will pay dividends.
Enjoy the journey!