As the days start to get longer and the weather warms up, it’s time to start thinking about hitting the road for summer adventures! If your motorhome has been hibernating over winter, there are a few key steps to take to prepare it for another season of summer holidays. Don’t worry, it’s easy! Just follow our handy tips below!
Many motorhomers take a bit of a break from travel over winter. That often means their motorhome is parked up and off the road for a few months. When your motorhome has been unused for an extended period, it’s important to ensure it’s roadworthy, safe, and comfortable for summer travel.
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Before you head off on your next great Australian road trip, here’s a quick and easy checklist to help you get your RV ready.
When any vehicle, including your motorhome, has been in storage for an extended period of time, it’s inevitable that the battery will lose some charge. You’ll need to check your RV battery and recharge it if needed. Here’s a quick rundown of what to do:
If your motorhome has been cooped up in storage over the winter months, it is important to check your tyre pressure before hitting the road for summer. When your motorhome is not in use or stored in the cold, its tyres can lose a lot of air pressure. Tyres that aren’t sufficiently inflated can result in poor handling and can potentially cause accidents on the road.
To check the tyre pressure, use a tyre pressure gauge – either with a portable gauge if you have one, or at your local service station. Once you’ve checked the tyres, you can inflate each to the correct pressure – you’ll find this in your owner’s manual.
While you’re inflating the tyres, it’s also a good idea to check for cracks or worn tread. If they are looking worse for wear, consider replacing your tyres altogether.
Clean water is so important when travelling in your motorhome. You may be wondering how to de-winterise and sanitise the RV water system before using your motorhome again.
If you added antifreeze to your pipes during the process of winterising your RV, then you’ll need to flush this out for summer travel. This involves running fresh water through the water system. Here is a quick step-by-step guide to the process:
Sanitising your tanks is essential for removing any mould or bacteria that has built up over winter.
The trick is leaving the bleach sitting for the perfect amount of time. If you don’t leave it sitting for long enough, you won’t effectively kill the bacteria. However, if you leave it for too long, you are at risk of increasing the rate your synthetic seals will deteriorate. Here is a quick step-by-step guide to the process:
Before setting off on your next road trip, you should check that your motorhome’s plumbing is all up to scratch. This can be done during the sanitation step and includes checking the water pipes, tanks, and toilets. If there are any leaks, you may be able to fix these with a sealant. But if the leak can’t be easily remedied, you may need to consider a replacement.
Before you crank up the BBQ or your RV gas hot water heater, check and fill your LPG gas bottles. If you find any signs of rust or damage, consider replacing them. Remember, always store these securely in your RV gas bottle storage locker.
TOP TIP: Read more about how to use LPG in your motorhome.
If you’ve kept your motorhome outside over winter, it’s a good idea to give the exterior a thorough check-over. Look out for any signs of damage that may need repair before you head off on holiday. Some key things to look out for include:
Sealant that is cracked or peeling, especially around windows or doors. Cracked seams or seals.
Structural damage to the roof.
Signs of rust or water damage.
If you notice any issues, it is recommended that you have these checked and repaired before summer hits. Your local KEA dealership has a fully equipped service centre workshop and can take care of any repairs.
Next on your list is to check the fluid levels in your engine. This includes things like oil, coolant, water, and windscreen washer fluid. Some fluids have a clear reservoir, so you’ll be able to see the level. Others such as the oil, have a dipstick. Here is a quick step-by-step guide to checking your oil:
If you have a generator, now is a good time to check the oil levels and ensure it is working properly. If you have any issues, it is a good idea to have it serviced by a professional.
Even if you gave your motorhome interior a good clean before winter (recommended!), it’s worth giving it another spruce up before you head away. Here are a few pointers:
TIP: Don’t use harsh cleaning products as these may damage some surfaces in your motorhome. Soapy warm water and a cloth will do the trick in most instances. Keep your eyes peeled for any bugs or rodents that may set up camp over the winter.
Your motorhome’s water and air filters should be changed every few months, depending on your level of usage. So if this hasn’t been done for a while, now is a good time to check and replace them if needed.
When summer hits, you’ll want to stay cool during your road trips. Don’t forget to inspect each window and air vent to ensure the seals are intact and that they are working well. Open the windows and air vents to air your motorhome.
If your motorhome is due for a service, now is a great time to get it done. Having your motorhome serviced annually gives you peace of mind in knowing it’s safe and roadworthy.
KEA’s network of dealerships throughout Australia each has the experience and facilities to service your motorhome. Choose from two servicing packages:
Ready to hit the road in a motorhome this summer? With your motorhome clean, safe, and in tip-top condition, all that’s left to do is plan your next Australian road trip adventure! Don’t forget to pack your sunblock!
If you’re still in the process of buying a motorhome, or you’re considering an upgrade, be sure to check out the great range of KEA new and ex-rental motorhomes for sale.
The friendly KEA team is always happy to help with any questions you may have about buying an RV. They’ll show you the different models and can help you think about which features are important for your style of travel.
You’ll also find plenty of extra advice and handy free guides on the KEA website.
Now that you know more about the trusted KEA brand, why not start living the RV dream and buy a motorhome with KEA?
