Get Ready for Camping Season With Our Spring RV Checklist
Spring is a great time to take care of routine RV maintenance — the weather is starting to warm up, and camping season is right around the corner. To help you get your RV ready for summer, our team at Chesapeake RV Solutions has put together a list of must-do tasks. When you're done, you'll be ready to hit the road. For more information, visit our location in Chesapeake, Virginia, serving Virginia Beach and Suffolk.
1. Open the Windows and Doors
After a long winter in storage, your RV can start to smell musty. As soon as the weather warms up, air out the interior by opening up all the doors and windows. Pull out the cushions, curtains, and mattresses and lay them on a tarp or a plastic drop cloth; this is an easy, free way to ward off unpleasant smells and ensure that the fabric is dry.
2. De-Winterize Your RV's Water System
De-winterizing your water system is one of the most important parts of the spring RV checklist. If you added antifreeze before the winter, drain your freshwater tank completely. Then, refill it with clean, potable water. Run the shower and all the faucets in the RV for 5-10 minutes to flush the lines. While you're at it, flush the toilet two or three times. After you're finished, replace all your water filters. To get rid of the antifreeze and any dirt buildup, empty the RV at a dump station. Some owners go a step further by refilling the freshwater tank, adding bleach, and re-flushing the system after 12-24 hours.
3. Examine the Interior for Leaks and Pests
After you've completed the first flush of the water system, take the opportunity to inspect the interior of the RV. Look for signs of water damage, paying close attention to the areas around the windows and roof. Examine all the pipes for cracks and moisture. Open the cupboards and storage areas to make sure that rodents and insects haven't gotten in during the colder months. Fill your propane tanks and ensure that the connections are tight and leak-free. This is a good time to wipe down the interior.
4. Test Each System
Connect your RV to a power source and test every system. Start with the essentials: lights, water heater, heater, stove, microwave, outlets, faucets, and toilet. Make sure the batteries are charged, and inflate the tires to a safe air pressure level. Don't forget to test your fire extinguisher and smoke detector.
5. Check and Replace Gear
After you're sure the RV is in top shape, do an inventory of your gear. Make sure the first aid kit, cleaning supplies, and flashlight batteries are stocked. If you removed any supplies for the winter, bring them back and put them away in preparation for camping.
When you've completed the spring RV checklist, your rig should be ready for the first camping trip of the season. If you're ready to take the leap into the world of RVs, now is a great time. Contact us at Chesapeake RV Solutions in Chesapeake to find RVs of all sizes; we serve the Virginia Beach and Suffolk, areas.