RV Maintenance Tips & Tricks for Your Summer Roadtrips

Most people with recreational vehicles take trips during the summer between the Memorial Day and Labor Day holidays. There are many reasons for this, but one of the biggest reasons is probably because of the warmer weather in the summer.

Maintenance of your RV is important for several reasons. In the first place, it is a vehicle that you probably only use for part of the year. The rest of the time, it may remain in storage. When a motor vehicle remains idle for prolonged periods, the battery can die down and other parts can fall into disrepair. Regular RV maintenance can also help prevent a breakdown that causes you to become stranded while you are traveling far from home. It is important to perform maintenance on your RV before you set out on your trip and to be able to cope with any difficulties that may arise on the road, avoiding them if possible and preventing them if necessary.

Cover Your RV With The Best Material

The distinction between a nylon vs polyester car cover may be less important than whether it is intended for use inside or outside. If you cover your RV during your trip, you should choose a cover intended specifically for use outdoors. These covers are made of materials designed specifically to block ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The materials should also be breathable to prevent moisture from getting trapped underneath the cover.

Your RV may also be exposed to harsh elements of rain, wind, or hail. Outdoor RV covers are made of durable materials to withstand these effects.

Protect Your RV’s Interior From The Sun

Exposure to the sun can damage the interior of the RV, making it less attractive, less comfortable, and sometimes even less safe. For example, the radiation can cause deterioration of the upholstery of your seats. If there are stains on the upholstery, the heat from the sun can bake them in, making them permanent. Depending on the material, UV rays can also make the upholstery more brittle, causing it to crack or tear. UV radiation can also cause fading of your RV’s dashboard.

These aren’t necessarily the most serious issues, however. If there are exposed electrical components in your RV, ultraviolet radiation can damage the cable connectors, exposing the wires and potentially putting you at risk for electrical shock. If your RV has safety systems such as airbags, they can be damaged by exposure to high temperatures, putting you at risk in case of an accident.

Rubber weather stripping around the doors of your RV can develop sun rot when exposed to UV radiation. This may allow dust, debris, and water to enter the interior, a troublesome scenario in any case but more so when you are using your RV as a home away from home because these contaminants can get into your living quarters.

Covering your RV when it is parked and not in use can help to keep it serviceable and livable. You should cover your RV when you are away from it during your trip. Whether you need RV covers, car covers, or custom truck covers, online retailers offer solutions that work for you.