RV Winterizing STORAGE Tips

The air is beginning to get crisp, leaves are beginning to change color and thoughts begin to turn to the cold months ahead.  This is the perfect time to think about winterizing and storing your RV for the season.  However, when most people winterize their RV, all they do is think about pouring that good ole’ pink fluid down the drains.  What they don’t realize is that there are a lot of other things they need to think about to prepare your RV for storage. 

 Here are 20 quick tips for proper winter RV storage

1. Under statement: Store your camper under a covered area if possible.  If you don’t have that option available, then avoid parking under trees or in areas where grass and weeds will grow up underneath.
2.  Keep it full: Check the battery.  RV batteries are lead-acid and deep cycle. Unlike car batteries, they aren’t sealed. If fluid levels are low, add distilled water to bring the fluid level to within 1/8^th full.
3.  Keep it covered: An RV cover is a great way to protect your investment.  However, make sure the cover is made of a breathable material to prevent mold and mildew.
4. Don’t get tired: Check the tires.Inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended max pressure for cold weather.  Cover the tires to protect them from harmful ultraviolet rays.  Place something between the tire and the ground that is larger than the tire itself.
5.  No peeping toms here: Close all of the window blinds/shades to avoid the sun fading the drapes, upholstery and the carpet.
6. Rub-a-dub-dub: Wash the exterior of the camper and apply a coat of wax.  Clean the interior thoroughly.
7. The fabric of your life: Make sure the awning fabric is clean and completely dry before storing. For pop-up campers, make sure the fabric is clean and dry before storing.  This is a great time to look for tears or holes and repair them.
8. Inspect. Detect. Protect: Inspect all roof seams, body seams and window seals for cracks and openings.  Water can get into even the smallest of openings, so look close!  Then, make sure you seal them up with a sealant that is compatible with those surfaces.
9. Lock and load: Service all locks with a graphite spray lubricant.  Lubricate all hinges and moving parts with WD- 40.
10.  A real turn off: Turn all LP gas appliances off.  Turn the main LP gas supply valve off. Make sure that the LP gas regulator is covered.
11. Discharged: Remove the fuse for the LP gas leak detector while the camper is being stored.  This will prevent the batteries from discharging.  Just remember to replace it in the spring!
12. Fatal attraction: Insects are attracted to the odorant that is added to LP gas.  To prevent mud daubers and wasps from building nests in and around your gas appliances, cover the furnace vent and water heater vent with specialized covers that are specifically made to keep these nasty nuisances out.
13. Eye Spy:  Look underneath your camper! Check for any spots where mice or rodents can get in and seal them as necessary.
14. Set a trap: Place mouse and ant traps around the camper.  Try to avoid putting mouse poison inside the RV.
15.  No food here: Remove all perishables and anything that could freeze from you RV. Remove any food/consumables that would attract mice or other rodents.
16. Props: Leave drawers and cabinet doors open.
17. Fridge-ed: Defrost the freezer and clean the refrigerator.  Make sure to prop the refrigerator doors open and place some baking soda inside to absorb any odors.
18.  Clean air: Clean the air conditioner filters and cover the air conditioner.
19. Unplugged: Turn off the main breaker and unplug all appliances.
20. Power outage: Remove dry cell batteries from clocks, flashlights and other items. 

          Follow these storage tips and you wont have to see US in the spring!

Keeping Condensation in Check

Keeping 

Condensation

in Check

Staying in an RV requires paying attention to some things that you normally don't have to worry about as much as you would in a home with a permanent foundation.  One of these worrisome tasks is keeping the air moisture level low enough to avoid condensation. Moisture control can be easily accomplished with roof vents and a dehumidifier, but just as easily forgotten.

Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• Moisture inside an RV will condense in cooler weather if not controlled.
• Condensation can produce enough water to cause damage to walls and ceilings.
• You can reduce moisture by running exhaust fans, especially while showering or cooking as well as running a dehumidifier.
• In cooler weather (generally under 45 degrees), it may be necessary to always leave a small window or vent open.
• In cool/cold weather, check those areas of your RV that receive minimal circulation, for signs of condensation.

In the heat of the summer, it's easier to keep moisture under control.  This is because you will more than likely have your air conditioner and fans running to beat the heat.  However, when the weather begins to turn cooler, you may start to notice wet spots on the composite board of walls, next to stationary furniture, in the far corners of closets/cabinets and other places where air circulation is poor.

Most of the time, when people see these wet spots, they assume that they have a leak in the slide or in an exterior wall.  While this can be true, many times it is condensation.  A well-sealed fiberglass unit can even exacerbate the collection of condensation.

Running a ceiling fan during showering and the stove hood fan during cooking will help immensely. You can have an added sense of security by running a dehumidifier as well. While some RV humidifiers are large and need to be set on a counter with a hose that will drain into the sink, there are many mini models out there now a well.  They are  self-contained and can be placed almost anywhere there is an outlet.  Because they are small, they will run almost constantly. Some find the "white noise"  to be relaxing, especially at night.  Even with a dehumidifier in place, you will still nee to run the exhaust fans while showering and cooking.  

When using your RV in the warm weather, be prepared for condensation in cooler weather and take the measures you need to keep those pesky water droplets in check.    

Carry On and Go CAMPING!

Are You Mosquito Bait?

7 Crazy Tick Myths You SHOULDN'T Believe!

7 Crazy Tick Myths You Shouldn't Believe!

We all know that those pesky little creatures can be a nuisance during camping trips (or just about any outdoor adventure), but did you know these seven crazy myths about ticks?

1. Using a Lit Match is a Safe Way to Remove a Tick-Many people believe that by touching a lit match to the body of a wood tick will cause it to stop feeding and back out of the skin.  This is not true for the kind of ticks you will come across in the woods.  In fact, when you apply heat to the body of the tick, it can cause the tick to vomit into the bite site.  YUCK!  You can also run the risk of burning your skin. Here is the best way to remove a wood tick.

2.  Just Jump In The Pool-Although the idea of going for a swim after a long hike sounds great, it will do nothing to remove any ticks that have crawled onto you. Many people believe that the chlorine in the pool will cause the tick to detach or that the tick will drown in the water. Neither of these things are true.  An attached tick will not unhook itself no matter how long you're in the water. Your best bet is to do a tick check if you've been in the woods. 

3.  Full Ticks EXPLODE! There is a popular myth out there that ticks will keep sucking your blood until they explode!  While that's a very interesting (and somewhat gruesome) idea, it is also not true. Ticks will stop feeding when they're fully engorged.  That means, when they just aren't hungry anymore.  So, if you're waiting for a gory "show"....it's not going to happen. 

4.  DEET Will Destroy Ticks-Deet is a very effective mosquito repellent but it is much less effective when it comes to repelling ticks.  The BEST bet when it comes to keeping ticks away is permethrin.  This is a tick repellent that can be applied to both clothes and shoes that will actually kill the tick on contact. Clothing that is commercially treated can still be effective after 70 washes. You can actually treat your own clothes to stay tick safe. 

5. Ticks Without Bodies Can Survive-a tick CAN survive a lot of things, but having its body detached from its head is not one of them!  So many people worry that if they aren't able to remove the head of a tick from their skin, that it will still continue to feed.  This is simply not true.  If you aren't able to remove the head of the tick there is no need to panic.  The head will just work itself out, much like a splinter.  It's still a good idea to use an antiseptic on the bite site to keep it free of germs.  

6.  Ticks Fall Out Of Trees-If this were true, ticks should all be wearing superhero capes.  Just think about it...for a tick to climb a tree, wait for you to come along, gauge the wind direction, and then land precisely on your head...is ridiculous.  Ticks don't climb trees because they don't need to.  All ticks crawl up from ground level. Many of them end up on your head only because that's how far they crawled, not because they landed there. 

7.  Vaseline Suffocates Ticks-Even if it were true, the time it would take to suffocate a tick with Vaseline is much too long! Why would you let a tick stay attached and increase the likelihood of it transmitting disease-causing germs? Instead of suffocation, here are some great tick removal tips.

So, while out enjoying the great outdoors this summer, keep these seven myths in mind and do the things that you need to de-bunk and de-bug!

10 Quick Tips to Get Your RV Ready for Summer!

 

10 Quick Tips to Get Your RV Ready for the Summer!

                At SOME point it will warm up and summer will be here.  

                        Here are a list of 10 things that you need to check to make sure your                    RV is ready for that very first trip!

1. Outside: One of the biggest problems we see with RV’s is water leaks. Look at all caulking to be sure it is not cracked or missing. This includes caulking around windows, doors and the lap sealant on all roof vents and seams. Even the smallest crack could allow water to get in. 

2. Tires: Visually inspect tires for sidewall cracks and cracks between treads. Any cracks should be considered a danger and tires should be replaced. Check tire pressure. Refer to the manufacturers recommended tire pressure. This information can also be found on the door side, vehicle ID label. 

3. Cleaning Appliances: Remove the outside access covers for the water heater and refrigerator. Inspect the burner assembly for any foreign debris such as spider webs and nests. LIGHT air pressure from a compressor can be used to clean the burner area. Be sure not to blow high pressure up the refrigerator chimney. If in doubt, you can have a technician here at Greeneway do it for you. 

4. Batteries: (Safety glasses and latex gloves on. Shore power disconnected. All items in RV off or main cut off in off position.) Check and clean corroded terminals, connections, and battery trays. Hot water and baking soda work well. Check battery fluid levels if possible. (Some battery caps are not removable) In many cases, you will need to pull batteries out or even remove them to check the fluid level. Be careful with wiring if removing. Many times positive and negative wires are not marked or color coded. Take the time to mark each and every wire.

6. Water: Before filling with water, check the hot water heater bypass valve. It needs to be in the “normal” position and all faucets need to be closed. It’s best to do the initial season fill with the “city water” connection. This will use the faucets water pressure to fill the empty lines and water heater. (It can also be done with the fresh water tank and pump) Open a hot and cold water faucet during filling to let the air escape until the water flows steady. Inspect faucets for leaks and  the water heater pressure safety valve for leaks as well.  Inspect the condition of the water heater drain plug outside the RV. After the water runs steady, turn off the city water. Add fresh water to the onboard tank. Relieve the line pressure by opening a hot and cold faucet until water flow stops. Close the faucets. Switch the fresh water pump on. After the pump stops running, allow about 20-30 minutes to hear if the pump cycles on again. (The pump cycling on indicates a pressure drop or leak). If the pump does not cycle on, the system should be ready to use. Run enough water through each faucet to be sure all RV antifreeze is removed. If the unit was winterized properly, there shouldn’t be much in it.

7. Test fire appliances: Once the L.P. and water systems are up and running, it is time to test fire appliances. For the first use of the season, start by lighting a stove top burner. Be certain the L.P. gas leak detector is on. Lighting a stove top burner will fill the L.P. lines. This is the easiest flame to see, so you will know when it ignites and the air in the lines is purged. Next you can light the other L.P. fired items. Be certain the water heater is full before igniting.

8. Dump Hoses: Inspect your sewage dump hose. Dump hoses have a limited lifespan. Be certain the hose is in good condition with no tears or holes prior to use.

9. Waste tank valves: While connected to a dump station, carefully operate the waste tank valves the first time of the season. Valve seals can dry out causing them to stick and make the valves hard to operate. Carefully working the handle in and out in short increments may save replacing the valves. There are additives for valve lubrication that can be added to the tanks.

10. Awnings: Simply operate awnings and inspect fabric. If the effort to extend is difficult, the spring tension may need adjusted. (Talk to a professional) Spring adjustment is very dangerous.

Sound like a lot to do?  Call Greeneway's Service Department and one of our technicians can do all of this for you. Summer is on its way!  Don't wait...call TODAY!

Happy Camping!!

RV Shopping? "Hidden Costs" to Consider!

Shopping for an RV?  

Some Things to Consider!

An RV is one of the biggest purchases you may consider over your lifetime.  It's not the same as purchasing a car, and in some instances, RVs can cost more than purchasing a home.  Make sure you know all of the "hidden costs" that can be associated with an RV purchase.  Here are some things to think about. 

• Maintenance – The bigger the RV the more things that can go wrong! Motorized RVs seem to require more maintenance than the average car. Unless you're mechanical, this can turn out to be a considerable expense. Travel trailers and fifth wheels do not require as much (engine) maintenance, however, they can potentially have many of the same issues that you have in your home. After all, they have many of the same components that your house has.  If your RV is permanently parked, keep in mind the costs that can arise for a service call from a local dealer or service professional for repairs that may come up. Seasonal maintenance such as winterizing and summerizing are also points to ponder. 
• Insurance-The bigger the RV the bigger the bill for RV insurance. You will find that insurance, especially on motorized RVs, will be more expensive than its passenger commuting counterpart. Do your research!
• Fuel/Oil -The RV world is still waiting on a Prius motor-home. Until then expect to get fuel economy between 8-20 MPG depending on the RV you choose. The same can go for tow vehicles in the case of travel trailers and fifth wheels. Fuel economy will also go down in your tow vehicle even when pulling a lightweight travel trailer or tent camper. 
• Towing– If you will be towing either your travel trailer/fifth wheel or towing a vehicle behind your motor-home you need to consider if you have the vehicle or equipment to do so before the purchase of your camper.  Make sure you know what you need for towing before you buy.
• Place to Park Your New Ride –When you are done camping for the season, you may need to store your RV in a place other than your own property, because of space restrictions or local ordinances. You should look into the cost of storage.  Many places that store RV's will also pick up in the fall and deliver your camper in the spring for a fee.
• Where Will you Stay- It's very safe to assume that you will have to pay a fee when staying at a campground. Whether it's a fee for a seasonal site or just overnight, this is an expense that you need to consider. 
• Meals–Even though RV's offer all of the conveniences of home, you will still need to look at the cost of meals while you are traveling. Whether it be the cost of groceries to stock your camper pantry and refrigerator or meals out with the family when you just aren't in the mood to cook, meals definitely become a part of the expenses that need to be considered. 
• Connectivity –Let's face it, most of us can't go anywhere without being able to stay connected or entertained! Mobile Internet, Wifi Booster, GPS, Satellite TV,  Netflix etc are just some of the amenities we want to have while on the road. If you are interested in having connectivity while on vacation, you need to consider some of the costs associated with staying connected. (Here is a helpful Guide)
• Educate Yourself-Before you get started you may want to look over a Glossary of RV Terms. 

The more informed you are before you start the purchase process, the better questions you can ask along the way. Information helps to head off any unexpected expenses and you can truly enjoy your vacation to the fullest.  If you have any questions, we are here to help! 

 Call Greeneway RV and ask to talk to one of our service advisors or salesmen.  Our knowledgeable staff is here to take the surprise out of RV shopping! 

"In Fact...I DIDN'T Know That!"

Here are a few interesting facts that were passed onto me recently.  

What IS an RV? 

Recreational Vehicle (s), RV (abr) Any enclosed vehicle used for camping which is more elaborate than a simple truck or car, such as a pickup truck with a camper body, pop-up tent trailer, travel trailer, bus, motor coach, mobile home etc.
Source: National Park Service

How many households in the U.S. own RV's?

In 2001 there were 7.6 million.  In 2011 that number rose to 8.9 million!
Source: rvda.org  

So, who ARE these people?

Most RVers are over the age of 55, married, employed full-time, have a high school degree, are Caucasian, are Republicans (really?) and come from a 2-person household.  Most RVers are from rural areas in the western part of the United States. 
Source: goRVing.com 

What are they doing?

RVers travel an average of 4, 500 miles per year.  54% of them travel with their pets.  The most popular destination is Yosemite National Park.  19% of RVers like to stay in places other than campgrounds. 
Source: rvda.org

Sometimes bad things happen on the road!

The five most common causes of RV accidents are:
1. Fires from leaking gas or propane
2. Tire blowouts
3. an awning or steps that are not properly stowed away
4. Driving and clearance errors such as hitting bridge underpasses or gas station overhangs
5. Overloading or uneven weight
source: rvia.org

Knowing about number four...we will leave this fun fact page with this picture!

"You CRACK Me Up!"

"You CRACK Me up!"

Normally when you hear a line like that, something funny has just been said.  However, when you're talking about the flooring in your camper, there is nothing funny about it!  A recent cold snap here in Wisconsin left several floors in our stock units with cracks.  If you are in an area where the temperature falls well below freezing in the winter, you may want to check your camper flooring so that you don't have any surprises come spring.  

WHY does this happen, anyway?

When there are extreme temperature changes vinyl and even sometimes linoleum flooring will contract and expand. If you have severe cracking issues in your flooring, it is most likely temperature related. With temperatures dipping to -40 degrees here recently, we definitely saw an increase in cracked flooring when the temps returned to "normal". 

What KIND of flooring do you really HAVE?

To find out if your camper flooring will be susceptible to cracking in the first place, you need to find out what KIND of flooring you have.  Many people believe that vinyl and linoleum are the same thing. This is not the case. Vinyl flooring is more susceptible to temperature extremes and has a tendency to get very brittle and crack when exposed to cold temperatures.  True linoleum doesn't expand and contract nearly as much and as a result is not as brittle in the cold. 

How is your flooring installed?

How the flooring in your camper is installed can also affect whether you will have problems with cracking or not. There are some manufacturers who only glue the edges of the flooring which allows the center of the flooring to "float" on top of the floor base. Those floors that are completely glued will tend to not have the same issues with cracking.

It's not a house!

Another problem when it comes to RV flooring, is that most linoluem and vinyl floors are not specifically designed for campers-they are made for home use.  The temperature in your home is much more consistent and of course, much warmer than a camper being stored for the winter. Like just about anything, there are different qualities of flooring.  If you are going to be storing your camper in an environment where cold temperatures are going to be an issue, you may want to look at putting a little bit more money towards good, quality flooring.

So NOW what?

Our advice, here at Greeneway, is to put on a warm coat, lace up your boots and head out to your camper.  Take a peek inside and see if your flooring weathered the weather!  There's nothing like an unexpected repair to ruin an otherwise great vacation.  If you have cracks, give us a call!  Our Service Department is working with a flooring specialist to have floors replaced while keeping costs at a minimum.  Ask about options that will head off this same thing happening again when the next cold snap hits.  And you know it will....we live in Wisconsin after all!