RV Maintenance Series: Why a Loose Furnace Hose Could Have Been a Big Problem

RV Maintenance Means More Than Just Looking for Leaks

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned living and traveling in an RV is this: RV maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential. It’s easy to think, “If nothing seems wrong, everything must be fine.” But as I’ve found over and over again, waiting until something breaks is usually more expensive, more stressful, and sometimes even dangerous.

Furnace hose coming apart

That’s why I check over our RV monthly and quarterly—because every time I do, I find something that could have become a much bigger problem down the road.

The Discovery: A Furnace Hose Pulling Away

While performing a routine RV maintenance check, I was chasing a water issue when I happened to look upward. That’s when I spotted it: the furnace hose that runs from the furnace to the water filter housing area was pulling away.

Here’s the thing about RV systems: they’re all interconnected, and something as small as a furnace hose pulling away can cause ripple effects that show up later.

Why RV Maintenance Caught This Early

If I hadn’t been doing routine RV maintenance, I might not have found this issue until winter—and by then, it could have been costly. Here’s why this mattered:

1. Heat Loss & Inefficiency: A disconnected vent hose means warm air escapes before it ever reaches your living space, forcing your furnace to run harder.

2. Cold Spots in the RV: Instead of distributing heat evenly, a pulled-away vent creates uncomfortable hot and cold spots.

3. Potential Safety Hazards: Improper venting can interfere with airflow and safe furnace operation.

4. Wear and Tear on the Furnace: The harder the furnace works, the faster it wears out.

How RV Maintenance Helps You Spot Issues Like This

If you’re wondering how to check your own RV for something similar, here are a few tips:

• Inspect Furnace Vents Regularly – Look for pulled-away pipes, loose clamps, or sagging ductwork.

• Run the Furnace and Feel for Leaks – Warm air escaping = a problem.

• Check Connections – Vibrations from travel often loosen tape or fasteners.

• Do It Before the Seasons Change – A quick fall RV maintenance check can prevent a freezing winter night.

The Bigger Picture: RV Maintenance Saves Money and Stress

This small issue highlights why RV maintenance pays off:

• 5 minutes of checking = catching a problem early

• $0 fix now = avoiding a $200+ repair later

• Comfortable RV living = no freezing nights in the middle of a trip

Closing Reminder: Stay on Top of RV Maintenance

This was just Part 2 of my 5-part RV maintenance series. So far, I’ve caught a hidden water leak and a pulled-away furnace hose—both before they turned into expensive repairs.

👉 In Part 3, I’ll share how I found a loose HVAC “T” connector (attached to the furnace) that was letting heat escape, and how a simple fix made all the difference.

Remember: Regular RV maintenance doesn’t take much time, but it can save you thousands and give you peace of mind while traveling.