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RV Maintenance
How does it work and Why I need it maintained?
RV Refrigerator
An RV refrigerator operates on either propane or electricity and is designed to keep food and drinks cold while you're on the road. To use the refrigerator, you will need to turn it on and set the temperature. Some RV refrigerators have a freezer compartment, while others do not. To ensure that your RV refrigerator operates at peak efficiency, it's important to keep it level, clean the coils regularly, and avoid overloading it.
RV Air Conditioner
An RV air conditioner is a device that is installed on the roof of an RV to provide cooling during hot weather. It works by drawing in warm air from inside the RV, passing it over evaporator coils, which removes the heat and humidity, and then blowing the cooled air back into the RV.
To ensure that your RV air conditioner works efficiently and effectively, it's important to perform regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the air filters, checking and tightening electrical connections (this needs to be done by a certified RV technician), checking the fan motor and blower wheel, and cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils. It's also important to visually inspect the unit for any signs of wear or damage.
RV Furnace
An RV furnace is a heating unit that is specifically designed for use in recreational vehicles. It uses propane or electricity to generate heat and circulate warm air throughout the RV. To operate the furnace, you will need to turn on the propane supply and set the thermostat to the desired temperature. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the furnace, checking for spider webs and insects around the orifice is essential to keep the furnace operating efficiently and prevent breakdowns.
RV Water Heater
An RV water heater is a unit that provides hot water for use in the RV. It can operate on propane only, and some models can use both, propane gas and electric. To use the water heater, you will need to be sure to fill first with water and then turn it on and wait for the water to heat up. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating the water heater, as well as for regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank periodically, checking for corrosion, keeping sediment buildup at a minimum, inspecting lines, changing anode rod (Suburban) and checking the pressure relief valve.
REPACK BEARINGS
Repacking the bearings in your RV is an important maintenance task that helps ensure the safe and efficient operation of your RV's wheel hubs and tires. Bearings are critical components that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly while supporting the weight of the vehicle. Here's why you need to repack your bearings periodically:
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Prevent Wear and Tear: Bearings experience friction and heat as they enable the wheels to turn. Over time, this friction can cause the lubricating grease inside the bearings to break down, leading to increased wear and potential damage to the bearing surfaces.
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Extend Bearing Lifespan: Regular repacking with fresh grease helps to prolong the life of the bearings. By maintaining proper lubrication, you can prevent premature wear and reduce the risk of bearing failure.
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Safety: Well-lubricated bearings contribute to safe driving. When bearings are inadequately lubricated, they can overheat, leading to potential wheel lockup, loss of control, and even accidents. Properly packed bearings help maintain stable and predictable vehicle handling.
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Fuel Efficiency: Inefficiently rotating wheels due to worn bearings can lead to increased fuel consumption. Smoothly rotating bearings reduce friction, which in turn improves fuel efficiency.
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Reduced Maintenance Costs: Regularly repacking your bearings can help you catch potential issues early. By identifying problems before they escalate, you can avoid costly repairs and replacements down the road.
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Distribution of Grease: Repacking bearings involves removing old grease that may contain contaminants and debris, and replacing it with fresh, clean grease. This process helps ensure that the lubricant is evenly distributed within the bearings, promoting optimal performance.
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Environmental Factors: RVs are often exposed to various environmental elements like dirt, water, and road debris. These factors can contribute to the breakdown of grease and increase the likelihood of bearing wear. Repacking bearings allows you to clean out any contaminants that may have entered the bearing area.
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Manufacturer's Recommendations: Most RV manufacturers provide guidelines for maintenance intervals, including when to repack the bearings. Adhering to these recommendations can help maintain your RV's warranty and keep your vehicle in good working condition.
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After any bearing repack, be sure to re-torque your lug nuts after 50 miles.
Generators
RV generators are devices that provide power to an RV when there is no electrical hookup available. They typically run on gasoline or propane and are designed to be quiet and efficient. RV generators come in a range of sizes and capacities, with larger models being able to power more appliances and electronics. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your RV generator running smoothly and reliably. This includes changing the oil and oil filter, checking the air filter, inspecting the spark plugs, and inspecting the fuel system. It's also important to run the generator regularly to keep it in good condition and prevent any problems caused by sitting unused for long periods.
RV Exterior
RV exteriors refer to the outside portion of an RV. This includes the body of the RV, the windows, the roof, the tires, the slide-out, slide-out seals, and other exterior components. RV exteriors are typically made from materials such as fiberglass, aluminum, or steel, and they are designed to be durable and weather-resistant. Maintaining the exterior of your RV is essential to ensure that it remains in good condition and lasts for many years. This includes regular washing and waxing to remove dirt, grime, and oxidation. It's also important to inspect the roof, windows, and seals for any signs of damage or leaks. Any damage should be repaired promptly to prevent further damage.
RV Winterizing
Winterizing your RV is an essential step to protect it from damage during the cold months when it's not in use. To winterize your RV, you will need to drain all the water from the plumbing system, including the water heater and the holding tanks. You will also need to add antifreeze to the system to prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing damage. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for winterizing your specific RV model.
RV De-Winterizing
De-winterizing your RV is the process of preparing it for use again after it has been winterized. This involves flushing out the antifreeze from the plumbing system and refilling it with water. You will also need to inspect the various components of your RV, such as the water heater and the holding tanks, to ensure that they are in good working order. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for de-winterizing your specific RV model.
RV Tank Cleaning
RV tank cleaning is the process of removing built-up debris and residue from the holding tanks that store waste water. This is an important step to maintain the integrity of the tank and prevent unpleasant odors from escaping into the RV. There are various methods for cleaning RV tanks, such as using a tank wand or a cleaning solution designed specifically for RV tanks. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning your specific RV model.
Our Current Location
We are proud to provide our Mobile RV Technician and Inspection Services to Blairsville, Blue Ridge, Hiawassee, Young Harris, Ellijay, Jasper, Hayesville, Murphy and the surround areas.
We can go further out, just give us a call and we can go over specifics.