As we near the end of the year, thoughts are beginning to turn towards spring and, for caravanners, that means thinking ahead to the new season. So, as you bring your caravan out from its winter hibernation, it’s important to check for any damage and get it in tiptop condition for your first trip of the year.
Tyres
Throughout winter storage, your caravan tyres should be rotated regularly. This will minimise the damage that can be caused when one section of tyre bears the brunt of the weight of the caravan over an extended period. On coming out of storage, tyres must be checked for any signs of damage including bulging. Cracking can be seen when checking the inside and outside faces of the tyres and tyres should be replaced immediately when cracks appear, regardless of whether the tread is unworn. Check tyre pressures and pump tyres up according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. When checking the tyres, remember to check that all wheel nuts are tightly fastened.
Safety and Security
After a long, cold and wet winter, it’s vital to check that all security equipment is in full working order. Is your alarm still activated by door and window contacts? Is it still audible? Check other devices, including wheel clamps and hitchlocks, making sure they are not damaged and can still be fitted or removed without seizing or sticking.
As smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors run on batteries, rather than the caravan’s 12-volt supply, they should be checked and batteries replaced if flat, and tested fully. Check fire extinguishers thoroughly, ensuring that powder extinguishers (ideal for most small fires) are at the correct pressure. Extinguishers have an expiry date so check yours is still in date, replacing it if necessary and examine your fire blanket too, as these are essential for class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. Replace if necessary.
Check the contents of your first aid kit, making sure nothing is missing and replace any out of date supplies and medication.
Damp
The arch enemy of any caravan owner, condensation and damp can be quick to set in over a winter while your caravan has been locked up. Your caravan will need to be thoroughly aired and soft furnishings will need to be dried out; your nose will be the best indicator of whether your caravan has a damp problem. Vacuum and clean on a dry day when doors and windows can be left open. It is wise at this point too, to check window seals and doors for any leaks. If the damp situation needs a little more than simple cleaning and airing, a dehumidifier should soon fix the problem. Remember, if condensation is left unchecked, the subsequent damp will smell, leave marks on surfaces and will put your health at risk; the very worst situation will result in the interior of your caravan rotting.
Spring clean
Even if your touring caravan has been stored under cover, it will more than likely emerge from its hibernation looking a little worse for wear, and if it has been parked up near trees or woodland, it may have a greenish tinge. Fortunately, a simple yet thorough wash of the exterior will make the world of difference. Use a non-abrasive caravan cleaner and a soft bristled brush on a long pole to remove marks easily, paying particular attention to windows and vents. Once dry, apply a coat of caravan wax to help keep the bodywork looking pristine for longer.
Inside the caravan, clean windows and doors, including hinges and give the oven and fridge a deep clean. If the fridge smells ‘musty’, a solution of bicarbonate of soda will help to freshen it up.
Service
The beginning of the year is the ideal time for your annual service but book early as many caravanners will be thinking the same! Never try to service your caravan yourself – a brake service for example needs an expert with the correct tools – and hire a caravan specialist for the service rather than a garage. Remember too that anyone who services the gas appliances in your caravan must be Gas Safe registered (previously Corgi registered).
Before venturing out for the first time after your caravan has been in storage, make sure you have checked through everything carefully and thoroughly. This will help avoid unwanted and expensive issues from occurring and leave you free to enjoy a new year of adventures.
.jpg)
.jpg)
