Various Common RV Problems That Most Owners Suffer
Recreational vehicles (RVs) are much fun, aren’t they? But they do undoubtedly a lot more work, too. RVs are an excellent excuse to escape for some time, whether for an extended trip or a long weekend. Like any house, some of the typical RV problems will happen over time & demand your attention.
As we already know, RVs are fun, but what if things go iffy? That fun will be pretty short-lived, and it can be expensive, too. According to the industrial stats, out of 10 RVs, every 3 RVs will require severe repair by their 2nd year only, and almost every RV after eight years.
Common RV Problems
Some problems are mentioned below so you can be prepared practically and financially.
1. Burst Water-Lines
Broken water pumps or burst water lines are among the usual RV problems. But this problem can be avoided if you store the RV properly in the winter season.
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Ways to Avoid
Don’t forget to empty the water tanks daily. Remember the weather forecast if you neglect to drain the water tanks for a few days. Also, make sure you open the tank before its first freeze. If you’re not going to use your RV during winter, it is necessary to take great care of water lines before you put the RV in storage.
Ways to Fix
You can apply a dose of sealing lubricant so they keep working properly. If it still leaks, then consider replacing it.
2. Tire Blowout
The problem with carrying the weight on those four wheels is that tires cannot always handle that, especially when traveling over poorly kept or bumpy roads. A tire blowout is quite dangerous because they are cumbersome and because of the size of the RV. But you can avoid this problem. All you need to do is check the pressure regularly, especially before you take your RV for a ride.
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Ways to Avoid
Don’t forget to keep an extra wheel with you whenever you’re traveling. And check the pressure of that spare wheel daily as well.
Ways to Fix
However, if you experience a tire blowout, immediately pull over your RV to replace a tire. Stay safe whenever you break down on the roadside.
3. Toilet Malfunctions
The last thing that anyone wants in their RV is toilet trouble. It is not only annoying but also unhealthy. You know you have a problem when the water doesn’t stay in the toilet bowl or keeps running from it. This is the problem you should address sooner and not later. If the rubber seal around the large valve is not in good shape, replace it.
If the water valve is not closing completely, you must also change that. Thankfully, these water valves are pretty cheap. Be prepared to face this problem after years, as there’s not much one can do to avoid this problem.
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Ways to Avoid
Slide valve seals age with time, so to extend their life, you need to keep the channel around the inside edges clear of calcium buildup, toilet paper, and every other crud.
Ways to Fix
If the valve gasket leaks, the best action is to replace it. Yes, you will need to pull the toilet out. Don’t worry. Replacing a gasket is quite an easy job. Not many people talk about the septic system, but it is also essential. So, to keep the septic system up to date requires so many vital components, and one of them, which I feel is the most important one, is the tank holding treatment you use.
The best holding tank treatment for RV will ensure tissue and waste have broken down. , There will be no cogs, and your bathroom won’t smell foul.
4. Battery Failure
RV without the battery loses its appeal. If the outlets do not work, the lights do not get turned on, or the motor does not start, there is a chance there is some problem with the battery. Please check the fluid levels regularly in the battery and test the charge to ensure it works correctly.
A quick suggestion: Disconnect battery cables if your RV is not in use because that will prevent the electrical device from drawing the battery even if they’re off.
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Ways to Avoid
Check fluid levels regularly in the battery and add distilled water if needed. Ensure you wear hand and eye protection and keep those open flames at least 10 feet away as the battery gives off the hydrogen gas. Also, invest in sealed, maintenance-free batteries, so there won’t be anything to worry about.
Ways to Fix
In most cases, charging dead batteries is an instant RV repair. If you are in the campground, plug the rig into an AC power to charge the battery. And if your battery keeps falling, all you can do is replace it.
5. Window and Roof Leaks
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You think of the RV as if it’s your home, don’t you? But the reality is quite different because your RV is not structurally sound—poor weather, sunlight, and low-hanging branches may damage the RV’s roof. Make use of roof cover if possible to minimize the exposure to elements. If you cannot keep the roof covered, inspect your RV’s roof monthly for any damage. You can also apply rubber coating to your roof to protect it.
If the window sealing breaks down, windows may also leak. Check window seals at least twice a month. And forget to replace them if you see even a single sign of the damage.
Ways to Fix
If there are leaks in the rubber roof, you can buy several roof patch kits. Be careful in adding the right equipment for the RV toolbox. To repair it temporarily while on the road, you can use special roof sealing tapes for RV. When you return later, ensure that the mounting flange around the roof vents, antennas, and breather caps are correctly sealed using sealant specially made for your RVs.
If the roof vent is damaged or cracked from tree branches or exposure, the best action would be to replace it. Use duct tape and plastic trash bags for emergency repairs. Don’t forget to repair it properly at the very first chance.
Check if it is just a gasket material leaking around a window frame for windows. If yes, you must remove that window, clean the old seal, and apply a new sealant. Now, install that window again.
Despite your preparation and planning, RVs get broken down sometimes. On a more superficial note, ensure you take great care to attend to the simple things when using the RV.
Have you ever experienced such problems when using your RV? I’d love to catch your suggestions on what problem to look for. Share your experience in the comment section below.
