Are you looking to avail a caravan servicing session? Want to know what gets checked to have an idea of what you’re getting for your money? While caravans do not have an engine like a regular motor vehicles, they still require a lot of maintenance. With time, your caravan can develop waterproofing issues, constant vibrations can wreak havoc on gas and plumbing systems, and dust and debris can make their way into joints and bearings causing damage.
Without regular maintenance, your caravan may end up needing costly repairs further down the road, ruining your holiday or even putting your safety and that of your passengers at risk. With that in mind, read on below to find out what is involved in servicing a caravan.
1). Running Gear And Chassis Checks
The chassis and running gear are continuously exposed to harsh conditions on and off-road. This means that they are prone to extensive wear and tear. When you take your caravan in for servicing, all parts of the running gear and chassis will be checked by a professional including tires, jockey wheel, brakes, corner steady lubrication, underneath the caravan and coupling head area, and others.
2). Gas Systems Checks
Gas systems are an important part of any caravan. During servicing, a manometer is used to check for leaks in the gas supply system. To find out whether they are working properly, all gas systems, including the heating system, water heater, fridge, and oven among others are turned on. The vents are inspected to make sure that there are no obstructions. Afterwards, the appliances are turned off at the isolator taps. To indicate that the test has been passed, the FFD (Flame Failure Device) should cut in. All appliances should be turned on for a Carbon Monoxide Room Test. Lastly, all doors and windows should be closed in order to run the Flue Gas Analyser which normally runs for 15mins.
3). Electrical Systems Checks
Anything that runs on electricity is assessed during the checks of the electrical systems. For starters, all external and internal lights are checked to ensure that they are working correctly. A loop test is used to check all sockets. Other caravan components checked here include the battery, microwave, TV socket, fridge, electric hob and consumer unit, and so forth. Residual Current Device (RCD) and MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) are also checked to ensure proper operation.
4). Water Systems Checks
Checking for blockages in the wastewater outlet and leaks on individual taps in the caravan are some of the checks conducted in caravan servicing. When it comes to the toilet, the battery-operated flush is also checked and the valve seal is assessed for proper lubrication.
5). Fire Safety Systems
Fire safety is essential. As such, to ensure that the carbon monoxide detector and smoke alarm are working properly and their replacement dates haven’t passed, both alarms are tested and checked. The housing of your fire blanket, if any, is also checked to ensure that it is secure and the fire extinguisher, if present, is checked to make sure that its expiry date hasn’t passed.
6). Ventilation Checks
Good ventilation is an essential component of a working and fully functional caravan. Fixed vents are checked for obstructions, while roof lights are opened and closed to assess whether they are working as required.
7). Bodywork Checks
These checks involve a visual assessment of the entire bodywork and roof. All windows and doors are also checked to ensure that they are working properly. To ensure that there are no waterproofing issues, a damp test is also conducted. If the check shows a reading between 15 and 20 per cent, additional assessment is needed and another test should be done within 90 days. However, immediate attention may be required if the reading is over 20 per cent, as this points to water ingress issues.
Final Recommendations
Servicing a caravan is a meticulous process that requires the skills and knowledge of a qualified and seasoned professional. RV & Caravan Centre is an MVRL licensed caravan and motor home repairer with over 25 years of experience in this industry and qualified licensed tradesmen.
Please give us a call today on 1800 782 236 to learn more about our caravan servicing or leave an enquiry.
