Waking your caravan and motorhome from winter storage
Even though the weather has turned a little colder again, the first signs of spring can no longer be driven away. Crocuses and lily of the valley are starting to bloom, and a few sunny days have already brought a holiday feeling.
So it's time to start getting your caravans and motorhomes ready for the new season!
Here are our tips on what to do and what to look out for at this time of year.
1. Comprehensive check
First, you should thoroughly inspect your caravan or motorhome, both inside and out:
- Are there any damp or mouldy areas in or on the vehicle?
- Is the tyre pressure and tread depth sufficient?
- Are there any signs of tyre damage due to prolonged standing?
- Does the AL-KO VT torsion bar axle – unless the maintenance-free version is fitted – need lubrication for perfect comfort (every 20,000 kilometres or at least every 12 months)?
- Does the vehicle have a valid MOT certificate?
- When is the next gas safety check due?
- Are the lights, fridge, gas system, heating and water heater working?
- What do the wear indicators on the stabiliser coupling (AKS) show? Do the friction pads need replacing?
You should also pay special attention to the overrun device on your caravan:
- Does the handbrake engage correctly?
- Can the drawtube be pushed in and out smoothly?
You can check the first point while hitched and driving slowly; the second by manually manoeuvring forwards and backwards. If there are any faults, the braking system of your caravan must be inspected promptly by a garage.
2. Servicing and care
In the second step, not just the surfaces and storage spaces but also the installations such as the gas hob, heating, cassette toilet and grey water tank should be thoroughly cleaned. The fresh water system should also be carefully disinfected to prevent algae and germs from forming.
Give the exterior a good wash at a suitable washing bay or filling station to give your caravan or motorhome a new shine. The quickest and most effective method is to use a high-pressure rinse followed by a brush. However, make sure you leave out the acrylic windows and only clean them with specially designed products and soft cloths. For stubborn rain streaks, there are dedicated cleaners that can help remove marks – for example, Dometic Clean & Care acrylic glass cleaner.
3. Final preparations before your journey
Once all maintenance and cleaning work has been completed, the enjoyable part comes – getting your motorhome ready for the next holiday.
You should start by having a good rummage: What wasn’t needed last season? Are any pieces of equipment damaged and need replacing? Can heavy items be swapped for lighter alternatives? Are the children still joining the trip, or can two camping chairs stay at home?
Straight afterwards – and hopefully with a bit more free storage space – you can start loading again. If the basic kit was stored elsewhere over the winter, check that everything essential is now back on board. In particular, don't forget your toolbox, mains cable and adapters, levelling chocks, water container, gas bottle, and of course bedding and crockery!
For further suggestions on what to have on board, CamperStyle has put together a checklist of essentials: http://de.camperstyle.net/checkliste-erstausstattung-fur-wohnwagen-reisemobile/
We wish you a fantastic travel season!
