Caravan Maintenance

Preparing Your Holiday Caravan for Winter Storage:

• Turn off the LPG gas supply at the cylinder
• Turn off water supply at the stop tap
• Open drain off outlets under the floor
• Open all hot and cold taps
• Remove drain off screw from the water heater using a bucket to catch any drops of water. Store the screw safely. Refer to the drain off instructions for a combi boiler central heating system in your owner’s handbook and ensure that thermostatic mixer valves in the showers have been drained correctly in accordance with the instructions
• Flush the toilet(s)
• Once the water has drained close all drain off outlets and taps.
• Pour anti-freeze into the toilet pan, U bend, sink basin and shower waste traps. Avoid spillage.
• Frost Protection Schemes (drain down and reconnection services) are offered by several local Gas Engineers if preferred, please contact us for further information.
• Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances.
• Remove all food. Thoroughly vacuum all carpets and vinyl to remove any traces of food, and empty the vacuum cleaner.
• Wipe all kitchen surfaces clean.
• Check locks and hinges and lubricate if necessary.
• Thoroughly inspect the caravan externally, check panel seams and ensure any loose panel screws are tightened to help prevent leaks. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening over time.
• Clear external gutters of any leaf matter or other debris.
• Secure or store away outdoor furniture and accessories to avoid loss or damage in winter storms.
• Close and secure all windows ensuring curtains are not trapped and hanging freely.
• It is advisable to place cushions and mattresses separately on end or on edge to allow a free movement of air around them. Where cushions may be then exposed to direct winter sunlight a dust sheet or similar cover will help protect against fading of the fabric.
• Open all interior doors and drawers to allow a free flow of air to all parts of the caravan. This helps to eliminate pockets of warm / cold air that could act as natural dehumidifiers and attract condensation.
• Finally secure all exterior doors.
• If you visit your caravan during the winter period, it is advisable not to warm the caravan up using the gas fire or to boil a kettle. This will produce warm moisture laden air which may condense when the caravan cools and could lead to mould problems on fabrics and wall boards.

Preparing Your Holiday Caravan at the Start of the Season:

• Thoroughly inspect the caravan inside and out. Protect your investment by carrying out regular inspection and maintenance, addressing any issues promptly, which will prevent them worsening over time.  We recommend at least twice a year, during the spring and autumn, when the seasons change.
• Check all locks on doors and windows to ensure that they are functioning correctly, particularly if they are on designated escape routes. Lubricate all door looks in accordance with instructions in the owner’s handbook. (It is recommended that lock cylinders be lubricated every 6 months.)
• Check all smoke, carbon monoxide alarms and batteries to ensure that they are operational and replace devices as needed by their expiry date.
• Externally check that all caravan supports are in place and that anchoring chains are secure.
• Before turning on the water supply reconnect all exterior pipes, drain off cocks and the water heater drain off plug. Close all taps and turn on the water slowly and check externally and internally for leaks until the pipe work is filled and pressurised.
• Check the gas appliances visually and look for any discolouration of the flames or uneven heating. Your owner’s handbook will strongly recommend an annual inspection by a Gas Safe registered engineer to service your gas appliances and ensure their continued safe operation.
• The outside of the caravan may be cleaned using a mild solution of detergent and water or specialist caravan cleaning solution. Do not use polishes, abrasive or solvent based cleaners as some of these may affect the finish and use water at a low pressure from a garden hose, do not use a pressure washer that can force water through vents and seams.