Caravans require regular caravan maintenance and repair Adelaide to prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs. Regular spot checks should be conducted before, during, and after the trip to monitor what might go wrong.
Check tyres for signs of wear and rim damage and ensure the handbrake is working as intended before testing all electrics and gases.
Brakes
Caravan brakes must be kept in reasonable condition to avoid dangerous swaying and regularly checked and adjusted. Furthermore, regular caravan and motorhome service visits ensure vital fluids such as brake oil are topped up when necessary.
Caravans and trailers have an over-run braking system, which activates when your towing vehicle applies the brakes. While there may be a natural delay between brake application and caravan activation, more than one second may indicate that something is amiss with either its setup or dampers that need adjustment – and may indicate problems within either.
Suspension
Like your car’s suspension system, caravan suspension can suffer wear and tear as you tow your caravan over uneven terrain. Therefore, regular caravan maintenance and repair Adelaide checks on its suspension are essential.
Signs that your suspension may be damaged include sudden lunging forward upon stopping and rolling sensation during turning, suspension swaying that could potentially lead to significant accidents if left unchecked, and repair needs to be performed immediately.
Electrical
Caravans feature electrical systems that power everything from lights to appliances. At caravan servicing visits, these systems are carefully examined to ensure they operate effectively and safely.
Faulty electrical connections, blown fuses, and other issues can lead to dimming lights or total electrical failure – and an experienced caravan service technician is trained in fixing them quickly and effectively.
Water ingress is another issue requiring repair. Moisture can wreak havoc with interior furnishings and lead to mould and structural deterioration, so regular draining of the water system and dehumidifiers can help reduce moisture levels in caravans. To further mitigate moisture issues, it may also be wise to cover them when not being used with breathable covers to help prevent condensation, as this will protect both exteriors from weather damage and provide peace of mind when not travelling.
Gas
Caravans come equipped with various gas appliances connected via regulator and hose to the caravan gas tank. These items require regular maintenance to avoid leaks. Furthermore, installing a carbon monoxide alarm as an added safety measure is advisable. Carbon monoxide is an odourless, poisonous gas that accumulates quickly in enclosed spaces; high concentrations can cause brain damage or death.
Water
While more serious caravan plumbing issues should be left to professionals, many minor problems can be handled or reduced by caravan owners themselves. It may include ensuring water hoses work effectively, shower and toilet fixtures flush correctly, and appliances drain and operate effectively.
Caravan owners should empty their water tanks on each trip’s final leg before returning home to prevent cracked taps and bacteria contamination of their freshwater supply. They should also regularly clean and sanitise their tanks, especially during winter when they may go unused for extended periods.
A good quality caravan service should include a damp test, a general inspection of all appliances and tents/awnings, and checking water tanks, plumbing and electrical systems. The brakes will also be checked, ensuring that the pads are in good condition and that the discs and callipers are free of cracks and damage. The tyres will be inspected as well, looking for signs of wear and ensuring that they are at the correct pressure for the terrain you are travelling on.
You should also make sure to clean your caravan regularly to keep it looking great and to protect it from the elements. Use a mild detergent and a soft brush to remove dirt, and then apply a good quality wax or sealant to protect the paintwork from UV rays and other environmental pollutants. It is a good idea to do this once a year or at least once every other year.