A caravan can be a great choice for anyone who enjoys camping but not necessarily sleeping in a tent, and a caravan is also an affordable way for the entire family to enjoy a holiday together. While a high-quality caravan may last for years, the way you maintain that caravan will often affect its overall lifespan and durability. Note a few tips to keep in mind and that can help you to properly maintain your caravan over time.
Rust
Metal rusts when it's exposed to water and oxygen, and certain chemicals that may also cause corrosion. This is why it's good to wash down your caravan after a beach or winter holiday to remove all sand that is holding water against the caravan's metal frame, road salt and the like and then be sure you allow the caravan to dry thoroughly. You might even spray the underside of the caravan with a rust inhibitor on occasion, to also help avoid early and unnecessary corrosion.
If you do notice rust forming anywhere on the caravan, including along screws and other connectors, have this repaired immediately, so that it doesn't spread. Sand down small amounts of rust and use a metal filler as needed, and replace damaged connectors. If the rusted areas are too large for a simple sanding, have a caravan repair shop address this damage for you.
Water tanks
There are additives you can put into a caravan's black water tank to help break down solid waste and make it easier to empty that tank as needed. You might also clean the inside of the fresh water and grey water tanks using a simple mixture of white vinegar and water or even with a baby bottle sterilizer. This can make the water inside the tanks safe for use while also reducing the amount of algae and other contaminants that might form in those tanks and their connecting hoses.
Rotate the tyres
As with your vehicle, a caravan's tyres should be rotated regularly, so that they don't suffer uneven wear and tear, as uneven tyres can cause the caravan to pull or drag. Rotating the tyres also gives you a chance to inspect them for excessive wear, and the need to be repaired or replaced. High-quality tyres in good repair will help to keep your caravan steady on the road, and also protect its axle and framework from being bent, so that your caravan may need fewer repairs over the years.
For more assistance with these and other maintenance needs, contact local caravan services.
