How to Prepare your Caravan for Storage

 So, you’ve just returned from the last trip of the season, and selected a secure storage site for your caravan. Is it as simple as leaving your van in its plot, or do you need to do some prep work before storing it away for winter?

The answer is yes, there are some things you’ll need to do. And here’s our guide:

·         GAS

Gas cylinders should be disconnected or removed from your caravan. If your caravan is going into a storage facility, check the gas cylinder policy.

·         BODYWORK

Give your caravan a thorough clean using suitable cleaning products for each type of surface (walls, windows, metalwork). Consider using a wax coating product to protect the exterior.

·         ELECTRICS

You’ll need to take a look at your car to caravan13-pin or 12N/12S connectors for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Wipes the electrical contacts over and spray with WD-40 to protect against water damage. 

·         BATTERY

If your leisure battery isn’t needed to run your caravan alarm system, it’s best to remove it and store in a cool, dry place. You can then top it up at home, when necessary. Don’t forget to remove batteries from other electrical items in your caravan too. Check out this post for leisure battery maintenance advice.

 ·         WINDOWS

Give all the windows a check to make sure the rubber seal is in good condition.

·         AWNING

After every use, your caravan awning should be cleaned and dried thoroughly. Make sure it’s completely dry before storing somewhere dry.

·         COVER

You may want to cover your caravan to protect it during the winter months. This blog post has more information.

·         WATER

Remove any filters from your system to prevent any remaining water held from freezing during the colder months.

You’ll need to open all taps including the shower. If you’ve got a lever control it’ll need to be moved to a central position between hot and cold. Put a plug in any sinks, and open the caravan’s drain taps.

Refer your caravan model’s manual to check how to drain down the water heater. 

·         TOILET

Your toilet will need flushing and emptying. Refer to manufacturers guide for specifics.

·         TYRES

Your caravan should be stored on a level plot, with corner steadies lowered. If you can, place chocks under the wheels.

If possible, turn the wheels to avoid them being in one position for long periods of time. This can be achieved by moving the caravan back and forth, or jacking it up to rotate each wheel.

·         FRIDGE

Ensure you remove everything from your fridge/freezer and clean it out. Make sure doors are left ajar so that air can circulate.

·         INTERIOR / FURNISHINGS /BLINDS

Leave your caravan interior ready for the next season ahead of time by giving it a thorough clean before storage.

Ideally, remove upholstery and store somewhere warm and dry to keep it damp free and not on view to potential thieves.

Blinds are best left open to prevent strain on the springs.

·         VENTILATION 

Any air vents should be left uncovered so that air can inside around the caravan. You may even want to consider a dehumidifier or some moisture adsorbing crystals.

·         SECURITY

All valuables should be removed from your caravan whilst in storage.

Hitch locks and wheel clamps are useful deterrents to potential thieves, but remember to check both your insurance policy and storage conditions for any specific requirements.

Caravan Tyres - 10 Things you should know

Like car tyres, caravan tyres are equally as important and it is vital that they are properly maintained so that they do what they need to do – carry the load of your caravan and grip the road.

Here are 10 things you need to know to help you stay safe whilst towing your caravan:

1. Caravan tyres may not specifically be made for caravans – they’ll either be made for cars or small vans.
2. Every tyre will have a load rating, or load index. If a caravan has a maximum weight (MTPLM) of 1600kg, each wheel must carry half this load – 800kg. Caravan manufacturers will apply a safety margin on around 20% so the tyres then have a rating of 960kg.This will then equate to a load index (see table below). As you can see, a load rating of 960kg will equate to a load index of 106.
3. Information on the load and speed rating is marked on the side of the tyre. Equal size tyres should be used across an axle, as well as the spare.

   

   Please note, this is intended as a guide. Please refer to manufacturer guidance

4. Make sure that tyres aren’t overloaded, and that the load is spread evenly around the caravan, and as low down as possible. Even when the MTPLM is not exceeded, a poorly distributed load can lead to overloaded tyres.
5. It is essential that the tread is checked to make sure there is plenty of wear left. Markings on the tyres will show that they are correct for caravans, as well as indicating how old the tyre is. However, like all tyres, caravan tyres may deteriorate over time due to factors other than use. Sunlight, pollution, and even lack of use can cause damage. It is recommended that caravan tyres are renewed every 5 years, regardless of how many miles have been driven.
6. The year of manufacture for the tyre will usually be marked on the tyre. The last 3 or 4 digits will signify this. For example, a code ending is 399 will indicate the tyre was made in March 1999. A code ending in 3502 signifies the tyre was manufactured in the 35^th week of 2002.
7. The legal minimum tread on caravan tyres is 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tread breadth around the entire circumference of the tyre.
8. With new caravans, the correct inflation pressure will be given in the handbook. However, if your caravan is second hand, it may be indicated on the wheel arch. Pressure should always be checked when tyres are cold.
9. Under or over inflation of tyres is extremely important. Under inflation can reduce grip and consequently increase breaking distance. Conversely, over inflation reduces the amount of tyre in contact with the road causing uneven wear and reduced control over braking and cornering.
10. If you are planning to store your caravan for a prolonged period of time, it is worthwhile removing the wheels and tyres to prevent deterioration. However, you will need to check that this doesn’t invalidate your caravan insurance. If they must be left on, rotate them regularly so that the full weight of the caravan doesn’t rest on the same area of the tyre all the time.

And don’t forget, whilst you can perform all these checks yourself, it's always advisable to get your caravan serviced regularly by a qualified engineer.

Summer Caravan Care

With summer approaching and the weather improving it’s more than likely that you’ll be wanting to spend more time out and about in your caravan or motorhome.

If your vehicle has been in storage over the winter months, or just not in use for a month or two, there are some important maintenance checks that ought to be carried out before departing for your next trip. The last thing you’d want is to be left without electricity because a quick equipment check was skipped before you left.

Basic checks

A few basic checks carried out prior to departure can help to ensure a trouble free getaway:

Tyres 

Make sure that tyres on both your caravan and tow car are at the correct pressure, and that they are not cracked or damaged. Under inflated tyres can lead to poor vehicle handling and also require more fuel to maintain the same speed.

Battery

Some older models are prone to power leak so it’s best to double check your battery is fully charged.

Smoke Alarm & carbon monoxide detector

Check that these are working and replace if necessary.

Breakaway cable & fastenings

A visual check will ensure that both are working correctly. It is also worthwhile checking the leads and pulls that are used to tow your caravan to check for any damage that could potentials weaken the connection during your journey.

Door & window latches

Check to ensure that seals have not deteriorated whilst in storage and that latches are fully operational.

Jockey wheel & handbrake

Test to make sure that both are functioning properly. Check for corrosion, wear and tear and corrosion.

Internal appliances

Check that gas and electrical connections are working properly, and that the fridge, cooker and heater all work.

Electrics

Check that brake lights, indicators, reverse lights, parking lights and side lights are all working, clean and free from mud and grime.

These checks needn't be time consuming and may ensure you can enjoy your holiday without any surprises! All that’s left to do is make sure your caravan insurance is up to date, stock up with food and water and enjoy your getaway!

Caravan Service Checklist

Whilst MOT style testing for caravans and is not mandatory, it’s always worthwhile taking a few minutes to carry out some simple checks on your caravan to make sure it’s safe and road worthy, and ready for your next trip away.

Taking good care of your caravan throughout the year will help to reduce the likelihood of potential problems – have a look at our blog post about preparing your caravan for winter.

Regular maintenance of electrics, water systems, body work and the interior can ensure that your caravan stays in the best possible condition for as long as possible.

Some quick checks that you can perform yourself include:

• Tyre pressure & condition
• Wheel rims & wheel nut tightness
• Breakaway cable & clip condition
• Coupling head greasing or if stabiliser hitch head is fitted, check the friction pad wear.
• Condition of gas hoses and connections
• Ventilation & gas vents 
• Battery
• Road lights & connections
• 12N, 12S (7-pin) or 13-pin connection cables, plugs & sockets
• RCD cut-out test switch
• Water hoses and connections

Prior to any maintenance work remember to check your caravan handbook for any specific advice, and it may also be worth checking manufacturer advice for any additional equipment you may have had fitted.

It is highly recommended that a comprehensive caravan service is carried out on a yearly basis. This will not only ensure your safety, but could potentially expose problems which if left, could be dangerous and could result in costly repairs in the long run.

A service, which should be carried out by a qualified engineer, should cover the following:

• Hitch head coupling
• Chassis
• Bodywork
• Damp test
• Tyres
• Brakes 
• Suspension
• Handbrake
• Road electrics & Appliance electrics
• Gas system & appliances
• Water system & Toilet

If you store your caravan at an accredited storage site, there may be a regular service engineer who visits. Alternatively, visit www.approvedworkshops.co.uk to find an Approved Workshop in your area.

Read this on our website. 

Preparing your Caravan for Winter

As summer is coming to an end you may be thinking about preparing your caravan for the winter, so that when you’re ready to get back out on the road again next year its ready to go and in full working order.

Whether you’re going to store your caravan in a secure storage facility or on your driveway, there are a number of things you can do to ready your tourer for hibernation.
Body Work

Whether you are plan to use a cover, overwintering wax coating or store you unit indoors, a thorough cleaning of your caravan is vital to help protect your van and also give you the opportunity to inspect the bodywork for any damage that may have occurred.

Make sure that you use ‘caravan friendly’ products which have been specially formulated for use on caravans, and whilst power washers are great for getting rid of tough dirt, be careful that their strength doesn’t damage bodywork and seals. Always ensure that any signs of green or black mould are removed, as leaving over the winter period may result in permanent marking.

DON’T OVERREACH ON LADDERS & TAKE CARE WHEN CLEANING THE ROOF – WHICH MAY NOT APPRECIATE YOUR WEIGHT ON IT!

Tyres

Ideally, tyres shouldn’t be left standing on the same piece of tread for long periods. Think about turning the wheels every two months and make sure tyre pressures are correct at the same time. To shield tyres from sunlight consider using ‘winter wheels’ – clamps that prevent degradation of the rubber, but be aware that these may not meet required criteria for some caravan insurance policies.

Exterior Fittings

• Check any car to caravan connectors (12N, 12S, 13pin) for signs of damage or wear, and wipe electrical contacts with petroleum jelly or water dispersant such as WD-40.
• Any moving mechanical linkages or parts (corner steadies’, rotating screws, etc) will benefit from an application of grease.
• Check and clean any exterior light fittings – remove and wipe the lens and seals before checking any electrical connections and replace if necessary.
• Interiors
• Keep fridge door ajar using latches to prevent mildew build-up.
• Leave spring loaded blinds in the open position – leaving closed for a prolonged length of time may stretch the springs.
• Remove cushions from the caravan and store somewhere dry and well ventilated – or in an upright position, away from caravan walls if leaving in situ. This will help air to circulate and prevent mildew occurring.
• Leave fixed beds in the open position to aid air circulation.
• Wash and vacuum throughout the interior of the caravan. As well as getting everywhere thoroughly clean, you can check to make sure nothing’s been forgotten and left in the back of a cupboard or seat base.
• Use cleaning products designed for caravans as domestic cleaning fluids may cause damage to the materials used in caravans.
• Leave locker and wardrobe doors open, and make sure roof lights and windows are closed.
• Use a water dispersant such as WD-40 or thin oil to coat hinges and protect against rust.

Toilets

• Cassette toilets should be drained and cleaned, and flush as much water as possible through the system and into the cassette waste tank.
• Remove the waste tank, empty and clean it out.
• The valve blade which seals the toilet from the waste tank should be cleaned with a seal lubricant (not petroleum jelly or vegetable oil), before leaving partially open to prevent it sticking shut.

Water Systems

• Fully drain down the water system to protect against frost damage. Even a small amount of water trapped in a tap head can cause expensive damage.
• Open all the taps and remove the shower head
• Open all drain valves and remove drainage plugs (including any external plugs)
• Remove any filters and store in a safe place for sterilising next season
• Run the on-board pump (if you have one) to clear if of water. It is best to check your handbook for more details on this. The external pump can be shaken free of water.
• Drain any portable water containers and allow it to dry out to prevent mould growth.

Electrics

• If you are leaving a battery unit in your caravan make sure that it is isolated from all 12V equipment using its isolation switch or disconnect it. Alternatively, leave all interior electrical items in the ‘off’ position and disconnect any plugs.
• Unfortunately, even when a battery has been disconnected, it will still discharge over time. If possible, remove the battery unit and take it home to charge periodically.
• If your caravan has a security system or tracker, it will need a source of power which will mean leaving your battery in situ. If this is the case, you will need to charge it onsite or have a replacement to swap over.
• Ideally, you should try to periodically power up your heating system – by hooking your caravan up to a 230V electricity source -throughout the winter. This will not only keep your battery in good condition, but may help to prevent mildew build-up and damp.

Gas

Valves on top of gas cylinders should be closed, or the regulators disconnected from the cylinders. Caps should be fitted over the ends of any open pipework.

If you are putting your caravan into storage you will need to check their gas cylinder policy, as some prohibit the storage of cylinders with your unit.

Ideally, cylinders should be stored in the open air rather than in a shed or garage, as in the event of fire, the fire service will be unaware of their presence. Whether you store the cylinder in the dedicated gas locker of your unit or in the open air, they should be at least two metres from open drains, away from cellar openings and buildings. They should be kept away from heat and ignitable, corrosive, toxic or oxidant materials.

Covering your Caravan
There are two options when it comes to protecting the exterior of your caravan over the winter; a breathable cover or an exterior protector fluid which creates a defensive coating.

Covers should be breathable and soft enough not to damage your bodywork, but tough enough to provide robust protection. When purchasing, look for reinforcements where sharp ends of roof join strips and awning rails will protrude.

Protective waxy coatings are less expensive and will wash off easily after winter, in part due to natural degradation.

In essence, you will get what you pay for with cover protection. From low cost protector fluids to custom made, premium covers, look at your cover as a sacrificial item – covers are cheaper to replace than caravan bodywork.

Top Tips

• Consider getting your caravan serviced prior to hibernation by an industry-recognised service centre, as they are usually less busy during the winter.

• Whether you’re storing your caravan at home or at a storage site, it is well worth returning periodically to let some air circulate by opening windows and roof lights.

• For additional security, even if only to act as a visual deterrent, you may want to fit hitchlocks or wheelclamps. These may also be required by your insurer.

• Prior to any winter preparation work remember to check your caravan handbook for any specific advice, and it may also be worth checking manufacturer advice for any additional equipment you may have had fitted.

It is well worth considering storing your caravan at a secure storage facility. CaSSOA (Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association) represent over 500 accredited storage sites across the UK, all of which are independently assessed for a range of security features including CCTV, perimeter fencing, access control and on-site facilities.

For more information about secure caravan storage please visit www.cassoa.co.uk.

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