Whether you’re on the road for one week or one year, the importance of caravan maintenance can never be underestimated. Setting out for the first time with a tow vehicle can feel a little daunting.
However, with some organisation and practice, keeping your caravan in good nick can allow you to continue your holiday with better peace of mind.
While it is important for your caravan servicing to be conducted frequently, it is highly recommended that you learn basic maintenance tasks so you can fix minor repairs yourself. For step-by-step instructions on how to complete these tasks, visit our How-to Guide.
In this blog post, we’ll share the top caravan and motorhome maintenance tips for keen explorers ready to travel our spectacular continent.
Basic caravan maintenance tasks to conduct yourself (frequently):
1. Maintain your tyres
Keep an eye on the condition and wear of your caravan tyres and check tyre pressure and tread regularly to ensure they are less prone to punctures during your journey.
2. Keep your caravan clean
This is not only to keep it looking great inside and out, but also to prevent damage caused by dirt, debris, saltwater residue and potential food sources that could attract pests.
3. Check your battery
Look for signs of wear, corrosion or damage, check it is functioning correctly and replace your battery as needed. Charge your battery fully before each trip and ensure it is kept clean and well-ventilated.
4. Prepare for emergencies
Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit, as well as a basic tool kit for minor repairs, a fire extinguisher and a list of emergency contacts (eg. local mechanics, roadside assistance and medical facilities).
5. Practice pest control measures
Rodents and insects can cause damage to your caravan’s wiring and insulation. Use pest deterrents, such as lavender sachets, to keep unwanted critters at bay.
6. Look out for rust
Getting on top of surface rust immediately will save you headaches down the track. Keep your caravan clean and dry and fix any superficial damage to the exterior promptly to prevent rust from forming.
Other basic maintenance checks to do yourself (6-12 monthly):
1. Air vents
Make sure these are not blocked or obstructed. If you notice a strange smell coming from the air conditioning system or any musty dampness in your caravan, contact your local experts as soon as possible.
2. Wheel rims and nuts
Ensure you tighten the wheel nuts on your tow vehicle before, during and after any trip to prevent dangerous accidents from occurring.
3. Window seals
Seals prevent moisture and dirt from getting inside and can be found on your caravan’s doors, windows and roof. These need to be inspected periodically as over time they may crack and need to be replaced.
4. Anode rods
This sacrificial rod is there to prevent rust and corrosion from within the hot water system. Over time this will corrode, but replacing it with a new anode is a simple task, which you can do at home with a few basic tools.
5. Toilet cassette seal
This is the rubber seal around the flap that you open and close to use the loo. You must keep this lubricated – if it dries out it will result in leakage (and nobody wants that!)
6. Drains and pipes
These are smaller than in a house, so they tend to clog up more easily. Cleaning them out will help prevent smells from permeating the inside of your van.
7. Awnings
Check that they are extending and contracting smoothly and that the fabric is clean and free of damage to help prevent mould growth.
Other mould prevention tips
Mould especially likes to grow in the far corners of ceilings and caravan cupboards – and once the spores are there, they can be very hard to get rid of. These simple tasks can help prevent a mould problem from starting and keep all travellers healthy while on the road.
Ensure ventilation – Regularly open all windows and vents to create good airflow throughout the van.
Clean your space – Wipe down all surfaces often (including walls and ceilings) to reduce a buildup of organic matter.
Care for your awning – Keep the awning free of debris and store it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Inspect it regularly for any signs of mould and take action right away.
Dry out the air – Run the heater for 5-10 minutes every few days and use an exhaust fan when showering and cooking.
Use moisture absorbers – Place these in drawers and cupboards to draw out moisture.
Keep fridge/ freezer doors open – This assists proper airflow when the van is not in use.
Worthwhile investments
As well as following our tips listed above, it is also a good idea to invest in some non-essentials for your caravan. For example:
– A quality caravan cover to protect your vehicle against sunlight and unsightly scratches on the windows.
– A battery management system or solar panels, to optimise your battery’s performance and longevity.
– Quality security devices, such as hitch locks, wheel clamps and an alarm system, to protect your caravan from theft.
– A dehumidifier to keep your caravan free of moisture and further prevent mould growth.
Caravan servicing
Just like with your car, you must schedule regular caravan services to maintain optimal performance and safety. Generally, caravans that are newer and more frequently used benefit from an annual caravan service by a professional, whereas older or less-used caravans may extend service intervals.
To find a trusted caravan mechanic, check out the Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s list of qualified and accredited caravan service providers.
1. Book in routine inspections and servicing
This should be done either once a year or every 10,000km (whichever comes first). A full caravan service will usually take around six hours to complete.
2. Get your tyres checked
Have your tyres rotated every 5,000-10,000km to ensure even wear and to prolong the lifespan of your tyres.
3. Monitor and care for your appliances
Have a qualified technician service your fridge, stove and air conditioner every two years, as recommended by Gas Energy Australia.
4. Test your caravan leads
Ensure the leads get visually inspected from time to time to spot any outside cover cuts, as damage in the leads can be potentially hazardous.
5. Make sure your breaks work
You can check for signs of wear on brakes, suspension and bearings yourself, but a professional will need to service the brake discs, pads and calipers every 6-12 months.
6. Caravan repairs and other vital checks
These include the chassis, electrical system and any gas leaks.
Storing your caravan
Your caravan should be properly stored when not in use. Here’s how:
– A concrete driveway or blocks work well, with a wheel chock to keep your caravan in place and secure.
– The ground your caravan sits on must be level in order to keep your gas fridge working optimally.
– Storing your caravan under a carport or inside a shed or garage will help keep it clean and hidden from the elements.
– Fully recharge your battery when returning from each trip to ensure your next holiday doesn’t begin with the disappointment of a flat or damaged battery.
– Drain any water from your caravan and water heater.
– Remove any gas bottles, food and other perishable items prior to storing your caravan.
No matter where you’re travelling to in your home on wheels, we want you to be safe and spare you any unexpected (and costly) private repairs on your journey.
Now that you have completed this caravan maintenance checklist, it’s time to pack your bags and hit the road! Relax and enjoy your next adventure – you deserve this special time.
For all your caravan restoration and protection needs to keep your vehicle in prime condition, browse through our full range of services here or call to talk to someone from our friendly team!
