Last Updated on October 8, 2024
Owning an RV can be an exhilarating experience, providing the freedom to explore the open road and connect with nature. However, there are certain pitfalls that can turn your dream adventure into a nightmare if you're not careful. From water mishaps to tool mix-ups, avoiding these common mistakes can save you a lot of hassle and expense. We found a great video showing things you should never do to your RV.
1. Flush Your Water Filter Before Use
It's easy to assume that once you've connected your water filter, hose, and pressure regulator, you're all set to enjoy clean water in your RV. However, if it's a new filter, you must flush it out first. Simply connect the filter to a hose and let water run through it a few times to remove any debris. Skipping this step could mean introducing unwanted particles into your RV's water system. Imagine thinking you're filtering out impurities, only to inject a bunch of gunk into your water supply—yikes!
2. Use the Right Tool for the Job
You might think that an impact driver and a drill driver are interchangeable, but they serve different purposes. Using an impact driver on your RV's stabilizers, for example, can cause damage due to its high torque. Instead, use a drill driver to avoid any unnecessary wear and tear. Plus, an impact driver can be pretty noisy—your campground neighbors will thank you for using a quieter tool!
3. Retract Your Awning in Windy Conditions
Leaving your awning out in windy or heavy rain conditions can lead to it being shredded to pieces. While it might be tempting to leave it out for some shade, the risk of it getting destroyed is not worth it. If it's an electric awning, your neighbors can't help you retract it, so you're on your own. Just imagine coming back from a hike to find your awning flapping like a flag in a storm—not a pretty sight!
4. Secure Items Inside Your Cabinets
Unsecured items in your cabinets can turn into projectiles when you're on the road. While bins and torsion bars can help, they can be cumbersome. A better solution is to use magnetic child safety locks. These locks keep your cabinets securely closed, preventing any unwanted surprises when you open them. Who knew that a simple magnet could save you from a cascade of falling dishes?
5. Properly Strap Down Your Propane Tank
Transporting a propane tank without properly securing it is a recipe for disaster. Bungee cords and milk crates might seem like quick fixes, but they don't offer the stability you need. A good strap will keep your tank in place, even if you hit the brakes hard. Plus, who wants to deal with a rogue propane tank rolling around in the back of their truck? Not you, that's for sure!
Make sure you watch the full video for more details:
