Owning an RV opens up a world of adventure, but between Texas’ brutal heat and unexpected critter invasions, these vehicles endure constant wear and tear. David Yonts, manager at Texas RV Service and Repairs, shares tips on how a little preventative care can go a long way in keeping your RV in top shape.
Furnace Protection
A common winter issue RV owners face is insect infestation in their furnace. “Your furnace has a vent that goes outside, and mud daubers love to live there,” he says. “When you start your furnace in the winter and it doesn’t work, it’s often because something has nested inside the vent.” He suggests installing screens over the exhaust vent. These inexpensive covers keep insects and debris from clogging the system, ensuring your furnace operates smoothly when you need it most.
Water Heater Maintenance
One of the most overlooked yet essential maintenance tasks is servicing the water heater. Many warranty companies require proof of regular upkeep, making this an especially important step for RV owners. A good rule of thumb is to have the water heater inspected and serviced twice a year to prevent leaks, mineral buildup, and inefficiencies that could impact its performance.
Roof Inspections
An RV’s roof is constantly exposed to the elements, and the relentless Texas sun can take a serious toll on its condition. Over time, heat exposure can cause the caulking around transition points, doors, and seams to deteriorate. Once cracks form, water can seep in, leading to significant structural damage. A thorough roof inspection in the fall can help catch early signs of wear before leaks develop. Checking the caulking and resealing any weak spots can prevent water intrusion, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to a rotting floor and the need for an expensive full-floor replacement. “A lot of people don’t realize that once the caulking breaks down, water can seep into the structure,” David says. “Before they know it, they’ve got a weak floor, and by then it’s too late – the floor is rotting and needs a full replacement.”
AC Care
Neglecting AC maintenance can lead to serious and expensive issues. Many RV owners assume if their unit isn’t cooling properly, it simply needs more refrigerant. In reality, a dirty evaporator core is often to blame.
During the winter, when the AC isn’t in use, dust and even small pests can settle inside the unit. By spring, debris buildup can restrict airflow, causing the system to work harder than necessary. Without proper cleaning, this strain can lead to compressor failure, requiring a complete AC unit replacement rather than a simple repair. “People don’t realize that if they leave their AC dirty like that, they’re risking bigger problems like compressor failure,” David explains. “And in an RV, once the compressor goes bad, you have to replace the whole unit.”
To avoid these issues, it’s best to schedule a thorough AC cleaning before the summer heat sets in.
SMALL MAINTENANCE, BIG SAVINGS
Many RV owners hesitate to spend money on regular maintenance, but ignoring small issues often leads to more expensive repairs in the long run. “If people stay up with their preventative maintenance, they’ll save themselves a lot of headaches down the road,” David says. “A lot of people think they don’t need to spend the money and then they end up spending twice as much to fix a bigger problem.” By keeping up with routine maintenance, you can avoid costly surprises and ensure your RV is always road-ready for your next adventure.
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