RV Repair Tips & Advice

You should inspect your RV roof at least twice a year — once in spring before camping season and once in fall before storage. Additionally, inspect after any major storm or tree contact. Look for cracks, separating seams, lifted caulk, and soft spots that could indicate water intrusion.

The most common causes include corroded battery terminals, a failing converter or inverter, tripped or damaged breakers, worn shore power cords, and faulty wiring connections that vibrate loose over time. Regular inspection of connections and battery health can prevent most electrical issues.

Signs of a failing RV water pump include intermittent operation, unusual loud cycling even when no water is being used, low water pressure, and visible leaks around the pump body. You can test it by turning on a faucet and observing whether the pump maintains consistent pressure.

Winterize your RV before temperatures consistently drop below 32°F (0°C). In most regions, this means late October through November. The exact timing depends on your climate zone. Failing to winterize before a hard freeze can crack water lines, damage the water heater, and ruin the pump.

With proper maintenance — keeping seals lubricated, cleaning the slide floor, and not over-loading it — a slide-out mechanism can last 10–15 years or more. Most slide issues stem from neglected seals that allow water damage, or misalignment caused by leveling the coach on unlevel ground repeatedly.

Annual generator maintenance should include an oil and filter change, spark plug replacement (gas generators), fuel filter replacement, air filter cleaning or replacement, load test, and inspection of the exhaust system. Many manufacturers also recommend a full tune-up every 200–500 hours of use depending on the model.

Minor caulk cracks and small punctures can be DIY-repaired with the appropriate sealant matched to your roof material (rubber EPDM, TPO, fiberglass, or aluminum). However, delamination, large tears, or any damage near vents and A/C units should be assessed by a certified technician to ensure a watertight seal and prevent structural damage.

The most common reasons an RV AC runs without cooling include dirty air filters restricting airflow, low refrigerant (requires a certified technician to service), a failing capacitor on the compressor, or ambient temperature exceeding the unit's rated capacity. Start by cleaning or replacing your air filter and ensuring all vents are unobstructed.

Propane regulators should be visually inspected every season for cracks, corrosion, or debris in the vent hole. They should be replaced every 10 years or sooner if you notice irregular flame behavior, smell of propane near the regulator, or any physical damage. Never attempt to repair a regulator — always replace it.

Most RV water heaters last 10–15 years with proper maintenance, which includes annual anode rod replacement (on models equipped with one), flushing sediment from the tank, and inspecting burner assembly and igniter. Propane/electric combo units tend to outlast propane-only models when the electric element is also maintained.

Improving RV fuel efficiency starts with maintaining proper tire pressure, replacing air filters regularly, and reducing excess weight. For diesel coaches, using quality fuel additives and keeping injectors clean makes a measurable difference. Driving at 55–60 mph instead of 65+ mph can improve mileage by 10–15% depending on the chassis.

Always run your RV generator under at least 50% of its rated load. Running a generator at very low or no load (wet stacking) causes carbon buildup on cylinder walls and valves, reducing efficiency and lifespan. If you need to exercise your generator, run the air conditioner or other high-draw appliances for at least 2 hours per month.