We’ve seen and heard some RV maintenance myths circulating the community lately. Few things are more frustrating than seeing people buy into these lies.
If you’re not careful, you could fall for one of them and cause more harm than good to your rig. However, you can separate fact from fiction with the proper knowledge.
Today, we’re busting five RV maintenance stories you may see online or hear in campgrounds.
Let’s get going!
What Are RV Maintenance Myths?
An RV maintenance myth is an inaccurate statement or idea about how to care for a camper. Generally, these pieces of fake news get passed from one individual to the next, like gossip in a middle school.
Many believe them because they came from a trusted source. On the other hand, some folks don’t know any better and continue to share them.
Knowing how to care for your rig correctly is incredibly important. Believing bogus advice could endanger yourself, others, and your camper. We don’t want to see you or anyone else trusting any RV maintenance myths. Doing your research will help you determine what’s fact and what’s fiction. In addition, you can help stop these fallacies from circulating.
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5 RV Maintenance Myths
Some RV maintenance myths have more significant implications than others. Here are a few of the most recent ones traveling through groups and posts.
#1 RV Maintenance is Expensive
Unfortunately, this is one of the most common RV maintenance myths we’ve seen in our years of traveling. Are there expensive tasks? Absolutely. Some jobs, especially those outside your expertise, are better left to a professional. Hiring them to do the work can cost you a pretty penny. But while that’s the case sometimes, it’s not always true.
If you pay someone to handle all your upkeep, the expenses will add up quickly. However, doing it yourself can save you a ton of money.
You may have to buy tools or equipment initially, but they’ll probably pay for themselves over time. Make sure you buy the right supplies the first time, or you could waste more than you’re saving.
#2 RV Maintenance is Hard
Many owners also believe the RV maintenance myth that every task is beyond their capabilities. You don’t have to be a master mechanic to work on your rig. Sure, it might help, but it’s not a requirement.
With the right tools, a little patience, and access to YouTube, there’s not much you can’t handle.
Throughout the years, we’ve learned quite a bit from the Internet. It might surprise you how much help you’ll find by searching YouTube for a few keywords. With content creators sharing their knowledge, the sky’s the limit. You can get a high-quality education on care and repairs.
More RV Myths: Which One of These RV Myths Did You Believe Before Hitting the Road?
#3 You Don’t Need to Inspect Your RV When You’re Not Using It
Another myth we hear from time to time is that inspections aren’t necessary during the off-season. Some owners winterize their rigs, put them in storage, and forget about them until warmer temperatures in spring. However, if you buy into this false narrative, it can spell disaster. After all, discovering damage isn’t how you want to start the camping season.
To avoid an unpleasant surprise, keep a close eye on your investment. Whether you’re using it or not, you should inspect it regularly.
Many warranties require inspecting and maintaining seals every 30 to 90 days. If you fail to do so, you could have a warranty claim denied. You might end up footing the bill for any repairs.
#4 Bug Screens Attract Bugs
Some owners add bug screens onto the side of their campers. These devices effectively keep insects and critters from forming nests inside them. Unfortunately, we’ve heard many buy into the RV maintenance myth that these attract bugs instead of keeping them out.
This rumor probably started when owners discovered nests on the screens after installation. However, it’s likely that the insects already had a hive nearby and were away when the owner put in the mesh. When the bugs returned, they started making a new home close to their old one.
When installed correctly, these screens are great at keeping bugs out. While they don’t require much maintenance, you should inspect them occasionally to prevent any issues. It’s better to catch problems before they become severe.
#5 Buying New Means Less Maintenance
Our final RV maintenance myth is that new models need less upkeep than used. Unfortunately, this isn’t just a fable. It’s a straight-up lie.
We encourage you to run away from any salesperson who tries to convince you it’s true. Not only do new rigs require care, they can sometimes demand more.
While manufacturers and dealers do pre-delivery inspections, they don’t catch everything. Issues can present themselves once you take your new camper out for your first adventure. Although they’re often minor, it’s normal to discover a few imperfections during these trips. Just make sure you have them addressed while it’s still under warranty.
Understand your RV’s maintenance needs with RV Care and Maintenance.
RV Maintenance Myths are Busted
Now that you know some of the most common RV maintenance myths, you can better understand what to look and listen for. Don’t make the mistake of believing everything you hear.
We encourage you and others in the community to do your research. This will help keep you, your rig, and others safe. Plus, it can save you from serious headaches down the road!
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