Learning About Automotive Detailing

Posted on: 28 July 2016

If you've just had the pleasure of buying a new motor home, you're probably feeling that itch to hit the road. But you better put the brakes on your travel plans until you get your hands on a few important items. Whether you're planning a short trip or you're starting your journey as a full-time nomadic RVer, here are five things you must have for your new RV.

Extra Hoses

You'll need several different types of hoses for your motor home, and you'll definitely want to own some of them in doubles.

1. Sewer hose. The distance between your RV and the dump will vary at different camp sites, so be sure to have several sewer hoses of varying lengths. Another reason for owning an extra is because if one should break, you will not want to be without a spare.
2. Water hose. These also come in a variety of lengths, and as with the dump, you never know how far away from your water source you'll be. But one of the most important things to prioritize is getting a water hose that is approved by the government as being safe for drinking water. You'll also need to decide if you want the ability to hook up a water filter. If you do, choose ones that have this function.
3. Propane hose. Your propane tank is rather important, as it will be used to cook food and heat your motor home in the winter. If the hose to the tank cracks, propane can leak, making you sick and becoming an instant fire hazard. And because propane hoses tend to crack more often than you probably think, having a spare will be invaluable.

Safety Equipment

Small amounts of carbon monoxide can leak from propane tanks, and because it's completely odorless and deadly, owning a carbon monoxide detector is vital.

Propane detectors are pretty important, too. Even though detecting a leak is a bit easier—it smells like rotten eggs—leaks can happen quickly from all the bouncing and jarring movements that take place as you travel down the road.

Be sure to also outfit your motor home with an ABC fire extinguisher. These can be used on any type of fire such as electrical, grease, or paper. And lastly, a working smoke alarm is just as important in your motor home as it is in your regular home.  

Dehumidifier

As you know, you'll be living in a pretty small space, whether temporary or permanent. While some motor homes come with bathroom and kitchen fans, the inside humidity levels can accumulate quickly, especially if you're showering frequently, traveling in the summer, or in a humid part of the country. Therefore, owning a quality dehumidifier will work well to maintain a safe level of moisture in the air.

2-Way Y-Valve

Not every campsite you stay at will have double spigots. And when you hook up your water hose to a single line, you're suddenly limited in your outdoor water usage. When you attach a Y-valve, however, now you've got an extra line to use for washing your hands, rinsing off a pan, or attaching a separate hose altogether for recreational use. A 2-way Y-valve will come in quite handy in these instances.

Roadside Assistance Plan

If you've never had roadside assistance for your car because you've always been good with a tire iron, you may want to re-think trying to be the hero with your new motor home. Because special equipment is required and the tires are extremely heavy, most professionals recommend that motor home flats be changed by someone qualified to do this.

Experiencing a flat tire isn't the only thing that can leave you stranded in a strange place; you may break down and need a tow. That's why investing in roadside assistance can really be a life-saver. There are a number of companies that offer plans specifically for motor homes.