In the world of recreational vehicles (RVs), there are countless tips and tricks that seasoned RVers swear by. A recent YouTube video delved into three often-overlooked yet crucial aspects that every RV owner should consider. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Preparing for Power and Water Outages: The video begins with a common scenario: waking up at a campground to find no power. The host, Ross, who has been RVing for seven years, emphasizes the importance of always having a backup water supply.
By simply adding 5 or 10 gallons of fresh water to your tank before traveling, you ensure access to water for emergencies. This water can be used for basic needs like washing hands or using the bathroom. Once at the campground, even if using city water connections, filling up the fresh water tank provides a reserve in case of outages.
2. Proper Black Tank Maintenance: The black tank, which holds wastewater, often has remnants even after being emptied. Ross demonstrates a rinsing method using the Rhino Blaster Pro, a product designed to backfill and rinse the black tank.
He emphasizes the importance of using a dedicated hose for waste-related tasks and a separate one for fresh water. Ross also highlights the effectiveness of tank treatments, debunking myths about potential sludge buildup. By regularly maintaining and rinsing the black tank, he has kept his sensors working perfectly for seven years.
3. Safety Underneath Slide-Outs: Slide-outs enhance the living space in an RV but come with their own set of challenges. They are at an ideal height to potentially harm small children, pets, or even adults who might need to access areas underneath.
Ross advises checking for sharp edges underneath slide-outs and bending them to prevent injuries. He also recommends regularly inspecting any wiring or hoses that move with the slide-outs to ensure they are in good condition.
Additional Tips: Beyond the main topics, Ross introduces the RV Snap Jacks, designed for scissor stabilizer jacks on travel trailers. Made from 100% recycled tire rubber, they offer more stability and protect against wear and tear.
He also suggests a time-saving modification for those whose water hoses connect inside their RVs: using quick disconnects for faster setup.
Watch the video above to learn more about his tips.