wpblogtesting

Tag: RV Repair

  • Repairing RV Water Damage: Stains, Mold, and More

    Repairing RV Water Damage: Stains, Mold, and More

    RV life on the road is a proverbial roller coaster. One minute you’re enjoying a cup of morning coffee with a view of the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys. And the next minute? You’re drying the floor with beach towels, wondering where in the world the water is coming from. Sounds far-fetched, but that’s what happened in my first RV. Even with a major RV water damage scare like that, my love for this life is still as strong as ever. My wife and I are now well into year six of RV life, and we are on our fourth rig.

    For most situations, we have found that with some know-how and a bit of elbow grease, you can tackle many of these problems head-on and keep your RV in tip-top shape. But we have also realized that in some cases, getting a professional is the best option for the job.

    What can you do yourself, and how do you tell when it’s time to call for help? Here’s a guide to dealing with mold and water damage in your RV.

     

    Recognizing the Signs of Water Damage

    First comes water. Then comes damage. Then comes mold throughout the RV carriage. If you went back and sang that like I did, then you are my kind of people. In all seriousness though, that is the essential order for this process, so we start with the water.

    Water damage can sneak up on you if you’re not paying close attention. What starts as a small leak can quickly turn into a bigger problem, especially if it goes unnoticed. Here are some common signs:

    Common Signs of RV Water Damage
    1. Discoloration or Stains: Water stains on the ceiling, walls, or floors are often the first indicators of a leak. If you notice dark or discolored patches, it’s time to investigate.

    2. Soft Spots: Walk around your RV and press on the walls, floor, and ceiling. If you find any soft or spongy areas, this could indicate water damage beneath the surface.

    3. Musty Odor: Mold loves damp, dark spaces. If you detect a musty smell, it’s a strong sign that there’s moisture trapped somewhere, and mold could already be taking hold.

    4. Peeling Wallpaper or Paint: Water can cause adhesives to break down, leading to peeling wallpaper or bubbling paint. If you see these signs, there’s likely moisture behind the scenes.

    5. Warped or Buckled Materials: Wood or laminate flooring that is buckling, or walls that appear warped, are telltale signs that water has been pooling somewhere it shouldn’t.

     

    Steps to Address RV Water Damage

    Once you’ve identified the signs of water damage, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further issues, including the growth of mold. And trust me when I say they usually aren’t as easy to spot as a beach towel’s worth of water on the floor.

     

    Step 1: Find and Stop the Source of the Leak

    Before you can begin repairing the damage, you need to stop more water from entering your RV. This could be from any number of sources or weak spots, but three of the more common culprits are a leaking roof, windows, or even plumbing. Inspect the areas where you noticed damage and trace the water back to its source.

    In our beach towel situation, we couldn’t find the leak at all, and that’s when we cut our losses and took it to the professionals. We were lucky enough to have the RV under warranty and they were eventually able to work on it. In our third RV we had a smaller leak from the window and all it needed was a bigger, thicker, seal around the window frame.

    Tip: Don’t forget to check around slide-outs, vents, and any other areas where the RV’s exterior is interrupted by seams or openings. These spots are notorious for letting water in.

     

    Step 2: Dry Out the Affected Area

    Once you’ve stopped the leak, your next step is to dry out the affected area as thoroughly as possible. Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours, so time is of the essence.

    Tip: Use fans, a dehumidifier, and open windows and doors to get as much airflow as possible. If the weather is dry, this can be incredibly effective. If you have a chance to get to the west, where the climate is much drier, it can be a huge help. For more severe cases, you may need to use a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water.

     

    Step 3: Remove Damaged Materials

    Water damage can weaken materials like wood, insulation, and even drywall. If any part of your RV shows signs of rot, warping, or mold, it’s essential to remove and replace these materials.

    Tip: Be thorough in your inspection and removal. Mold can spread quickly, and if any affected material is left behind, the problem could return. Use mold-resistant replacement material where possible to prevent future issues.

     

    Dealing with Mold: A Step-by-Step Guide

    While we were lucky with the mold situation in our RV. it was under warranty and was taken care of by professionals – I’ve had to deal with mold in buildings, and let me tell you, it is not a fun or healthy experience. So, if you discover mold in your RV, it’s important to handle it carefully to avoid spreading spores and worsening the problem.

     

    Step 1: Wear Protective Gear

    Mold can be harmful to your health, so before you begin, make sure you’re wearing gloves, a mask, and protective eyewear. This will help prevent inhalation of mold spores and skin contact. If you are like me and mold can have a truly negative experience on your health or breathing, then I highly suggest hiring a professional to work on the situation.

    Your health is always worth more than trying to save a few bucks with a DIY!

     

    Step 2: Isolate the Area

    If you are moving forward with a DIY, then the first step after putting on all your protective gear, is to try and seal off the area where the mold is located. Remember to close doors, cover vents, and tape plastic sheeting over doorways to contain any spores that might get kicked up during cleaning. This way the spores don’t spread to other parts of the RV.

     

    Step 3: Clean the Mold

    Sometimes a mixture of water and detergent as well as a commercial mold cleaner to scrub the affected area can go a long way. Another option to try is a solution of water and bleach (1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water) — but be sure to ventilate the area well.

    Tip: Avoid using bleach on porous surfaces like wood or drywall, as it doesn’t always penetrate deeply enough to kill all the mold. For these situations, try using a cleaner specifically designed for these materials.

     

    Step 4: Prevent Future Mold Growth

    Once the mold is cleaned, take steps to prevent it from returning. Ensure the area is thoroughly dried and consider applying a mold-resistant coating to surfaces prone to moisture. Regularly inspect your RV for any signs of new leaks or dampness and address these issues immediately.

     

    Restoring or Replacing Damaged Materials: Bringing Your RV Back to Life

    After tackling water damage and mold, the next step is to restore or replace the affected areas to get your RV back in shape. This can seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it doable.

    1. Assess and Remove Damaged Materials: Start by thoroughly inspecting your RV to determine what needs to go — soft spots in the floor, warped walls, or swollen cabinetry. Carefully remove any damaged materials, being sure to cut away all affected areas to prevent future issues.
    2. Replace Subfloor and Wall Structures: If the subfloor or wall framing is compromised, replace these with new materials. Use sturdy plywood for subfloors and fresh wood for framing, ensuring everything is level and secure. Don’t forget to replace any damaged insulation with a mold-resistant option.

    3. Rebuild and Refinish: Once the structural repairs are complete, rebuild and refinish your RV’s interior:

      • Walls: Install new wall panels, seal seams, and add a fresh coat of paint or wallpaper.
      • Flooring: Lay down new vinyl, laminate, or carpet, leaving room for expansion and finishing with trim.
      •       Cabinetry: Refinish or replace cabinets, making sure they’re securely installed.

    4. Final Touches: Finish by adding trim, painting, and decorating to make your RV feel like home again. With some effort, your RV will be ready for more adventures, looking and feeling as good as new

    Staying Ahead of RV Water Damage

    Dealing with water damage and mold in an RV is no fun, but with regular inspections and quick action, you can stay ahead of these issues. My wife and I have learned from experience that catching a leak early can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road. By following these steps and keeping a close eye on your RV, you can keep your home on wheels in great shape and focus on enjoying the adventures that lie ahead. Safe travels!

  • DIY RV Fixes Any Newbie Can Do

    DIY RV Fixes Any Newbie Can Do

    Hitting the road in an RV is an adventure you’ll never forget, and in most cases, it will be some of the most fun you will have on the open road or in nature. There is a less memorable aspect to RVing though, and that is the dreaded fixes and repairs that are inevitable. To help you make more memories of the fun kind, here are some fairly easy DIY fixes and preventative measures that will keep you on the road with your headlights on, instead of on the side of the road with your hazards on.

    Oh, and for the record, I am far from an RV tech or repairman. This is just based on my experiences over six years and 100,000 miles of RV life on the road.

     

    Common Issues RVers Face

    As an RVer, you’ll likely face a few common issues that can be easily fixed or prevented with a bit of know-how. These problems range from minor leaks and blown fuses to tire changes and roof repairs. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining the functionality and safety of your RV. By learning how to handle these basic repairs, you can avoid unnecessary service calls and keep your adventure on track, all while saving a lot of money in the process.

     

    Essential Tools and Supplies for DIY Fixes

    Before diving into the specifics of DIY repairs, it’s crucial to have the right tools and supplies on hand. Here are some must-have items for every RVer:

    • Basic Toolkit. Ensure you have a set of wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers. These tools will cover a wide range of basic repairs.
    • Multimeter. Useful for diagnosing electrical issues, a multimeter can help you identify problems with your RV’s wiring and electrical components.
    • Duct Tape, Zip Ties, and Sealant. These versatile items can temporarily fix leaks and other minor issues until a more permanent repair can be made.
    • Spare Fuses and Bulbs. Electrical problems are common, and having spare fuses and bulbs can quickly resolve many issues without needing professional help.
    • Tire Pressure Gauge and Air Compressor. Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for safety and fuel efficiency. A tire pressure gauge and good air compressor help ensure your tires are always at the correct pressure. Just make sure that the air compressor you have is strong enough to fill RV tires, which often require a much higher PSI than regular passenger vehicle tires.

     

    With these tools and supplies, you’ll be prepared to handle a variety of common RV issues. One final tip I can give before diving into a few specific DIYs is that while on the road, my wife and I try to take care of repairs in the parking lot of whatever stores we are buying parts at. If the space is there for you to make the repair comfortably, just realize that Murphy’s law is a real thing, and you will likely have to make another trip into a store to properly fix a problem. It’s easier to just walk back into a store instead of having to find another one to pull into along the way.

     

    Step-by-Step Instructions for Simple Repairs

    Fixing a Leaky Faucet

    One of the most common issues you will come across while RVing is a leaky faucet, and in most cases, it is relatively simple to fix. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

    1. Identify the Leak Source: Determine if the leak is coming from the faucet handle, spout, or connections underneath the sink.
    2. Gather Necessary Tools: You’ll need a wrench, screwdriver, and possibly replacement parts like washers, O-rings, clamps, or a hose.
    3. Turn Off Water Supply: Ensure the water supply or pump is turned off to avoid any mess. A bucket or something to catch trapped water is usually a smart idea as well.
    4. Disassemble the Faucet: Use the screwdriver and wrench to carefully remove the faucet or other component once you have determined the issue. In some cases, you will have to remove a few parts to get to the specific piece that needs to be repaired.
    5. Replace Damaged Parts: Check for worn-out washers, O-rings, or hoses, and replace them as needed.
    6. Reassemble and Test: Put the faucet back together, turn on the water supply, and test to ensure the leak is fixed.

     

    Replacing a Tire on an RV

    Changing a tire on an RV is slightly different from a regular vehicle due to the size and weight. Here’s how to do it safely:

    1. Proper Weight Ratings for Jacks. Ensure your jack can handle the weight of your RV. Check the weight rating before purchasing or using a jack. You should also know what the weight rating for your RV is, as it is essential for many aspects of RV travel.
    2. Check for a Spare Tire. Many RVs do not come with a spare tire, so your first step is to ensure whether or not you have one before hitting the road. If you do, make sure it is in good condition before setting out on your trip.
    3. Proper Tire Inflation Levels. Use your tire pressure gauge to check that all tires, including the spare, are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Doing this regularly helps prevent blowouts or other issues.
    4. Safety First. Park on a level surface and use wheel chocks to stabilize the RV. If you have stabilizers on your RV that can be easily and safely deployed while changing your tire, that is a bonus. You should also make sure to turn on your hazard lights and place a cone if you have one.
    5. Loosen Lug Nuts. Before lifting the RV, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that needs to be replaced.
    6. Lift the RV with a Jack. Position the jack under a sturdy part of the RV’s frame and lift the vehicle until the tire is off the ground.
    7. Remove the Old Tire and Install the New One.  Remove the lug nuts and old tire, then place the spare tire on the wheel studs. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern by hand until the tire feels securely in place.
    8. Lower the RV and Tighten Lug Nuts. Carefully lower the RV and then fully tighten the lug nuts in a similar star pattern with the respective wrench to ensure proper tightening.

     

    Replacing a Blown Fuse

    Electrical issues are common in RVs, but replacing a blown fuse is straightforward:

    1. Locate the Fuse Box. The fuse box is usually found near the RV’s control panel.
    2. Determine the Faulty Fuse. Identify the blown fuse by checking for a broken filament or discoloration. This is where a simple multimeter comes in handy to diagnose and confirm.
    3. Replace the Fuse. Remove the faulty fuse and replace it with one of the same amperage. Avoid using a fuse with a higher or lower amperage rating, as this can cause electrical damage, or another blown fuse.

     

    Patching a Roof Leak

    A roof leak can cause significant damage if not addressed promptly, and the roof is something that I actually suggest you get professionally fixed if you are not confident in your DIY skills. That being said, a temporary patch can save your vacation until a professional can take a look. Here’s how to patch it:

    1. Identify the Leak Location. Look for signs of water damage or moisture inside the RV to pinpoint the leak.
    2. Clean the Area. Clean the area around the leak with soap and water, and let it dry completely.
    3. Apply Sealant and Patch. Use a roof sealant to cover the leak area, then apply a patch over it. Press firmly to ensure it adheres well.
    4. Allow to Dry and Test. Let the sealant dry completely before testing the repair by spraying water over the patched area.
    5. Duct Tape Isn’t Great, but It Can Help. If you don’t have sealant or a patch but you do find yourself with a leak, duct tape can sometimes be a temporary solution. Be sure that the tape will not further damage your roof, paint, or leaky area before applying, but I personally feel that in the case of a leak, that risk is worth it if bad weather is coming.

      *A good idea, if possible, is to check a weather app on your phone. You may be able to simply wait it out if the weather looks OK for the rest of your trip.

     

    Safety Tips and Precautions

    • Turn Off Power. Always unplug from shore power and turn off the power supply before attempting any electrical repairs to avoid shock or injury.
    • Wear Protective Gear. Use gloves, safety glasses, and other protective gear as needed to prevent injuries.
    • Ensure Proper Ventilation. When working with sealants or other chemicals, ensure the area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes.
    • Double-Check Work. After completing any repair, double-check your work to ensure everything is secure and functioning correctly. This is especially true if you are on the road and not at home with time and resources readily available for those dreaded multiple trips to the hardware store that I mentioned above.

     

    Additional Resources

    Just because you’re doing it yourself doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. I have three sources that I regularly use for help.

    • Online Forums and Communities. You would be surprised how a simple Google search for your specific problem can come back with forums or websites where people are discussing your problem and how to fix it.
    • Video Tutorials and Online Courses. YouTube searches can sometimes offer detailed video tutorials on various RV repairs. This is usually my favorite method, because I get a visual aide to reference.
    • Call a Professional. Whether it is a local professional that you may have found in a search or someone you may personally know, sometimes calling someone with more knowledge can lead to a simple cheap fix. This has happened to my wife and I while on the road, and we’ve had professionals walk us through a few possibilities over the phone that ended up saving us a lot of time and money. You’d be surprised how many people, even those that make a living off these kinds of repairs, will be willing to give a little free advice over the phone.

     

    Understanding and performing basic DIY repairs and maintenance can greatly enhance your RVing experience, giving you the confidence to handle common issues and keep your adventure on track. Practice these skills, learn from each experience, and soon you’ll be tackling more complex repairs with ease. Happy RVing, and hopefully we’ll see you on the road.

  • Replacing or Fixing an RV Toilet: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Replacing or Fixing an RV Toilet: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Ah, the joys of RV life – the open road, the freedom to roam, the adventures waiting around every bend, and the occasional spray of toilet water to the face! Let’s be honest, not every part of RV living is glamorous. Take, for example, the humble RV toilet. It’s a crucial component of your home on wheels, but one that often gets overlooked until it’s too late.

    If you’ve found yourself in need of fixing or replacing your RV toilet, fear not! This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, with a personal experience that even I had to laugh at – well, I laughed days later, not in the moment.

     

    My Frozen RV Toilet Fiasco

    This is my somewhat long story and is mostly for laughs, so if you wish to skip to the how-to section, click here.

    Let me set the scene: It’s Idaho in the winter, and before you ask who goes camping in Idaho in the winter, that would be us. We were working on a contract that had us stay at an RV resort with hotel rooms. The temperature was going to drop into the negatives with windchill, so we stayed in a cozy hotel room, thinking that we would be fine leaving the heat on overnight. That was my first mistake. The following is what transpired.

    My breath fogs in the air as I step outside my hotel room to slip and slide my way over the ice and snow in the parking lot towards my RV. I’m bundled up and look like the Michelin man as I waddle over and into the less-than-freezing inside of my home on wheels where I realize that I may have set the heat a little low trying to conserve power and gas. I turn on the water pump, the motor churns to life, and … sprinkler sounds come from the bathroom. Oops, I warmed the inside of the RV, but I left that bathroom in the back a little too exposed to the weather.

    I open the bathroom door, water is shooting out from behind our RV toilet, and I know it’s up to me to fix it. After I shut off the water pump and arm myself with tools, I venture into the belly of the beast. As I begin disconnecting the toilet, disaster strikes. A specific connector, apparently not built to withstand arctic conditions, snaps clean off. I spout a few four-letter words, waddle back to the hotel room, and inform my wife, “We have to find an RV parts store.”

    We spent the next 30 minutes looking for somewhere that would have our specific toilet and the specific part I needed. The closest place was a Camping World about an hour away. When we arrived, they had the part ready, I purchased it and immediately went to work in the parking lot. After about 30 or 40 minutes of uncomfortably working on the toilet, I smiled and said, “Wow, that wasn’t too bad.” Of course, that’s when the fun really started. I asked my wife to turn on the water pump, and after a few seconds of seemingly successful silence, I leaned in, only to catch a jet of freezing cold water sprayed directly into my face.

    Luckily the water was coming from the outside connection and not a backfire, if you catch my drift. It turns out that trying to lazily skip a few steps wasn’t the best idea. Instead of taking the toilet out completely to work on the problem, I tried to work directly on the issue that needed fixing. After a few more four letter words – which my wife said were pointless, but they definitely made me feel a little better at the time – I inspected everything further and thought that maybe some other connectors and washers would be a good idea. I was confident that a stop at the hardware store for a few items and proper installation would do the trick.

    Since we were trying to make it pretty far on our travel day, we drove another two hours south to a Home Depot, where I proceeded take out the whole toilet to try and do it right. I went into the store and purchased everything I thought I would need and started taking out the toilet. It took me about 45 minutes out in the cold to take out the toilet, replace some connections, and add a little insulation around the tubing for future protection. When I put everything back together, I turned on the water, and sure enough, I got sprayed right in the face again. It turns out that in my haste to finally finish this project, I didn’t properly connect the new piece I purchased in the first place.

    At that point the four-letter words were really flowing, but I set out to start from the beginning again. After getting the toilet out, I of course fumbled one of the unique screws that holds it in place right down the poop-chute, and I nearly lost my mind. My wife, somewhere between aggravation and laughter, calmed me down, and then set out to help me in my final attempt after I took about 20 minutes to find a screw that would actually fit our toilet. Together, we were finally able to properly install the toilet and the replacement part.

    It turns out that doing things slowly, thoroughly, and completely from the beginning, is always the best way to do things. It also shows that while I try to do things myself, getting help from others is good practice too. And finally, as much as I hate to admit it, sometimes my wife does know best. I won’t tell her it’s not more than Google, even though I feel like she may think so, but she is brilliant and super handy too. I love her, and she’s the best partner I can ever have for all of my crazy life adventures.

    Now, for those that want to do it right the first time around, below are the tools and steps you should take to properly fix or replace your RV toilet.

     

    Tools and Materials Needed

    Before diving into the replacement process, gather the following tools and materials:

    • adjustable wrench
    • screwdriver set
    • plumber’s tape (Teflon tape)
    • replacement part or new RV toilet
    • rubber gloves
    • towels or rags
    • bucket

    Having these items on hand will ensure you’re prepared for the job without unnecessary interruptions.

     

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    Before beginning the installation, the most important aspect of this project is comparing your toilet and the specs of your RV bathroom with a possible replacement part or new RV toilet. You don’t want to start the project only to realize that what you purchased is not compatible.

     

    Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

    Begin by turning off the water supply to your RV. This will prevent any unexpected sprays of water (trust me, you’ll want to avoid this). Locate the water pump switch and ensure it’s off, or turn off the main water supply if you’re hooked up to an external source.

    Step 2: Drain the Toilet

    Flush the toilet to drain as much water as possible. Use towels or rags to soak up any remaining water in the bowl. This will minimize spills and make the process cleaner.

    Step 3: Disconnect the Water Line

    Use a wrench to disconnect the water line from the back of the toilet. Be prepared for a small amount of water to spill out. Have your bucket and towels ready to catch any drips.

    Step 4: Remove the Old Toilet

    Unscrew the bolts at the base of the toilet using a wrench or screwdriver. These bolts can sometimes be a bit stubborn, so applying some WD-40 or other lubricant and letting it sit for a few minutes may help. Lift the old toilet off the flange and set it aside. You might need an extra hand to help maneuver it out of the tight space.

    Step 5: Prepare the Flange

    Clean the flange area thoroughly with a rag. Remove any old wax or gasket material to ensure a good seal with the new toilet. Ensure the surface is smooth and free of debris. If the flange is damaged, this is the time to replace it to avoid future leaks.

    Step 6: Install the New Toilet or Replacement Part

    Place the new toilet onto the flange, aligning the bolt holes. Secure it with the provided bolts, tightening them evenly to avoid cracking the base. It’s important to tighten the bolts just enough to secure the toilet without over-tightening, which can cause damage.

    Step 7: Reconnect the Water Line

    Attach the water line to the new toilet, ensuring it’s snug and secure. Use plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) on the threads to prevent leaks. Double-check that the connection is tight but not overly tight, to avoid damaging the fittings.

    Step 8: Turn On the Water Supply

    Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If everything looks good, flush the toilet a few times to ensure proper operation. Monitor for any slow leaks over the next few hours to catch any issues early.

     

    Common Challenges

    Replacing an RV toilet isn’t always smooth sailing, as you can picture if you read my story. Here are some common challenges you might face, along with tips to overcome them:

    Leaky Connections

    Double-check that all connections are tight and secure. Use plumber’s tape to seal threads. If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections slightly more and ensure the plumber’s tape is correctly applied.

    Stubborn Bolts

    If bolts are rusted or difficult to remove, apply a lubricant or penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen them. A little patience with your elbow grease can go a long way.

    Misaligned Flange

    Ensure the flange is clean and properly aligned before securing the new toilet. If it’s damaged, consider replacing the flange as well. This can prevent future leaks and ensure a secure fit.

     

    Maintenance Tips

    To keep your new RV toilet in top condition, follow these maintenance tips:

    Regular Cleaning

    Clean the toilet regularly with RV-friendly cleaners to prevent buildup and odors. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the seals and components.

    Check for Leaks

    Periodically inspect the water connections for leaks and tighten as needed. Early detection can prevent water damage and save you from more extensive repairs.

    Winterize Properly

    If you’ll be camping in cold weather, take steps to winterize your RV to prevent freeze damage. Drain the water lines, add antifreeze as necessary, and insulate exposed pipes and connectors. If you are RVing in cold weather, be sure that your pipes, tanks, and bathroom have proper ventilation and heating to prevent freezing.

     

    Conclusion

    Replacing an RV toilet might not be the most glamorous task, but with the right tools, materials, patience, and in some cases, a good sense of humor, it can be a manageable experience for most DIYers. Whether you’re dealing with a frozen water fiasco or just looking to upgrade, this guide has you covered. Happy RVing, and may your travels be filled with adventure and well-functioning toilets!