Spring is almost here and that means it’s time to get your UK motorhome ready for the season ahead. Now is the perfect moment to give your motorhome a thorough once-over. In this brief guide, we answer your key questions and provide expert tips to ensure your motorhome is in prime condition for a safe and enjoyable spring adventure.

Internal safety checks

Begin by focusing on the internal safety of your motorhome. After a long winter, your gas appliances and installations need careful inspection. Look for any signs of wear or deterioration. If your equipment is complex, it’s highly advisable to get a professional gas safety check done.

Also, check your ventilation and venting systems; these can sometimes become blocked by pests or debris.

Don’t forget to:

• Verify that all seat belts are functioning correctly.
• Test smoke and CO/CO2 detectors along with any installed anti-intruder alarms.
• Inspect electrical installations thoroughly. If you’re unsure about any aspect, consult a specialist.

Mechanical and external checks

Next, perform a detailed walk-around of your motorhome to spot any mechanical issues. Look for signs such as:

• Oil leaks: Any oil patches under the engine or around the wheels can indicate problems.
• Damp or rust: Check for damp patches or rust on the chassis or bodywork.
• Lights and signals: Ensure all external lights and indicators are working correctly.

It’s also important to take your motorhome for a test drive before heading out on a full-scale holiday. Choose a quiet time and a safe, controlled environment—like an empty car park—where you can:

• Test your brakes, reversing, horn, and instrument panel.
• Inspect your tyres for adequate tread depth, bulges, or uneven wear.
• Check tyre pressures to ensure they’re at the recommended levels.

Comfort, services, and system checks

Your motorhome’s water system deserves special attention after months of storage. Check all taps, drains, WCs, showers, and water tanks to ensure everything is functioning properly.

As a note, water tanks should be cleaned regularly. Regular cleaning of your motorhome water tanks is essential to ensure a safe, hygienic, and enjoyable travel experience. Over time, water tanks can accumulate sediment, bacteria, algae, and limescale, all of which can affect the quality of the water you use for drinking, cooking, and cleaning). A helpful resource for troubleshooting water systems is Out and About Live, which provides in-depth advice on keeping your water system in top shape.

Other comfort features to check include:

• Internal lighting and heating: Make sure that your lights and heating systems are fully operational.
• Recreational equipment: Test any fitted equipment, such as onboard entertainment systems or solar panels, to confirm they’re ready for use.
• Cleanliness and hygiene: Give your motorhome a deep clean, paying attention to areas that may have accumulated dust or mould during storage.

Additional spring preparation tips

Consider these extra steps to ensure your motorhome is ready for spring:

• Battery check: Inspect your motorhome’s battery for any signs of corrosion or wear. Ensure it’s fully charged and, if necessary, replace it before your trip.
• Fluid levels: Check engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels to ensure they are at optimum levels.
• Wiper blades and windshield: With spring showers in mind, replace any worn wiper blades to maintain clear visibility.
• Exterior cleaning: A thorough wash and wax can protect your motorhome’s exterior from the elements and give it a refreshed look for the season.

Summary

If your motorhome was well-maintained during the off-season, there’s every reason to expect it to perform brilliantly as spring arrives. However, spending a few hours on these detailed checks can prevent potential issues and ensure a safe, worry-free journey. By following these expert tips from Derby Motorhomes, you’re setting yourself up for a season filled with memorable road trips and exploration.

Get ready to hit the road, enjoy the great UK outdoors, and make the most of your motorhome adventure this spring!