If you’ve had your motorhome tucked away, you might be dreaming of the open road, scenic stopovers, and the freedom to roam wherever the mood takes you. And why not? Few things compare to the sense of adventure and comfort a motorhome brings.
But before you dust off your maps and start planning your route, a little preparation is in order. A motorhome is like a mini home on wheels – and just like your house or car, it needs regular maintenance and checks to keep everything running smoothly. Here, then, are our top tips and suggestions for getting your motorhome ready for summer.
Check it over
Even if you’ve only had it off the road for a short while, it’s vital to give your motorhome a comprehensive once-over. A visual inspection can highlight any exterior issues, such as cracks in body panels, loose seals, or missing trim. Pay close attention to the roof and around the windows for any signs of water ingress.
Look underneath the vehicle too – are there any drips, patches of rust, or signs of animal activity? Even a few weeks parked in the same place can make it a tempting shelter for mice or nesting birds.
Give it an airing
After being shut up for an extended period, the interior of your motorhome will almost certainly feel a bit stale. Open all windows, skylights, and doors on a dry day to let fresh air circulate. This will help reduce any lingering dampness and remove musty odours.
Take the time to inspect soft furnishings, bedding, and cushions. Look out for signs of mould or mildew and give everything a good clean or wash where necessary. Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to get into all the nooks and crannies.
Don’t forget the curtains or blinds – these can collect dust and may need a gentle wash or wipe-down.
Water system
Hopefully, you drained your water system before winter storage, but it’s still wise to give it a full rinse and sterilisation. Fill the tanks with clean water and add a sterilising solution made for caravan or motorhome use.
Open each tap, starting with the cold and then the hot, allowing the water to flow through to flush out any residue or bacteria. Run the water until it’s clear and odour-free. Repeat if necessary. Don’t forget to clean out the waste water tank and check for leaks or blockages.
You can also refer to your motorhome owner’s manual for more instructions.
Gas system
Before turning anything on, inspect all gas pipes, regulators, and connections. Any signs of cracking, wear, or damage mean it’s time to replace the part before use.
When testing appliances, light them and observe the flame – you’re looking for a steady blue flame. A yellow or orange flame could indicate a problem with airflow or a leak. Always ensure good ventilation when using gas appliances.
If you’re unsure, it’s best to have a registered Gas Safe engineer conduct a full gas check or include this as part of a habitation service.
Make sure your gas bottles are filled and secure, and carry spares if you’re heading somewhere remote.
Servicing
Mechanical health is just as important as interior comfort. Book your vehicle in for a full service, ideally at a garage that specialises in motorhomes or commercial vehicles. Check fluid levels – engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, windscreen washer fluid – and top them up if needed.
Examine the tyres closely. Even if they look fine at first glance, being stationary for a long time can cause flat spots or invisible weakening. Tyres must have at least 2mm of tread across the width and be free from cuts or bulges. Don’t forget to check the spare and tyre pressure too.
Also check the battery condition – both the engine battery and leisure battery. Recharge if necessary or replace if they are no longer holding charge.
Clean and restock
Give the exterior a good clean with motorhome-safe products, including the roof, which often collects a surprising amount of grime. While you’re at it, check the awning and clean it before testing it for smooth operation.
Inside, give all surfaces a wipe down with a suitable antibacterial cleaner. Restock essentials such as toilet chemicals, kitchen utensils, bedding, and emergency tools. Don’t forget first-aid supplies, fire extinguishers, and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms – test and replace batteries as needed.
Prepare your paperwork
Ensure your MOT, road tax, motorhome insurance, and breakdown cover are all up to date. Check the terms of your policy to ensure it covers you for all your intended destinations – especially if you’re heading overseas or venturing off-grid.
Also check campsite bookings, club memberships, and sat nav updates. It’s much better to discover any issues now rather than when you’re halfway through a journey.
A little preparation now means fewer surprises later. Once your motorhome is summer-ready, all that’s left is to choose your destination and enjoy the journey. Whether you’re heading to the coast, the Highlands, or simply your favourite local site, having your home on wheels ready to go ensures you’ll make the most of every moment on the road.
