Now that spring is almost upon us, it is time to start getting the motorhome ready for this seasons travels. This is a good time to do all those maintenance tasks so that you can travel safely and worry free. You may have a list your made out last season of niggling things you need to fix or were going to fix. Now is the time to get out your list and start on it. Here is a list of general things to check

Water tanks -flush all tanks including grey and black. A good formula we regularly use for our clean water tank is 1 litre of bleach for every 100 litres tank capacity; drive it around the block to mix it around leave for 3 hours. If you have a lingering bleach taste in your water, you can do the same with vinegar to neutralise the bleach if necessary. Be sure to run the pump, shower and taps to clean out all the lines as well. Whilst black and grey water tanks are full, check valves for leaks and replace seals where necessary

One good method of cleaning your black water tanks is to add ice to the tank. The ice will then scrape the sides of the tank for you whilst it is still solid. Fill your tank with the bleach mixture (above) then just as you are about to drive off flush a bag if ice down the toilet. If you have a large enough opening on your grey tank or fresh water tank this system can work on them too.

We do this procedure with every motorhome we buy. You can never be too sure what condition the tanks are inside.

Water Pump -turn on pump to ensure it is working and there are no leaks in the pressure system

Refrigerator - check fridge working on gas and electricity. If gas check flame is blue. Run for a day or two. Give the fridge a good clean out to remove any musky smell. Check the flu system to ensure it is clean, clear and free of cobwebs. If the fridge has developed an ammonia type smell, the cooling coils may be leaking. You will need to take it to a specialist service person for repair

Linen - air out and wash all bedding and linen that may have been stored in the motorhome over winter

Pantry and cupboards - have a clean out and check expiry dates. You will be amazed what has found its way to the back and been forgotten.

Alarms - check the smoke detector, LP gas detector and carbon monoxide detector (if fitted) are working. If you do not have a smoke detector install one that is suitable for kitchens (so that it does not go off every time you turn on the shower or cook a piece of toast)

Batteries - check house and start battery water levels and clean terminals if necessary.

Tyres - check tyres, including spare for tread wear, cracks or bulges that may have appeared (do not forget to check the other side of the tyre from under the vehicle)

Electrical - check all lights and indicators are working including brake and number plate lights. Do not forget to check the lights on the trailer or towed vehicle as well.

Drive train - check underneath for oil leaks that may have appeared. Are your wheel bearing due to be repacked? Check on any drive train maintenance schedules - eg oil change etc, Check all fluid levels - oil, water, brake fluid, gearbox, diff etc. If vehicle has been parked for several months try the brakes a few times after setting off.

Windows and roof hatches - check for any water leaks around windows and roof

Solar panels - clean them as layers of dust, dirt and grime built up over time can greatly reduce efficiency.

Gas bottles - check expiry date and fill if necessary.

Generator - Start up generator and check if running OK under load. Check oil level and do any other maintenance as per manufactures instructions.

Storage - whilst you are checking everything out it is a good time to have look at what you are storing and carrying around with you on a continual basis. Extra weight can affect the performance of your motorhome. If you have not used it for at least a year do you really need it?