We've asked our motorhome service expert Jeff Cripps to share a few things to consider if your motorhome or campervan will be out of action for prolonged periods...

"Batteries deteriorate if they are not used and there is a couple of simple things which can help reduce their decay while stored."

Charging batteries fully is the most important thing. A fully charged house battery is able to be stored for a period of time, a discharged battery is not. So first thing to consider is how best to get the batteries fully charged, prior to putting into storage. It also goes without saying that all appliances, fridges, control systems and displays should be off during a period of storage. Plugging the van into a mains power supply is the quickest and most effective way to ensure all batteries have been fully charged. 

If the vehicle has a solar charge system installed and is to be stored outside, then the solar system will maintain the batteries in a fully charged state, theoretically for an indefinite period, provided all the power drains have been turned off.

It is also recommended to empty the water tanks before letting them sit for a prolonged period, however this can prove a little difficult in some vans, when a drain point is not present. In these cases all the fresh water has to be pumped out of the fresh tank, into the grey tank, before it can be dumped. This does provide a perfect opportunity however, to flush fresh water through the grey tank which in turn will benefit them both during storage. Regardless of how long the van remains in storage it is recommended that a tank ‘flush’ solution be put through all tanks before returning the van into service. This recommendation is also applicable to the toilet flush water tank if one is fitted.

For pop top campervans it is important to make sure the fabric sleeve around the roof is not wet or damp when being stored for a period and the same applies for any camper with a roll out awning material as well. Both of these items can hold quite a lot of water if they have to be stowed away during rain and they need to be checked to ensure they are dry before being locked away in storage for any extended period.  

We have more tips coming up, aiming not to bombard you with all at once! If you have questions, shoot us an email service@trakka.com.au 

Motorhome Doctor, our dedicated service department,are open and taking bookings for comprehensive conversion servicing and accessories retrofitting. If you're looking to prepare your home on wheels for your next adventure, now is the time to get it all sorted and ready to hit the road. Jeff and Simon are practising social distancing, providing hand sanitiser and wiping all surfaces down. We are also providing a letter confirming your reason for travel, you'll just need to let Jeff know at time of booking. 

PHONE: 02 8294 8577