Tag Archives: RV Camping

Tips To Ward Off Insects In And Around Your RV

12 Tuesday Sep 2023

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Having lived in Northern Iowa my entire life, I am way too familiar with mosquitos and other annoying insects in and around my RV. Nothing is more annoying than the buzz of a flying insect in the middle of the night! Aside from harsh chemicals and nasty traps, there are some things you can do to keep them out of your rig and some safe and natural deterrents.

Check and seal all slide-outs.

Almost every RV has at least one slideout and this is a very easy entrance point for all types of insects. When the room is extended, check around the entire perimeter as there are often gaps at the top or especially lower corners. Verify the seals are in good condition, not torn, and not pulled away from the flange. Even with good seals, there may be gaps that need to be filled with temporary foam insulation or even a swim noodle cut down.

Check all entrance areas such as windows, doors, and roof vents.

It is not uncommon to have slight gaps in screen doors, especially where the notch for the deadbolt on the entrance frame is al. Check around the edge, especially in the corners and on the floor. Make sure the screen is in good condition with no holes or tears. Do the same with the window screens and the roof vents. Most appliances with outside access such as the furnace, water heater, and the roof air conditioners are enclosed enough to keep insects out however it wouldn’t hurt to pull off the cover and make sure the evaporator cover is tight. This is a shot of removing the evaporator cover from an older unit. If there are any gaps, use HVAC silver tape to cover them up.

Also, pull off the outside refrigerator vent cover and inspect the compartment to verify there are no gaps for access to the inside.

Keep your doors and windows shut.

This may seem like a fairly elementary point however most RVers don’t realize how often they go in and out of their rig leaving the screen door open for a very short time, especially when grilling outside or tailgating. Running in to get a cold one could let in enough flying pests to ruin an evening. If you do need to go in and out frequently, take a look at an awning screen room. This will allow you to enjoy the patio area of your rig, go in and out as you please, and keep the pests out. Just make sure all the edges are tight against the awning frames and the RV. Check out the tips for essential oils that can be used in these areas below.

Stay away from water and don’t let standing water around your rig.

Water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, mayflies, and other annoying flying pests. The farther away from water the better however that is not always easy to do. The more you can clean up stagnant water around your campsite the better such as fire pits and low spots. According to the CDC female mosquitos lay eggs in water and the eggs can hatch into larvae within 2 days and into full-fledged flying pests in 5 days.

If you come across standing water or can’t get rid of it, there are options to kill the eggs and larvae naturally. Several companies sell a Mosquito Dunk which is a natural product made with BTI that will kill the larvae within 24 hours.

Adding a few drops of dish soap to the water will kill not only the larvae but any adult mosquito that lands on the water. Adult mosquitos can stand on top of water due to the tension strength of the surface. The soap weakens that strength and the adult mosquito sinks and drowns and also suffocates the eggs and larvae. Another option is to use a few drops of cinnamon oil which will not only kill the larvae but also is a great deterrent.

Keep the RV and campsite clean.

Flies are attracted to smells from decaying food in garbage, fermentation from soda or beer, and sewage. Mosquitos are attracted to Carbon Dioxide which is emitted by humans, lactating, body heat, dark clothing, and uric acid which would be mostly from pets. Keep your campsite clean, get rid of the garbage often, and walk your pet to another area to tinkle! I’m not sure about the dark clothes but it is worth some research.

Try these popular deterrents

  • Wind: Mosquitoes are lightweight and any amount of wind will blow them around and hamper their ability to fly, so run a fan to keep them from your area. However, this most likely won’t keep them from coming inside.
  • Insect repellent: There are several good sprays that you could use on the seals around the slide rooms, screens, and doors. Some have DEET, while others are all natural.
  • Natural scents: Mosquitoes do not like citronella, cinnamon, peppermint, spearmint, and other mint scents. Some RVers have used lavender, catnip, cedar, and even garlic.
  • Smoke: A campfire with a little bit of smoke is a great deterrent if you like the smell of smoke lingering for a long time. Unfortunately, no matter where I sit around the campfire, the smoke follows me!
  • Use Thermacell: I ran into a product years ago that is one of the best mosquito deterrents I have found. Thermacell is available in a portable belt pack version for hiking, a lantern for around the campsite, or the Thermacell Patio Shield available on Amazon.

The butane cartridge heats the pads and there is very little heat and no smell and works well.

  • Reduce carbon dioxide (CO2): Our bodies give off CO2, and that attracts mosquitoes. Proper ventilation, as well as wearing proper clothing, will reduce the smell of CO2. Wash your face and arms periodically. An old-school option is two teaspoons of vanilla extract with a cup of water in a spray bottle, which is almost as fun as a video game!
  • Camp in cooler weather: Mosquitoes are inactive in temperatures below 50 degrees. Maybe it’s not the most ideal camping conditions, but worth the note.

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair, and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Sherilyn G. ~ “I didn’t have to wait very long at all! The tech was able to get my problem fixed over the phone. It was great! Than you so much!”

10 Outdoor Shower Improvements You Should Make Immediately!

19 Monday Jun 2023

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Nearly every RV out there has an outdoor RV shower. That said, there are many, many RVers who never bother to pull the thing out and use it. This is a shame because outdoor RV showers can be so handy!

Not only is an RV outdoor shower good for rinsing your feet or your muddy doggo before you head inside, it’s also a great place to give the family pet a full-fledged bath or even give yourself a quick scrub when boondocking and trying to save space in your gray tank.

Yeah, outdoor RV showers are pretty awesome. That said, they can be a bit fussy to use. Therefore, if you’ll be putting yours to use regularly, there are some things you might want to do to improve your outdoor showering experience.

Change Out the Shower Head

First and foremost, we highly recommend switching out the shower head on your outdoor RV shower. The shower heads that are put on at the factory are simply not very good. They don’t provide much pressure and they go through water like nobody’s business. Meanwhile, a nice Oxygenics shower head will give you excellent pressure while using significantly less water.

Note: You will want to make sure whatever shower head you choose will actually fit in the outdoor shower storage box on the side of your camper.

Mount the Shower Head

With a new showerhead in place, the next step is to figure out how to mount it. This will allow you to shower without holding onto the shower head the entire time, making the whole process a lot easier.

Our recommendation? A suction cup shower head holder. This will hold your shower head in place while you wash off but is easy enough to take down if needed when moving day rolls around. It’s also super easy to install and doesn’t require you to screw into the side of your RV.

Add an Outdoor RV Shower Enclosure

If you plan on taking actual showers outside, you’re probably going to want some privacy. This is where an outdoor RV shower enclosure comes into play.

Some people create such an enclosure by hanging a suction cup U-shaped shower curtain rod and adding a shower curtain. Others pop up an outdoor privacy tent.

Put Down a Raised Shower Floor

One of the biggest problems with showering outside is that you end up standing in a mud puddle by the end of the shower. The best way to fix this problem is by putting down some sort of raised shower floor that gets you up off the ground.

We really like using a folding bamboo shower mat for this purpose. It looks nice, does the job well, and folds up small for easy storage.

Consider Suction Cup Shelving

Finally, you might consider adding some suction cup storage options such as shelves and a soap dish. This gives you someplace to put your toiletries while you shower and keeps them from getting muddy from sitting on the ground. Of course, it’s also nice that you don’t have to bend over and pick things up off the ground throughout your showering experience.

This set of suction cup shower caddies and soap dishes might be just the thing to finish your RV outdoor shower project!

As you can probably tell, we really like our outdoor RV shower and we’re betting that if you make some of the improvements above, you’re going to fall in love with your RV outdoor shower as well.

Why not get started today? These projects are easy enough that anyone can do them, and you should be able to finish before your first camping trip of the season without issue.

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Nathan T. ~ “Thanks, Coach-Net for taking care of my needs! You are very responsive and thorough in the help you provide. It is exactly what I signed up for.”

From San Diego to Klamath: A Journey Along the Pacific Coast Highway’s

23 Tuesday May 2023

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Cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway is a must for RVers who love road-tripping and exploring new places. The route, which spans the California coast, offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming towns. But aside from the scenic beauty, the Pacific Coast Highway also features unique attractions for RVers that are sure to make a trip even more unforgettable. Here are some of the one-of-a-kind attractions that you can experience along your Pacific Coast Highway journey from San Diego to Klamath.

One-of-a-Kind Attractions for RVers

Balboa Park – San Diego, CA

The park covers over 1,200 acres and boasts lush gardens, cultural institutions, and recreational spaces. Visitors can explore the San Diego Zoo or wander through the numerous museums and galleries, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Photographic Arts, and the Natural History Museum. For those looking for outdoor activities, Balboa Park offers hiking trails, playgrounds, and open-air concerts and performances. The park also hosts several festivals and events, such as the Balboa Park December Nights and the San Diego Earth Fair.

Solvang, CA

Solvang is a charming Danish-style town in the Santa Ynez Valley, just off the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s known for its Danish architecture, traditional bakeries, and unique shops. Visitors can enjoy exploring the town’s windmills, visiting the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, or sampling the delicious pastries and bread. With its picturesque streets and delightful atmosphere, Solvang is a must-see destination for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Hearst Castle – San Simeon, CA

If you’re a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, Hearst Castle is a must-visit attraction. This opulent mansion was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century and features a mix of Mediterranean, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles. The Hearst Castle offers guided tours that take you through the mansion’s grand rooms, gardens, and pools. You can also explore the museum and learn about the castle’s history and Hearst’s influence on American culture.

Bixby Bridge – Big Sur, CA

The Bixby Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Pacific Coast Highway. This massive concrete arch bridge spans over a deep canyon and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the coastline. You can park your RV nearby and take a short hike to the bridge for a closer look or snap some photos from the roadside vista points. The Bixby Bridge is an incredible feat of engineering, and it’s also a popular spot for photographers and travelers looking for that perfect Instagram shot.

Cannery Row – Monterey, CA

Cannery Row is a historic waterfront district in Monterey that has been transformed into a bustling tourist destination. The area used to be home to sardine canning factories, but now it’s filled with restaurants, shops, and attractions. You can visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which features a diverse collection of marine life, or explore the shops and galleries that sell local art and crafts. Cannery Row hosts several annual events, such as the Whalefest Monterey and the Cannery Row Antique and Classic Car Show.

Winchester Mystery House – San Jose, CA

Built by Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune, the house is a labyrinthine maze of over 160 rooms and numerous oddities, such as staircases leading to nowhere, doors that open onto walls, and secret passageways. The construction of the house was motivated by Sarah’s belief in ghosts and spirits, and she allegedly designed it to confuse and deter any malevolent entities that may be haunting her. Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its intriguing history and unusual architecture. The Winchester Mystery House is a true marvel of eccentricity and ingenuity and a must-see attraction for anyone traveling along the PCH.

Glass Beach – Fort Bragg, CA

This remarkable and picturesque beach is covered in sea glass. The glass is the result of decades of trash and garbage dumped into the ocean and then polished by the waves. Visitors can stroll along the beach and marvel at the sparkling glass in a rainbow of colors. It’s worth noting that removing large quantities of glass is prohibited, but visitors are welcome to take a few pieces as a souvenir. Glass Beach serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of human activity on the environment and the resilience of nature to transform trash into something beautiful.

Trees of Mystery – Klamath, CA

The Trees of Mystery is a quirky and entertaining attraction in Klamath, featuring a unique collection of redwood trees shaped by nature and human intervention. One of the park’s highlights is the Canopy Trail, an elevated walkway that winds through the treetops of the redwood forest. The park also features several hiking trails, an aerial tram, and a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the redwoods. Visitors can also take guided tours that offer insights into the ecology and biology of these majestic trees.

Experience the Pacific Coast Highway with Confidence:

Let Coach-Net Be Your Trusted RV Partner

The Pacific Coast Highway offers a remarkable journey full of awe-inspiring natural beauty, charming towns, and one-of-a-kind attractions for RVers. From the lush gardens and cultural institutions of Balboa Park in San Diego to the unique redwood trees at Trees of Mystery in Klamath, there’s no shortage of fascinating places to visit along the way.

Along with the stunning views and unique attractions, it’s important to have peace of mind while on the road. That’s where Coach-Net comes in. With its comprehensive roadside assistance services, RVers can enjoy their travels knowing that they have a team of experts available 24/7 to help them in case of emergencies. Whether it’s a flat tire, engine trouble, or a lockout, Coach-Net has you covered.

With Coach-Net, RVers can experience the Pacific Coast Highway with confidence and enjoy all the one-of-a-kind attractions that this incredible route has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let Coach-Net be your trusted partner on your unforgettable journey.

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Natalie Henley is a freelance writer and has also been full-time RVing with her husband and pets since 2015. She covers a wide range of topics, including RV lifestyle, RVing tips, DIY projects, RV news, and more. You can follow their adventures and RV-related tips on their blog, henleyshappytrails.com, as well as their YouTube Channel, also called Henley’s Happy Trails. In addition, she writes for various RV-related blogs and marketing outlets and is the co-author of Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It, available on Amazon.

Micheal M. ~ “I have been so pleased the last two times we have had to use Coach-Net. The first time was to tow my minivan from Bowie, Maryland to Sterling, Virginia. My hold time with the call agents was never long. They were very good about calling me back with information and making sure I was safe. The tow driver came within an hour and was very friendly and professional. I was also amazed that we were covered for the whole distance. The second time was to get a technician to unlock my car door to get my keys out. Again, I had very little wait time. I didn’t even have my Coach-Net card because my purse was locked inside my car. The call agent was able to find my information with a few other details. The technician came within an hour and was extremely efficient. It has been a pleasure to deal with call agents and service providers. They make a stressful situation less nerve-wracking with their kindness and professionalism.”

10 Must-Have RV Amenities for Families

03 Wednesday May 2023

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Going camping with your family can be one of the most exciting and memorable experiences you’ll ever have. However, as much as you love the great outdoors, you also want to make sure that your family is comfortable and safe during the trip. This is where having the right RV amenities can make a huge difference.

In this article, we’ll discuss the must-have RV amenities for families. These are features that will make your camping trip more fun, convenient, and relaxing for everyone.

Must-Have RV Amenities For Families

  1. Bunk Beds: If you have kids, bunk beds are a must-have in your RV. They provide a fun and cozy sleeping area for your little ones. Some RVs even have bunk beds with optional built-in TVs or DVD players, so your kids can watch their favorite movies or shows before bedtime. Bunk beds also allow for more floor space in your RV, giving you more room to move around and store your belongings.
  1. Outdoor Kitchen: Cooking meals while camping can be a hassle, especially if you’re doing it inside your RV. Having an outdoor kitchen is a game-changer. It allows you to cook and prepare meals outside without worrying about the mess and odors inside your RV. Most outdoor kitchens come equipped with a stove, sink, refrigerator, and storage cabinets, making meal prep a breeze. An outdoor kitchen also lets you enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air while cooking and dining.
  1. Slide-Outs: Slide-outs are extensions that push out from the side of your RV, creating more living space. This is particularly useful for families who need extra room to move around and relax. With slide-outs, you can have more seating areas and storage space. Slide-outs can also make your RV feel more like a home, providing more comfort and convenience.
  1. Interior and Exterior Storage Space: When camping with your family, you’re bound to bring a lot of stuff. From clothes to toys to food, you’ll need plenty of storage space to keep everything organized. Make sure your RV has enough cabinets, drawers, and closets to store all your belongings. Consider bringing storage bins or containers to keep things tidy.

Exterior storage compartments can be a great way to store bulky items like camping chairs and outdoor gear. This frees up space inside your RV and makes accessing the things you need easier.

  1. Outdoor Shower: An outdoor shower is an excellent addition to your RV, especially if you’re camping near the beach or lake. It allows you to rinse off sand, saltwater, or mud from your body and gear before entering your RV. An outdoor shower can also help wash your pets or clean your outdoor equipment.
  1. Generator: A generator is an essential RV amenity, especially if you plan to go off-grid or camp in remote locations. It provides power to your RV’s appliances, lights, and entertainment system, even if there’s no electrical hookup available.

A generator also allows you to run your air conditioning or heating system, making your RV more comfortable in extreme temperatures. It’s a great backup power source that gives you peace of mind during power outages or emergencies.

  1. Extra Half Bathroom: Some RVs are outfitted with a full and half bathroom. Two bathrooms help reduce waiting times, especially during peak hours in the morning or before bed. Plus, it can be a lifesaver if someone needs to use the bathroom in the middle of the night and doesn’t want to disturb others who are sleeping.
  1. Bike Rack: Bike racks are a great addition to your RV if you have kids who enjoy cycling or if you want to explore the outdoors on two wheels. You can bring bicycles along on your camping trip without taking up valuable space inside your RV. Hitch-mounted bike racks are the most popular type, as they can hold multiple bikes and are easy to install and remove.
  1. WiFi and Entertainment System Upgrades: Upgrading your RV’s WiFi and entertainment system can be crucial, especially if you plan on full-time RVing with your family and your kids are road schooling. An upgrade WiFi system allows your kids to stay connected with their online classes, assignments, and research while giving them access to educational and entertainment content on the road.

Upgrading your RV’s WiFi can include installing a WiFi extender, booster, or antenna to improve signal strength and range. Upgrading your RV’s entertainment system can consist of installing a smart TV with streaming capabilities, upgrading the sound system, or adding a gaming console.

  1. Washer/Dryer Unit: Adding a washer/dryer unit to your RV can be an excellent convenience for families, especially for longer trips. It allows you to do laundry on the road without having to search for laundromats or other facilities. Many RVs now come with built-in washer/dryer units, either as a standard feature or an optional upgrade.

Coach-Net: The Essential RV Amenity for Added Peace of Mind on Your Family Adventures

Investing in these and other RV amenities can make your family camping trip more enjoyable, convenient, and comfortable for everyone. However, even with the best amenities and preparations, unexpected events can still happen on the road. This is where having roadside assistance from Coach-Net can be a lifesaver. As one of the leading providers of roadside assistance and travel protection services for RVers, Coach-Net offers a range of services, including towing, jump starts, flat tire changes, lockout service, fuel delivery, and more.

With Coach-Net, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re protected on the road. Whether camping in a remote area or navigating unfamiliar roads, Coach-Net is there to help. Their 24/7 customer service team is always available to assist you with any roadside emergency. Their extensive network of service providers ensures you’ll receive timely and reliable assistance no matter where you are. Join Now and let Coach-Net help improve your family RV experience one adventure at a time!

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Natalie Henley is a freelance writer and has also been full-time RVing with her husband and pets since 2015. She covers a wide range of topics, including RV lifestyle, RVing tips, DIY projects, RV news, and more. You can follow their adventures and RV-related tips on their blog, henleyshappytrails.com, as well as their YouTube Channel, also called Henley’s Happy Trails. In addition, she writes for various RV-related blogs and marketing outlets and is the co-author of Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It, available on Amazon.

Jason L. ~ “Everything went as perfectly as possible. I was very impressed with the no-hassle way things were taken care of. I couldn’t be any happier!”

A Budget-Friendly Day Trip to Providence, Rhode Island

09 Thursday Mar 2023

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One of the many amazing trips we took over the summer was to Providence, Rhode Island. We didn’t actually stay in Rhode Island but instead took a day trip to Providence from a nearby campground. We spent the entire day exploring this amazing little city with friends and had a blast doing it!

Read on to learn more about our Providence day trip adventures and learn about things to do in Providence.

Things to Do in Providence

Wondering what to do in Providence, RI? We’re here to help. Below are our favorite things we saw and did on our Providence day trip, as well as a few things we hope to do next time. The best part? All of these things are totally budget-friendly, and many are totally free things to do in Providence, so you can have fun without breaking the bank!

Check Out Historic Buildings

Like the rest of New England, Providence has a rich history. Why not brush up on your American history by visiting some of the historic spots in this beautiful city?

1707 Stephen Hopkins House
1707 Stephen Hopkins House
  • The Rhode Island State House is absolutely gorgeous and a wonderful example of great architecture. Free tours are offered every hour on the hour from 9am–2pm, Monday through Friday.
  • The Providence Public Library is another impressive historic building. Free one-hour architectural tours of the building take place at 10:30am on the first and third Tuesday of every month.
  • The 1707 Stephen Hopkins House also offers free tours. These happen on Wednesdays from 11am–2pm all year long, and on Saturdays from April to November. You can also make an appointment to see the house at other times.
  • Benefit Street is home to a full mile of historic buildings. Stroll the street and admire the historic architecture.

Admire Art

Besides the historic buildings scattered throughout, one of the things we found so charming about Providence was the art scene. It has a very artsy vibe, something I always find appealing.

If you want to check out some art by local artists, be sure to attend Gallery Night, which takes place on the third Thursday of every month. Hop on the free shuttle bus and hop off at each stop to explore galleries, art shops, and museums that all offer free admission during the event.

Dive into History at Blackstone River Valley National Memorial

Our first stop during our day trip to Providence was at Slater Mill, a part of the Blackstone River Valley National Memorial. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to tour the mill itself, but the kids enjoyed watching the park video, looking at the equipment through the windows, and strolling the grounds to see the river and other buildings.

The Junior Ranger program at this park was unique, which we really appreciated!

Learn Something New at Roger Williams National Memorial

We also made a stop at Roger Williams National Memorial. This is a teeny tiny NPS site, and the visitor center is even tinier. That said, it is absolutely packed with information on Roger Williams, and I was surprised by the interesting life that this man led.

We really liked the ranger at this site, as he was great with the kids and happily answered all their questions.

Stroll Roger Williams Park

Another one of the many things to do in Providence is to pay Roger Williams Park a visit. This park is an attraction on its own with many walking paths and all the usual park amenities, but it also plays host to a variety of other attractions.

We visited Carousel Village, which is run by the Roger Williams Park Zoo. This little fun spot has a historic carousel ($2 rides) and a mini train ($3 rides) for the kids. There is also a super fun playground right next door to the carousel, which features Hasbro-themed play areas.

The Botanical Center is also located at Roger Williams Park. It features a lovely little waterfall, a number of beautiful flowers from around the world, and more. There is also a fun scavenger hunt for kids in this garden, making it a fun place for the whole family!

Admission to the Botanical center is just $5 for adults, $2 for kids aged 6–12, and is free for kids under 6 years of age.

Enjoy Free Museum Admission

Providence has a number of fantastic museums. Unfortunately, most of these cost money to enter, something that the traveler on a budget may not be able to afford. This is where free museum nights come into play:

  • The Providence Children’s Museum is free on certain Friday evenings during the summer months.
  • The RISD Museum is an art museum associated with the Rhode Island School of Design, and it offers free admission every third Thursday from 5pm–9pm and on Sundays from 10am–5pm.

Another option for free museum admission involves purchasing a reciprocal museum membership and using that to enter Providence museums.

Explore the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium

Another affordable museum option is the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium. While this awesome museum doesn’t have a free night, admission to the museum is a mere $2, and children under 4 years of age enter for free. It really doesn’t get much cheaper than that!

Where to Eat in Providence

Now you know what to do in Providence, RI, but you’ll also need to eat during your day trip to Providence. Below are the food spots we visited and highly recommend.

Poco Loco Tacos

A super cute taco and burrito joint with some seriously creative menu items, we adored Poco Loco Tacos and will absolutely visit again when we’re in the area. In fact, we even considered going out of our way to pay for the place one more visit before moving our RV.

We loved the PBJ burrito and the avocado fritters. That said, anything you order will be delicious. The best part? This place is incredibly affordable!

Dear Hearts Ice Cream

After dinner, we were in the mood for something sweet. Our solution was Dear Hearts Ice Cream just down the road from the taco shop.

I’ve said before that I am an ice cream fan through and through, and I stand by that statement. That said, I am picky about my ice cream and don’t recommend mediocre places. While Dear Hearts wasn’t the best ice cream we’ve ever had (that has to be Leopold’s in Savannah, GA, or Braum’s in Oklahoma), it was definitely a solid option and is well worth trying.

Hopefully, this list of awesome things to do in Providence helps you plan an incredible and budget-friendly trip. Come back and let me know what you did during your time in the city!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Ronald B. ~ “I love Coach-Net! The response is always sympathetic and rapid!”

5 Ways To Improve RV Window Insulation

01 Wednesday Mar 2023

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Most RVers are well aware of just how poorly insulated the vast majority of rigs are. Unless the weather is just perfect, it can be difficult to get the temperature right in a trailer or motorhome.

One of the things that makes this extra difficult is single-pane RV windows. That’s why we recommend doing all you can to improve RV windows insulation in your rig, especially if you plan to camp in the middle of the winter or the height of summer.

Not sure how to go about insulating your RV windows properly? In this article, we will introduce you to five great ways to do just that.

Use Reflectix

Our first suggestion is Reflectix. We love Reflectix because it comes in sheets or rolls and can be cut to fit your RV windows easily. If you cut the pieces to fit snugly, they will hold themselves in place, but it’s also possible to use Command strips to hold them.

Reflectix is excellent at providing insulation and reflecting the sun away from your RV to help keep it cool in the summer, but it does block out all light. If you need to have sunshine to be a happy camper, this solution may not be for you.

Install Window Film

If sunlight coming in the windows is a must-have, you might prefer a window film insulation solution. These shrink-film window insulation kits are sold on Amazon and at home improvement stores. The film is applied using heat and it stays in place very nicely. It also provides a decent amount of insulation. All that said, the film can be a pain to apply, so you will want to be sure to set aside plenty of time for the project.

Employ Bubble Wrap

A cheap, easy, and effective option that will allow sunlight to enter the rig involves bubble wrap. Simply cut sheets of bubble wrap to fit inside your window, spritz the window with a bit of water from a spray bottle, and stick the bubble wrap on the window.

The only things we don’t love about this method are that the water doesn’t hold up forever (meaning you will likely have to reapply the bubble wrap occasionally) and that although light does get in through the wrap, you can’t see outside through it.

Make Your Own Window Covers

You might also consider some DIY covers. Lots of people have made awesome van window covers, and there are even some no-sew DIY van window cover options out there. There is no reason these methods of making van window covers couldn’t be carried over into an RV. That said, there are other options (such as sewing your own blackout curtains) to keep things nice and insulated.

Consider Double Pane Windows

Double pane windows are a fantastic, effective, and permanent RV window insulation solution. As the name suggests, double-pane windows are made of two panes of glass that have a layer of gas in between. The extra pane and layer of gas work together to provide much better RV window insulation than the traditional single-pane windows usually found in motorhomes and trailers. They also work well to block out unwanted noises.

Unfortunately, double-pane RV windows are quite heavy and expensive. They can also be damaged if the seal between the two panes is broken. Nevertheless, we do think they can be a worthwhile investment if you plan to camp in extreme temperatures regularly.

As you can see, there are several great ways to improve your RV window insulation. Pick one of the options above and get to work so you can enjoy camping in the perfect temperature on your next trip out in the RV!

May contain affiliate links.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

James O. ~ “All the agents were very friendly and followed up with phone calls to check the status of the service provider’s arrival. This is the third request we have made with our coverage and we have been very pleased with the service!!”

5 Desert Southwest National Parks You MUST Visit

16 Monday Jan 2023

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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Winter is here, and that means RVers need to A) stay south to keep warm, B) find ways to keep their RVs cozy and safe through the winter weather, or C) winterize their rigs for the season. Our family always chooses to stay south in order to keep enjoying traveling in our RV, and this year we decided to try out the beginning of the cold season in the Desert Southwest.

Generally, we head to Florida for the cold season, so our time spent in the desert during the winter this time around has been a huge change of pace. That said, we’re having an absolute blast and we 100% recommend it to anyone. Some of our favorite things that we’ve seen so far have been the awesome national parks in the area.

Below are the parks we’ve visited (and plan to visit), as well as what we loved about each.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

The first step on our winter trek to the west was Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This place was incredible, and since you are in a cave—where the temperature doesn’t really change much anyway—you can totally visit the park on a cold day, making it a great option if a cold front comes through.

Since we were visiting with an antsy 3-year-old, we chose to take the self-guided tour of the “Big Room.” That said, there are also ranger-guided tours that sound totally awesome. We did have to make a reservation beforehand—yes, even for the self-guided tour—so be sure you do that.

In addition to the amazing cave, this park is also home to some beautiful hiking trails and a great visitor center with tons of displays and information. Make sure you schedule enough time to explore those.

Note: We missed this since we visited during the winter, but if you happen to visit between late May and October, you’ll also want to experience the Bat Flight Program. I hear it’s phenomenal!

Where to Stay

For this part of our trip, we chose to stay on the BLM land right outside of the park. There are also two free established dry campgrounds right by the park. Look for Sunset Reef Campground or Chosa Primitive Campground to find this free camping.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Located not too far from Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park was also well worth visiting. This is an absolutely beautiful mountainous park that is a hiker’s dream come true.

Unfortunately, we are limited when it comes to the kinds of hikes we can take because we have the aforementioned 3-year-old in tow, but we thoroughly enjoyed the mile-long McKittrick Canyon Nature Loop Trail, which gave us some great views and allowed us to get up close and personal with the local flora.

We also spent some time in both the Pine Springs and McKittrick Canyon Visitor Centers. We enjoyed the exhibits in the Pine Springs Location as well as the short video at the McKittrick Canyon center.

Where to Stay

We didn’t move our RV to visit Guadalupe Mountains, National Park. You could absolutely visit this park from either of the free dry campgrounds mentioned above.

White Sands National Park

Our next stop was Alamogordo, NM, where we visited White Sands, National Park. We first stopped at Walmart to pick up some cheap sand sleds (which they stock year-round) then made a trip to the visitor center to buy sled wax from the gift shop and watch the park video. The kids also really enjoyed the exhibits in this visitor center and we spent some time checking those out.

We didn’t hike while in White Sands. Instead, we headed to the Interdune Boardwalk, chose a place we thought looked nice, and hopped off the trail to do some sand sledding. This was so much fun! The sand was cool to the touch and it was so fine and soft that it made it possible to sled quite fast.

We had a blast sledding the dunes and admiring the beauty of the bright white sand against the bright blue desert sky. We all agreed this was a new favorite park and that we would definitely return to explore more.

Where to Stay

We wanted a break from boondocking, so we stayed at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park. The price was right (I think we paid less than $20 a night), we had water and electric hookups, the dump station was clean (albeit with limited hours, so don’t expect to dump as you come in after sunset), and the bathhouses were great.

We wouldn’t hesitate to stay at this state park again, but there was also boondocking available right outside of the park if you prefer a free option.

Saguaro National Park

Next up was Saguaro National Park. This was an absolutely stunning place, and seeing the saguaro cacti in person was just incredible. We went to both the Rincon Mountain and Red Hills visitor centers and enjoyed them both. Each one has a nice video as well as exhibits about the park.

The view from the Red Hills location is spectacular, but we also adored the cactus garden at the Rincon Mountain center. We recommend checking out both locations if you can, but if you have to choose just one, go to the Rincon Mountain Center.

Why do we recommend the Rincon Mountain Center? Because of the amazing drive, we took from that location. This visitor center is home to the Cactus Forest Loop Drive. We did the loop, stopping for short hikes and photos along the way, and absolutely loved it. Definitely a highlight of the trip!

Where to Stay

We ended up boondocking again for this part of our trip. We stayed at the Snyder Hill BLM and it was fine, but not great. The “roads” to find a campsite was really just paths and were very rough. Besides that, it was the most crowded boondocking spot we’ve ever stayed in.

Would we stay there again? Probably for a few days to visit Tucson again, but not for long. If we were staying for more than a few nights, we’d try out The RV Park at Pima County Fairgrounds, which is supposed to be decent.

Joshua Tree National Park

Last on my list is Joshua Tree National Park. To be honest, we haven’t made it to this park yet this year, but we’ve been before. Our last visit was several years ago, but I remember loving this park and can’t wait to see it again.

One of the things I remember loving most about this park was that it is a dark sky park. This means that if you go out after dark, you are treated to some of the most beautiful night skies you will ever see. We will absolutely be doing this again.

Where to Stay

Our current plan is to stay at Palm Springs RV Resort which is part of our Thousand Trails membership. That said, we happen to know that there is plenty of good boondocking just outside of the park, so if you’re looking for free options, you might want to start there.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Marshal H. ~ “Best service ever! From the first call to your follow-up calls, it could not have been a better experience. I posted my review on the Tiffin Motorhome Forum and received over 100 responses! Thank You!”

Converters and Inverters – What Is The Difference When It Comes To Battery Charging?

04 Wednesday Jan 2023

Posted by in RV Information, Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

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There have been several inquiries from owners, old and new, about converters and inverters, and it’s clear that there is some confusion about their capabilities and functions. This is completely understandable, as there are various types of converters and an even greater number of inverters! So, let’s dive in!

Converter

A converter is basically a battery charger that receives 120-volt AC power from either a campground source or a generator and turns it into 12-volt DC power to charge the house battery or batteries. The most basic converter is located in a distribution center alongside the 120-volt circuit breakers and is called an all-in-one unit similar to this style.

The converter/charger is located behind the vents or grills on the right side and has a dedicated circuit breaker which is usually the one closest to the converter.

These are a less expensive model, however, they can be noisy and produce heat so some manufacturers are moving to a standalone model and putting it under the bed or inside cabinetry. There is still a distribution center with circuit breakers and 12-volt automotive-style fuses, but the converter/charger is hidden.

Above is a photo of a WFCO installed under the bed behind a false wall. They can be difficult to find and even more difficult to remove and install the new converter when looking to install lithium batteries!

A typical converter is connected to the house batteries and senses the charge. When the batteries are low, (approximately 50% drained) the converter will provide a charge of approximately 13.6-volts until the batteries reach 12.6-volts which is fully charged. Then the converter will drop to a float charge of 13.2-volts in order to avoid overcharging the battery/batteries.

The disadvantage is that it does not provide proper charging and maintenance. Sulfur will coat the lead plates in lead acid and AGM battery as it drains and only a high voltage charge known as the bulk charge or desulfation charge will break up the coating. Otherwise, it just gets thicker with each draw and eventually greatly reduces the battery’s ability to store power. It can also take 8 hours or longer to charge.

Progressive Dynamics offers a charger that provides 13.8-volts for 8 hours, which creates some desulfation, and the PD9200 with Charge Wizard also does a nice job.

A multi-stage charger will provide a bulk charge at 14.6-16-volts that will break up the sulfation and then moves to an equalizing charge to equalize each cell, followed by a float charge.

NOTE: You do not want to use this type of charger with Lithium Batteries as they require only a 14.6-volt charge and the bulk stage could ruin them!

There is very little maintenance required with either the all-in-one version or the standalone other than to monitor the condition of your lead acid battery/batteries. It is also recommended to periodically check all wiring connections for corrosion and tight fitting. If a converter goes bad it will either lose its ability to charge or not come out of the initial higher charge of 13.6-13.8 volts overcharging the batteries. Be sure to check the fluid level of the battery and in my opinion, it is a good idea to get a good battery monitor other than the three-light versions on the monitor panel.

The monitor shown below is a Go Power! product and is the version we installed in our Thor.

Inverter/Charger

An inverter is designed to take 12-volt DC power from the house battery bank and change or invert it to 120-volt AC power for appliances and outlets. Smaller inverters were first used with the entertainment centers to power just the TV and VCR and were about 100 watts. This was designed to power the TV while boondocking or dry camping temporarily and did not power anything else in the rig.

As more power was needed for other outlets and appliances such as residential refrigerators, larger inverters came along such as the Freedom 2000 which also had a battery charger incorporated.

This type of inverter would not only take 12-volt power from a larger battery bank and provide pure sine wave 120-volt power to several outlets and the residential refrigerator but would also provide a multi-stage charge to the house batteries.

Several companies have made their way into the market with inverters/chargers as low as 1000-watt models. The key in deciding which is right for you is to look at what wattage requirements you need for your rig, the battery bank you have, and the amp rating of the charger.

Companies with a reliable track record according to the RV manufacturers and service centers that I have worked with are Go Power, Xantrex, Victron which Keystone uses, and Renogy.

As with a converter, there is very little maintenance required for inverters other than battery maintenance and periodic checking of connections for corrosion.

Which Do I Need, A Converter Or An Inverter/Charger?


Usually, you don’t have a choice as the rig comes from the factory with a distribution center that has a converter/charger incorporated. This is either in the distribution center, standalone, or an inverter with a charging option.

The time to decide is when the converter fails or you want to upgrade your battery capacity. The determining factor is the amount of time you will be boondocking or dry camping. An inverter is only needed if you are not going to be plugged into a campground source and need to run some 120-volt appliances which would need an inverter or generator power.

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair, and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Ryan C. ~ “Coach-Net was exceptional and did all the leg work to get my tow. They took care of the billing, and all I had to do was wait for the tow truck. No paperwork on site and no hassle whatsoever!”

Holiday Gifts For the RV DIYer That Has It All

07 Wednesday Dec 2022

Posted by in Holidays in your RV, Tips & Tricks

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We all know them, the RVer that has every gizmo and gadget that comes along and is impossible to shop for. Over the years I’ve assembled quite a toolbox of unique measuring tools and every once in a while come across something else new that makes my troubleshooting and repairs easier. And not only that, but some of the gadgets help tell me what is happening in places that I can’t see such as wheel bearings, brakes, and electrical systems.

So here are some must-have tools and gadgets that will make you a hit with that hard-to-shop-for RVer.

Infrared Thermometer

The Infrared Thermometer allows you to pinpoint temperatures with a laser pointer to identify issues with heating, cooling, and axles. Every day you hit the road you should not only check the air pressure in the tires but also monitor what is happening in the bearings and brakes. Stop at some point during the day and check the hub of your trailer, brake drum, and tires. Then check the ambient temperature by using the side of your rig. If the hub temperature is extremely high, the bearing is most likely getting dry and need to be repacked. If the brake drum is extremely high, the auxiliary brakes are probably set too high. Record these temperatures and you will get to understand what is an acceptable temperature and what is extreme.

You can also use this device to get an exact temperature of what is coming out of the roof air conditioner rather than just guessing it’s not cooling enough. The roof air conditioner can only condition the ambient air coming in down 15 degrees so if it is 110 inside your rig, the air coming out can only be 95 degrees and that is not cool. You can also test the temperature of the air coming out the furnace vent to make sure it is acceptable. Knowing the exact temperatures will help with troubleshooting over the phone in case of an emergency.

You can get this device at any home improvement store or for a great value on Amazon here.

Magnetizer/Demagnetizer

There are times I could really use a magnetized screwdriver, especially in those hard-to-reach places with a tiny screw. But I don’t like it sitting in the bag latching on to everything metal including nuts and bolts. Plus it seems that the times I do have one in the bag it’s not the right size or I need a Philips, not a flat head. This is where the Magnetizer comes in handy.

Simply run the head of any metal screwdriver back and forth through the magnetized (+) slot and you have a tool that will latch on to the screw going in or coming out. To demagnetize, simply run it through the demagnetize (-) slot and it’s a normal tool. You can do this with needle nose pliers and drill bits to help catch metal shavings when drilling in metal. I’ve also used it to magnetize a metal coat hanger and retrieve a screw or bolt that dropped down the furnace vent. Find it on Amazon here.

Universal Grip Wrench

For years I’ve called this a “puck wrench” and just recently saw the actual name on Amazon! This not only has both SAE and Metric deep sockets but a unique feature is the rounded 12-point teeth rather than the sharp ones used on most sockets. Snap On patented this years ago and when that ran out, everyone copied it. The rounded edge means it contacts the side of the nut rather than at the point so it will not only fit both Metric and SAE but will also loosen a nut that has been stripped! It has a slot for a screwdriver tip and can also tighten a rounded cup holder.

Find it on Amazon here.

Air Gun

One of the most important maintenance items you can perform on an absorption refrigerator is cleaning out the burner assembly, flue, and back cavity of the compartment

The more you use your absorption refrigerator on LP, the more buildup of soot you will get in the burner assembly and flue. Also, spiders like the smell of propane and can block the flow of LP weaving a web. Once a year it is a good idea to open the back vent panel, put on a pair of safety glasses, and blow out the entire back of the refrigerator. Take off the metal burner assembly shield and get inside to clean it out thoroughly and clean off the back fins of the cooling unit. Your refrigerator will run much more efficiently even on 120-volt power! You might want to add a ¼” flexible hose to get in tough-to-reach spots like I did with mine.

You can find them on Amazon here.

Anemometer (Air Flow Meter)

I get dozens of questions almost every day and many times I get very generic ones that state my air conditioner isn’t running efficiently, my heater is slow, or my airflow from my roof air is low. To diagnose any issue with airflow or temperature you need to know what is normal and what is happening. This inexpensive air flow meter is known as an anemometer which will tell airflow and temperature.

Most RV manufacturers that have ducted roof air will test the ceiling ducts during final inspection to ensure the ductwork is open and the air is flowing and use a much more sophisticated coned type device. As we discussed earlier, the roof air conditioner can only condition or cool the air 15 degrees lower than the air at the intake. Using this device will help tell what the temperature is inside and if it is actually working as designed. Testing the airflow when the unit is cooling efficiently will tell you what the normal speed is and when you think it is not running correctly will help identify what is actually happening. You may be getting good airflow out of a closer vent and very little out of the far vent which might mean there is an obstruction in the ductwork? It will also give you specifics that most tech support personnel at RV manufacturers appreciate.

Find it on Amazon here.

Brake Fluid Moisture Tester

Almost every truck, car and motorhome chassis manufacturer recommends changing the brake fluid every 5 years or 50,000 miles. But who does that? While writing the RV Handbook for Trailer Life Publications I did some research with chassis engineers from Ford and Freightliner as well as talked with several auto technicians and they stated that brake fluid will break down, especially when subjected to extreme heat conditions of RVing as well as ambient temperatures. It can also get condensation with temperature changes and make the fluid break down faster.

Take off the cap and place the tester probes in the brake fluid reservoir for 1 second and the LED lights will tell you the quality of the fluid. You can find it at Amazon here.

Air Conditioner Evaporator And Condenser Fin Comb

Your roof air conditioner draws warm, moist interior air up through the inside return air and draws it through the front evaporator coil. The compressor then sends the coolant to the evaporator coil to flash the air and draw out heat and moisture. The fins of this coil are straight and slotted to allow the air to pass through however if the coils get bent, it restricts airflow. It is more important in the back where the condenser coils draw outside air in to help cool the coolant lines and those outside fins can get smashed with hail or backing into a branch! Visually inspect the coils and use this handy comb to straighten them out. Find it at Amazon here.

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Karl P. ~ “Kurt from Quality Tire was exceptional. He came and pulled both sets of back tires. The inside tires on both sides of our motor home had 0 pressure. Both Valve stems had been damaged for some reason. He replaced the valve stems on both tires and checked and filled all 6 tires to correct pressure. He was a pleasant and pleasurable person to work with. We were called by Coach-Net several times to make sure everything went as it was supposed to. Thank you to all the Coach-Net Representatives and to Kurt from Quality tire. It took something that was a pain and made it a pleasure.”

Cool RV Tools Every Camper Should Have!

02 Wednesday Nov 2022

Posted by in Tech Tips

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Everyone has their favorite tools they bring along on an RV trip depending on your level of mechanical and DIY abilities. There have been numerous articles about the basics such as screwdrivers and pliers. Over the past 40 years of RVing and a few more before that working and owning a service station, I have gathered a few more that are pretty unique.

Several years ago I was conducting seminars at the California RV Show and pulled out a couple of meters and gauges that I used in one of the handyman series for testing and after the seminar, a few of the Winnebago Itasca Travelers (WIT) Club members came up and said; “I bet you have developed quite a unique set of tools and gadgets over the years?” And they were right, so I developed one of my most popular seminars called “Cool RV Tools, Gadgets, and must-have Apps”. I will share a few of the more unique ones with you in this article.

Electrical Tools

GFCI Tester

Before plugging into a campground electrical source, it’s important to make sure it has proper voltage and is wired correctly. Whether you are plugging into 20 amp, 30 amp, or 50 amp service, it is important to verify the load wire/wires, neutral, and ground are all connected and not loose. Using a Surge Protector is a great option, however, I found this GFCI tester at Home Depot that not only tells me the wiring is good but also shows the voltage. You do not want to plug into anything that is below 106 volts or above 130 volts. Even if you use a multimeter or Surge Protector, this is a handy device to plug into an inside outlet for a quick reference of voltage and wiring.

Non-Contact Voltage Tester

This handy device will immediately tell you if there is power coming through an extension cord, appliance plug-in, or at an outlet without needing to dig deep into the outlet. If you get the type with a sensitivity dial, you can also test the outside of your rig for hot skin which is a voltage leak due to improper or loose wiring. These are available at home improvement and hardware stores.

Kill A Watt

Most people understand the basics of what they can run on 20 amp, 30 amp, and 50 amp service such as only one roof air conditioner on 30 amps, either the air conditioner or the microwave but not both on 30 amps, and other common items found on your rig. But what power does a toaster draw? How about an air fryer, or hair dryer? It’s important to know what extra items you bring using power especially if you are using 20 or 30-amp power. The Kill A Watt is a handy device that plugs into an outlet and that you plug into an appliance such as an espresso machine, curling iron, or ceramic heater. It will tell you the Watts or Amp so you can better manage your energy usage.

Electrical Cord Holders

Several years ago I was following a friend that was an electrician and saw he had several extension cords and other items hanging on the cage in the back of his pickup. I caught up with him and found he had gotten an old tire inner tube from the local tire shop, cut a 2” band out of the middle, and wrapped it around the cords. He then put in hooks and had everything organized with a handy carrying loop.

I took this idea and have used it in RVs, for video production, and here is a photo of the electrical compartment we just organized for a friend with a Thor this summer. Everything is up off the floor and more room for “STUFF!”

Fresh Water Systems

Intellitec Digital Water Purity Tester

Campgrounds are required to have their water tested and certified once a year however, bacteria, arsenic, and other contaminants can be present between the tests. I found this device that can do a very quick test for impurities. It measures in parts per million (PPM) which means it does not identify what impurities rather there is something in the water that affects continuity between the probes and the higher the PPM, the more impurities. Today I can only find this on Amazon.

Filtermate Test Kit

Even if the water supply passes the average test, does not mean it is the best water source for your pets, children, or your rig’s water supply. Most campground water sources will be hard water which means there is calcium, lime, and rust that could clog up pipes, filters, and faucets. There are several test kits that will determine the hardness of the water, PH, and other chemicals that might be an issue at the campground. I find these mostly at home improvement stores. These kits can help determine if you need a water filter, and what kind.

Water Pressure Tester

Most campgrounds will have a well-type water system with a pump rather than a regulated municipal type. That means you could get low pressure or even worse, high pressure that your water lines and connections can not handle. Most RVs today have ½” plastic lines such as PEX with either a crimped-on ring at the connections or a compression-type fitting. Most can handle at least 40 psi or some up to 60 psi which is the water pressure coming into the rig. It’s important to test the water pressure before hooking up and to know what your rig can handle! My folks went to visit my brother and hooked up the city water hose to the outside faucet at his house and later that afternoon had a soaked floor. The connections could not handle the pressure and water just slowly seeped out.

Screw this onto the water supply at the campground or house to test the pressure. Or you can use the next tool!

Water Pressure Regulator/Filter

This is not actually a tool but rather an accessory but I include it as the type I like to use is not so common. Most RVers like to use an inline filter such as Camco or Shurflo which you sell all over the campground. I like to use a residential style on such as this Omni version that you often see under the sink in homes. This type of filter has a replaceable cartridge insert that can also be customized for the type of filtering you need. I can replace the cartridge for over half the cost of the all-in-one inline filter.

Notice the 40 psi reducer attached to the faucet as this old-style farm handle would give me 80 psi! Plus this is one of the few accordion-type hoses that is drinking water safe!

Winterizing Hose

I like to use compressed air to blow all the water out of the system rather than put in gallons and gallons of pink RV antifreeze. Usually, I do this by myself and there has not been a good method to connect the air hose of my compressor to the screw-in air valve to the city water fill. So I built my own using the male end of an old water hose that connects to the city water fill and added an air chuck with a worm clamp. This way I can connect this to the city water fill, turn the compressor down to 40 psi, connect the hose with the quick connect, and open all the faucets and other devices by myself.

Liquid Propane (LP)

LP Leak Detector

By RVIA code, all RVs come with an LP Leak Detector installed which has a sensor that will provide an audible beep if it detects LP in the air. This is usually located under a kitchen cabinet or other lower cabinet location as LP is heavier than air and will settle.

There are several areas that could have a slight LP leak that would not be detected by this unit such as at the DOT cylinders on trailers or ASME tank on a motorhome. All LP appliances have an LP hose and connection which could also leak and might not be detected by the device in locations like the back of the refrigerator, outside grill, outside kitchen, and the furnace. That is why I like to periodically check the connections with my own portable LP Leak Detector which I found on Amazon for $20.

This is a much more accurate and pinpoint device that allows you to test lines and connections that the floor-mounted device might not detect.

Gas Stop

Gas Stop is a device that will instantly and automatically shut off the LP delivery system in the event of a major leak such as a ruptured line or other failures. Even though all RV LP fuel supply containers have a spring-loaded excess flow valve, there is still a slight chance of malfunction of the valve and it can get stuck in bypass and appliances will not work. This device will also show you the level of LP in the container and can sense a very slight leak in the system.

Stay tuned, next month we will show a refrigerator vent blowout tool as well as a “comb” to straighten the evaporator coils. And then one of my favorites, the “Magnetizer”!

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair, and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Swain W. ~ “Service was excellent and follow-up was fantastic. It means a lot to be taken care of when you are down. Very happy with everyone’s performance I would not have known what to do or who to call if I had not had Coach-Net. You all were excellent.”