The Ultimate Guide To Inspecting A Camper Trailer

Inspecting a camper trailer is a complex but necessary process. It's important to do your own inspection to get a complete picture of the vehicle, including any repairs that might be needed. Dealerships and private sellers may not be aware of all the issues, so it's crucial to conduct a thorough walkthrough. Here are some key areas to focus on when inspecting a camper trailer:

- Exterior: Check the roof for any signs of damage, soft spots, or water intrusion. Inspect the walls, windows, and seals for any cracks, gaps, or water damage. Ensure the slide-outs and pop-up roofs operate smoothly.

- Interior: Look for water damage, mould, or soft spots on the walls, floors, and ceiling. Check for proper ventilation and inspect plumbing and electrical systems. Test all appliances, including the refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, and air conditioning.

- Utilities: Ensure proper water supply and drainage systems. Check the condition of the freshwater tank, grey and black water holding tanks, and plumbing connections. Inspect the propane tanks, lines, and connections for any leaks.

- Mechanical: Assess the engine, generator, and automotive systems (for motorhomes). Check the battery, fuses, engine belts, and fluid levels. Ensure the brakes, suspension, axles, and wheels are in good condition.

- Additional features: Test electronic components such as outlets, USB ports, and entertainment systems. Inspect furniture, cabinetry, and driver's seats for any damage or wear and tear.

Inspect the roof for punctures, tears, dirt, and soft spots

Inspecting the roof of a camper trailer is a critical part of the process and is often overlooked. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the inspection process:

Firstly, ensure you have the right tools for the job. You will need a ladder to access the roof, a flashlight to illuminate potential problem areas, a garden hose to test for leaks, and gloves to protect your hands. It is also recommended to clean the roof before beginning your inspection. Use a mild soap solution and a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt, debris, or grime.

Now, you can begin your detailed inspection of the roof. Start by looking for any punctures or tears on the roof surface. These can be caused by falling debris, such as tree branches, or hail. Pay close attention to the edges of the roof, as these areas are more susceptible to damage. If you find any punctures or tears, make sure to repair them immediately to prevent water leaks and further damage to the trailer's interior.

Next, inspect the roof for any soft spots, which could indicate water damage or rot. Walk or crawl on the roof, applying gentle pressure to feel for any soft or spongy areas. If you detect soft spots, this is a huge red flag and may require more extensive repairs.

Keep an eye out for dirt, mould, or mildew on the roof. A dirty roof covered in leaves, twigs, or mould indicates that it has not been properly maintained and may have underlying issues. If the roof is dirty, consider cleaning it to better identify any potential problems.

Finally, check the seals and vent covers for any punctures, tears, or cracks. The sealant should be soft and pliable, allowing you to push into it firmly and have it return to its original form. Hard and dry seals will crack and create leaks, so make sure to replace them if necessary.

Remember, regular maintenance and inspection of your camper trailer roof are essential to prevent wear and tear and identify potential problems early on.

Check for water damage, including leaks, stains, and soft spots on walls, ceilings, and floors

Water damage is a serious issue for camper trailers, as it can cause extensive damage over time and lead to the growth of toxic mould and mildew. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect your camper trailer for any signs of water damage.

When checking for water damage, you should look out for leaks, stains, and soft spots on walls, ceilings, and floors. Start by checking the roof, as this is the most common place for water damage to occur. Look for any signs of water intrusion, such as soft spots, cracks, tears, or holes. Pay close attention to the seams and seals around any roof-mounted accessories, such as air conditioning units or solar panels. Use a water detector to identify hidden moisture behind walls or inside appliances.

Next, check the walls, ceilings, and floors for any signs of water stains or discolouration. Use a black light to inspect for leaks, as it will illuminate any stains that may be present. Feel for any soft spots or warped areas, as this could indicate water damage. Check inside overhead cabinets, especially where the roof meets the wall, as this is a common area for water to leak through. If your camper has a bed area, remove the mattress and feel for any moisture or soft spots.

Additionally, be on the lookout for any musty or damp smells, as this could indicate the presence of mould or mildew. If you notice any damp spots on carpets or rusty stains around windows and lights, it is likely that water has found its way into the structure of the vehicle.

Test the electrical systems, including outlets, USB ports, and battery power

Testing the electrical systems of a camper trailer is an important part of the inspection process. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Test the Outlets

Use an electric outlet tester to check if all the outlets in the camper trailer are working. Make sure to test both the 12-volt DC electrical system outlets and the 120-volt AC system outlets. The 12-volt system is powered by the trailer's battery and powers things like lights and the start-up of appliances. The 120-volt system, on the other hand, is powered by an external power source or a generator and runs daily-use items like kitchen appliances and TVs.

Test the USB Ports

Use a USB charger station tester to check if the USB ports are functional. These ports are usually powered by the 12-volt DC electrical system and are used for charging devices like phones and tablets.

Test the Battery Power

The battery is the heart of the 12-volt DC electrical system in a camper trailer. It powers essential components like lights, water heaters, and refrigerators. When testing the battery power, start by locating the battery compartment. Check if the batteries are installed and wired correctly. Look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or fraying. Also, ensure that the battery connections are secure and clean.

Next, test the battery charge. You can use a multimeter to test the voltage and ensure it's within the normal range. If you have lead-acid batteries, check the electrolyte levels and add water if necessary. Modern deep-cycle and lithium batteries typically require less maintenance.

Finally, test the battery's ability to power the trailer's appliances. Turn on components like the water heater, refrigerator, lights, and fans. Make sure they're working properly, and there are no issues like dimming lights or slow fans. If there are problems, it could be due to a weak battery or another issue in the electrical system.

Additionally, if the trailer has an inverter, test its functionality by plugging in appliances that require 120-volt AC power and ensuring they work. The inverter converts the 12-volt battery power to 120-volt AC power, allowing you to use devices that need a higher voltage.

Check for propane leaks and ensure tanks are secure

Propane is a fire hazard and a toxin, so it is important to check for leaks and ensure your tanks are secure.

First, check the manufacture date on the propane tank's collar. Tanks over 10 years old must be re-certified, and this must be repeated every five to ten years. If the tank is out of date, it will need to be re-certified by a professional before use.

Next, check for leaks by opening the valves and using your sense of smell. Propane manufacturers add an agent to propane to give it a very noticeable rotten egg smell. If you can smell this, there is a leak. You can try to locate the source of the leak by identifying where the smell is strongest and painting the lines with a basting brush dipped in soapy water. You can also use a Gassaf propane leak detector, which will not only detect a leak but also shut down the propane flow. Alternatively, use a propane dial manometer, a tool that performs a pressure drop test and provides data on any possible leak.

If there is no leak, ensure that the tanks are secure. Propane tanks should be locked down securely during travel. Check the tank's collar, and avoid or replace tanks that are very rusty, painted a dark colour, or unable to output enough gas for a good flame on your stove.

Inspect the plumbing, including water tanks, pumps, and hoses

Inspecting the plumbing in your camper trailer is essential to ensure you have a reliable supply of water and to prevent leaks and water damage. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:

Regular Water Tank Checkswater tank is the heart of your camper trailer's plumbing system. Inspect the tank regularly for any signs of leaks, cracks, or contamination. Periodically flush and sanitise the tank to ensure the water you carry is clean and safe. Proper maintenance of the water tank will contribute to a steady and reliable water supply during your travels.

Inspect Water Lines and Connectionsplumbing lines and connections can be subjected to vibrations and movements during travel. Regularly inspect these components for signs of wear, leaks, or loose connections. Tighten any loose fittings and replace any damaged or worn-out hoses to prevent water system failures.

Check for Leakssmall water leak in your camper trailer can lead to significant water wastage and potential damage. Pay close attention to taps, joints, and connections when checking for leaks. Fix any leaks promptly to conserve water and avoid unnecessary repair costs.

Maintain the Water Pump:

The water pump delivers water from the tank to your taps and appliances. Check the water pump periodically to ensure it is functioning properly. Keep it free from debris and contaminants, and lubricate it if necessary. Carry a spare pump as unexpected failures can occur.

Inspect Hoses:

Your camper trailer likely uses different types of hoses, including a water hose, propane hose, sewer hose, and exterior shower hose. Inspect the hoses and their fittings regularly for any signs of damage or cracks. Replace inferior hoses, such as the sewer hose, and keep the water hose away from contaminated areas. Ensure your water hose is made of government-approved materials and is safe for drinking water.

Protect Against Freezing:

If you're travelling to cooler regions or during winter, insulate your water lines to prevent freezing. Use heat tape or portable heaters if necessary to avoid burst pipes and potential damage to the plumbing system.

Frequently asked questions