Electrical systems

• All internal and external lights are assessed to see if there are any faults.
• Sockets are tested using a loop check, which sends a signal down to verify that it is wired correctly.
• Included in these checks are fridge operation, the consumer unit, the TV socket, the battery and anything that requires electricity.
• A residual current device (RCD) check involves making sure the RCD trips within a set time.
• In addition, the miniature circuit breakers are checked to ensure that they are correct for the appliances in the vehicle.

Gas systems

• A manometer is used to check for leaks in the gas supply system.
• All gas appliances – such as the oven, the fridge, the heating system and the water heater – are turned on, to check they are working properly.
• All vents are checked to see they are clear. Then all appliances are turned off at the gas isolator taps.
• The flame-failure device should cut in, meaning the test has been passed.
• A second test is the CO room test, where all gas appliances are turned on and a flue gas analyser runs for a minimum of 15 minutes with all doors and windows closed.

Water systems

• All taps are individually checked for leaks, and the motorhome’s waste-water outlet is observed for blockages.
• The toilet is inspected to ensure the valve seal is well lubricated and the battery-operated flush is working.
• If an Alde wet heating system is installed, the ethylene glycol antifreeze and water must be a 50/50 mix – this is checked using a portable refractometer.
• The antifreeze mix in the header tank should be 10mm above ‘Minimum’, not at maximum.
• It is recommended that the antifreeze should be changed every two years.

Bodywork

• All doors, windows and blinds are assessed for smooth operation.
• General observations are made of the whole bodywork, including a visual inspection of the roof.
• A damp check is carried out around the inside of the motorhome – a reading of 0-15% means there no concerns, but 15-20% requires further investigation and a recheck within three months.
• If the reading is above 20%, immediate attention is required because this highlights an area of water ingress.
• The motorhome service technician should give you a damp report on completion of the service.

Ventilation

• All of the motorhome’s rooflights are opened and closed to ensure that they operate properly.
• In addition, all fixed vents are checked for possible obstructions.

Fire and safety

• The smoke alarm and CO detector are tested, and checked to see they are not past their replacement date.
• If you carry a fire extinguisher, the expiry date is checked. If you carry a fire blanket, the housing unit is inspected to ensure that it is secure.

What’s not included?

• Before you book in for your motorhome habitation check, it’s very important to establish what won’t be included in a basic service, because some workshops or mobile technicians may not include any damp testing.
• The following checks are not included in a basic service, so would require additional payment:
  - In-depth servicing for individual appliances, such as the fridge;
  - A solar panel service;
  - An air-conditioning service.

In summary
With all of the appliances found in motorhomes today, it is more important than ever to get a regular habitation service, to ensure everything is in good working order and that your ’van is safe on the road, as well as habitable.

To book your Caravan Services & Repairs in Kent - Habitation service, please call us today on 07522 965397 or email us at info@wealdofkentcaravanservices.com