Buying an RV For Long Term Use Or Living
By Irsan Komarga

When you go the buy an RV for long-term use or to living, there are several things you should consider and things you should check out before you buy. Some things you want to consider will be, discussed below as well as some things you will want to check out before you purchase the RV.

First, before you buy the RV consider the number of people who will be in the RV at one time or all the time. If there are only two people then the size is not that big of a deal. However if there will be three or more at one time bigger is better. You would need an RV that is longer than thirty-two foot for three or more adults at all times. The reason for this is the storage tanks are larger on these larger types of travel trailers and Motor Homes. This is better to accommodate the larger number of people.

In addition, the bedrooms and the sleeping number is much higher in the larger RV's and make for more comfortable sleeping and living. The larger RV's also have extra storage space for the extra adults. The larger RV's also now can be equipped with washer/dryers this is a huge help with this number of people three or more adults. This is good for long-term use or for living in if, one chooses to.

The next things you should concern your self with is the condition of the RV be sure to check the roof, all the plumbing, the appliances, the cabinets and storage compartments inside and out. Check all the electrical and the plugs, and the generator. You must make sure everything works before you purchase the RV or get it in writing that the seller will fix any problems.

If the RV is a motor home, you will want to be sure to check the motor and make sure the control panel is functioning properly. Check the tires and hoses, tanks anything you can think of to make sure it is working properly. Make a list with the seller present, go over the list with him or her, and discuss any problems.

If the problems are minor then you can replace or fix it with little or no problem. If the seller is selling, the unit as is then there could be something major you will find later after you purchase the RV. This could cost you a chunk of money. So be sure to consider all of these areas when you go to buy an RV for long-term use or living in your comfort is the most important thing.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Buying-an-RV-For-Long-Term-Use-Or-Living&id=3159691

Alaska RV Trip

Alaska RV Trip
by David Reichman

One of the best ways to have an amazing Alaska family road trip is to be able to have a flexible schedule to go about the places you want to see and the things you want to do. Touring Alaska independently without worrying about getting left by your group or your tour bus is the kind of vacation your family wants and needs. If you plan to check out all of the must-see sights on your vacation, you will have to book your family to different hotels for a more convenient commute to your prospective attractions. So, why don't you just drive your Alaska family vacation away with a rented RV?! A regular-sized 20-something foot recreational vehicle can be quite overwhelming for people who are used to driving a regular sedan, but make no mistake, for the kids, the RV rocks!



Instead of packing and unpacking at each hotel along the way, just taking along your lodging with you all the time is a great idea. Traveling around Alaska, after all, requires long drives from point A to point B. Plus, with all the RV parks scattered all around the state, exploring Alaska on a motor home is as easy as 123.



Plan a trip to south central Alaska and begin your family vacation to Alaska in Anchorage, where the best place to stay is at the Anchorage RV Park. There are a lot of RV rentals in Anchorage, all you have to do is pick which one works out for you. Tour companies even help families plan their RV trips and give them safety tips on driving an RV. You will be amazed at how comfortable it is to be lodging in an RV when you stack your things in the drawers and realize that everything fits! Stock the cabinets with food and other essential supplies and you are off!



The best way to introduce the wildlife in Alaska in this family vacation is a stop at the Alaska Zoo. Apt to their slogan, Connecting People With Animals, the interactive attractions in Alaska Zoo will surely be a great way for your children to get acquainted with their favorite animals and some of the world's most endangered species. Driving from Anchorage to Portage Glacier is truly worthwhile. Get on full alert and your cameras ready as you might spot some wildlife as you skirt the shores of Turnagain Arm. Check the posted cruise schedule once you arrive at Portage Lake. Get on board and brace yourselves for the hour-long cruise you will never forget. The iceberg-dotted Portage Lake will definitely leave you speechless.



Take another long drive (about two hours) from Whittier to Seward where you can find the Alaska SeaLife Center located just along the Seward Highway. The Alaska SeaLife Center offers up-close and personal experience with Alaskan marine wildlife. Admission rates vary depending on the season, but you can be sure that they will always be affordable - young kids can even get in free of charge!



Drive a little more than 2 hours to Kenai and spend the night at the Diamond M Ranch RV Park where fishing opportunities are available. Take another day cruise around the rocky and rugged Chiswell Islands the next day, a natural or wildlife area that is considered a sanctuary of nesting Alaskan birds. After the cruise, take the 3 1/2-hour drive north to Hope and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Inlet as well as the Chugach and Kenai Mountains. At Hope, board the boat and cruise along the College Fjords, and you are sure to bring home some of the best pictures of your Alaskan family vacation.



Take the 2-hour drive to Palmer for the last stop of your Alaska family vacation with the RV. At Palmer, you can head to the Reindeer Farm and pet, feed and photograph the very friendly adult and baby reindeer or check out gigantic vegetables and monster trucks at the Alaska State Fair. Conclude your one-of-a-kind RV vacation with a stop at the Mat-Su Visitor Information Center where you can find not only informative and educational materials about the development of the Mat-su Valley, but also purchase souvenirs and other memorabilia for yourselves and your family and friends back home.



Head back to Anchorage to return your rented RV. As you do so, take this opportunity to reflect on the trip with your family. Everything that happened in this trip made the long hours of driving worth it. Your children's unending reliving of the events during your trip will make you feel that this is an Alaska family vacation they will always remember.


Please use our road trip planner to plan your next Alaska family vacation. It leverages the collective wisdom of thousands of users worldwide, and makes road trip planning interactive and enjoyable.


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Know a little more about Airstream Travel Trailers

Know a little more about Airstream Travel Trailers
by Keggy Cass

The Airstream Travel Trailers of today are just as unique as the ever popular Airstream Travel Trailers of yesterday! The little silver bullets flowing down our freeways and back roads roll into camping sites all over America to still catch the eyes of the people along the way. This may have been invented in America, but they have reached traveling campers all over the world.



The inventor of this amazing trailer was a young man from a little town called Baker, Oregon in the Pacific Northwest corner of America. As a young boy, Wally Byam would travel often with his Grandfather who led a mule train. During these many mule train escapades, outdoor living and travels became a way of life for Wally Byam and he took in all, he could on these adventures. Wally went on to graduate with a law degree in 1923, but never practiced law. Instead he began working in a handful of other professions, along with publishing. Due to a wrongly written article on a camping trailer model, done by a writer under him, Wally corrected the article mistakes and started to build his own camper model plans.



With better articulations, done on the trailer model plans by Wally over a period of time, it was not long until these trailers were invented in 1934 and named Airstream for the reason of moving down the road like a stream of air.



In 1936, the Airstream Trailer Company came out with the Clipper model that really began the Airstream's familiar looks and original camping travel trailer comfort's. The Clipper was the original one of the riveted aluminum body and could sleep four, because of a tubular steel-framed dinette that could convert into a bed. There was advanced insulation and ventilation system, a type of air conditioning using dry ice, electricity throughout and its own built in water supply.



In 1979, the ever popular Airstream Travel Trailer expanded into the motor home industry, very similar to the original Airstream Travel Trailer, there was still the riveted aluminum construction, but with improved aerodynamics. In 1989, there was the introduction of laminated fiberglass construction, patent front and rear end caps. Today, the original model of trailers still roll down the roads along side the newer versions of the best selling Airstream motor homes still being created on the current market demand.


Keggy Cass loves the open roads and especially traveling when taking all the conveniences along for the trip. One catch though, he does not get to spend near enough time on the open roads. Browsing this website is a good second choice: http://www.camperbargain.com


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Safety Tips for Getting Ready to Pull Out

Safety Tips for Getting Ready to Pull Out
By Edwin J. Hill

Inexperienced people think the job's done once the trailer is hooked up. I think there's a lot more to towing a travel trailer safely. It's more a matter of common sense than anything else.

I'm a believer in checking, double-checking and checking once more. My family sometimes gets impatient with me but, then, I've never had an accident with an RV

I make sure the coupling, itself, is secure. I check the safety chains, the break-away safety and the electrical hookup.

Part of checking the electrical hookup is checking all the lights. I turn on the parking lights on the tow vehicle and have someone stand behind the trailer. I have them confirm to me that the running lights and tail lights are working. Together, we test each turn signal as well as the brake lights. If they're not working, I don't drive!

I go inside the trailer and make sure everything that needs to be secured is secure. I check all the cupboard doors and drawers. Any doors must be locked in place. Anything that could fall is secured.

I like to walk around the trailer twice. The first time, I check all the compartment doors to make sure they're all locked. I also make sure the trailer steps are folded up and out of the way. On this trip around the trailer, I check all the hookups again. I make sure the truck mirrors are adjusted for trailer towing

The second time around, I try to get at least 30 feet away so I can easily see under the trailer to the other side. I have discovered things hanging down that needed to be secured. Other times, I have noticed something lying on the ground that needed to be picked up. It's during this once-around that I check to make sure the truck and trailer are level.

It may seem like unnecessary overkill. However, I have found something wrong just often enough to make me keep on doing it.

In the name of safety, I recommend you do the same!

Ed Hill was introduced to "camping" by the US Army nearly half a century ago. Since then, he has traveled across most of the United States and parts of Europe using a variety of tents and RV's. Ed is now sharing that love of RV travel in his blog, http://www.EnjoyRVTravel.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_J._Hill
http://EzineArticles.com/?Safety-Tips-for-Getting-Ready-to-Pull-Out&id=909705

RV Shows

RV Shows
By Mark Polk

Each year, around this time, the RV show season starts. RV shows, like boat shows, are intended to introduce the new model year RV's and to help disseminate RV related information to the consumer. These shows are usually scheduled during the slower time of the year, the winter months, to help jump start the selling season. RV dealers from miles away will bring their wares to these shows. For the buyer, RV shows put everything you need to see and learn about RV's under one roof, making it the ideal forum to conduct research and make informed RV buying decisions.

I mentioned that RV dealers will come from miles around. This includes many local dealers from the area in which you live. If at all possible you want to find a dealer that is within a reasonable distance from where you live. As bad as it sounds, if you buy from an out of state dealer or one far from home, the local RV dealer may not give you the best service after the sale. The most important concern here is that you deal with a reputable RV dealer.

A good place to start your search for a reputable RV dealer is at a local RV show. When you attend an RV show don't be afraid to ask questions about the RV dealership and the products they offer. For starters you need to find a reputable RV dealer with a reputable, professional staff. A reputable dealer wants your business and they want you to return to them for future business. I have been in many RV dealerships that I wouldn't hesitate to do business with and I have been in others that I couldn't leave soon enough. Remember, you're at the show to check out the dealer as well as the product and you should plan to visit the RV dealer's physical location before you buy. If at all possible talk to some other people who have dealt with the dealership in the past. Don't be afraid to ask them to give you a tour of the dealership. Look at the service department. Do they have certified technicians? Do they have the capability and facilities to do routine maintenance and warranty work on the units they sell? Look at the Parts and Accessory department. Do they offer a good selection of parts and accessories? Do they have a good selection of RVs to choose from? How long have they been selling certain manufacturer brands? How long have they been in business?

There are some great deals offered at some RV shows and with all of the excitement, and a good salesperson, it's easy to make a hasty purchase. If they can offer a great deal at the show, chances are they can offer a great deal after the show, unless the offer included a manufacturer discount or rebate for show dates only. Let them know you might be interested in a particular unit or deal, but you want to visit the dealership before you buy.

There is a lot of ground to cover at an RV show and a wealth of information available. Not only will you find a good selection of RV dealers to check out, but there will be every make and model of RV imaginable too. RV shows are a great place to do some comparison shopping. Keep in mind that RV's are available in entry, mid-line, and high-end models. When comparing prices, make sure it is apples to apples. One RV may look like another one, but you need to compare the options, construction, equipment and features they both have to offer. See who offers the best deal but remember if the dealer goes out of business next month, or isn't equipped to work on the RV, your best deal may turn out to be a bad deal.

RV shows aren't just for RV dealers to showcase their products. RV shows are a great source for information, from knowledgeable representatives, on every aspect of the RV industry. You will find information on campgrounds and RV resorts, aftermarket RV products, RV accessories and free RV seminars. Some of these seminars might be helpful to you in making some of your buying decisions. Check with the show office on seminar topics and times.

RV shows are also a good place to talk to RV manufacturer representatives and other industry experts. Many of the RV manufacturers send knowledgeable representatives to assist RV dealers with their products. Don't be afraid to talk with other RVers at the show too. Many of these people have years of RV experience and knowledge of different products.

Buying an RV is a major decision. To make the best buying decision possible you need to do your research and be well informed. I would like to offer you ten tips to making an informed RV buying decision.

1) If you're not absolutely sure an RV is right for you try renting one before you buy.

Rule number one for owning an RV is you have to use it. It can be difficult to determine if an RV is right for you if you have never used one. Plan a weekend or week-long trip and rent an RV to try it out. Renting an RV can be a good indicator to gauge if an RV is in your future. But I caution you, once you get the RV bug it's hard to get rid of.

2) Know which type of RV is right for you and your family before you buy.

RV's come in numerous types, sizes and price ranges. Know which type is right for you and what price fits your budget. Take the time to research your specific needs, and how you plan to use the RV. If you plan to travel cross-country in the RV a motorized RV might make more sense than a towable RV. If you plan to go camping in the backwoods, off the beaten trail, a pop up or truck camper would probably make more sense.

3) New or Used?

This is a major consideration before you purchase an RV. To assist you with making this decision consider how you plan to use the RV and what your budget is. If you only plan to take a couple of weekend trips, or use it for one week out of the year, a used RV might be best for you. And, it won't do you any good to own an RV if there isn't enough money left in the budget to enjoy it.

4) If you buy a towable RV make sure you have a tow vehicle that can safely tow it.

You might find your dream RV only to discover your tow vehicle can't tow it. If you already own the vehicle you plan to tow with determine how much it can safely tow and shop for an RV based on that information. If you plan to buy a tow vehicle select the travel trailer or fifth wheel trailer first, then buy a vehicle that can safely tow it. RV dealerships should have trained personnel to assist you with matching the tow vehicle and trailer.

5) If you plan to purchase a motorized RV drive it before you buy it

Driving a motorhome for the first time can be a little intimidating, but it's important that you test drive it before you buy it. You want a motorhome that you feel comfortable driving because you will spend a lot of time behind the wheel. Check out all of the controls, the view, mirrors and make sure it performs the way you expect it to.

6) Do your research

Buying an RV is a major investment, similar to an automobile or your home. You need to do your research before you buy. There are lots of RV manufacturers and RV brands to choose from. You want an RV dealer and a manufacturer that will stand behind the product after the sale. You can research manufacturers on the internet, request brochures, take factory tours and attend local RV shows to learn more about all of the options you have.

7) Buy from a reputable RV dealership

A reputable RV dealership will have a professional sales, parts and service staff. This is an important consideration during and after the purchase of your RV. It's important that you select the right type of RV, floorplan and brand for you and your family, and that there are qualified technicians to service the unit after the sale. A reputable RV dealership can make your RV ownership experiences much more pleasurable.

8) Protecting your investment

When you purchase your RV consider some other factors that will help protect your investment. I recommend looking into some type of extended service contract that goes beyond the manufacturer warranty period. There are numerous plans available, so shop around for the best deal. Get specialized RV insurance coverage. It's different from your home and auto policy. When you need specialized coverage you'll be glad you have it.

9) Now that you own it, where can you use it?

The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association, RVIA states that there are approximately 8,500 RV parks and campgrounds located near national parks and forests, popular tourist attractions, along interstates and in cities and small towns. With the Internet you have instant access to most of these public and private campgrounds, RV Parks and RV Resorts. Other good resources are travel guides, magazines, campground directories and state tourism boards to help plan your next RV trip.

10) Back to rule number 1

I mentioned earlier if you own an RV you need to use it, otherwise it's just a large lawn ornament. So, pack up the RV, the kids and the pets and head out to explore this wonderful country we live in and build some lasting memories with family and friends.

So what are you waiting for? Find out when the next RV show will be in your area and make it a point to attend it. Oh, and don't forget to wear some comfortable walking shoes!

Find an RV show near you:

http://www.rvia.org/AM/customsource/INCL_Shows.cfm?section=local_shows&all=1

Happy Camping,

Mark J. Polk

Copyright 2008 by Mark J. Polk owner of RV Education 101

RV Expert Mark Polk, seen on TV, is the producer & host of America's most highly regarded series of DVD's, videos, books, and e-books. http://www.rveducation101.com/

Sign up for your free "RV Education 101" Newsletter http://rveducation101.com/email/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Polk
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RV Parks: The Perfect Halting Station For Your Rig!

by Suzanne Macguire

RV travel can be a memorable experience, provided you make proper arrangements for it. Traveling in an independent RV is mostly hassle-free but one essential thing should never be overlooked, i.e. the need for requisite number of camping grounds on your way. Without the availability of camping grounds, RV travel cannot really be possible. Recreational vehicle parks fulfill the camping requirements of the RVers. From parking site to service building, sanitary facilities to sanitary waste station, RV campgrounds house all the facilities needed to make the journey of the RVers a delightful experience! Recreational vehicle parks are placed at specific locations, especially in agricultural or open spaces; highway commercial or highway service; or commercial recreational areas. RV campgrounds are not located in any area zoned residential or in a floodplain. Besides, the environmental conditions play an important role in deciding the suitability of a place to be converted into an RV campground. Soil conditions, groundwater level, drainage and topography should be congenial to the health and safety of the occupants. Sites exposed to pollution, adverse influences, unpredictable flooding, subsidence or erosion are not ideal for camping. Once the site for an RV campground is confirmed, preparations to fix some of its loopholes must be taken care of. Exposed ground surfaces in all parts of the park should be paved, or covered with stone screening or other solid materials, or protected with a vegetative growth that is capable of preventing soil erosion. Size and density of a recreational vehicle park be large enough to allow enough parking spaces for RVs. The minimum gross area required for a RV park is five acres while the maximum park density should not exceed 12 rvs per gross acre. Each RV site should contain a vehicle pad of concrete or asphalt paving. Entrances and exits to recreational vehicle parks should be designed keeping in mind the safe and convenient movement of traffic into and out of it, so as to minimize friction with free movement of traffic on adjacent streets. A well maintained RV campground houses all possible recreational facilities such as management headquarters, toilets, dumping stations, showers, water-supply, coin-operated laundry facilities and many others as permitted. Throughout America and Canada, RV sites are aplenty. There is no dearth of entertainment, food and friendly service, which allows the RVers an even more pleasurable ride. So, hurry up if you are still planning to buy your rig. In fact, you do not need to invest huge amounts to buy an RV. If you have a tight budget, you can also buy used RV Motorhomes and have the experience of a lifetime!

Article source: ArticlePros.com

About the author Suzanne Macguire is an Internet marketing professional with expertise in content development and technical writing in a variety of industries. RV Traders http://www.rv-n-motorhomes.com/

RV'ing in the Winter?

RV'ing in the Winter?
by Ed Hill

Most people think of RV travel and camping as summer time activities. Let's face it, tents and most of the smaller trailers aren't set up for winter use. There didn't used to be a huge demand for it.



People brought out their camping vehicles and equipment in the spring and put it all away in the fall. Then, they'd hunker down for the winter and count the days until the nice weather appeared once again in the spring. There wasn't a lot of thought given to four-season use of that stuff.



But, in recent years, more and more people are using their RV's year-around. The demand for "four-season" coaches has skyrocketed. Of course, where there's a demand, there will be manufacturers willing to meet it!



I live near Phoenix, Arizona. Our campgrounds (RV Resorts!) are jam-packed during the winter months. These people we call "snowbirds" come down here from really cold country to spend the winter. Many of them live in their RV's.



While it's true that we don't have the really cold weather complete with snow and ice, we do frequently see the temperatures get below freezing at night during the winter. The RV's have to be able to keep their occupants warm and protect the RV systems from the cold.



I don't know if you've noticed it, but I've been seeing more and more RV's on the road around the holidays. Maybe it's the security hassles or the increasing costs of air travel that have more people hitting the road. Maybe it's the cost or inconvenience of hotels that causes people to take their RV's instead. Whatever the reason, increasing numbers of people are choosing RV travel for the holidays.



There are other reasons people use their RV's all year. Trade shows, dog shows, concerts and many other exhibitions are occasions for people to get together. These days, it's pretty common to see the parking lot partially filled with RV's - no matter what season of the year it is.



According to a recent article in the Toronto Star, a lot of Canadians spend their winter months in an RV park in Yuma, Arizona. One of the reasons for that location is so that they can slip across the border into Los Algodones, Mexico and have expensive dental work done for a lot less money.



So, what's involved in the design of a four-season RV? First of all, the sidewall and roof insulation is thicker, giving greater protection from cooler temperatures. A lot of people don't realize that this same feature keeps the unit cooler in the summer! Many of the RV's can also be ordered with double-pane windows for further insulation.



Another important feature is that the underside is enclosed and insulated. In many of them, the heating ducts run under the floor which keeps all the plumbing and sensitive systems from freezing when the heat is on. The valves for the waste tanks are normally located within this heated and insulated area, as well.



RV's of today are a far cry from those of just 10 years ago. They're being used for more than just summer vacations. RV travel has become a larger and more important part of our national lifestyle. One day, it will be commonplace to live part-time in a house and part-time in an RV.



Now, that will be fun!


Ed Hill was introduced to 'camping' by the US Army nearly half a century ago. Since then, he has camped his way across most of the United States and parts of Europe using tents and a variety of RV's. In addition to RV'ing, Ed is sharing his love for RV travel in his blog, http://www.EnjoyRVTravel.com


Article Directory: Article Dashboard

RV'ing in the Winter?

RV'ing in the Winter?
By Edwin J. Hill

Most people think of RV travel and camping as summer time activities. Let's face it, tents and most of the smaller trailers aren't set up for winter use. There didn't used to be a huge demand for it.

People brought out their camping vehicles and equipment in the spring and put it all away in the fall. Then, they'd hunker down for the winter and count the days until the nice weather appeared once again in the spring. There wasn't a lot of thought given to four-season use of that stuff.

But, in recent years, more and more people are using their RV's year-around. The demand for "four-season" coaches has skyrocketed. Of course, where there's a demand, there will be manufacturers willing to meet it!

I live near Phoenix, Arizona. Our campgrounds (RV Resorts!) are jam-packed during the winter months. These people we call "snowbirds" come down here from really cold country to spend the winter. Many of them live in their RV's.

While it's true that we don't have the really cold weather complete with snow and ice, we do frequently see the temperatures get below freezing at night during the winter. The RV's have to be able to keep their occupants warm and protect the RV systems from the cold.

I don't know if you've noticed it, but I've been seeing more and more RV's on the road around the holidays. Maybe it's the security hassles or the increasing costs of air travel that have more people hitting the road. Maybe it's the cost or inconvenience of hotels that causes people to take their RV's instead. Whatever the reason, increasing numbers of people are choosing RV travel for the holidays.

There are other reasons people use their RV's all year. Trade shows, dog shows, concerts and many other exhibitions are occasions for people to get together. These days, it's pretty common to see the parking lot partially filled with RV's - no matter what season of the year it is.

According to a recent article in the Toronto Star, a lot of Canadians spend their winter months in an RV park in Yuma, Arizona. One of the reasons for that location is so that they can slip across the border into Los Algodones, Mexico and have expensive dental work done for a lot less money.

So, what's involved in the design of a four-season RV? First of all, the sidewall and roof insulation is thicker, giving greater protection from cooler temperatures. A lot of people don't realize that this same feature keeps the unit cooler in the summer! Many of the RV's can also be ordered with double-pane windows for further insulation.

Another important feature is that the underside is enclosed and insulated. In many of them, the heating ducts run under the floor which keeps all the plumbing and sensitive systems from freezing when the heat is on. The valves for the waste tanks are normally located within this heated and insulated area, as well.

RV's of today are a far cry from those of just 10 years ago. They're being used for more than just summer vacations. RV travel has become a larger and more important part of our national lifestyle. One day, it will be commonplace to live part-time in a house and part-time in an RV.

Now, that will be fun!

Ed Hill was introduced to 'camping' by the US Army nearly half a century ago. Since then, he has camped his way across most of the United States and parts of Europe using tents and a variety of RV's. In addition to RV'ing, Ed is sharing his love for RV travel in his blog, http://www.EnjoyRVTravel.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_J._Hill
http://EzineArticles.com/?RVing-in-the-Winter?&id=901911

Winter RV Battery Storage

Winter RV Battery Storage
By Mark Polk

The two most common causes for RV battery failure are undercharging and overcharging.

Undercharging is a result of batteries being repeatedly discharged and not fully recharged between cycles. If a battery is not recharged the sulfate material that attaches to the discharged portions of the plates begins to harden into crystals. Over time this sulfate cannot be converted back into active plate material and the battery is ruined. This also occurs when a battery remains discharged for an extended period of time, like during storage. Sulfation is the number one cause of battery failure. The second leading cause of battery failure is overcharging. Overcharging batteries results in severe water loss and plate corrosion. With that said let's look at how to properly store your RV batteries.

Before we talk about storing the batteries we need to talk about battery safety. Lead acid batteries contain sulfuric acid which is extremely corrosive and can cause severe burns or even blindness. And the hydrogen gas that batteries produce when they're charging is very explosive. When you work around batteries you need to wear goggles and gloves, remove all jewelry and do not smoke or use any open flames.

Caution: If you accidentally get battery acid on your skin, flush it with lots of water and if it gets in your eyes flush with low pressure water for 15 minutes and call a doctor.

When you put the RV in long term storage it's a good idea to remove the batteries and put them in storage too. This is quite simple to do. The first thing we want to do is visually inspect the batteries for any obvious damage. Any fluid on or around the battery may be an indication that electrolyte is leaking from the battery. A damaged or leaking battery should be replaced immediately. Whenever you remove any battery always remember to remove the negative terminal or cable first, and then the positive cable.

Battery Tip: When you remove a battery turn off the ignition switch, all electrical switches, and any battery disconnect switches before you disconnect the battery cables. Whenever you remove any battery cables label them first so you remember how they go back on the battery. When you reinstall the battery do it in the reverse order. Install the positive cable first and then the negative cable.

Clean the batteries with a 50/50 mixture of baking soda and water if necessary, i.e. use one pound of baking soda to one gallon of water. Now you can check the electrolyte level in each cell and add distilled water if necessary. The minimum level required is at the top of the plates. If it's below the plates add enough distilled water to cover the plates before you charge the battery.

Test the battery state of charge with a voltmeter or hydrometer and charge any batteries that are at or below 80%. An 80% charge is approximately 12.5 volts for a 12 volt battery and 6.25 volts for a 6 volt battery. Lead sulfation starts when a battery state of charge drops below 80%. After charging the batteries check and fill each cell to 1/8 inch below the fill well with distilled water. Overfilling cells will cause battery acid to overflow.

Caution: Batteries should only be charged in a well ventilated area and keep any sparks and open flames away from a battery being charged. Check the electrolyte levels before and after charging batteries.

A discharged or partially charged battery will freeze much faster than a charged battery. Store the batteries in a cool dry place but not where they could freeze. Batteries in storage will loose a percentage of current through internal leakage. It's not uncommon for a battery to discharge up to 10% a month when it is being stored. Cold temperatures slow this natural discharge process down and warmer temperatures speed the process up. Test the
stored battery state of charge every month and charge batteries that are at or below an 80% state of charge.

Completely charge the batteries before re-installing them next spring. For optimum performance you can equalize the batteries after they are fully charged. An equalizing charge is an increase in charging voltage similar to a bulk charge to convert any crystallized lead sulfate back into its original components.

If you decide to leave the batteries in the RV while it is in storage remember to check the state of charge monthly and charge any batteries at or below an 80% charge. Some RV converter multi-stage chargers and aftermarket chargers are designed to maintain a float charge on the battery without removing the batteries from the RV. Remember, for the converter charger to work the RV will need to be plugged in to electricity.

For more information on RV batteries check out our Deep Cycle Battery Care & Maintenance DVD.

Happy Camping,

Mark Polk

Copyright 2007 by Mark J. Polk, owner of RV Education 101

RV Expert Mark Polk, seen on TV, is the producer & host of America's most highly regarded series of DVD's, videos, books, and e-books. http://www.rveducation101.com/

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Polk
http://EzineArticles.com/?Winter-RV-Battery-Storage&id=868308

RV's Online

Rver's Online

Author: Barbara Tremblay Cipak

According to the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC), there are approximately 7.2 million RVs on USA roads today. These stats include motor homes, travel trailers, folding camping trailers, truck campers and van conversions. MARVAC also reports 25% of RVer's access the internet while on the road. As more RVer's learn how to gain computer access while travelling, this statistic will continually increase.



Some popular ways for RVer's to go Online:



Using Your Cell Phone:

Although this method is definitely not a speedy way to access the internet, it is an extremely useful way to get your emails while travelling. First, set-up a "web based email account", such as Yahoo or Hotmail, then access the internet with your cell phone and login to your email account from the comfort of your RV while travelling. Also, your cell phone can be used as a "modem" for internet access on your computer (the one you brought with you in your RV). In other words, the cell phone provides the internet accessibility on your computer. The computer is connected to the cell phone using a USB Cable or Bluetooth. Of course, the main benefit of hooking your cell phone up to your computer, is the larger screen you'll be able to use instead of the smaller Cell Phone screen. A couple of things to keep in mind with this option is to carefully review the "minutes" package-deal you have with your cell phone provider. If you're not careful you can really rack up the minutes and your bill. Also, when you're using your cell phone to hook up to the internet, you can't use it as a phone for that time period. Oh, but fear not, you can get computer telephone access to solve that problem.



Remotely Access Your Home Computer:Yes, you would have to leave your computer on at home, with your internet hooked-up to it. Remember that power failures can happen at home while you're away, so if you leave a house key with a neighbor or friend, there may be times they need to reset your home computer so you can regain remote access. This is a service you sign up for, that enables you to remotely connect to the computer(s) of your choice. However, there are companies now who advertise that you can access your "Remote PC" without needing the compter at the other end switched on. You can normally take these services offered on a free trial run. To read more about how remote pc access works, and get your free trial offer, go here.



Install Satellite Internet:These systems can give you internet access virtually anywhere, anytime. If you travel to remote locations where getting access via other wireless applications wouldn't work, this is definitely an option to further examine. These systems are mounted to your RV roof top or can be a separate auxiliary unit. When you are stopped, you then get RV internet access. Note that this is an expensive option. Prices can be in the thousands of dollar range. For example, the roof top system offered by MotoSAT's DataStorm ranges between $5000 and $5500 with a $99 a month unlimited access fee.



Wireless Fidelity (WiFi Access):Get a computer with a WiFi Card will, in most cases, will get you access to the internet right from your RV. RV parks, and other locations, are installing Wireless Fidelity Networks, which essentially enable you to directly connect to the internet so long as you are in range of this network. The internet provides lists of "hot-spot" maps, giving the traveller an idea of where Wireless Fidelity Networks can be found. Restaurants, coffee shops, RV parks, Trucks Stops, are a few example of locations that may have WiFi, so with your own computer and a WiFi card, you are able to access the internet.



RV Parks Modem Hook-ups:Not much to say here. Some RV parks offer the ability to hook up to their modem, usually in a central location or an office of sorts. This isn't very convenient, as you have to leave the comfort of your RV with computer in hand and hook-it up to their modem. A park offering WiFi would have little need for this option, however, just in case, most have them.



With the ever changing world of wireless, no doubt more options for wireless access are being invented as this article is being typed.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/rvs-articles/rvers-online-203352.html

About the Author:

Owner of My-Telework-Tools.com and her personal passion site, Drageda.com. Barbara is an Organized, charismatic and energetic professional with a track record of streamlining office operations, quality work, and playing key roles in the company’s administration. Articulate and diplomatic communicator, team player and builder, establishes productive rapport with peers, management suppliers and clients. Creative and visionary, devises and implements initiatives to optimize performance, reduce costs and relieve the senior management of time consuming projects. Detail-oriented, patient, thrives in a fast-paced environment of diversity and change. Expertise includes: Office Management, Training & Development, Research, Team Leadership, Office Protocol, Customer Service.