Bo Gordy-Stith
It just takes a few simple steps to offset the challenges of an uneven RV site.
Words by Nadean Cuddeford
Many sites at campgrounds and RV parks are far from level. While this is the inevitable part of camping, having your RV on uneven ground can result in some major headaches.
To begin with, an RV that isn’t level can cause permanent damage to your refrigerator. When you’re on the road where services are sometimes limited, the last thing you want is to have your food spoil. It’s not just the size of an RV fridge that is different from the one in your home, it’s the fact that most RV fridges don’t use compressors and stay cool using an absorption process. In other words, the fridge’s system creates a cooling effect by drawing heat out.
The sodium chromate that flows through a fridge’s pipes causes a chemical reaction, which then cools through evaporation and condensation. When the fridge isn’t level, this chemical can gather, pool, and then settle, causing a blockage in the cooling system, which can permanently weaken its efficiency. This settling effect can happen in no time – as quick as 30 minutes.
Additionally, the fresh, grey, and black water tanks are equipped with sensors that indicate liquid levels. So, it goes without saying that an uneven tank will give an incorrect reading. This problem isn’t quite as crucial as an uneven refrigerator, but it’s important to have an up-to-date reading of your tanks to know when to empty them, fill up with fresh water, and also avoid travelling with the added weight of grey and black water.
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free time at your next campsite, here are a variety of ways to ensure a level trailer or motorhome.
Bo Gordy-Stith
Levelling blocks are just one solution to properly level your RV. They are widely available and relatively inexpensive.
Purchase RV Levelling Blocks
If you want to make sure your RV is level, you’re going to need levelling blocks. These are inexpensive, widely available and can level your RV – and keep it level. Those offered by Camco and Lynx are popular options. To use, simply stack these versatile pieces to the desired height, drive your RV on top of them, and let them work their magic as they mold to the tires.
Additionally, the good times should always roll at a campground, but your RV should only roll when you want it to. So, it’s important to know that a level RV can roll. Wheel chocks are an additional option to help ensure your home-on-wheels stays right where you want it to, every time.
Have a Professional Install RV Hydraulic Jacks
If your RV is able to absorb the added weight, hydraulic jacks installed on your motorhome or trailer is another easy method to get your RV level. Plus, it can be accomplished at the flick of a switch.
However, outside of being a qualified and trained RV technician, it’s highly recommended to have the hydraulic jacks installed by a professional at your local RV service centre. The reasons why? Installation requires an overhaul to your RV’s infrastructure so it’s best to have them installed by someone who fully comprehends the design of a trailer, fifth wheel, and the various classes of motorhomes.
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If your unit looks like this, another option is to install electric hydraulics that can level your RV at the flip of a switch.
Be Cautious About Using Wood Planks
Picture this: you’re parked at your campsite and have your RV levelled with the help of planks, but one of the planks slides out from under your RV. This scenario could go several different ways and none are too favourable. Wood planks can be used to level your RV, but remember they can potentially slide apart if your RV’s weight isn’t distributed evenly.
A Little Digging can do the Job
If the bubble on your level is not quite in the center where it should be, you may not even need to use levellers. Instead, try digging out a little dirt in front of the wheel that’s a little too high, drive forward and check the level again. Repeat steps until it’s even. This is a quick and simple solution when the environment and situation are ideal.
Only Use Stabilizing Jacks to Support Your RV
Stabilizing jacks are used for extra support, and not for long-term levelling. They are perfect for keeping your rig stable, but only after it has been properly levelled; they are not designed to support the weight of your RV for long periods.
For more information and to find the right solutions and equipment to keep your RV level visit www.fraserway.com
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Sitting straight – a properly levelled unit.