Common Troubleshooting Issues For RVs

Published: November 2016

Common Troubleshooting Issues

Top RV Troubleshooting Issues

Most Common RV Issues

Whether you're new to the RV world or just haven't used your RV in a while, here are the most common issues our customers run into and a few tips to help save you a service call or visit:

Trouble lighting a propane appliance:

  • Ensure that you have propane in your tanks and they are turned on. Also, check that your LP regulator is not malfunctioning. Keep in mind that turning the valve on too quickly can cause air to build up in your propane lines.
  • Turn the appliance on & off again; you may need to repeat this step several times to remove any trapped air from your propane lines.
  • To expel any air caught in the line to your stove/oven, hold a lit match or lighter close to the burner then turn the knob to "LITE" and wait until the burner ignites which could take a few seconds.

Excessive moisture or condensation:

  • Make sure you are taking proper measures to control the humidity and moisture in your RV by using an air dryer, dehumidifier, dri-z air crystals or damp rid, etc.
  • If possible, leave a window and a vent cracked open to help with air circulation and to let excess moisture escape. This is especially important when showering, cooking or using your propane furnace during the cooler months.
  • You may also need to leave some cupboards/wardrobes cracked open to prevent mold growth if you notice excessive moisture inside of them.

Black water holding tank:

  • First of all, make sure you are leaving your black tank valve closed while you are using your RV. Your holding tank needs to be somewhat full in order to drain properly and fully when they are dumped.
  • It's also important to use RV toilet paper and chemicals designed to properly breakdown the waste.
  • After emptying your black water tank, do not leave it completely empty. Add a few gallons of water and the proper amount of toilet chemical.
  • If your black water sensor reads full after you have emptied your tanks, most likely you have debris from the tank stuck to the sensor. First, try using your black tank flush system, if equipped on your RV, or you can get a portable flushing wand.

Not getting power to your RV:

  • Make sure you allow your battery enough time to fully charge. A deep cycle battery takes 72 hours to recharge to its fullest capacity if it is below 10.5 volts. If the monitor panel shows only one light or reads "low" when checking your battery level, then it's safe to say that you are under 10.5 volts.
  • Double check to make sure your battery disconnect switch is off.
  • Try to use a proper 110V outlet with a good quality extension cord. Avoid running the A/C and microwave simultaneously unless plugged in directly to a 30amp or 50amp outlet. Also, make sure you haven't tripped the GFI on the outlet if you're plugged into one.
  • Find your fuse panel & circuit breaker and check that you haven't blown a fuse or tripped a breaker.
  • Check the 30 amp inline fuse, typically located near the battery. This is a commonly blown fuse that can happen when your tongue jack is over extended or retracted.

If you still need assistance, please refer to your Owner's Manual or contact our Service Department today.


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