The covid-19 related disruptions over the past year have affected us all in different ways and left many of us feeling fatigued – making the prospect of being able to enjoy a holiday break more welcome than ever. Static caravan owners are looking forward to enjoying some time away and relaxation.
For some, however, the winter season coupled with covid-19 lockdowns has meant leaving the caravan unoccupied for more time than usual. As with any other type of residential building, static caravans become more prone to problems, the longer they are left unattended.
Following a few simple tips can help you with preparing your caravan after the winter break and ensure that everything is fully functioning and in tip-top shape.
Before You Set Out
We recommend putting together a comprehensive tool kit and an assortment of cleaning products before heading out to your caravan, that way you will be prepared for giving it a good clean and for any quick repair jobs.
Initial Inspection
Having arrived back to your static caravan following the winter season, it is a good idea to dedicate some time to a thorough inspection, both inside and outside – ensuring that areas such as the underside of the caravan, the roof, the guttering, all window seals, and seams are checked for any cracks or visible damage such as damp and mould which may have occurred during the winter storms.
Reconnecting Your Static Caravan
The drain down at the end of last season will have left your caravan disconnected from the mains supply of water, gas, and electricity. The gas bottle will need to be securely reconnected – a basic test to check if the gas is working, is to try and switch the oven and to run the hot water. In the case of any difficulties, it is a good idea to contact a certified gas engineer – they will also be able to check that pipes and heating are all ready and working for the new season.
Once the water has been reconnected, the pipes should be checked for leaks and cracks – running all the taps will ensure that the water is flowing without any issues.
Check for Mould and Damp
The UK has a damp climate which is typically at its worst during the winter months – this, and the lack of ventilation inside the caravan due to its closure, leaves it more prone to a build-up of damp and mould. Running a dehumidifier can help to remove excess moisture from the air and mould can be removed by using specific products. Read more here on preventative measures and tips to help avoid damp and condensation.
A Deep Clean
Most caravan owners give their caravan a good clean before they close it up for the winter season. Whilst the static caravan is unoccupied in the winter period, it is likely that dust and cobwebs etc. will build up – a thorough spring clean on both the interior and exterior will ensure that all guttering is free from any blockages, the underside of the caravan is free from leaves and debris and all furnishings are clean, fresh, and ready for use. A few simple hours of organised preparation will have your caravan up and running for some well-deserved holiday breaks during the coming season.
Preparing Your Caravan: Essentials Checklist
- Pipes: Inspect pipes and connections for frost damage
- Reconnecting water: For those of you who utilised our drain down service – give the office a call and we will arrange for you to be all hooked up and connected again.
- Reconnect the gas: also make sure you have a spare
- Fire up the hot water heater and test the oven
- Check your heating is working properly
- Empty the gutters and clear the outside of the caravan
- Spring clean inside and declutter
Presteigne Holiday Park
Presteigne Holiday Park is family-run Powys caravan park situated on a large site which encloses beautiful forest walks. Our friendly team has years of experience in the maintenance of static caravans and we are always here to help. In the event you are unable to travel to your caravan, but wish to check that everything is OK, we can help – simply get in touch with the team.
We look forward to welcoming you back soon!