Our Blog
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Does a Weight Distribution Hitch Reduce Tongue Weight?
Many an RVer who starts searching online for “RV weight distribution hitches” will be sitting in that same chair three hours later, muttering curse words, browsing comments on RV forums that completely contradict each other, and getting angrier by the click. My aim is to rescue you from that cyber abyss. If you’re wondering whether…
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How NOT to Remove RV Lap Sealant (Common DIY Mistakes!)
Every RV roof should be inspected twice annually. Develop the habit of inspecting the roof in the spring and fall. If you store your RV outdoors, inspect the roof after every major weather event. You never know when a tree limb might decide to impale your ceiling! Every 3-8 years, you will likely need to…
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Should My RV Water Heater Have an Anode Rod? (A Nerd’s Answer)
If this is the first time you’ve heard about an anode rod, chances are …. you’re in trouble. Many RV conventional water heaters require an anode rod to protect the metal tank. Water carries minerals that will eat away common metals; the anode rod lays down its life for the sake of its friends, and…
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Engineer Answers: What Causes RV Fiberglass Delamination?
RV fiberglass delamination is the avada kedavra curse of the camping world. Once you see your beloved RV sidewalls start to bubble and pop, the end is nigh! – – or is it? Does fiberglass delaminations spell certain death to your RV? Can it be fixed? What causes delamination in the first place? Let’s talk…
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What’s Better RV Power Protection: A Multimeter or a Surge Protector?
In the matter of protecting your RV when hooking up to shore power, you have three options: Which Is Better for RV Power Protection: A Multimeter or a Surge Protector? Between the first two options, you might assume, given that I am a recovering penny-pincher AND a bit of a data freak, that I would…
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Can I Run Two Air Conditioners On 30 Amps with a Soft Start? (Yes!*)
I’m targeting a certain kind of RV owner with this post. If you searched, “Can I run two air conditioners with Soft Starts?” then I’m betting you own a 50-amp RV with two or three air conditioners. You’re wondering how you can manage to run two air conditioners off a 30-amp connection, and you’re hoping…
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Proof Why You Shouldn’t Use an Extension Cord to Plug In Your RV
Here’s Exhibit A why you don’t use an extension cord to plug in your RV. The other day, I arrived at a service call where the customer had complained about the appliances throwing error codes, the ceiling lights dimming, and low-voltage loads generally not working. These are all classic signs of low system voltage, where…
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Does My RV Battery Charge While Plugged In?
If you’re new to RV camping, you might be wondering how your RV battery gets recharged. Does the battery get charged when you’re hooked up to shore power, for instance? Psst … if you’re not familiar with the term “shore power,” we have a lot to talk about! But before I drench you with science,…
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Here’s Why Campground Voltage Is Low on Summer Holiday Weekends
This post is rated Intermediate (Blue, if you’re a skier). You don’t need to be Nikola Tesla reincarnated, but you should have a solid understanding of electrical circuits, terminology, and Ohm’s Law. Start with RV Electricity 101. This article will keep things somewhat simple for two reasons. Have You Ever Experienced Campground Low Voltage? If…
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Tool Talk: Screwdrivers, Bits, and Sockets – Oh My!
The original version of this post first appeared at RVTravel.com. I encourage you to check it out (it’s still live!) There, you can read other RVer’s helpful comments as well. I’ve re-posted it on my own site for reference, but all credit goes to RV Travel, where you can also read great content from Dave…
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Why Are My RV Lights Flickering or Dimmering? (RV Tech Answers)
Everyone knows flickering lights are the signal that something’s wrong, whether it’s low voltage or paranormal activity. If your RV ceiling lights are dimming or flickering, then your RV is trying to tell you that it’s sick, something is wrong, and it needs help! Why Are My RV Ceiling Lights Flickering or Dimming? Usually, flickering,…
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My RV Roof Is Turning Black. Is That Normal?
If your RV roof is turning black, I’ll bet my hat that your problem is an old EPDM roof at the end of its life. Other possibilities include algae, mold, or air pollution, but a flaky black roof is to an RV what wrinkly elbows are to a human: signs of old age! Cause #1:…