Lunar Caravans ALARIA 2018 Handbook Download

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141

GENERAL DATA

CARAVAN WINTERIZATION GUIDE

If the caravan is to be stored for any length
of time, the following procedure is advisable:

1. Location

If possible avoid siting the caravan beneath
trees or near dilapidated buildings, where
strong winds may dislodge branches or
slates that can damage the caravan. In
exposed conditions ground anchors may be
advisable. Be wary of low lying areas that
may be prone to flooding.

2. Covers

Large polythene or tarpaulin sheets should
not, in the opinion of most experts, be used
to ‘seal’ the caravan against the elements.
Condensation and mould growth may be
encouraged and any flapping material or guy
ropes could scratch acrylic windows.

If you feel a cover is absolutely necessary
because of where the caravan is parked,
purchase one that is made of “breathable”
material.

3. Ventilation

Caravan vents should be left uncovered to
provide adequate air circulation inside the
caravan; however if in an exposed or salty
location the vents on the side of the
prevailing wind and/or the ‘fridge vent may
be closed off for the winter. If you have

regular access to the caravan, you could
place some moisture absorbing crystals in
cupboard corners to reduce the risk of
condensation, but these will require fairly
frequent changing.

4. Interior

To prevent possible mould growth over the
winter, clean and vacuum carpets, curtains
and upholstery and if possible remove the
soft furnishings and store in a warm, dry
place (eg attic). If not possible to remove the
cushions, store on edge away from the
caravan walls, allowing air to circulate
around them and cover with an old sheet to
prevent fading in the sunlight.

Walls and ceilings should be wiped over with
a mild anti-bacterial solution (eg Dettox) and
can be polished afterwards if desired.
Cupboards should be emptied, cleaned and
vacuumed out. Small doors can be left ajar to
assist ventilation, but larger doors should be
closed or they may warp.

If the caravan is to be stored outside in direct
sunlight the sunroof blind is either to be left
in the open position, closed only to a
maximum of 2/3 of its overall opening.

The refrigerator should be emptied, cleaned
with a solution of bicarbonate of soda or anti-
bacterial solution and the door left ajar.

The hob/oven should be thoroughly
degreased and cleaned. If using one of the
stronger oven-cleaners on the market be sure
to allow plenty of ventilation whilst working. If
necessary burner jets can be brushed over
with a stiff brush, and blockages cleared with
a high-pressure air line. Never try to clear
blocked jets with a piece of wire which can
damage or enlarge jet holes.

Water heaters must be drained and care must
be taken to remove any lurking pools of water
or frost damage may result. If possible blow
air through the heater to push any water
droplets through. Leave drain taps and inlets
open.

The water pipes can be flushed through with
a proprietary sterilising agent and the waste
pipes with a stronger disinfectant. Make sure
the water pump is drained and remove the
water filter. Fresh and waste water containers
should be cleaned, drained and stored with
caps loose or off. Leave all water inlets and
outlets open, but they may be covered with a
fine mesh material (eg stocking) to prevent
entry of insects etc.

The toilet should be cleaned according to the
manufacturer’s instructions, using a suitable
disinfectant for the holding tank. Rinse all
sections thoroughly and store unsealed. Any
rubber seals or diaphragms can be lubricated
with olive oil to prolong life.