Ten RV Essentials

by Laura Weaver

We recently purchased our motorhome after much thought and discussion.  We were very happy with this decision, as well as with the sales staff at the dealership.  The support staff answered our many questions and showed us how everything worked.  However, we were quite surprised to find out that our new motorhome did not come equipped with items we needed.  Following is a list of additional purchases that we had to make in order to be able to use our motorhome safely, effectively and efficiently.

1.  Water Pressure Valve.  This item is extremely important to have, as it regulates the fluctuating water pressure in campgrounds.  If you do not use a water pressure valve, you risk having all of your plumbing “blown out” when water pressure is too strong.  This relatively inexpensive item can be attached either directly at the campsite water source or into your rig’s water intake system.

2.  White Hose.  This particular item is used strictly for your drinking water/water supply.  The white-colored hose does not have the rubbery taste that your typical green garden hose has.  It is available in different lengths; obviously, the longer lengths are more expensive than the shorter ones.  A 25-foot hose is usually sufficient, although carrying an extra 10-foot section is advised, as the location of water supplies at different campsites vary.

3.  Water Filter.  This affordable canister simply screws between your rig’s water intake and the white hose.  It filters out debris effectively for several weeks at a time.

4.  Power Cord.  Most motorhomes come already equipped with an electric power cord, although some do not.  They come in 50-amp and 30-amp sizes and, though vital, are somewhat expensive.   Make certain you have the correct size for your rig’s performance.

5.  Electric Cord Adapter.  This item is absolutely necessary to have if your rig has a 50-amp power cord (as most late-model motorhomes have).  Some campgrounds only offer 30-amp service.  The 50-amp cord can not plug into a 30-amp power supply.  The electric cord adapter solves this problem.  Simply plug one end of this adapter into your 50-amp cord and the other end into the 30-amp power supply.


6.  Electric Power Meter.  As in the differing water pressures from campground to campground, the electric power also varies.   Once your motorhome is plugged into the campsite’s power supply, plug the electric power meter into any outlet inside the rig and check the easy-to-read gauge.  If the needle is in the green range, you have the correct power.  If the needle is in the low red range, you don’t have enough and could blow a fuse; if in the high red range, you have too much power which can “fry” your electric appliances and cause a fire.  This very inexpensive item is a must when traveling from campground to campground.

7.  Sewer Hose.  This necessity comes in an easy-to-assemble kit, complete with connectors.  Prices range from $15 to $75, depending on the length, thickness, and quality.  Additional lengths of accordion-style hose can be attached, as the need arises.

8.  Holding Tank Chemicals.  These come in a variety of products ranging from liquid to tablet and, like cleaning products, are at the sole discretion of your personal preference.

9.  Power Jet Sprayer.  It is recommended to use this hand-held wand when cleaning your commode holding tank to keep your rig as sanitary as possible.

10.  Ladder.  This common implement is often overlooked until it is actually needed.  It is necessary to have a ladder (at least 6-feet) in order to wash the windshield and mirrors of your motorhome, as well as for reaching patio and slide-out awnings.

I hope that this list of these ten essential items, which are not included in your motorhome package, helps you be able to use your RV safely, effectively, and efficiently.

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