HAVE A GOOD LOOK AROUND THE CARAVAN...

Charge it. Batteries aren’t cheap and need to be looked after. Charge them regularly and keep it charged, even in winter or at other times when you’re not using your caravan. They should preferably be charged once a month, for 24-48 hours.

Power trip. Check the electrical control systems, ensure they’re in working order, and ensure they’re able to recharge the batteries. Test all the switches. If the lights don’t work, there could be a problem with the bulb, the wiring or the connections. Check that the inside and outside lights work.

Gas 101. Ensure there isn’t any wear and tear on gas pipes and connections that could leak.

Take a shower. Check the shower system and all the taps and make sure that it works properly. Also test that the geyser works. Testing, testing. Now test the fridge, lights and other electrical appliances in the caravan. If the battery doesn’t immediately have enough have enough life in it, wait until it’s fully charged, then test these again.

And another test. Test the fridge-freezer with both 220 V and 12 V as well as with gas, especially if it’s been switched off for a while. If it leaked, the cylinder will need to be refilled.

Down to earth. The electrical systems in many caravans are not earthed, especially not for 220 V. We recommend that you install an earth leakage system, because it’ll be no fun if a surge at the campsite fries your fridge – and all because you don’t have a system like this in place. Spikes in the current are common where the supply is patchy, and when you’re tapped into a generator. (Or to certain nuclear power plants, like Koeberg. – Ed.) Prevention is better than cure, so make sure your caravan is properly earthed.

Long-distance power. Inspect plugs and extension cords for any possible damage. Water works. Check if the water pump works. Open the taps to see if the water flows. Check if there are any leaks at the pump, taps or pipes. On, off, on... Check for cracks in the plastic over indicator and brake lights.