Pre-Trip Maintenance - Water

We never use strong bleaches - generic brands work OK

The water tank plays an important role in the balance of your van. So if you checked the nose weight with it full, it is best practice to always travel with it full, or the nose weight will INCREASE. Really watch this if you are towing with a small car. In our case we try to always travel with it full - we also feel that it is safer to have a full tank of water in case you break down somewhere or become stranded because of weather etc. We always DRAIN the tank by undoing the tap just underneath the fill cap as soon as we return home. How about some very clever DIY person making an extension handle, so that you can reach it without having to bend your old rickety knees! If we have had a dose of suspect water in the tank we also fill it, and add half a cup of bleach to sanitise it. Best not to overdo this. Alternatively, if the idea of using bleach doesn't appeal, you can buy sanitising tablets in Coles and at all camping shops. This is also the A'van manuals recommended approach. It is ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL to open the cock after sanitising and flush the tank for at least 15 minutes with fresh water, or you will get a slight chemical taste. Don't forget to run the pump for a couple of minutes as well before you finish flushing, to ensure it has been completely cleaned as well. Check this area for floor damage regularly on A'vans.