Take advantage of offers on these great campsites!

2014-07-31

If you are looking for a last minute camping pitch on a great site this summer, or if you want to book a pitch now for later in the year and you are looking for a discount, then why not have a look at these and get a very welcome discount off the price of your holiday? If you book your pitch through Campsite Chatter before the end of August 2014, you can enjoy a 10% discount. Camping, the best value holiday around, just got even more affordable!

Some of these sites are set within the bucolic, rolling countryside of mid-Wales, others are situated on the rugged North Yorkshire, the balmy Dorset and the heavenly Cornish coasts. Some are all-singing all-dancing holiday parks with high-octane activities laid on, ideal for active families. Others are smaller, more back-to-nature sites, focusing on peace, relaxation and providing fantastic bases from which to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

To read more about each site's vital statistics and to claim your discount, click on the link for a particular site, click 'Book Now' and enter the promotional code.

North Devon Camping

North Devon has it all: rolling green fields, miles of golden coast and a very warm welcome to its visitors.

Stay at Stowford Farm Meadows and enjoy the best of both worlds. This spacious site (no kidding, there are over 500 acres to explore!)provides peace and tranquility in beautiful agricultural surroundings and yet, within a short drive you can access the vital statistics of this fabulous region.

Head to Exmoor and view the 360 degree panorama from Dunkery Point. Make a splash at one of the many local surfing beaches, ideal for day long family fun.

The site itself is very well appointed, with great kids' facilities including an animal petting area, crazy golf, heated swimming pool and a number of play areas to keep the family happy. Click on the link to visit Stowford's Campsite Chatter listing and 'Book Now', entering code hy6685typq to claim your 10% discount.

Stowford Farm Meadows, North Devon

Camping in Cornwall

Cornwall has long captivated the hearts of campers and tourers and, if you're already an addict and are looking for your next fix of golden sands, rugged cliffs and laid-back culture, then

Adrenaline? Exhilaration? A chance to bond? Coasteering may just be the experience you are looking for!

2014-07-09



Coasteering for those who haven't ever tried it must look like sheer madness. Lines of uniformly wetsuited and helmeted men and women who look like they should really know better, turn up at a meeting point for a safety talk before heading for a nearby stretch of coastline that seems entirely inaccessible to the naked eye. Whereupon they inch and winch themselves down towards the froth and broil of the sea. What on earth are they doing? you might well shout. The answer is, of course, having the most tremendous fun. Are they scaring themselves? Well, yes, probably quite a bit. Do they get wet? Of course they get wet, tremendously so. What do they get out of it? A huge adrenaline blast and the boost to self-esteem you achieve once you have pushed yourself to our own personal limits and then just a tad beyond. Coasteering has gripped the adrenaline-junkie community of the UK in the passed decade and it is now one of the most sought-after activities for team-building weekends, active family days out and for hen and stag get togethers, of course. Long gone are the days when it was just about Cornish A-Level students, high on the whiff of freedom at the end of their long exam period, chucking themselves of cliffs, sea-stacks and rocks into the sea wild with abandon. These days it's a far more professional affair, with a number of reputable providers offering tailored-to-need packages, safety equipment and the tuition required to safely scramble, climb, traverse and abseil some of the most beautiful coastline in the UK. And because you outdoorsy types like to continue your fresh-air intake 24-7, we've put together a Coasteering Camping specialism, identifying the campsites and touring grounds within close proximity to some of the most celebrated coasteering hotpots in the UK. Now, I've always been accused of being a bit of a feminist myself, so I need to make it clear that I am in no way suggesting that Coasteering is an adrenaline sport that can be enjoyed by men only - a thousand times no! However, I apologise if you find my over-use of male-orientated idioms to describe coasteering insulting...but this really is an activity which puts hairs on the chest and separates the men from the boys. Metaphorically speaking, that is.
Coasteering Wales On the very furthest tip of beautifully wild Anglesey there lie some coasteering locations that are likely to challenge any in the UK.
If nothing else the 150 ft free hanging abseil that kicks off the route nearby Breakwater Country Park will certainly test your nerve and get your blood pumping Book a pitch at the Anglesey Outdoor Centre very nearby, from where a number of coasteering activities are run. Collapse back at your tent after your exhilarating day with fabulous views over the coast on this site only 1km from the beautiful Porthdafarch beach. Campfires are allowed, so reminisce your coasteering conquests whilst staring into the embers! Visit www.coasteeringwales.com for details of the local coasteering packages they provide.	Remis Vario 1 Hinged at front Wind up mechanism with curved scissor type hinges to raise rooflight Nominal size - 400 x 400mm Overall Dome size 540 x 540mm Aperture in internal frame 340 x 340mm Nominal size – 700 x 500mm Overall Dome size 880 x 680mm Aperture in internal frame 640 x 440mm Nominal size – 900 x 600mm Overall Dome size 110 x 780mm Aperture in internal frame 8410 x 530mm Remis Vario 2 Hinged at front on 4 hinges Wind up mechanism with straight strut to raise rooflight Nominal size 400 x 400mm Overall Dome size 540 x 540mm Aperture in internal frame 640 x 340mm Nominal size 700 x 500mm Overall Dome size 820 x 620mm Aperture in internal frame 640 x 440mm Nominal size 900 x 600mm Overall Dome size 1080 x 768mm (slightly tapered) Aperture in internal frame 840 x 530mm Remis Remitop Tilt and Slide Rooflight lifts and slides over roof of caravan Two handles with push buttons to secure closed Flynet and concertina blind included Nominal size 400 x400mm Overall Dome size 535 x 535mm Aperture in internal frame Nominal size 600 x 600mm Overall Dome size 820 x 820mm Aperture in internal frame Nominal size 900 x 600mm Overall Dome size 110 x 820mm Aperture in internal frame 870 x 465mm Remis Remistar Only one size available which is nominal 600 x 600mm Dome raised by electric motor but has a manual winding handle as a back-up Remis 400 x 400 Rooflight Turnbuckle to open Two hinged stays which are notched to allow rooflight to remain open at various positions Includes blind and flynet Overall Dome size 530 x 480mm (nominal – slight tapered) Aperture in internal frame 385 x 385mm Which Heki Rooflight do I have? 2014-06-12 If you need to buy a spare part for your Heki rooflight it can sometimes be very difficult to determine which rooflight you have!! This list below should help. Dometic Mini Heki Hinged at front Bar operation Push button release to open Aperture in frame 380 x 370mm Dome size 535 x 495mm Cut our required to fit 400 x 400mm Midi Heki Plus Same as Mini Heki but has push up handles instead of bar Dometic Midi Heki Hinged at front Bar operation or wind up OR Electric motor Aperture in frame 585 x 404mm Dome size 858 x 617mm Cut out required to fit 700 x 500mm Dometic Heki 1 Hinged at front 2 handles to lock down Wind up dome Aperture in frame 790 x 510mm Dome size 1070 x 760mm Cut out required to fit 960 x 655mm Dometic Heki 2 and Dometic Heki 2 Delux Hinged at front Bar operation Gas strut fitted Aperture in frame 830 x 530mm Dome size 1050 x 750mm Cut out required to fi 960 x 655mm Dometic Heki 3 Hinged at front Wind up operation Aperture in frame 745 x 533mm Dome size 1050 x 750mm Cut out required to fit 960 x 655mm Dometic Heki 4 Hinged at front Electric motor operation Aperture in frame 745 x 533mm Dome size 1050 x 750mm Cut out required to fit 960 x 655mm Choosing a television antenna? Here is a suggestion! 2014-05-19 Caravan Television Antenna Choosing a television antenna can be a confusing business because there is such a variety of makes, shapes and sizes out there! We have found that one of the easiest antenna to use is the Image 420 UHF TV Antenna as it is a well priced efficient antenna which gives both UK Digital and Analogue reception. It is a wide band antenna which receives all transmissions from 470-860Mhz, covering bands A-D , channels 21-68 and is channel 5 compatible. The simple mast adaptor makes antenna removal easy and allows for rotation for either vertical or horizontal television reception. Any of the masts in the Vision Plus range will fit and 25mm diameter mast kits will also fit. These antenna are not supplied with masts which gives greater choice to you, enabling you to purchase the mast which best suits you. A popular mast is the Multi Mast for Vision Plus Antennas, a mast designed to clamp onto various exterior channeling on caravans, motor homes and boats, without the need for drilling holes. Can the Image 420 pick up digital terrestrial signals? It is compatible with digital terrestrial signals being a wide band directional antenna, but the makers warn that in poorer strength area it is recommended to use an amplifier such as the Vision Plus Digital TV Amplifier VP2 If you require a new antenna for your television and want one that offers you a stress free fitting and efficient working, this antenna is probably the one you are looking for. The Sun is Out!!!! 2014-03-17 At last the sun is out!!!! After the dreadfully wet winter we have all experienced we will all be thrilled to see the sun come out heralding the start of Spring. Thoughts can now go to planning holidays away in our caravans, motorhomes or tents. If you have a motorhome or a caravan there is a schedule of things to go through before you set out on your first trip, so that you can prevent any problems spoiling your first break away. Your first trip away could be an absolute disaster if you not check that the basics in your caravan are working correctly and safely. Getting your caravan ready for your first trip The first word of advise is to book your caravan in for a service at an approved workshop such as Mullacott Caravan and Motorhome Centre. Knowing that everything has been checked and is in working order will give you peace of mind on your first trip away. Check for damp after our wet winter Because our Winter has been so mild (excluding you caravanners who live in the North!) most of us will this year have avoided the damage to our taps and water heaters caused by freezing weather conditions. One problem less to deal with! The extremely wet weather may have caused damp problems in your van. Check for signs of damp using either your sense of smell or a damp meter and if there is damp and mould open the windows and leaved open for as long as possible to dry out the inside. Clean the inside of your van with a all purpose cleaner such as One Chem Interior Cleaner but is you have a really stubborn mould stains try using Fairy soap, although some stains you will find impossible to move. A list of checks to go through before your first trip 1. Test your battery- use a multi meter such as a Digital Multimeter or a volt meter to check the state of charge. 2. Gas bottle, weigh your gas bottle to make sure you have sufficient supply. 3. Thoroughly flush the water system, then clean with proprietary sterilizer such as Puriclean, remember, never use domestic bleach in the water system. 4. Check the hob/grill and oven burners of the cooker, the flame should be a steady blue. The cooker should always be checked during a full service, but if you have concerns report them to the workshop. 5. Your fridge should also be checked during a full service but if it is running on gas check the flame (same as above). Any concerns report to the workshop when booking in your van for its service. 6. Interior lights - check for blown bulbs. 7. Clean the toilet with a toilet bowl cleaner such as Thetford toilet bowl cleaner, never use bleach. 8. Very importantly check the batteries of your smoke alarm and security alarm and replace if necessary. 9. Make sure all your appliances work. Most importantly of all enjoy the sunshine and enjoy your 'second home'. Hopefully we will have a brilliant summer ahead of us to enjoy!!!! The Caravan and Camping Show 2014 Birmingham NEC 2014-02-13 The Caravan and Camping Show 2014 Birmingham NEC The Caravan & Camping Show returns to the NEC Birmingham, from 18-23 February 2014.This is exciting because the show is the UK’s biggest start of season showcase - meaning the Summer is not too far away!!!! Buy anything from a new caravan to a water pump! The Caravan and Camping Show is guaranteed to provide a week that exhibits all that the industry has to offer under one roof, for your browsing and buying convenience. You will be able to purchase the most recent touring caravans after viewing all the very latest models from all the leading manufacturers. You will be able to buy spare parts for your existing van. Dometic, who provide anything from toilet chemicals to motorhome awnings, will have a very comprehensive stall. On it you will be able to purchase spare parts for any appliance that you may have. Leisureshopdirect will be there to give their advice on which part you may need and our representatives should be able to diagnose problems for you and suggest repair options. They will be able to show exploded diagrams of all the Dometic appliances to establish which part is the correct one for the model and year of your appliance. The camping hall is twice the size this year with the latest 2014 collection of tents, trailer tents, folding caravans and camping accessories. Celebrities who are also keen caravanners will entertain the visitors at the Birmingham NEC Show A number of famous celebrities including Helen Skelton and Josh Sutton, who are themselves caravan enthusiasts will be putting on shows during the week to talk about thier own achievements. See a programme for more details. Attractions There are a number of attractions which will make your visit to the show unforgetable! These include a rock face challenge and cliff drop, a towing experience for those who are deciding whether a caravan is for them, an assault course and mountain bike track and challenge. Get your tickets and start your caravaning year with a visit to the show! Be ready for the bad weather forecast!! 2014-01-07 Gentle Reminder to Winterize your Caravan! With the forecast of freezing weather on its way from Canada, those of you that have not winterized your caravan, it is not too late! Drain all the water from the system To be safe your priority is to make sure that all water is removed from your caravan’s fresh and waste water systems, as if left in the pipes this water could freeze and expand when the temperature drops below zero, causing the pipes to burst. Set each of the taps in the caravan to the open position and open up any exterior water taps as well, to make certain all water drains out of the caravan. Once the water is sufficiently drained you could pour some antifreeze down the kitchen and bathroom plugholes to ensure any residual water in the U-Bends does not freeze. Another accessory to drain is the portable toilet. Drain and clean the toilet with lots of fresh water and then drain completely. It is advisable to spray the seal with a maintenance spray such as Thetford Seal Lubricant to avoid corrosion and sticky during the cold spell. Try to avoid damp damage Take the soft furnishings in your van and either store them in your house or stand them in the middle of the caravan so that air can circulate to prevent mould forming. Leave cupboard doors and drawers slightly open to again allow circulation of air. Finally it is very important you put some dehumidifier such as Humidex Moisture Trap Protect from the elements Try to store your caravan in a protected space which will provide protection against high winds or the worst of the elements. Use a breathable caravan cover such as an Aluminumised Caravan Cover to provide all weather protection, this is an essential caravan accessory during the winter months. If you look after your caravan during any dreadful weather that might be on its way, you will be able to jump into your second home and go off on your first trip of 2014 with no problems! Spring is not far away!!!! Motorhome Mirror Protectors 2013-12-17 Motorhome Mirror Protectors If you are a Motorhome owner you might have already found out how much it will cost to replace your wing mirrors if they are damaged by a passing vehicle. It can work out extremely expensive, up to £350 each!!! Why buy mirror protectors? More and more Motorhome owners are looking at mirror protectors to give added strength to the mirrors to avoid the outlay of replacement mirrors. Active Design Solutions have just released affordable, extremely efficient and aesthetically pleasing mirror protectors. They are suitable for use on the X 250 motorhome. Fiat ,Peugeot & Citroen motorhomes manufactured from 2007 onwards. Buy a version suitable for your motorhome. The mirror protectors are available in gloss black, gloss white and gloss silver in a short arm or long arm version. They are made from exterior grade acrylic capped ABS and are fitted with 10mm self adhesive impact pads. These mirror protectors will also cover existing damaged mirror casings and definitely will add style to your motorhome! They will prove to be a good investment - they really do work and will save you money! Click this link to see the Mirror Protectors: Mirror protectors Drain your Caravan/Motorhome using the Floë Drain Down System 2013-11-04 Annual Drain Down Process Made Easy!! The time has come to start thinking about winterizing your caravan. One of the most important actions you should do is to drain down the water system in your unit, thereby preventing damage to pipes and taps if we were to have a severe winter with lots of frost. Floë Drain Down Systems A simple solution to drain down your property in preparation for winter and to remove stagnant water giving you the freshest of drinking water, whatever the season. No more hefty drain down bills! No more repair bills to fix burst pipes! Even after draining the caravan or motorhome down, many people find that they still have frost problems the next season because of their inability to drain the caravan completely. There always seems to be a residue of water left in the taps in particular which often leads to having to replace them before venturing out next year. Through research and customer comments Floë concluded that it had been bought primarily as a tool to remove water from the vehicles water system to avoid damage from winter frosts, but discovered that although they knew that Floë was very effective at removing all of the water from a system and as part of the process, this meant removing stale and stagnant water trapped inside the system. It is known that water stored for a longer period than one month, may present a health hazard and there are many papers on the development of stale water diseases, such as Legionnaires and E-Coli. Although possible through an additional biological contamination in trapped portable water systems, it must be emphasized that these cases are extremely rare. However, although the presence of stale water and other biological impurities may not necessarily be harmful, the taste and smell will certainly be impaired. Its periodic removal would give the owner not only a greater peace of mind, but would also enhance their camping experience, knowing that their system is clean and fresh for drinking water and other beverages, washing fruit and vegetables, brushing teeth and showering etc. The Floë caravan drainage system has addressed this problem. Recommended drain down process Floë recommends that the unit is drained at the end of the summer season, the water tank and system needs to be sterilized after which it should be drained using Floë to safeguard vital components, when preparing for winter. The water tank (if present) and water heater needs to be emptied and the drain valves left open. Also, all taps in the vehicle should be left in the open position. Draindown Touring Caravans The floë method is a simple way to drain down your touring caravan, making way for beautifully fresh water, or perhaps in preparation for those cold winter frosts. By connecting floe to one of the three branded adapters, from Truma or Whale, you'll be able to blow water from your taps and fittings effortlessly. Minutes draining down your van provides you with peace of mind that your caravan is protected no matter what season. There are Floë systems to plug into the Truma Crystal 2 water connection, one for use with the Truma Ultraflow Water Connection, one for use with Whale plug and socket, one for both UK motorhomes and European Motorhomes. If you own a static caravan or holiday home there is also a floe drain system for you. Take t Life is so much better with air conditioning 2013-10-15 Here at Leisureshopdirect we are fitting an increasing number of Dometic Air Conditioning Units as customers realise how much more pleasant life can be if their caravan or motorhome is fitted with air conditioning. In the past twelve months we have fitted over thirty units to all types of vehicles and feedback from customers has been very positive. This includes fitting numerous Dometic's latest air conditioner unit, the Dometic Freshjet. Keeping cool as the weather gets warmer keeps us all in a much better place and helps us to relax properly when on holiday by ensuring that sleep is not disturbed by elevated temperatures. Air conditioners of varying sizes are available to suit your size of vehicle and for roof mounted units these are easily installed into an existing rooflight openings. Some units now incorporate a rooflight such as the Dometic Freshlight 2200 so that you can maintain the natural light in the caravan. Installation time can vary between two and six hours when fitting a new unit, the time difference depending solely on the vehicle construction and the ease of installing the wiring in a satisfactory manner. Why not spend a couple of days in glorious North Devon while we fit your air conditioning system. We have a Courtesy Car available if needed. Don't miss out this week during the NEC Caravan & Motorhome Show (up until 20th October 2013) on a number of great Air Conditioning offers from Dometic. PLEASE NOTE NOT ALL OFFER PRICES ARE LISTED ON THE WEBSITE. PLEASE CALL 0844 4 770776 TO CONFIRM SHOW OFFERS. Caravan and Motorhome Covers 2013-10-08 Caravan and Motorhome Covers Every caravanner knows that they need to keep their caravan clean and mildew free during the winter months if their caravan is to be stored. History of Caravan Covers The question of covering your caravan for the Winter has been a huge hot topic for a long time. Damages caused to both caravans and motor homes, as well as the reputations from the companies that manufacture the modern generation covers stems from the old-style tarpaulin covers. A typical conception of any caravan cover is a bulky, plastic affair. The reputation of such covers is rightly bad. Plastic covers don’t allow moisture to get away from beneath material and cause a large amount damage. Moreover the fabric is extremely tough and often scratches windows and bodywork. Thankfully caravan covers have come a considerable way in the last decade. The breakthrough came with a cloth which was originally developed for the roofing industry. The fabric had to be lightweight, durable, breathable and waterproof…no mean feat! The fabric used nowadays is a triple layer spun bond material which will keep water out and lets moisture and humidity escape from under the cover. The top quality covers also carry warranties and are UV stabilised. Which Cover? Caravan covers come in a huge variety of designs and composition. They come either fitted or non fitted. The fitted covers are made to measure for your caravan, allowing access to your van while the cover is in place by fitted doors. These are obviously substantially more expensive that the non fitted variety. They usually have better warranties for the material, but at a price! The non fitted variety come in a standard shape and are broken down into different lengths. A good reasonably priced non fitted caravan cover is the Maypole Caravan and Motorhome Covers These come in 4 sizes and have breathable material which allows condensation to evaporate and offer excellent water resistance. Maypole caravan covers are UV stable, have nylon straps for a secure fit and elasticated hem for a tailored fit. Maypole also supply Motorhome covers which have elasticated hem and buckles to secure cover. These covers are an essential caravan accessory if you want to keep your caravan in good condition for as long as possible. Provence Calor Gas Portable Heater 2013-09-30 Provence Calor Gas Portable Heater After our gorgeous Summer we have to accept that Winter is on its way! Cheaper background heating is important to keep you comfortable during the cold days ahead and portable gas fires are the obvious answer to to that problem. Why heat the whole house when a superior portable heater can give you powerful heating you need, in whatever room you are using at the time On Leisureshopdirect.com you will find a variety of portable gas heaters to choose from but my favourite (judged on knowledge cause I have had one for several years!) is the Provence Heater. The Calor Provence Gas Heater is a traditional cast iron-style stove suitable for rooms greater than 64 cubic metres. It is available in either cream and black, matt black or gloss black and would be an attractive addition to any room in your house. The front of the heater has a living flame effect - in other words there is a visible flame which gives it the effect of a stove. The Provence is not only a superb heater, it also provides a perfect focal point for any room. It has been specifically designed to blend in with the ambience of character cottages and traditional homes, and will bring a touch of ‘country chic’ wherever it is placed. Even when it is not on, it is guaranteed to draw envious looks from guests and visitors! It gives off a great deal of heat for the Calor Gas 7kg or 15kg butane cylinders it uses; and it is great for you as well as the environment, as it uses platinum catalytic technology which is limited to this heater (and exclusive to Calor) it converts the combustion products into harmless substances, and plus you do not get that familiar horrible Calor Gas smell or stink like most normal Calor Gas heaters produce. It's got piezo spark ignition for safety and adjustable heat settings, plus castors so you can move it around to wherever you want it. It's rustic look and design doesn't look out of place in any home. For safety purposes there is a flame failure device and is also fitted with oxygen depletion cut off which shuts the product off if carbon dioxide levels room rise above 1.5%. With all the past incidents of carbon dioxide poisoning this is an imperative safety device. When you first take the heater home, you are recommended to run it outside for 4 - 6 house to allow the artificial coals to 'cure' Once the smell has burned off, I can tell you from experience that there is no residual smell when the heater is on. Problems of cold this winter sorted!!!! Heating in your Caravan 2013-08-28 Heating in your Caravan For most of us our leisure time is precious and being able to enjoy every second is paramount. If you own a caravan, motorhome, motor caravan, horsebox, sailing yacht or motor cruiser, in fact any type of leisure vehicle, you can enjoy the benefits of caravan heating. Most caravanning holidays are taken during the warmer summer months, but the holiday season seems to extend every year and caravanners must be prepared for chilly moments where the temperature may drop in the evening or even during the day, so that they can comfortably enjoy their break. The secret is to be prepared on holiday and have adequate caravan heating to hand. Types of Caravan Heating Caravan heating basically comes in two forms, either a complete system which is already integral in your unit, it depends on the model of your caravan as to whether you can instal a system or not, if you do not already have a system in place. The second method is portable devices that can be plugged in at any time. The most important thing to remember is that whatever system you decide to utilize it must be fitted or used safely. Any gas or electrical appliance can be inherently dangerous if not used or fitted correctly. Turing the oven on and leaving the door open to heat up a small area can be extremely dangerous! Heating a small enclosed area by burning gas can produce, without you knowing about it, deadly carbon monoxide levels which is a colourless odourless gas which can be lethal. The symptoms or headache, mild nausea and fatigue (leading to unconsciousness) are minor enough to be ignored. If you fall to sleep without turning off the appliance the chances are you might not ever wake up. Portable Heaters The most cost effective method of heating your caravan is by purchasing a portable heater. There are many to choose from which would be safe and efficient. The Hotspot Blue Flame Heater has blue flame technology, which means if cuts off the gas supply if the flame goes out or the percentage of CO2 in the air exceeds 1%. An electric example of caravan heaters is the Dimplex Cold Watcher which is a low voltage heater with 500W output. Quality Air Heating Systems A lot of caravans have been previously fitted with a Truma gas fire. Spare parts for these heaters are readily available or if you want to upgrade the system you have you could, for example, fit a Lighting Kit so that you can see the indicators in the dark. See the Truma S 3004/S 5004 Heaters Lighting Kit 2. You could have the complete system fitted - see the Trumatic S3004 Fire with piezo ignition which is an economically way of acquiring a reliable and safe gas fire. Another gas heater is the Trumatic E2400 LP Gas Heater which is the most compact warm air heating system available in its power rating class. Propex Heaters are run on clean burning Propane gas or Butane gas and they produce less pollutants and are cheaper to run than diesel heaters. They are available in either 12v or 24v heaters. Having good quality blown air heating system means you Off the Grid…Caravan Style 2013-08-05 Off the Grid…Caravan Style Whilst caravanning has taken the U.K by storm, a few hardy souls have decided to take that next step by going completely off the grid and calling their caravan home 365 days a year. If this is a lifestyle choice that you have been contemplating, you will find that sprucing up your organizational skills is a necessary precondition for success. Escape from the stresses of life?? Whether it's the desire to shed materialistic trappings, the need to get closer to nature, or financial incentives have prompted the decision, successfully living in such a confined space requires logistical precision that practically demands equipping your rig with caravan accessories if any semblance of your sanity is to be preserved. Irritating problems to solve! It’s the little things you will notice first. Perhaps it’s that galley cupboard that flies open every time you veer to the left. Maybe it’s the complete lack of available storage space that sees your books and clothes engaged in an ongoing ballet to achieve primacy of place within your limited space. Regardless of the annoyance that's currently dominating your attention, there’s probably a caravan accessory designed to make your life easier. Prior to selling your flat and hitting the road therefore, it behooves you to shop around for the organizational aids that have been developed to make caravanning 24/7 easier. Whether it’s door restrainers, which can be solved very cheaply with a Nylon door retainer or a more substantial product could be an Alloy Door Retainer, or storage boxes of which you will find many examples on Leisureshopdirect.com. Have a look at Fiamma Ultra Top Box Type 3 or a Fiamma Ultra-Box Rear 360 whhich would give plenty of storage room. You will be glad you geared up before disconnecting from the grid. Using Exploded diagrams to repair caravan and motorhome appliances 2013-07-30 Using Exploded diagrams to repair caravan and motorhome appliances When you own a caravan or motorhome you will also own numerous appliances that have the potential of breaking down. If this happens you will have the choice of replacing the appliance, sometimes at great expense, or discovering why the appliance is no longer working and eplacing the broken part. To find out which part you need you will probably have to ask a technical expert, or you could look at an exploded diagram and work out which spare part you require. Leisureshopdirect has more exploded diagrams on line than any other caravan parts supplier on the internet, and if you use the information correctly you should be able to repair your appliance for a fraction of the price it would cost to replace it. An exploded diagram is basically a technical drawing of an appliance that shows the relationship or order of the assembly of various parts. They show the components of the appliance slightly separated by distance as if there has been a small explosion emanating from the centre of the object, causing the parts to be separated an equal distance away from their original location. Hence their name! They show details that are otherwise hidden or hard to see in a normal diagram. They are excellent for showing the component parts and how it is built. Getting it right To ensure the information that the exploded diagram is giving you is correct you need to be certain that it applies to the appliance you own. You need to determine the model and if possible the product number of your appliance. With for example, Dometic appliances you will need to know the product number because the spare parts are not consistent throughout the model range. Somewhere on your appliance there will be a product number or model name. On Thetford fridges you will find the model number behind the salad bin, on Dometic fridges you will find the data plate on the wall of the fridge. Quite often the data plate for a cooker is fixed t the back so you will need to remove the cooker to source the information. On Spinflo cookers the data plate is normally on the frame of the door. If you have problems finding out which model appliance you have and cannot distinguish between two similar products, it may help by looking at the manufacturers website. Reading an exploded diagram When you first refer to an exploded diagram of your appliance you might be afraid that you can never work out which part you need! Just remember that an exploded diagram has effectively had a small eruption in the centre to separate out its components. Therefore you should always start in the centre of the diagram and so find the piece that everything else is attached to and begin at that point. First establish which exploded diagram you require, for example if you know you need a replacement thermocouple you will need to look in the Gas/Electric Zone, if you need a new door bin you will need to bring up Door Zone. Starting from the centre systematically work out to the part you need, often connector lines indicate where the pieces go and how the unit is assembled. It is as simple as that! 12v Televisions for Caravans, Motorhomes and Yachts 2013-07-27 12v Televisions for Caravans, Motorhomes and Yachts One of the most important caravan accessory you will need when you own a touring caravan or motorhome is a 12v TV. We have tried several different manufacturers over the years but have come to the decision that the best quality 12v televisions are manufactured by Avtex. Avtex 12v TVs are better quality, more robustly made, have higher quality screens and are more popular with the caravanning community than almost every other 12v television. Why do you need a 12v television? 12v televisions are made to operate efficiently and safely on your caravans 12v leisure battery. They are designed to use ultra low power consumption and so do away with the need of an inverter which can be large and unsightly. When you are touring around in your caravan you will need to retune your TV at every stop. Many 12v TV's have an easy tune function, but having used the Avtex Quick Tune button it is easy, even for those of us that do not understand technology, to retune the television at every stop easily. Where can I use my 12v TV? You could actually use it at home in the kitchen or garage, but the best use of any 12v television is in you caravan or motorhome. Boaters an truckers can also find these televisions very effective in their travels. 12v televisions have been designed to be used off a 12v battery or plugged into the mains so are adaptable. What do I get with my Avtex 12v television? Avtex television are designed for the outdoor leisure industry, are designed to operate on 12/24v DC and have an on screen low voltage alert to let you know if your battery is running low. The Avtex Quick Tune, the one button tuning system makes touring around and watching your favourite programs easy. Avtex television are designed for touring. They are built to put up with the movement of the caravan, motorhome or yacht, cope with changes in humidity and vibration. Highest quality screens. YOu can choose from LCD or LED screens from 10" to 18". A popular size is the 16". Look at the Avtex W164DRS 16" TV/DVD/HD/CD or if you prefer a larger screen look at Avtex L185DRS 18" TV/DVD/HD/CD The televisions can be powered by 12v or 24v so you can still use them when you choose a site with no electric hook ups. A lot of the 12v televisions have a DVD player so you can watch your favourite films whilst on holiday. In conclusion, whilst on holiday you want everything to be without stress and to be in the position to relax in the way you prefer. If your form of relaxation is watching the television make sure you purchase one of good quality that will last you for several years without any problems. Solar Panel Energy for Caravans and Motorhomes 2013-07-08 Solar Panels for Caravans and Motohomes For the most economical way of installing a renewable energy source, purchasing a solar panel would be the simplest method. The Value of Solar Panels Now we are using more and more electrical appliances in our caravans, or tents, we are becoming more dependant on having a hookup on our pitch. There are still sites out there without hookups and caravanners have to rely on battery power. You could make use of the power of the sun to run appliances such as TV's, lights, computers etc while not being connected to an electric hook up. By simply connecting the solar panel and solar charge controller to your 12V battery (ideally a leisure battery) the solar panel will generate power during daylight that can be stored in the battery pack and used to power your 12V electrical appliances straight off the battery. Standard 240V household electrical appliances may also be used if required with an optional DC to AC power inverter. Solar panels for caravans and motorhomes are quickly becoming the alternative to expensive, environmentally unfriendly generators. Despite caravan solar panels being available for some years, historically, electricity has been held in a deep cycle leisure battery (or bank of batteries), charged as the motorhome engine is running, by using a diesel generator or by plugging into the mains both at home and in a caravan park. With energy costs rising to all time highs and wider awareness of environmentally friendly impact of power generation, lots of people are now turning to solar power panels to power their recreational vehicles. Be realistic about your solar panel and it's limitations Solar panels give you a cost-effective and efficient way to the energy problem for caravan and motorhome owners, however the solar industry has often 'over-sold' solar energy to be a panacea, as a solution to every problem. Unfortunately, whilst caravan solar panels are a good energy resource, they do have some limitations and it is very important we make use of the right products to do the job. Additionally we need to realize that we may not be able to power every electrical device at all times with simply solar powered energy. As long as we are realistic as to what we can and can't do, solar panels are really simple to install and offer a raft of benefits. Purchase a Solar Panel Solar panels are available as just the panel or as a kit which provides everything you need to set up you solar energy source. A good example is the 120w Solar panel kit - 12 volt. There is also available a Folding Solar Panel which is a more portable example of solar power. Are you a lapsed caravanner? 2013-06-17 Are you a lapsed caravanner? In the distant past did you own a caravan and enjoy your special holidays with the kids or friends? Did life take over and those holidays become a thing of the past? It might be time to look again at Britain's fastest growing leisure industry! The modern caravan Caravans have changed vastly over the last few years and you will probably be surprised if you were to look at a modern touring caravan today. They are no longer cold draughty damp things and caravan parks have generally upgraded to modern, comfortable and pleasant shower/toilet blocks and facilities. A modern caravan is a great place to spend your free time - choose your site carefully and you can have a carefree, comfortable and economic holiday. Caravans today come with mains and battery power so you don't need to miss you favourite programmes on the TV - just sit back in comfort with the essential glass of wine and enjoy!! They have dual gas/electric blown air or wet system heating and double glazing so you will be warm and dry. The bigger caravans have their own electric showers and electric flush toilets - although you still have to empty that so not everything is perfect! The kitchen is modern with full oven and hobs, microwaves and fridge freezers. The pumped water will provide you with running water for your bathroom and kitchen. For the sunny days and evenings you will have an external gas point for the barbecue, sliding sun roofs to air the caravan and door and window flyscreens to keep out the midges. Every sensible caravanner should have alarms for smoke and CO to keep you safe. There is the option of getting yourself a satellite system for your TV and if the thought of parking the caravan frightens you, there are now numerous efficient caravan movers to do it for you. We have established that the modern caravan is really a home from home and can be more comfortable and luxurious than some of the UK's leading brand hotels. Where are you going to stay? Standard of Caravan Parks in the UK Joining either the Caravan and Camping Club or the Caravan Club allows you cheaper access to excellently run sites which are managed and run to a high standard. Here you will find spotless toilet and shower facilities and well maintained grounds to make the camping experience as comfortable as possible. On many sites you will find heating and piped music in the toilet and shower block. Unfortunately in the UK the weather is not always what you would choose, but you will find many of the sites have invested heavily in forming hard standing plots and land drainage so you do not have to paddle through boggy fields to get to the shower block. Pitch types have improved enormously. You can now get 'super pitches' which have electric, water, TV point plus direct waste connections - what more can you ask for? You can of course choose to stay in a farmers field with no facilities except water. If you have a modern caravan with its own shower room you can enjoy the seclusion of a tiny site and still have all your modern conveniences catered for in your own home! If you prefer all the facilities including evening entertainment and laid on activities, those sites are also readily available. The world is your oyster and when you get brave enough to travel to the Continent your world could become a lot larger!! Just enjoy! Whatever caravan you choose or whatever site you decide to stay on, enjoy your second home and use it as often as you are able. You should come home from every camping holiday feeling happier and more relaxed! Which Groundsheet is best for me? 2013-06-03 Groundsheet Info Groundsheets come in various sizes and shapes to make it easy to find the correct one to go under your tent or give you a clean area in your awning. Most tents now come with their own shaped groundsheet which zips into the outer tent, but as already mentioned caravan and motorhome awnings are usually supplied without the groundsheet so the need for sperate groundsheets is still there. Types of Groundsheets A groundsheet is an essential piece of camping equipment and a must for all caravan awnings and camping design to protect your tent, your job is to decide what type you need and how much you are prepared to pay for the privilege. Waterproof PVC groundsheets These PVC groundsheets are useful for short term use on grass - most campsite owners now prefer campers not top use this type of groundsheet. Fully waterproof covers stops the light and air getting to the grass making it go yellow. This is unattractive for the next campers to rent that plot so you can sympathize with the sentiment! This problem can be alleviated by lifting the groundsheet during the day. If however you do not have a zipped in groundsheet for your tent you will want a fully waterproof cover under your sleeping area to stop you getting damp and cold at night. Most sites realize that tents need the fully waterproof option so allow them, and also usually allow the non-breathable groundsheets in awnings, but some sites might insist on the breathable variety of groundsheet. The PVC groundsheets come in a huge variety of sizes, an example of one is the Groundsheet - 18 x 8ft Grey PVC which is a larger affordable size. Breathable Groundsheets Many camping site owners insist on the use of Eco friendly camping ground sheets. Eco mats drastically reduce the damage done to grass by traditional PVC and PE camping ground sheets. Another advantage is that Eco friendly mat permit any spilt drinks to drain straight into the ground beneath which saves cleaning up, and they offer a carpeted feel to your tent or awning. They do pack up bigger that the PVC variety which is a disadvantage A good example of an Eco friendly mat is the Carpetina groundsheet which comes in different colours and sizes. Look at Carpetina Groundsheet 3m x 2.5m, the advantage of this particular groundsheet is that because it is impervious to moisture it does not get heavier when it gets wet and won't go mouldy if packed away damp. Carpetina is called a carpet but is really a breathable base layer to go directly onto the ground. It is possible to get tent carpet to go on top of the breathable groundsheet which has a comfortable fabric top and waterproof backing. Travelling in France? You’ll need an NF approved alcohol breathalyser! 2013-05-28 The new Breathalyser law that came into force last July basically states that it is a legal requirement in France for all vehicles travelling on French roads (regardless of country of origin) to carry at least one breathaliser in the vehicle, that conforms to approved French standards (NF). 2 x NF approved alcohol breathalisers. You now need to carry a French NF-Approved Digital Breathalizer or Breathalizer Kit. The French Police are suggesting vehicles carry at least two, so that if one is used to check the driver, a second remains for inspection but the law requires either an NF Approved digital breathalizer or one unused breathalizer kit. Your kit should be "NF" approved This is an approval process is run by the LNE for the French Government. Only those kits that carry the NF logo are Genuine NF kits, if the kit you buy does not have the required logo it will not be NF approved and therefore not accepted by the French police. Alcosense breathaliser The Alcosense breathaliser complies with the NF regulations and has the all important NF mark on it. Will I have to use my own breathalyser if I am stopped? If you are stopped by the Gendarme suspected of drink driving, the gendarme will use their own breathalyser to test you but will check that you have at least one unused breathalyser kit in your car. Don't forget that a breathaliser kit isn't the only thing you need to pack before venturing across the Channel. UK motorists and motorcyclists must display a GB plate, as well as carrying a warning triangle such as the Warning triangle and also a fluorescent safety vest with them - a legal requirement in France. Tuning in your 12v television 2013-05-20 As you move around the country you will find that there are very few places that give you no reception for your television. The non-directional aerials may struggle for reception in areas such as the South West of England and Scotland. Fixed directional aerials such as the Vision Plus Status 550 and 560 provide a good picture providing they are pointing in the correct direction. If you are on a site with other caravans you will generally find that all aerials point in one direction, point yours the same way and you should be on a winner. In some places you will find that you need to revolve your aerial so that it is in a vertical plane – again look at the other aerials on the site and do likewise. Most modern 12v TV’s have automatic tuning which should pick up the available programmes – make sure you tune your television in every time you arrive on a site if you are touring to get the best possible reception. Follow the above advise and you should be able to enjoy your favourite programmes without the expense of a satellite television kit. Safe Camping 2013-05-06 Camping in safety with your Tent For many people, camping is a traditional part of how they spend their summer, heading away for a week or two in this country or Europe, or fitting in a couple of weekend trips. A camping holiday can be great fun for all the family and one of the least expensive options for a break. For others, it might be a new experience. Camping generally is a good way to enjoy the outdoors. But in the excitement of a trip and because of the unfamiliar surroundings and methods for doing things, for example camp cooking is likely to be a vastly different experience to food preparation while in the comfort of your own kitchen, accidents may easily happen. To ensure your camping holiday goes smoothly, especially if it is your very first time in a tent, be aware of the key safety issues: Fire is a significant risk when you are camping. To reduce the risk: Allow at least 6m spacing between tents and caravans to reduce the risk of fire spreading Never use fuel-burning devices such as disposable barbecues, camping stoves, camping heaters, lanterns, and charcoal grills inside a tent. Apart from the fact that you will get lots of condensation in your tent, even a fire-resistant tent may burn. Be particularly mindful of potential risk of fire inside smaller tents with only one exit. Never use candles in or near a tent for illumination - torches are much safer. Never use naked flames inside a tent. Flammable liquids and Liquefied Petroleum Gas cylinders should be kept outside the tent. Don’t change gas canisters or refuel petrol or meths stoves inside your tent and store outside if possible. Cooking appliances should never be used in small tents, cooking inside a tent is not recommended. Practise using your stove prior to going on your trip - and ensure the stove or barbecue is sited on a solid surface to reduce the risk of it falling over. Check the rules regarding open fires and barbecues at your campsite; some will not allow them at all and others will restrict them to designated areas Look at the site prior to deciding to pitch your tent, so avoid carrying it out in the dark. Ideally, be at your site before sunset so that you can see where other campers might have fires, barbecues, stoves and heaters Keep matches and lighters in a waterproof container and away from children Have an escape plan. Make sure all fires are damped down and that stoves, gas lamps, barbecues etc. are out before you go to bed Have a plan for if a fire gets out of hand e.g. do you have a fire escape plan and where is the nearest source of water? The burning of fossil fuels produces carbon monoxide (CO) there have been deaths and serious injuries from CO poisoning in tents and caravans. Do not use stoves or disposable barbecues (for cooking or warmth) in an enclosed space with poor ventilation. This is relevant even in tents. Electric leads for your tent When thinking about electric leads to your tent and general caravan accessories always use a mobile mains unit such as Triple Mobile Mains Unit, these have a trip so gives protection against electric shock. Air Conditioning in Caravans 2013-04-17 Air Conditioning in Caravans If you use your touring caravan or motorhome during the summer, or you are planning to go to Europe you're bound to have dreamt of having an air conditioning unit in your home from home. We are all desperate for a long hot Summer and an air conditioning system would able to keep the air in your caravan cooler and a lot more refreshing, especially during hot, humid days. There are many benefits from having an air conditioning unit in your van besides the obvious clean, fresh air in your caravan. For example a big plus point is that the fridge works much better when the van interior is cool. The different types of air conditioning units can be divided into roof mounted units or under bench air conditioning. Under Bench Air Conditioning The advantages of under-bench installation are obvious: your roof window, outer dimensions and the features of your caravan or motorhome remain unaffected. Air is evenly distributed through 3 vents positioned in your vehicle. The under-bench air conditioning unit is a genuine innovation in climate control technology, furnished with a heat pump, it can offer cooling as well as heating. The Truma Sapphire Comfort Air Conditioning System is a good example of an under bench air conditioning unit. Roof Mounted Air-Conditioners Roof mounting permits maximum efficiency and use of space. An ingenious system based on nature’s own example: warm air is drawn in and chilled, while cool air sinks down naturally. It is now possible to purchase roof mounted units with windows. Dometic Freshlight is a solution developed in conjunction with Seitz. As well as incorporating a window to let daylight inside the caravan or motorhome, the Dometic Freshlight 1600 Air Conditioning Unit has a soft light for evening ambience built in. The Dometic B 2200 Roof Air Conditioner allows maximum efficiency and use of space is achieved by the roof air conditioner. Make sure you make the right choice When shopping around for an air conditioning unit look carefully at the different types to decide which one will suit you the best. This will be quite a big investment and you must be sure to purchase a system that suits your requirements perfectly. Look closely into the product features and concider the heating and cooling capacities. If you can talk to somebody who knows the choice of air conditioners and who can advise you on your own requirements with knowledge. Check out the power supply, safety features and control systems. Choose a system that will give you years of comfortable caravaaning wherever you travel. Gas Safety in Caravans 2013-04-10 Gas Safety in Caravans Modern caravans (touring and static caravans), motorhomes and lodges are all manufactured to good quality standards, and are fitted out with domestic quality gas appliances. All gas appliances must be set up in accordance with current gas safety requirements this is to comply with the law and to ensure minimal risk to you personally and your loved ones. Annual gas safety inspections aren't mandatory in the UK, however are increasingly becoming a necessity for insurance. Annual gas safety test in Static Caravans Most parks now require that privately owner of static caravans provide an annual gas safety test. Typically a gas test will cost not more than £100 and a certificate will be issued stating that the gas pipe work and appliances are thought to be safe condition. It is also very advisable to service all gas equipment and appliances regularly to provide peace of mind. Annual Touring Caravan/Motorhome Service Touring caravans should undertake an annual service done by an Approved Workshop which employs qualified gas engineers. This is where your gas appliances will be serviced to ensure they are working safely and effectively. A reputable workshop will check for gas leaks and condition of pipe work and hoses, check air inlets are clear and adequate to ensure safe ventilation, check the flu duct with a smoke spillage test, check safety devices are working correctly and all gas appliances are safe to use. Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Please read previous article on Carbon Monoxide dangers, but as a reminder of the very important subject here is a summary:- Accidents occurring as a result of Carbon Monoxide poisoning are caused by a combination of circumstances. Inadequate ventilation, blocked flue, faulty appliances, lack of servicing and routine maintenance are just a few of the causes. Recommended Alarms for your Caravan or Motorhome In your static caravan or mobile touring home, be it a caravan or a motorhome amongst your caravan accessories you should have a Carbon Monoxide Detector, possibly an LPG and Soporific Gas Detector or a Trio Gas Alarm which senses LPG, Carbon Monoxide and Ether gas. You will then be able to rest assured that you and your family are safe from a variety of gases as long as you test your alarms regularly. Keep your second home safe Safety in your second home is as important as safety in your house, you owe it to yourself and your family to remain safe. Don't block air vents - if any leaking gas accumulates you may fall unconscious and be unable to escape. Always make sure that the caravan is ventilated. Ensure that air vents are clear - if air vents get blocked, it could be fatal. Turn off all appliances before you go to bed or leave the caravan. Gas cylinders should be kept outside the caravan and should be turned off unless they are designed to run continuously and you should only change the bottle when they are completely empty. If you believe that there's a gas leak, turn off all appliances and the main cylinder valve, open all windows and doors and do not smoke or switch on any electrical switches or appliances till you have got the all clear. Never use fuel-burning devices inside the caravan (e.g. disposable barbecues, camping stoves, camping heaters, lanterns, and charcoal grills). Caravan Fires 2013-03-28 Fires in Caravans Following on our theme of safety in your caravan, we are going to look at fires in caravans and mobile homes. Protect your caravan or mobile home from fire Fires in caravans and mobile homes kill around 9 people and injure about 100 in the UK annually. Following some quick and easy steps and having an elementary degree of awareness, you are able to prevent the chance of fire in the caravan or mobile home. The following tips can help keep the family and caravan or mobile home protected from fire. Fit a Smoke Alarm Buying a smoke alarm can help save your home and the lives of yourself and your family. A working smoke alarm doubles a persons chance of surviving a fire and can reduce fatalities by up to 90%. Always buy an alarm which conforms to the British Standard. This means the alarm has achieved a standard acceptable to the British Standards Institution (BSI) What are Smoke Alarms? Smoke alarms are self contained devices that contain a way of detecting a fire (smoke detector) and giving an alert (alarm). They're about the dimensions of a hand and are normally fitted to the ceiling and are one of the most important caravan accessory you can get. They are able to detect fires in their first stages and give you those precious minutes to enable your family to exit your caravan in complete safety. Ensure you have at least one smoke alarm fitted in your caravan. A reasonably priced and easily fitted alarm is the Kidde Ionisation Smoke Alarm Smoke alarms - don't forget to test out your alarm! In order to protect your family against fire, it is vital you've got a smoke alarm. Once installed, it’s important you monitor the alarm, ensuring it's regularly tested, the batteries are replaced ahead of the low battery warning and the unit is changed before it reaches the use before date. Unfortunately it’s all too easy to forget to do these things, so you must devise some way of reminding yourself. In a standard smoke alarm, the battery should be replaced every 12 months. You can buy alarms fitted with 10 and 15 year batteries. The advantage is that you don’t have to replace the battery every year. Care of your alarm: once a week test it by pressing the test button till the alarm sounds. Once a year change the battery (unless it’s a ten-year alarm). Twice a year open the case and gently vacuum the inside using the soft-brush attachment to remove dust from the sensors. If it doesn't open, vacuum through the holes. After 10 years it’s best to get a whole new alarm. Basic fire precautions Kitchen Safety Never leave the oven unattended if it is switched on. Always turn the handles of the pans inwards if you have children with you. If a chip pan catches on fire never pour water on it which will make the fire worse. Turn the heat off and use a fire extinguisher such as the Firemaster Extinguisher FM20 Powder to do the job properly and efficiently. Ensure that you have fire extinguishers & fire blankets that are easily accessible. Electricity safety Make sure you turn off all plugs, tv's heaters and cookers before going to bed or leaving the caravan. Test your electrical wiring regularly, preferably whilst having your caravan serviced annually. If you are a smoker Never use plastic ash trays and make sure that all cigarettes are put out properly. Most importantly don't smoke in bed. Heating If you are using a free standing heater in your van stand it on a metal or stone slab. always leave a window open when fire is alight and try to keep your caravan clean of dust by sweeping regularly. Carbon monoxide (CO) - The 'silent' killer 2013-03-20 Carbon monoxide (CO) - The 'silent' killer Carbon monoxide is a colourless, tasteless and odourless gas that is produced when fossil fuels such as coal, oil, natural gas, LPG, charcoal and wood are not burned efficiently. It can be produced from poorly maintained or badly fitted domestic heating appliances such as boilers, wall heaters, wood burners, blocked flues or exhaust vents. Other possible signs of a CO leak include black, sooty marks on the front covers of gas fires, sooty marks on the walls around boilers, stoves or fires, smoke building up in rooms due to a faulty flue and yellow instead of blue flames coming from gas appliances. Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning Carbon monoxide (CO) is sometimes referred to as the 'silent killer'. In the UK, more than 50 people die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning every year, and 200 people are left seriously ill. It is very important to be aware of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and to look out for warning signs. A headache is the most common symptom of mild carbon monoxide poisoning, other symptoms include sickness, tiredness and confusion, stomach pain, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing - all of which can easily be misdiagnosed as flu or food poisoning. If you suspect CO2 poisoning get the affected person into fresh air as soon as possible and phone for an ambulance. The affected person will need oxygen therapy urgently. Protecting your family and yourself The best way of protecting your family will be aware of the dangers and identify any appliances in your caravan that may potentially leak carbon monoxide. Make sure that all appliances are maintained and regularly serviced. Installing a CO alarm will detect a carbon monoxide leak in your house and give out a high-pitched noise when levels of the gas are high. A CO alarm is an important caravan accessory. CO2 Alarms It is therefore important to protect your family and home with a carbon monoxide alarm. An audible carbon monoxide alarm is a good way to ensure you're immediately alerted to any carbon monoxide in your home, therefore the only safe way to know if carbon monoxide is present is to install carbon monoxide detectors (alarms) on every level of your home and in sleeping areas. For those that spend time in their caravan, having discovered the causes of carbon monoxide poisoning, it stands to reason that it is essential to have an alarm fitted. The Kidde CO2 Alarm meets all the requirements of a safe and reliable alarm, easily fitted and affordable. It is also possible to buy alarms that detect LPG and ether gas as well as CO2. The Trio gas alarm will detect all three gases. Always be sure to test your alarm regularly using the test button and replace batteries annually or when the low battery signal sounds. All you need to know about Towing Mirrors 2013-03-18 Information you should know about Towing Mirrows The equipment you use with your trailer or caravan must meet certain safety standards. You must have an adequate view of the road behind you. If your caravan or trailer is wider than the rear of the towing vehicle, you may need to fit suitable towing mirrors. If you tow without proper towing mirrors you can be: 1. prosecuted by the police 2. given 3 points on your licence 3. fined up to £1,000 Laws on Towing Mirror requirments Have you ever looked into the law on towing mirrors? If you have you may be shocked to find that almost half of caravanners either don't know the law or totally disregard this essential safety rule. Many caravanners treat towing mirrors as a caravan accessory that they are able to do without, however the law says differently. Extension mirrors should not protrude more than 250mm (roughly 10") beyond the widest part of the caravan. There is a legal requirement of you to have mirrors so that you are able see clearly an area that is 4 meters wide out into the carriageway on the offside, and along the kerb to the nearside and for a distance of 20 meters behind the driver. A caravan is significantly wider than a car even a large 4x4 and you just can't adhere to the law if you don't fit towing mirrors. Drivers of larger tow cars and 4x4's may think that they are OK because they can shift their mirrors so that they incorporate some rearward vision but whatever they see just isn't good enough. What mirrors should be fitted? The law demands two functional rear view mirrors. There has to be one on the offside and one internally. Most cars are equipped with a nearside mirror as well since when towing, the interior mirror isn't a lot of use because all one can see is the caravan following you. It therefore follows that you need two external mirrors to conform to the law. It's highly unlikely that any towed caravan will not need extended mirrors so, to be legal and safe it is advisable always to fit extended mirrors when towing regardless, unless you are absolutely sure that you are adhering to the law. Better safe than sorry when stopped by the Police! It is advised that all towing mirrors comply to EC requirments.An E number should be displayed on the mirror to prove that they are EC compliant and therefore legal. It is recommended that the offside mirror should to be flat glass, so that speed and distance of approaching traffic can be accurately assessed. The Milenco Flat Glass Twin Pack Towing Mirrors are advertised to be the worlds best performing towing mirror and are E marked. The nearside mirror may be convex. The Milenco Aero Convex Mirror has a unique clamping system which is engineered to fit all current cars, 4x4's and vans and is E marked. Always remove your towing mirrors after pitching if you are going to take the car off the site You must remember to get rid of the mirrors when you're not towing. If you don't, they will extend beyond 250mm from the side of the car, therefore aren't legal. And finally It's a legal requirement for you to fit additional towing mirrors when you are towing your caravan or any other trailer which is wider than the narrowest portion of the rear of your vehicle. Should you be towing blind, without towing mirrors, or using illegal towing mirrors (not E-marked), you can be prosecuted. Smelly Fridges! 2013-03-08 Smelly Caravan Fridges When shutting down your caravan for the winter you will have given your fridge a good clean and hopefully left the doors open for the winter period. Even after carrying out those procedures you might still have an odour to your fridge when you open it up for the first time in the Spring. Thoroughly clean your fridge The first thing to do is to have a thorough clean, so take out any removable shelves first and allow them a soak in water with washing up liquid in it. Rinse off with clear water and dry well then spray with some nice smelling anti-bacterial cleaner. Cleanse the fridge itself using a solution of bicarbonate of soda. If something has left a strong odour inside the fridge which washing alone cannot shift, try making a paste out of the bicarbonate of soda and water, and smear this inside the refrigerator and leave overnight. Rinse with warm water, dry and clean - this should cure the problem. Smells can linger on porous materials like the surrounding rubber around the fridge door. Stay away from bleach on the rubber but give a really good clean with the bicarbonate and soda mixture in between the rubber with a soft toothbrush which will remove any congealed grease and stubborn stains. Finally just wipe over with clear water and you ought to get a completely clean fridge. It is advisable to thoroughly clean your caravan fridge every twelve months whether or not it smells or since it helps to keep germs away where drink and food is stored. A recommended product to use when cleaning your fridge is Fenwicks Waste Pipe and Tank Cleaner After cleaning the fridge think about investing in a fridge deodoriser such as the Gem Fridge Deodoriser which should keep your fridge smelling sweet. Check drain container and exterior vent panel If the odour persists after you have cleaned the fridge try checking the drain pipe at the back of the fridge and the drain container behind the lower vent on the outside of the caravan. There may be the problem of the drain container overflowing which could cause a musty smell behind the fridge. Next remove the exterior vent panel, as there may be some spilt food lurking there, and clean up if you see some. Check the smell is not gas! If the smell persists you should definitely check that it is not a gas smell you have. If you notice any black streaks around the fridge vents that could indicate problems with the burner or the flue. Get your caravan serviced before you take it anywhere to make sure that it is safe to stay in. Caravan Accessories for your Touring Caravan 2013-03-01 Caravan Accessories for your Touring Caravan Essential Caravan Accessories If buying a new caravan it might come with some accessories already, however all tourers need to have certain items, for instance a 12v battery and gas cylinder. A 12v battery will let you power your lighting as well as other electrical items, for example your fridge, if you are not connected to the car. If you intend to make use of only sites with mains hook-up then this will not be required. A gas cylinder will be needed to power any gas cookers or hobs your caravan has. A mains lead will be required, these are normally supplied when buying a caravan. If not they come in the choice of 10m length or 25m length. The Electric Hook Up Mains Lead 230V - 25m is a reasonably priced example. Caravan Step Your caravan step is going to take a lot of wear and tear from daily use so it is sensible to make certain that the step is sturdy and durable. If yours is worn look at the selection of steps available on Leisureshopdirect It would be worth spending a bit more to get a good one that will last and is safe and steady. Towing Mirrors Towing mirrors will be required as your rear view is going to be impeded because of the caravan, these may be door/wing mounted or simple strap on extensions. Again look at the selection of towing mirrors on Leisureshopdirect. Milenco towing mirrors are particularly popular. Water Containers Two water containers will be required, one for water that is clean the other for waste. It is easier to have a waste container that will sit underneath the caravan out of the way. The Wastemaster is an excellent example of what is available. Again, for the fresh water it is sensible to get a conatiner that easily moved. The Aquaroll water carrier comes in two sizes, 40L or 25L. It easy to fill and push around. The following caravan accessories are unlikely to come with the caravan nonetheless they could be useful to own. An awning can be added on to the side of the caravan and will double the size of the caravans living area. If you do not want to invest in a full awning, a porch awning serves the purpose of providing an area for wet boots and dogs. Look at the Royal Wessex Awning 260 for a good priced awning to provide enough room to be useful. Levelling ramps are helpful if you're using a sloping pitch, they might not be required however if you are parked on a hard standing pitch. Levellers come in all shapes and sizes and prices to match. An all round high grip level is the Milenco Quattro Level for Caravans and Motorhomes a lightweight solid based leveller. A TV aerial is definitely helpful to have as reception may vary on your travels, your house TV licence covers you whilst you are touring.To have guaranteed viewing of your favourit programes everywhere you visit you should invest in a fully automatic Dome satellite system such as the Maxview Max-Dome Twin LNB Fully Automatic Satellite System If television is not quite A cost efficient leisuretime? 2013-02-18 Looking for a cost efficient new way to spend your leisure time? Caravan holidays really are the simplest way to have a fun break with friends or family. It gives you the freedom of preference to be wherever you want, not have to check in and out from hotels, avoids the dreaded airport check-in, and also enables you to stay at places where bricks and mortar accommodation may not be easily available. Caravan holidays also can bring about a fun-element to the time away, which makes it a lot more of a fantastic road-trip Caravan holidays can be planned to be exactly what you need and desire A caravan holiday is so easy to organize, and one does not need to worry about the number of folks that can go, or about tickets that must be bought on normal flight or train trips, as well as in regards to the restrictions on timings. You can become the master of your travel when starting a caravan holiday, to be able to take decisions on where you wish to go, when you'd like to pause for a coffee break, etc. Another plus point of caravan holidays is that you can change your mind about in places you would like to go to, without having to go with a pre-decided plan of action. Todays caravans with their myriad of caravan accessories are a pleasure to stay in It’s hardly surprising then that caravanning has become very popular. Another reason for this can be put down to caravan manufacturers producing modern, stylish accommodation. Today’s caravans are bright and fun and contain all the necessary features and amenities necessary for great holiday from well appointed kitchens to power showers and flat screen TV’s Choose the right caravan site for you and your family For families with children a good caravan site provides a safe environment for the kids to play and lots of caravan sites are offering the kind of facilities that modern families desire, from organized entertainment at night to indoor pools. But if you like the quieter life it's very easy to seek out smaller secluded sites which really do allow you to get returning to nature Make sure your caravan is well insured While it is easier to have fun in your caravan nowadays, there is certainly an area that lots of people forget to check out - touring caravan insurance. Before you purchase a touring caravan, you should spend time thinking about caravan insurance. If you already own a caravan, it might be time for you to reevaluate your current caravan insurance and shop around and obtain quotes from other caravan insurance firms New to caravaning? Whether you are new to caravanning or have been doing it for many years, consider going to one of the excellent Caravan and Outdoor Leisure Shows such as the Spring Caravan and Camping Show - February 19th - 24th at the NEC in Birmingham. Much is different through the years when your aunt and uncle had a caravan with a bucket for the toilet, a foot pump for cold water if you are lucky and those whistling gas lights whose mantle always broke whenever you needed it and then there was no spare! The very latest technologies in manufacturing combined with elegant style now portray a far more luxurious side to this ever growing pastime and the shows are simply just the place to view everything in one place Spring Caravan and Camping Show - Feb 19th - 24th - Birmingham NEC 2013-02-12 Spring Caravan and Camping Show - February 19th - 24th Visit the Spring Caravan and Camping Show at Birmingham's NEC this month I thought I would do a plug for the Spring Caravan & Camping Show which is being held in Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC) from 19th – 24th February. This sparkling new Midlands based Show will provide anyone with a new or existing involvement in camping, caravan, motorhome and lodge based holidays the opportunity to find the very latest models from all of the main manufacturers and dealers, buy leisure accessories, tents and camping gear in addition to research and book new holiday destinations, attractions and campsites. The Dometic Group Exhibiting at the Show One of the leading exhibitors this year will be the Dometic Group. Dometic Group is actually a customer-focused, market-leading manufacturer of leisure products for your RV, automotive, truck and marine industry. They supply the industry and aftermarket by using a complete range of air conditioning units, refrigerators, awnings, cookers, sanitation systems, lighting, mobile power equipment, safety and comfort solutions, windows, doors, along with other equipment that make life more comfortable in your home from home. Caravan spare parts sourced and supplied by Leisureshopdirect Leisureshopdirect will be at the show this year - you will find us on the Dometic stand answering as many of your technical questions as possible and supplying caravan spare parts for your appliances. With the beginning of the new season rapidly approaching, you need to check all the appliances in your caravan to make sure they have survived the winter in good order. If there is any problem with any of your Dometic products, sourcing the correct spare part for your Dometic appliances cannot be easier. You will need to know the model and product number of your appliance. Find your fridge, cooker or air conditioning unit on Leisureshopdirect and then you will be able to bring up all the exploded diagrams attached to that product, enabling you to source the correct part for your repair job. If you have any problems with the internet you will be able to get help with your caravan spare parts problem from our trained staff who will be there to help you on the Dometic stand. We will also be supplying air conditioning units for your van. We live in hope that this season the weather will be better and you might even need an air conditioning unit! They can come fitted by Mullacott Caravan approved caravan service centre. We can give advise at the show which air conditioning unit would best suit your requirements. Have a look at a variety of air conditioning units to get a taste of what is available. All our trained staff are looking forward to meeting you and helping you with any problems. Ensuring the water system of your caravan is ready for the New Season 2013-02-05 Ensuring the water system of your caravan is ready for the New Season Have a carefree first trip in your caravan this season You should have prepared your caravan for winter hibernation. You must also make sure your caravan is able to be used in the Spring unless, of course, you frequently brave weather in winter! Your first trip away could be an absolute disaster if you not check that the basics in your caravan are working correctly and safely. One of the first things to do is to book your caravan in for a service at an approved workshop such as Mullacott Caravan and Motorhome Centre. Knowing that everything has been checked and is in working order will give you peace of mind on your first trip away. If you are unable to get booked in for a service you need to check the basics yourself. One of the systems that can give the most problems - enough to ruin your holiday - is the water system. Be prepared! Do not leave checking your caravan and caravan accessories until the last minute. You may need to obtain parts which could take a week to arrive. Spend some time in your caravan a couple of weeks before your first trip to check for any problems. Discovering that your tap has frozen and needs replacing is not what you want to discover when you are on holiday. Water expands when it freezes, but in partially filled ipes there might be room for this to be expanded without bursting the pipe. So having some water left in pipes may not cause harm when it freezes. Water held in taps and valves may be a problem if there isn’t room for this to expand. Leaving taps and drain valves open helps. If necessary, you could have used low pressure air to blow water out of taps, valves and drain points. The best laid preparations cannot guarantee that you will have no problems on your first outing. Introducing water to your system for the first time Before pumping water into your caravan for the first time close the drain valve which is normally next to the water heater. On the older Carver Cascade or on the Henry Heater the drain plug is at the bottom left hand corner of the external cowl. Open all the taps and turn on the pump. Quickly check for leaks underneath all of the taps and around the water heater. If any leak is evident turn off the pump immediately and investigate. If no leaks are evident then close each tap, one at a time, turn on the pump and again check for leaks underneath the tap. Clean out your pipes When cleaning out the pipes throughout the caravan, use a purpose cleaner such as Puriclean water tank cleaner. It could be said that the low temperatures during the winter should prevent problems with bacterial growth and when the pipes are flushed with mains water, there is a background level of chlorine disinfectant which should be enough to prepare the system for regular use. Whichever system you use it is advisable to change your water filter annually. Look at the selection of filters available at Leisureshopdirect.com. Having checked your water system you should ensure everything else in your caravan is roadworthy before setting off on a trip. Watch this space!!!!! Caring for your Awning 2013-01-31 Looking after your Awning An awning effectively doubles the living area of your second home and is one of your most useful caravan accessories. Awnings come in all shapes and sizes and most importantly price. Good quality prestige caravan awnings such as Isabella Awnings can set you back as much as £1500 but there are more budget priced awnings such as Royal Awnings which you can get for a much more affordable £300 to £500. Regardless of price though, careful handling and good maintenance of your awning is crucial to getting maximum use out of it. Assembling your awning Begin assembling your awning by placing the groundsheet in approximately the correct position - having the poles and awning on the groundsheet will minimize the risk of them getting dirty during assembly. Lay the poles in roughly the right positions and remove the awning from its bag onto the groundsheet. Make sure the awning will be the right way around before you feed the beading into the awning rail. If sliding the beading down the rail proves difficult, you will need to get lubricated. A good lubricant to use is Awning Rail Lubricant which you simply spray some in to the rail when required. If the does not help, the rail may have been damaged. Look for any dents and in particular for sharp edges that may damage the material of the awning. Once the fabric is in position, you can assemble the frame. Manufacturers recommend putting the central ridge support pole and leg in place and tension that first. Follow with all the two side-end poles and legs. If your awning has end or side panels that unzip, these should be partially undone for tensioning. A useful tool for getting the tensions correct is an Awning Companion. Before putting any pegs in the ground, ensure the awning is level and also the side panels have been zipped back. Start pegging the corners next to the caravan before moving on to the far corners and so the sides. Cleaning your awning The best time to completely clean and look after an awning is when it is up, simply because it's easy to reach each corner. Most awnings could be cleaned with plenty of water and a soft brush. Anything harsher than that may damage the waterproof coating and leave you having a soggy groundsheet next time it rains. A good thorough cleaning product is Awning Awning and Gazebo Cleaner 1 Ltre (Fenwicks) which easily removes grass stains, mud dirt and food marks and comes in a handy 1litre spray bottle. Exposed parts, such as roof, sides and corners, need extra attention. Give the awning this sort of thorough cleaning twice yearly. The same goes for the PVC windows; anything too harsh, including spirit or polish, could turn them misty, that is unsightly and makes them hard to see through. Using a responsible UPVC cleaner such as liquid UPVC cleaner is the best way forward. If your windows already are damaged in this manner, try Starbrite Plastic Polish Restorer, This restores shine and clarity to acrylic, polycarbonate and most other types of plastic surfaces. If this doesn't work, take the awning to a repair centre to have the windows replaced. As important as the awning i Keeping your Caravan Safe 2013-01-24 Keeping your Caravan Safe. Having your caravan stolen can be heartbreaking. Your 'second home' is full of memories and personal equipment and caravan accessories you have collected over the years and is worth as much emotionally as financially. The AA estimates that up to 4000 caravans are stolen in the UK every year, often to order by professional caravan thieves. These professional thieves can steal your caravan with surprising ease, even if you only leave it unsecured for a couple of minutes, so it is worth following these tips to prevent the heartache and frustration of theft. Firstly make sure that the caravan is secure between trips. If you leave it in a storage area always check that the security arrangements of the site are up to standard. Always secure your caravan by clamping the wheels using a reputable wheel clamp such as the Milenco Caravan Wheelclamp Type C13, make sure you follow the stipulations laid down by the insurance you have for your van. Make sure that the windows are tightly closed to prevent thieves getting in to steal personal belongings. If the caravan is parked outside your house you will still need to use wheel clamps and hitch locks such as the Al-Ko Universal Hitch lock, and it is worth installing an alarm such as the IDM4 Intruder Alarm system so that if a theft is attempted at least the neighbours will be able to hear the alarm and perhaps prevent the theft. Any security procedures you adopt will make any insurance claim easier to process if the worst happens. During trips away you must still be diligent. Service stations are easy targets for caravan thieves as they're near to motor ways and the thief can be miles away along with your caravan ahead of the police even arrive. If you are going into the station just to pay for petrol, then leave somebody in the car to keep your touring caravan safe. If you are going in for longer always use you wheel clamp and set you alarm and don’t leave bags, documents and other valuables on view in the caravan. Just be sensible. More useful tips: 1. In the home, keep the caravan and security keys well hidden - if you're burgled, you don’t wish to lose your caravan too. 2. Don’t leave your purchase papers and insurance details inside the caravan, it will make it much easier for the thieves to sell on your caravan if they have all the legal documents. 3. Don't leave valuables in the caravan, or make sure they are well concealed underneath the bed or somewhere equally out of view so that thieves cannot see expensive equipment or valuables. 4. Ask about built-in security when buying a new caravan and add the cost of security equipment such as wheel clamps to the cost when buying your caravan. It is false economy to spend your savings on a wonderful caravan and then not keeping it safe. 5. Take photos of your caravan so it can be easily identified, especially of any distinguishing features. An unusual window sticker or such like would make it more identifiable. Cool Boxes in the Caravan 2013-01-22 Added Extra's Useful in your Caravan Perfect solution fo lack of refridgerator space As a caravanner, if you have a smaller caravan with only a standard sized fridge, there is always the problem of wanting to chill drinks bottles that you cannot fit in your fridge. I lived with this frustration for some time until I invested in a coolbox. I bought one large enough to cool 1 litre bottles and stored it in the awning while we were in the caravan to save room. It is the perfect caravan accessory. This solution works perfectly, allowing you to just keep food produce in the caravan fridge and chilling the beer or wine in the coolbox! There is a huge selection of cool boxes available these days, some of the best of which are those manufactured by Dometic. The Dometic Combicool RC1200 fits the bill perfectly. It offers you a range of power sources and can store 2L bottles standing up. A friend of mine has gone even further and purchased one of the larger waeco 3-way cool boxes which he uses as a fridge He cools his RC1700 EGP Portable Cooler down on 240v at home, continues the cooling process by using 12v in the car boot when travelling and the on arrival at his camp site on then can put it on gas when on non-electric sites or electric if it is available. You could then use it on your boat too. Condensation Problem with Cool Boxes There are drawbacks to using a cooler, one of which is condensation. Things that give rise to condensation in the cool box are opening and shutting it lots as well as putting warmer things into it. Don't leave such things as bottles of milk or the butter lying around on the table for hours getting warm, simply use them and replace them quickly so they don't hsave time to warm up. Also take everything for a meal out at once to reduce a lot of closing and opening of the lid. Another good tip is to turn off the cool box for two hours if running for more than 48 hours... when you have waited for 2 hours, then empty the water at the bottom which has built up and then turn it back on and use normally. It's perfectly normal for the water to accumulate, and does not imply you have a faulty unit. Some people put a removable plastic grid in the bottom, which holds the food up above the drips. When there is a lot of condensation then I would suggest placing a teatowel in the bottom simply to absorb the surplus so that it doesn't spoil any of the food inside. Alternatively, ensure everything in it is in plastic food boxes rather than cardboard packaging. A cool box can become an essential caravan accessory, after a very short time you will wonder how you ever managed to cope without it! Spring Clean your caravan in readiness for your first outing 2013-01-16 Spring Clean your caravan in readiness for your first outing After our dreadful Summer and the amount of rain experienced this Winter most people will be thinking of when they can escape to some sunshine. whether your dream destination is in this Country or abroad you will firstly need to ensure your caravan or motorhome is the best condition for your holiday. Get ready for your first outing with these handy hints. It's a good recommendation to book your caravan or motorhome in for a service, this may highlight any problems which could get worse without proper attention. If your first outing is in the South West you could take your van to Mullacott Caravans in Ilfracombe,where you will find experienced staff an working in an approved workshop. Most services only take a day so you could plan it into your holiday. Find them at www.mullacottcaravans.co.uk Meanwhile in planning for the service why don't you give your unit a thorough clean, inside and out? Caravan Exterior Unless your caravan has been stored inside or has benefitted from a good cover, you should give it a general clean to remove general dirt which has collected through the winter. Cleaning the exterior you will need: 1. A non-abrasive caravan shampoo such as Fenwicks Caravan Cleaner or Fenwicks Motorhome Cleaner if you have a motorhome. 2. A large sponge 3. A Bucket with lots of hot water 4. Long handled brush such as a Heavy Duty Extending Wash Brush will make life a lot easier. 5. Some Polish such as Fenwicks Bobby Dazzler which provides a protective coating and enhances shine. 7. Step ladder (for the roof) 8. Small soft bristle brush for cleaning awning channel 9. Window cleaner such Dometic Plastic Window Cleaning Kit plus a clean soft cloth. Check: 1. Road lights - make sure these are operational, it's a good idea to have a set of spare bulbs. 2. Tow hitch, always grease the hitch overrun mechanism and handbrake assembly. 3. Look for signs of damage or corrosion with the 13 pin or 12N/12S 7 pin sockets. 4. Tyres- jack the caravan up and look for signs of cracking on both outside and inside of tyre, especially if the caravan has been sitting unmoved all winter. Check tyre pressures are correct. Caravan Interior 1. Test your battery- use a multimeter such as a Digital Multimeter or a voltmeter to check the state of charge. 2. Gas bottle, weigh your gas bottle to make sure you have suffiecient supply. 3. Thoroughly flush the water system, then clean with proprietary steriliser such as Puriclean, remember,never use domestic bleach in the water system. 4. Check the hob/grill and oven burners of the cooker, the flame should be a steady blue. The cooker should always be checked during a full service, but if you have concerns report them to the workshop. 5. Your fridge should also be checked during a full service but if it is running on gas check the flame (same as above). Any concerns report to the workshop when booking in your van for its service. 6. Interior lights - check for blown bulbs. 7. Clean the toilet with a toilet bowl clea Advice for new Caravaners 2013-01-03 Good Advise for those essential Accessories if you are new to Caravaning. CARAVAN ACCESSORIES divide themselves neatly into two camps: essential and desirable. The initial group are those that you simply can’t leave home without. For example, gas cylinders, a battery and water containers. The desirables are those you realize would make your life so much easier when you are actually spending time in your caravan. Awnings top that list, they will give you somewhere to store your wet coats and walking boots, or even the dog if it is wet! You will find a good selection of awnings here. Then there are chairs and tables if the sun comes out. Look at the Loweswater table for an easy to use foldable table. There is a huge selection of chairs ranging from a canvas chair with arms to the more comfortable Royal Navigator Chair. Groundsheets will help the carpets in your van as you will not be traipsing in all the mud - you can leave it in the awning! These come in various sizes. The 14 x 8ft groundsheet is a reasonable size but other sizes are available. Accessories 1 - what you need: Checklist Spare wheel: Check there’s one with all the caravan. Otherwise get one. It’s probably the most essential item of equipment on your list. Waste and freshwater containers: The wheeled type 's best. One of the most popular water carriers is the Aquaroll. If you decide on containers without wheels, get a water container trolley, too. A step: Many new caravans come with steps but it's not always the case if you buy a second hand caravan. These again come in many styles and a wide range of prices. a plastic caravan step is a basic cheaper option that will serve its purpose. Gas cylinders: Butane or propane? Choose propane gas if you ar planning to make use of your caravan during the cold months; butane ceases to vaporize at temperatures below zero. Best advise is to buy two cylinders so that you’ll never run out. It is fairly expensive to buy the gas bottles, but once you have the bottles you can you exchange the empty cylinder for full ones, just paying for the gas. Caravan dealers and a lot good campsites sell gas. A battery: Deep-charge leisure batteries are definitely the favorite; all large caravan accessory shops sell them. A set of wheel chocks: If you site your caravan on a slope anytime you’ll appreciate the additional security of chocks to ensure the caravan can’t move when you’re unhitching it. The fiamma chock level will level your van and hold in position. Towing mirrors: There is a good choice of extension mirrors that mount on your cars door mirror and enable you to see further down the side of the caravan than with your cars mirrors. Pretty much essential unless your tow car is especially wide and its mirrors have extreme convex edge-sections. Golden rule: try before you buy - make sure the mirrors you choose fit onto your cars door mirrors firmly and securely. The Stationary caravan wheel cover Cuts out ultra violet light and dirt for a very reasonable price. 3. If you are a hardy winter caravanner, consider changing to winter tyres which have better grip on wet roads when the temperature drops below 7 degrees. It is a legal requirement in some countries, so check before you decide to travel. 4. Tyres can deteriorate over the winter - so make sure you do a tyre check before taking to the road next spring, checking for cracks in the tyre wall. 5. Tyres left standing for long stretches are susceptible to flat spots which can lead to punctures - check pressure carefully following the winter. 6. If at all possible during the winter rotate the tyres, they don't like standing around on a single piece of tread for very long periods. Consider turning the wheels, say every six to eight weeks, to alleviate any problems, and be sure pressures are correct during this period. 7. Winter wheels (special clamps rather than wheels) can be used, but they do not fulfill the required criteria for some caravan insurance policies. So essentially follow this advice to alleviate any problems occurring with your tyres over the winter period: It's a good idea to put your van on axle stands, thus eliminating the weight from your suspension and giving it a rest so to speak, but more important, it will take the weight off the road tyres therefore alleviating the flat spot, wall damage and possible tyre renewal in the new year. Make sure you check with your insurance company, both van and household, to make sure you are covered. Prior to doing this check your insurance as most policies say you need to have wheelclamps fitted. Do not leave the caravan on the corner steadies. Follow this advise and you will be able to drive away your caravan next year with no wories and enjoy all those coaravan accessories you have in place. Draining down your caravan ready for the winter 2012-11-26 Draining down your Caravan ready for the Winter Draining down is the best form of defense against frost damage, but it's important to make sure the system is fully emptied, just a small amount of water trapped in a tap head can cause costly damage. All your caravan accessories are worth looking after. Drain down procedure: Start by opening all caravan taps (for mixer taps ensure the lever is with the central position to allow both cold and hot water to drain). Open all drain valves and remove any drainage plugs (keep the plugs in a safe place), keeping in mind the external plug for older water heaters. The shower head is best removed and shaken free of water. For those who have an interior caravan water tank, there should be some means of drainage and/or removal. Remove any caravan filters and save them so that you can reuse them when you sterilize the system in spring (some sterilization treatment damages the filter). For those who have an on-board pump, run it for a couple moments to clear it water, most good caravan pumps may be run dry for a couple of minutes without any problem - check your handbook for details. Your external submersible pump can be shaken free from water. Don’t forget your Aquaroll or other portable water container, drain it and permit it to dry thoroughly to prevent mould growth. Finally, one of the most effective methods for achieving full drain down would be to empty the system, on your last stay away before leaving open any drainage points before towing home. A final journey permits the last drops water to exit the system. Be aware, however, that it's illegal to release water on the highway. On more recent water heating systems, there’s a simple draincock; move mixer taps to the centre position and then leave open; if the ‘van comes with an internal freshwater tank, don’t forget to empty it fully; leave waste outlets open but use stocking-type covers to prevent insects getting in; removing any water filter is a good idea. They can usually be re-used the following season. If you are in any doubt about what to do you should consult your user manual or speak to your friendly park manager or send an email to 'Technical Tom' at Leisureshopdirect.com. Winterizing your Caravan 2012-11-14 Useful Tips for Caravan Winter Care Because the colder weather is threatening, here are some precautions you need to think about to try make certain your caravan is secure in the winter and is ready to roll next season. Many Britain’s caravan owners will probably have already made their last trips this year: so how are you able to keep the vehicles in good shape while they're hibernating over the winter? Here are some tips to ensure there are no nasty surprises, and also your that your caravan is able to hit the highway once the weather gets warm again next year. Think about a service Now is the best time to get your caravan serviced, while the approved workshops are not too busy, most people decide in the Spring, 2 weeks before they are due to leave for their first holiday, that their caravan needs servicing! Have it done in the autumn to ensure that your caravan will be ready to roll whenever you fancy going in 2013. If you live in the South West go to http://www.mullacottcaravans.co.uk/ - years of experience will ensure that your caravan is serviced properly and any advice needed will be given by experts. Have a clear out Be sure you don’t leave any valuable items, for example TV or DVD player, inside your caravan while it’s left unused. Either hide them or take them home for the winter months. Avoid damp and condensation Moisture can cause real problems for your caravan if it is allowed to build up over the winter: damp may damage your soft furnishings and interior walls. There are a number of precautions you are able to take. Drain the water system by opening taps and taking out the drain plug on the outside the van. Don’t forget to replace the plug, but you can leave the taps open. Drain the toilet’s water tank too. Store any removable cushions / mattresses in your own home if possible. If not, leave them in the middle of the caravan instead of round the edges where they are more prone for the damp. Leave bowls of salt in a few places round the van - they are able to help absorb excess moisture from the air. Alternatively you could purchase a moisture trap such as Mega Moisture Trap which will remove moisture from the air in your caravan or motorhome. If you can, open doors and windows every once in a while to allow the air to circulate. Cleaning Clean your kitchen, bathroom and fridge with bicarbonate of soda or anti-bacterial cleaner such as Fenwicks Over Wintering This will help stop a build-up of mould while your caravan’s out of use. Also make sure there is no food left in cupboards, or any crumbs which could attract vermin. Clean your van inside and outside using a cleaner such as Fenwicks Interior Cleaner, that can assist prevent mould or fungal growths. remembering to include the awning to assist prolonging its life. Store the awning inside your own property if you can. Other maintenance Oil any moving parts, like the handbrake, before putting the van into storage. And ensure the handbrake is left off (if at all possible) to prevent the drums sticking. Taking the weight from the wheels for a few weeks by removing them and using axle stands will help extend the life span of the caravan’s suspension and tyres. If you want to cover your caravan, use a breathable cover that allows air to circulate. A Maypole Cover is a good example of a breathable cover. Storage and security You will also have to decide where to store your caravan wh Planning for your Winter Vacations 2012-11-14 Planning for your Winter Vacations If you are planning to travel winter touring this season, here are some essential ideas to help your holiday go smoothly. Heating Most caravans and motorhomes now have balanced flue space heaters, which theoretically are safe to leave on all night, but be aware of wind-blown rubbish or snow blocking the flue and creating problems. Waste water To prevent freezing of the waste tanks, add car-type anti-freeze. Attempt to make sure the waste pipe runs vertically and that there aren't any kinks which can trap water. Awnings We would recommend that you purchase a porch awning such as the Dorema Laser Porch Awning They are much easier to erect and dry-out when compared to a full-size awning. They also provide a useful location for wellie removal and storage. Fridges An absorption refrigerator actually starts to over-cool in colder temperatures - to help prevent this, we advise you fit a purpose-made 'winter cover' over the fridge's wall vents. Dometic suggests that you ought to attach winter covers whenever temperatures fall below 10°C (50°F). There are Lower vent winter covers and Upper Vent winter covers both of which come in beige and white. LPG Liquified Petroleum Gas (propane) is the gas to choose in winter conditions - butane is only effective above freezing point (0°C), check gas hoses are in good shape prior to setting off. Fresh water Fresh water- in cold conditions your outside water container may partially freeze over. An insulated 'hat' made with foam pipe lagging might postpone the icicles! Buy a second fresh water container such as a 5 Gallon Jerrycan that you could put inside caravan and transfer your water pump to. You could also invest in a fish tank heater for your aquaroll so that you can prevent the water freezing. Pitching If, you are allocated a grass pitch, make sure you have wedges, ground mats and chocks. You don't want to sink or find yourself in trouble on soggy ground. Milenco Grip Mats are heavy-duty mats which will give your wheels something to grip on to in muddy conditions. Car tyres Mud and snow tyres improve traction in the winter months, but can be used all year round. In icy conditions, it is advisable to keep any touring to the absolute minimum which might mean remaining on the site longer than you anticipated. In some circumstances, vehicle manufacturers recommend running on slightly lower tyre pressures than normal - look at your user guide. Cable care If snow is on to the ground, regularly lift and shake the mains cable or it could become embedded. Advice specific for motorhomes Insulation In order to avoid heat loss through a motorhome's single-glazed windscreen (all caravan windows are double-glazed), fit an interior blind such as the Milenco Universal Interior Thermal Blind or a Thermal Exterior Screen for added insulation. Water In a motorhome A frozen underfloor freshwater tank i The value of Caravan Covers when storing your Caravan for the Winter 2012-10-31 When you are putting your caravan away for the winter you need to be sure it'll stay protected and safe from whatever nature can throw at it. Actually, any time you are not making use of the caravan regularly you should consider by using a cover to help keep it sheltered. Made from breathable polypropylene fabric, which lets moisture out rather than trapping it against the caravan, a well-made cover helps to keep the paintwork and trim on your caravan looking pristine. This is definately a must on your list of carvan accessories. Maypole Caravan Covers One good example of an excellent caravan cover is Maypole caravan covers which are available in various lengths to suit all major makes and sizes of caravan, from 12' up to 21' in length. They're shaped to fit snugly over your caravan and present a tidy profile and they're quick release, they also have buckled straps to help keep the cover secure in inclement weathers. For convenience during long storage periods, our covers also provide zipped side panels to get inside without needing to remove the covers first. We also have hitch covers to shield the hitch from grit or other debris. Today's caravan covers on the market bear little relation to its the covers of yesteryear. Modern manufacturing techniques and fabric-bonding technology means caravan covers are now lightweight, ultra-strong and long lasting to provide maximum protection and convenience. Make sure you give your caravan a very good clean before putting it into storage and it'll be good as new when the covers come off for your next caravanning trip. Tips to consider if you are planning a Winter Vacation 2012-10-30 Weather - look at the forecast for any severe weather warnings. For up to date information about travel around England go to the Highways Agency website. Gas - propane is most suitable for winter (in fact can be used throughout the year). Battery - Make sure that your leisure battery is fully charged. Fresh water - unless you currently have an on-board tank, put add a second container to your caravan to transfer your water pump to. Lag exposed pipes with pipe lagging. Dehumidifier/absorption crystals would be useful when cooking to help minimise condensation, for example use a Humidex Moisture Trap which is not too large and will absorb your cooking condensation. Heater - use a low wattage electrical heater such as use Halogen Effect Portable Heater to take the chill off (don't use overnight). Awning - ideal for retaining heat as well as handy for storing wet soggy clothing and muddy footwear. Bedding - look out for high tog rating duvets or sleeping-bags (anything around 15.0 tog for winter). Clothing - Jumpers, thick gloves, wellies, pac-a-macs and spare clothing. Insulation - think about using windscreen covers for your motorhome either internally with Thermal Interior Blinds or externally with Thermal Exterior Blinds. Grip mats such as Milenco Grip Mats, use for for muddy conditions as one of your towing accessories. Waste water - add anti-freeze, which should be available at plumbing centres or builders merchants, salt is definitely an alternative for plastic waste containers, but don't forget it is corrosive and cannot be used in toilets with valves etc. Winter tyres - consider switching your tyres to winter tyres on your tow car or motorhome. You could also consider snow chains but it very depends on where you are traveling to, but may well be a worthwhile purchase. Be careful when driving with either of these and adhere to their speed restrictions (30mph). Other useful caravan accessories are blankets, a fully charged mobile phone, a flask of tea/coffee, a fully charged torch, shovel and car window ice scraper. Caravan Steps 2012-10-25 Caravan steps Allow yourself easy and safe access into your caravan Caravan steps are one of the most essential caravan accessories you will need. You could probably climb up into your caravan and jump back out again if you are very fit or an adventurous child! Most people make use of a step!! There are various types of caravan steps on the market - Double steps, single steps, folding steps, steel steps, alloy steps, plastic steps, Fiamma steps, Milenco steps, omni-steps. Go to www.leisureshopdirect.com to find out what is available - Our extensive range includes bolt on steps that can be permanently fixed to your static caravan or freestanding steps suitable for both static and touring caravans. You could check around when you go away in the caravan. You may notice another caravaner using a step you like, question them over it - we like giving advice about anything to do with caravans and am sure we would be able to source the step you require! Caravan steps can be a single step or double step. Alot of people tend to buy a single step (or a single step comes included with the caravan they purchase). Research shows though that a double step may be an easier option, it is much easier to step down onto a double step from your caravan and not so many people fall off a double step. Remember though, that your steps need to be light enough to carry, as well as light enough to stow inside the caravan when traveling. Steps are usually produced from either steel, aluminium or plastic, Steel will be the strongest of the three but it is also the heaviest. Aluminium and plastic tend to be lightweight but obviously Aluminium Step tend to be stronger than plastic. A huge variety of steps to choose from. If you are looking for a cheap plastic step look at the Fiamma Original Step, The Milenco Aluminium Double Step with Rubber Treads is a budget priced good quality step, probably more satisfactory than the single plastic step. If you plan on keeping your caravan for some time you might think it worth investing in a motorized step that just folds back into the van when not in use. The Omni-Step Double 12V is a good example of motorized steps. Caravan Step Manufacturers There are many manufacturers of caravan steps including Milenco, Fiamma, Thule and Royal. These all have their good qualities and it is worth exploring a variety of steps before you decide on which one to purchase. Make your holiday more environmentaly friendly 2012-07-31 A few tips to help you! Drive sensibly! Tip one is as old as the pneumatic tyre itself. A correctly inflated tyre produces less rolling resistance and provides more mpg. Driving smoothly and looking ahead to anticipate anything that may cause harsh braking and acceleration is green friendly and saves money, too. Use LED Lights LED lights tend to be more efficient than traditional filament bulbs. Making the alteration doesn't only save energy but prolongs life of the battery on those 12V-only breaks. See LED Linear Lights for a choice of LED lights for you caravan interior. Invest in a Solar Panel Solar panel technology has moved on. Even on overcast days, panels can provide clean and green power for your caravan. Look at Solar Panels for a selection of panels for your caravan. Get fit! Invest in a pushbike and cycle rack; you’d be surprised just how much fun you’ll have and just how much fuel you’ll save once you’ve pitched up. There are a huge variety of bike racks in our large range of caravan accessories to suit the needs of your caravan and how many bikes you will need. See Fiamma Bike Racks where you will find one to meet your specific requirements. Don't waste water Make sure you do not waste water on site. Use a Fill-up to make it easier to get water into your water carrier without spilling any. They are available in 1 metre, 2 metre and 5 metre lengths.

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