Category: RV Safety

Bertie Bea Parked in Birmingham South RV Park

Internet Connected Devices for the RV

December 17, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The internet has transformed how RVers manage and monitor their rigs, making it easier than ever to stay connected to essential systems, no matter where life takes you. In my RV, Bertie Bea, I’ve embraced this technology to keep track of critical details like interior temperatures, power status, propane levels, and refrigerator performance. Whether I’m parked at a campground or hundreds of miles away at home, these smart systems ensure that my rig stays safe, functional, and ready for my next adventure.

One of my most significant upgrades was installing the Micro-Air EasyTouch RV thermostat. This innovative thermostat connects via WiFi and Bluetooth, allowing me to remotely control Bertie Bea’s heating and cooling systems using my iPhone. It’s a game-changer for RVers who need flexible climate control, especially during unpredictable weather. For example, if I’m away during the holidays and a sudden cold snap hits, I can check the interior temperature and adjust the thermostat to keep the RV comfortable and prevent frozen pipes. The Micro-Air system is reliable, easy to use, and perfect for anyone looking to modernize their RV climate control. If you’re curious about this technology, you can find more details on Micro-Air’s website.

Micro-Air WiFi/Bluetooth Enabled Thermostats

I use the Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog 50 Amp EPO Gen II to ensure Bertie Bea always has a reliable power supply. Power issues at campgrounds, such as outages or surges, are more common than you’d think and can wreak havoc on an RV’s electronics. After experiencing a few scares with unstable power, I decided to protect Bertie Bea with this smart surge protector. The Hughes Watchdog shields my rig from damaging surges and allows me to monitor power status in real-time through its iPhone app. The device connects via WiFi and Bluetooth, sending detailed updates about voltage levels and alerting me to any issues. Whether I’m inside the RV or hundreds of miles away, I have complete peace of mind knowing my electrical systems are protected. Check out the Hughes Autoformers website to find the perfect surge protector for your RV.

Hughes Autoformers 50 amp Power Watchdog EPO Gen II — Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog Gen II 50 amp Surge Protector

I installed Mopeka Pro Check Sensors on both my onboard and external propane tanks for propane monitoring. These sensors pair with a Mopeka 2.4GHz WiFi Bridge to provide internet connectivity, allowing me to check propane levels from my phone. This has been particularly useful during winter when propane consumption tends to spike. For instance, if I’m away for a few days, I can quickly verify I have enough fuel to keep the RV heated without having to physically inspect the tanks. It’s a small upgrade that greatly impacts convenience and peace of mind. Check out the Mopeka IOT Propane products on their website.

Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on the internal propane tank — Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on the bottom of the internal propane tank

Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on portable propane tank — Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor installed on a portable propane tank

Together, these connected systems have completely changed how I interact with my RV. I no longer worry about what’s happening inside Bertie Bea when I’m not there. With a quick glance at my phone, I can confirm that the temperature is stable, the power is connected, the propane tanks are full, and the refrigerator is running as it should. This level of control and awareness makes all the difference when you’re managing a home on wheels.

Whether you’re a full-time RVer, a snowbird, or a weekend traveler, integrating smart technology into your RV can simplify your life and provide much-needed peace of mind. Knowing your rig is protected, comfortable, and ready for any adventure—no matter where you are—allows you to focus on enjoying the journey. These upgrades have been worth every penny, and I wouldn’t RV without them.

Ensuring Power on the Go: The RVI Towed Battery Charger and Keeping Your Connector Secure

October 10, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The maiden voyage of Bertie Bea and Rosie using a Blue Ox Towbar and the RVI Toad Battery Charger

For many RVers, towing a vehicle, or “toad,” behind their motorhome is common. It offers convenience once you’ve parked your rig, allowing you to explore the surrounding area without moving the motorhome. However, keeping the toad’s battery charged while towing can be challenging, especially on long trips. That’s where the RVI Towed Battery Charger comes in as a game-changer.

Why the RVI Towed Battery Charger is Essential

When towing a car behind your motorhome, auxiliary braking systems, like those made by RVi, often draw power from the towed vehicle’s battery. Over time, this constant drain can deplete your car’s battery, leading to frustrating delays when you arrive at your destination and find your toad’s battery dead. The RVI Towed Battery Charger solves this problem by keeping the battery topped off while you drive, ensuring your toad is ready to go when you are.

This intelligent charger pulls power from the motorhome and feeds it to the toad’s battery. It’s efficient, simple to install, and protects against overcharging, making it a must-have for anyone towing a vehicle regularly. It eliminates the worry of arriving at your destination only to deal with a dead battery, allowing you to focus on enjoying your travels.

Don’t Forget the Connector Between the Motorhome and Towed Vehicle

The existing connector on my 2018 Chevrolet Equinox had corroded and was not configured correctly to power the RVI Toad Battery Charger, resulting in a consistently dead battery.

Another crucial element in the towing setup is the connector between your motorhome and the towed vehicle. This connector relays power, signals for lights, and sometimes braking data between the two vehicles. Without a secure connection, you risk losing critical functions like brake lights, turn signals, or the ability to charge the toad’s battery through the RVI charger.

During my drive up to Long Pond, PA, and the Penn Coachmen 2024 Rally, the battery in my 2018 Chevrolet Equinox died after three hours of being towed. I found that my ‘toad’ connector was not wired correctly and was not charging the battery enough using the RVI Towed Battery Charger. At the 2024 Penn Coachmen Rally, I got help rewiring a brand-new connector with the charge line in the correct place to the front of the Equinox and tested it. All my lights worked, and the battery charged.

On the drive back home, I did not have to worry about my car’s battery dying, and when I arrived at my evening campsite, Rosie started right up.

A word of advice: Before hitting the road, double-check the connector to ensure it’s securely plugged in. Inspect it for any wear, corrosion, or loose wires that could cause a disconnect while driving. Testing your lights and brake signals before departing is also a good idea to ensure everything functions properly.

A loose or damaged connector can affect the battery charging and create a safety hazard if your brake lights or turn signals fail to work. Make it part of your routine to inspect and secure the connection between your motorhome and toad before every journey.

Conclusion: Smooth Travels with RVI and a Secure Connector

Combining an RVI Towed Battery Charger and a reliable connector between your motorhome and toad vehicle ensures your travels are worry-free. The charger keeps your toad’s battery topped off, while an adequately maintained connector ensures that all systems work in sync. Together, they provide peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the road ahead without unnecessary breakdowns or electrical issues.

Whether you’re headed out for a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, these small steps can make a big difference in keeping your towed vehicle and motorhome running smoothly.

Penn Coachmen Rally 2024 at Pocono Raceway: Two Weeks of Speed, Safety, and Camaraderie

October 8, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Penn Coachmen Rally Friends and I parked for two weeks of fun-filled rally activities.

The Penn Coachmen Rally 2024 was an unforgettable two-week experience at the iconic Pocono Raceway, one of NASCAR’s only independently owned tracks. Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, the setting provided a thrilling mix of motorsports excitement, valuable education, and community bonding.

A Heart-Racing Experience: Driving an 800hp Stock Car

The highlight for many was the chance to get behind the wheel of an 800-horsepower stock car and feel the raw power on the same track where NASCAR legends race. The Pocono Raceway’s unique “Tricky Triangle” was no match for RVers’ enthusiasm to push their limits. We received expert instruction on handling the car, from banking in the turns to the straightaways, where the adrenaline indeed kicked in. There’s something surreal about accelerating on a track where you usually only see professional drivers—an exciting experience that had everyone buzzing.

The Stock Car Racing Experience at the Tricky Triangle – Pocono Raceway

RV Tools and Fire Safety Tips from the Pros

Safety and preparedness were central themes during the rally. Gary Cipa, Steve Raye, and Eric Britz gave invaluable RV tool and fire safety presentations, informing us on best practices for staying safe on the road. Their tips, drawn from years of experience, covered everything from essential tools to keep in the rig to strategies for preventing and responding to fires. Their practical advice resonated with every attendee, ensuring we could all leave feeling more secure on our future RV adventures.

Non-Lethal Self-Defense with Byrna

One particularly intriguing demonstration was of the Byrna, a non-lethal self-defense weapon ideal for RV travelers. The Byrna shoots chemical irritant projectiles, giving RV owners peace of mind while traveling or camping in unfamiliar areas. Watching the demonstration and being able to shoot a Byrna was both eye-opening and comforting, knowing there is an effective but non-lethal protection option. For anyone spending long stretches in their RV like we do, knowing you’re prepared for any situation is reassuring.

Dining in the Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA

Stan’s Whatchamacallit Stew simmering for a rally meal

One of the best parts of the rally was the camaraderie among friends, especially during dinners. My 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA became our “Dining Hall,” where eleven of us gathered for a delightful evening meal. The final night’s highlight was Gillian Raye’s famous Chicken & Rice dish—hearty, flavorful, and the perfect comfort food after a long day of rally activities. The shared meals fostered a sense of community and brought everyone together, reminding us that the best memories often come from time spent with good friends over great food.

Two Weeks of Fun, Friendship, and Learning

From the thrills on the track to the practical lessons in safety and security, our two weeks at the Penn Coachmen Rally were packed with fun, education, and bonding. The Pocono Raceway provided the perfect backdrop for a well-rounded event that catered to both the need for excitement and the desire for deeper connections with fellow RVers.

The Benefits of FMCA Membership: More Than Just Rallies

This rally wouldn’t have been possible without the FMCA and the Penn Coachmen Chapter. FMCA membership offers so much more than just discounts and roadside assistance. It’s about joining a community of like-minded individuals who share a love for RVing. Chapter rallies like this one are an excellent way to meet new people, learn from seasoned RVers, and share tips and stories. FMCA’s international rallies are even more expansive, allowing members to connect with a global community of RV enthusiasts while enjoying the benefits of educational seminars, exhibitions, and entertainment.

If you’re not already an FMCA member, consider joining for the opportunity to be part of a supportive and active RV community. The friendships and experiences from chapter rallies, like the one we just enjoyed, are truly priceless.

The Penn Coachmen Rally 2024 at Pocono Raceway perfectly blended education, entertainment, and camaraderie. Whether it was the thrill of driving a stock car, learning vital RV safety tips, or enjoying delicious meals with great company, these two weeks will be remembered for years. Here’s to more rallies, friendships, and adventures on the open road!

You can see how badly separated the front fiberglass cap is separated from the frame.

Front Cap Separation Repair on Bertie Bea

May 12, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

When I brought Bertie Bea home in March 2023, I noticed the fascia covering the seam between her front cap and the rest of the coach was starting to come loose. Though it didn’t deter me from buying her, with 10,301 miles of cherished memories across the United States, I grew concerned as I noticed the separation worsening.

In December, I paid $1,100 to have Blue Compass RV in Montgomery, Alabama, repair it. Unfortunately, their fix felt more like a temporary solution. Despite their efforts, the separation persisted, worsening after a trip to Tucson for the FMCA Fiesta Del Sol International Convention.

Contacting Tiffin Service revealed it was a known issue. To tackle it, they advised removing the fascia and adding screws to secure the fiberglass front cap to the steel frame. Skeptical, I sought advice on the Tiffin Motorhomes Technical Forum on Facebook. Many owners had faced similar issues and recommended the same fix, with some even sharing a helpful YouTube tutorial.

Here’s how to go about it:

Tools and Parts Needed:

#6 x 1″ Stainless Steel Pan-Head Metal Screws
Loctite Permanent Thread Locker
7/64″ Metal Drill Bit
Double-Sided Alien Tape or Double-Sided Butyl Tape for reattaching the fascia
Tube of Clear Silicone Caulk for post-repair sealing
Drill for making holes and attaching screws
Razor Knife for removing the fascia

Repair Steps:

Remove the Fascia: Use a razor knife to gently strip the fascia from the seam. Examine the exposed area; you’ll likely notice wear and tear from being inadequately attached.
Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes for the screws. Apply a small amount of Loctite to prevent them from loosening during travel.
Cover Unused Holes: If you encounter holes that lead to nowhere, seal them with Alien Tape.
Secure the Front Cap: Install the screws to firmly secure the front cap to the frame. Ensure the structure feels stable and the seam appears smooth.
Reattach the Fascia: Use three well-spaced strips of Alien Tape to secure the fascia back onto the coach. In my video, I used a strip of Gorilla double-sided tape before a friend of mine brought me a roll of Alien Tape, which is much preferred for this type of application.
Seal the Repair: Apply a bead of clear silicone caulk along both sides of the fascia to seal the repair completely.

Use a razor knife to break the seal of the fascia and remove it for reattachment post-repair

The screws have been added and the repair is ready to have the fascia reattached.

The fascia has been reattached and you can see that the gap that was there previously has been removed.

With these steps, your repair should endure the lifetime of the coach, ensuring Bertie Bea remains road-ready for many more adventures.

Protect Your RV from Water Issues

January 27, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

In the past three years, I have learned much about protecting Bessie, Bertha, and Bertie Bea from water and temperature changes. Bertha received a new roof from Flex Armor Greensboro, and Bertie Bea has received regular maintenance since I bought her in March 2023.

What do you do while you live in the RV full-time?

For Bertie Bea, I have added water leak sensors from AiDot in strategic places to ensure no water infiltration. And, if they alarm, drying the areas out as quickly as possible. The water leak sensor under the shower has gone off several times due to a lousy shower seal. I will be fixing the shower seal shortly to resolve this issue.

AIDot Water Leak Sensor Under Shower Water Lines and Shower Bay

AIDot Water Leak Sensor Under Sink Water Lines

The AiDot Water Leak Sensor System includes a WiFi-enabled hub and three water leak sensors that allow you to set them where you need them to monitor for water leaks. I can attest that the alarm will definitely get your attention along with the push notifications and text messages so that you know exactly where water is infiltrating. The AiDot mobile application gives you all the data to keep your RV safe from water issues.

AiDot Water Leak Sensor Information as seen in the AiDot iPhone mobile application

AiDot Water Leak Sensor leak notification information in the AiDot iPhone mobile application

Water issues can ruin any trip to your home away from home, but with strategic water leak sensors, you can ensure your space is safe from water leaks. Ensure you’re doing everything you can to protect your space from water issues.

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Bertie Bea at Kick Back Ranch & Event Center

Cold Weather RV Preparation

January 16, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

When traveling in the RV in the winter, you must pay attention to the weather because cold weather can affect every system, especially the water system. Through trial and error, including freezing my water pressure regulator, I have been able to mitigate most cold weather issues in Bertie Bea.

Heat

Heat in the RV can either be provided by a propane or diesel fuel furnace or an electric heat pump. In Bertie Bea, there is an electric heat pump that works well when outside temperatures are over 40 degrees Fahrenheit and a propane furnace. Built into the heat pump is a feature that allows propane heat assist, which will automatically switch to the propane furnace. Eighty-five percent of the time, I leave the propane assist feature turned off and supplement it with electric space heaters. But, with the temperatures of the next few days being forecast in the high teens and low twenties, I will opt for the propane assist feature in order to keep the interior of the RV at least sixty-five degrees. I’ll supplement it with the space heater.

Water

With temperatures being below freezing for several days, there are several options when it comes to handling water. I’ve figured out the best method is to just fill up the freshwater tank. Bertie Bea can hold 70 gallons of water on-board which is plenty for three or four days unless running the washing machine. The evening before overnight temps are going to drop below freezing; I will unhook the RV from the external water source, turn on the water pump, and hunker down. The furnace and heating pad will keep the onboard water from freezing.

Inclement Weather

If the weather is calling for freezing rain, sleet, or snow for a period of time, you will need to make sure that the slide toppers are free from snow and ice before retracting them to travel. If you have steps coming into your RV, make sure they’re free of ice and use your handrail entering and exiting so that you limit the chances of slipping and falling.

With a little preparation, your RV will provide you with a warm and snug home on the road even when the weather turns cold. Bertie Bea is wonderfully appointed and prepared for most anything Mother Nature can throw at her.

Cold Weather RVing

February 6, 2022 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

This week’s low temperatures in San Antonio averaged 28 degrees, with daytime highs in the 30s. Unless you prepare for them, these temperatures can wreak havoc on RV water systems. With temperatures in the 20s, water hoses can freeze, tanks can freeze, and water lines to disastrous effect.

What should you do to prevent RV issues from frozen pipes and possibly frozen tanks?

First, empty your black and gray water tanks before the cold weather and unhook your sewer hose. Store your sewer hose.

Second, fill your fresh water tank and unhook all water hoses.

The only connection is to electricity when temperatures stay below freezing for extended periods during the day.

Bertha looks like this when the weather is going to be below freezing because, buttoned-up, she can retain all the heat generated by the furnace, heat pump, or space heater. The furnace ducting is run to provide heat to the wet bay.

Notice the silver ducting in the wet bay. This allows for safe operation and helps prevent frozen tanks and pipes.

The bottom line is that it only takes a minute to protect you and your RV from costly repairs and other issues when the temperatures drop and stay below freezing. Thankfully, I learned this lesson by reading and YouTube instead of by living it.