ANNUAL CHECKLIST
45 TOGETHER WE’RE GOING PLACES For more information visit www.auto-trail.co.uk 46
GAS SYSTEMS
Cylinders and regulators
Check the compatibility of cylinders and regulators.
Ensure that your regulator controls the gas to the
correct pressure for the type of cylinder in use.
Check that the air vents and gas drain through the
hole in the floor of the cylinder compartment and
are free from obstruction. Check that the seals on
all the internal doors are in good condition and fit
properly.
Hosing and piping
Check flexible hoses for cracking and condition.
Check the date stamped on them has not passed. If
the expiry date is close or has passed, have the hoses
replaced. Check all rigid piping for adequate support
and any damage.
Appliances
As a guide, checking the gas appliances can be
summarised as follows:
• Cleaning: Where appropriate, remove cover(s)
to gain access to exchanger. Remove any build-
up of flu or other foreign matter. Re-assemble
and test operation. Clean flame-viewing window.
• Operation of controls: Check all knobs are
secure on their spindles and that they work
smoothly. Check that the appliance works
properly by using normal controls without
forcing. If the gas taps are sti to operate, ease
them open with an approved LPG grease.
Flame structure
• Pilot flames: Should burn quietly and cleanly.
• Refrigerator: When the refrigerator gas control
is turned to maximum, the flame colour should
be predominantly blue.
• Water heater: The main burner should burn blue
and even of height.
• Ovens: Flames should be of even height and
burn quietly. The colour should be mainly blue/
green, but there will be yellow tips to the flames
as the burner heats up.
• Grill: Flames may develop yellow tips as they
heat up, especially when using butane.
• General: A flame lifting away from the burner
indicates that the pressure is too high. A yellow
flame causes soot and indicates that the pressure
is too low. If these faults occur, recheck the
regulator, cylinders and pipes and adjust as
necessary.
• Flues: Check security of fixings, attachments to
appliances and flue terminals. Check for damage
and corrosion. Check for gas leakage into the
vehicle.
• Flame failure device (FFD): Check for
satisfactory operation by allowing time for the
thermocouple to cool, before trying to relight
the appliance by turning it on without pushing
the gas control knob in. If the appliance does not
light, the FFD is working.
• Security: Check that all appliances are securely
fixed to the vehicle/furniture and that no 'play'
light is present. Where applicable, check that the
water pipes are properly attached and there are
no signs of leaks.
WATER SYSTEM
Before operating the water system, check
the following items visually for signs of
leakage:
Freshwater tank
Check condition. Fill tank and check for
leaks. Check external filler and filler pipe to
tank. Check venting. Check presence and
condition of filler cap.
Wastewater tank
Check that the drain tap is clear and
working properly. Make sure that the drain
hose is present and in good condition.
Pump filter
When applicable, remove the filter, clean
and replace. Check the in-line pump for
security of fixing and condition. Check that
the pump inlets and outlets are clear and
not obstructed. Check security of fixing and
condition of delivery hose and electric cable.
System check
Operate the pump and check all piping for
leaks. Operate all taps and shower. If a hot
water system is fitted, it can be checked for
leaks using cold water.
Please note: Aerated water from a tap could
be caused by a leak on the suction side of
the pump.
Wastewater system
Allow water to run through drain pipes and
check for leaks and satisfactory draining
from sinks etc.
Couplings and fluids
Avoid confusion by making sure proper
markings are used. Blue for fresh water and
red for waste water. Check that the filler
positions are correctly designated 'petrol',
'diesel' and 'water' as appropriate.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Extra low voltage 12v (excluding vehicle electrics):
• Batteries: Check the condition of any battery,
including connections, wire, fuses and relays
connected with domestic electrics.
• Wiring: Examine all visible wiring for damage or
wear. Check that all connections are safe.
• Fuses and holders: Check that all fuses and fuse
holders protecting the domestic electrics are
satisfactory. Check that the fuse ratings are
compatible with the appliance being protected.
• Appliances: Inspect all appliances for signs of
damage, overheating or wear. Check the security
of the fixings. Test the operation of each appliance.
• Mains system 230v: Inspection and certification
of the 230v system should only be carried out by a
suitably qualified electrician.