SavedTechnical Advice
Contact us by email enquiries@themotorhomestore.co.uk or by the enquiry form below regarding any technical enquiries you may have. A member of our team will be intouch as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
A habitation check is an essential part of any caravan or motorhome maintenance. This involves a detailed inspection of the living area in your leisure vehicle, checking all electrical and gas appliances as well as ventilation and water systems. Externally, a team of qualified experts assess the bodywork for any damage which may cause water ingress or damp issues. The inspection lasts around three hours and it is highly recommended that this is carried out once a year, particularly if your vehicle is sitting for extended periods of time throughout the winter months. The habitation check should not be confused with the engine service or MOT which is also a requirement for motorhomes.
Anyone over the age of 25 can drive a motorhome up to the weight of 3.5 tonnes. For motorhomes exceeding this weight a category one (C1) license will need to be held. In the UK, anyone over the age of 25 can tow a caravan with an MAM of up to 3.5 tonnes. Towing anything over this weight will also require a category one (C1) license.
A motorhome has two batteries on board, a vehicle battery for suppling power to the engine and a leisure battery for all electrical equipment including lighting, fans, cooking appliances and plug sockets. A caravan has one leisure battery on board for these same purposes. A leisure battery allows you to ‘wild camp’ without the requirement for mains power however will need to be recharged after a number of days depending on usage. Your leisure battery should also be checked during your annual habitation inspection.
Upon purchasing your motorhome or caravan it is important to explore the optional extras available to you to enhance your leisure experience. Many dealerships offer a wide array of gadgets including bike racks, awnings, satellite dishes, televisions, solar panels and reversing cameras. They will often supply and fit these for an additional charge. Find out more about the optional extras that are available at your local dealer. Click below!
Yes, the gas appliances such as the cooker and heating systems will run off conventional propane gas bottles which can be replaced. However, many also have Gaslow cylinders installed which are refillable gas systems that can be topped up at an LPG fuel station. This removes the requirement for heavy gas bottles to be regularly changed and also provides an accurate reading telling you how much gas you have left.
What is a habitation and how often should you get one?
What type of license do you need to drive a motorhome or tow a caravan?
How many batteries are there in a motorhome or caravan?3
What extras are available for my leisure vehicle?
Do motorhomes and caravans have gas bottles on board?