12. Maintenance and Care
170
• The exterior should be treated with wax or a special polish
for varnish.
• Use a protective agent to protect the metal parts of the
chassis against rust.
• Check the chassis for damage and, if necessary, repair it.
• Ensure that no water can get into the venting on the floor,
heating system and refrigerator venting (mount winter co-
vers
*
).
The following applies for tanks and containers:
• Clean, disinfect, descale and completely empty all water
pipes and faucets. Leave faucets open.
• Clean and empty the fresh water tank
(see Chapter 8 Wa-
ter)
.
• Clean and empty the waste water tank.
• Clean and empty the toilet flushing tank and the excrement
tank. Clean the toilet valve, apply a lubricant for seals and
leave it open.
• Completely empty the therme/boiler.
• If your van is equipped with a hot-water heater: rinse the
water heater thoroughly and empty all of the water.
The following applies for the interior fittings
• Clean the interior of your van. Hoover carpets, cushions and
mattresses. If possible, store them outside the van. Other-
wise, place them in such a way inside the vehicle that they
do not come into contact with condensation.
• Use soapy water to clean linoleum and smooth surfaces.
• Empty and clean the refrigerator. Leave the refrigerator
door in the ventilation position (see
10.4
).
• After cleaning them, leave stowage spaces, cupboards,
drawers and furniture flaps open to facilitate air circulation.
• Leave vents for forced ventilation open. If the van is kept in
a closed space, you can leave the skylight open.
• Air the van thoroughly every four to six weeks when the
weather is dry.
• Set up a dehumidifier (such as salt) inside the van and dry
the granulate or change it regularly.
• Open the battery's circuit breaker.
• If necessary, heat the camper to prevent the build-up of
mould from condensation.
• Switch off the 12 V main switch.
