Maintenance

MAINTENANCE OF REFURBISHED HOUSES

Our used English and Dutch mobile homes are not winterised, so if they are not in use during the winter, it is essential that they are winterised.

Steps to winterise your mobile home

1. Emptying all water pipes (blown dry with a compressor at the end)
2. Disconnecting water from the mobile home, pouring antifreeze into all drains
3. Checking the antifreeze level in the central heating system
4. Disconnecting gas
5. Turning off all electrical switches and lights

Other precautions:

1. It is recommended that the shower rail be removed from the mobile home and stored in a suitable place
2. Moving all furniture to the centre of the room allows air circulation, which prevents mould from developing on the furniture
3. Covering the furniture protects the fabrics from the damaging effects of direct sunlight
4. Removing blinds and curtains prevents mould from accumulating
5. Placing a bowl of salt in each room is a good way of absorbing moisture
6. Ensure that ventilation openings are not blocked – an essential safety precaution when using gas
7. Turning off the fridge/freezer, opening the door after cleaning to allow air circulation and a towel at the bottom of the fridge to absorb excess water

Spring Inspection

Steps for external inspections

1. Checking that the external door locks are working properly
2. Cleaning the outside of the mobile home if it has become dirty during the winter
3. Cleaning the windows
4. Oiling door hinges
5. Checking the condition of sealants, checking for cracks and damage, repairing, if necessary, with silicone sealant
6. Moisture test – using a gauge if available
7. Cleaning the doors and window frames of dirt to ensure proper sealing

Technical advice: the external surface of mobile homes can be washed with washing detergents, if necessary.

Steps for inspecting gas appliances

1. Checking the proper condition of the gas hose and regulator
2. Checking the gas remaining in the gas cylinder
3. Checking the operation of the pilot light
4. Checking the gas roses of the gas stove
5. Checking the oven

Professional recommendation: depending on the size of the house, it is recommended to have gas appliances checked by a professional once a year.

Steps to inspect electrical systems

1. Checking the proper operation of all exterior and interior lighting equipment
2. Comprehensive check of the electric stove (if equipped), electric heating elements
3. Checking the operation of the refrigerator
4. Checking fire and carbon monoxide alarms, checking the condition of the batteries, changing them if expired!

Steps for indoor inspections

1. Checking for water infiltration and mould stains
2. Cleaning vents and skylights
3. Checking that window handles are closing properly
4. Oiling door and cupboard hinges
5. Checking shutters and mosquito nets

Steps to inspect the water system

1. Checking the connection of the sewer connections, their cleanliness
2. Checking the connection of the water pipe to the boiler
3. Checking the water pipes for frost damage
4. Installing the shower curtain and shower roses
5. Checking that the water flows properly through the taps and shower

Inspecting the chassis

1. Checking the legs and supports of the mobile home, checking that it remains water level
2. Checking the condition of the chassi

Professional recommendation: galvanised chassis do not need to be repainted, steel chassis only if necessary.