Considering you were on your own on the roof, getting stuff up on top of the roof, and doing your own filming for much of it, you did absolutely great. Frankly, I would have been tempted to just put the video off until my "team" was fully together! :-). I feel compelled to help you out with a few suggestions... not critical, but hopefully helpful. 1. When crawling around on the roof (especially with bare legs), wear knee pads or use rubber cushions. 2. I'm with Phil. It's just a water heater, not a HOT water heater. The tank itself can accurately be referred to as a hot water tank. 3. Your old anode rod still had lots of life. It looks corroded, and gross, but as you mentioned, it is supposed to look like that if it is doing its job properly. It probably had at least another season on it (depending upon quality of the water you are getting). A worn anode rod will be pencil thin. BTW, your tank was nearly spotless, with very little debris! Obviously you have travelled where the water supply is good. 4. No need to tighten the anode rod with as much force as you seemed to use. Over tightening can easily strip the threads inside the water heater and is a pain to repair. 5. You want to wind your Teflon tape onto the threads in the same direction as you will be rotating the device to tighten it. It is not crucial but this helps keep the Teflon tight as you tighten the device. It is sometimes confusing if you are holding the threaded device upside down while winding the tape on, but as long as you think about which direction you will be rotating the exposed threaded end when tightening it, you will get it right. 6. I really feel that your instruction to close the pressure relief valve when filling the water heater is incorrect. You are going to be adding about 10 gallons of water to the tank, and the air that is in there needs to go somewhere! Either open a hot water tap while filling your tank or leave the pressure relief valve open until some water starts to spurt out of it indicating that your tank is full. The nice thing about leaving the pressure relief valve open while the tank fills is that you can see what's happening without leaving the water on inside the RV. 7.You didn't really make it clear that these water heaters have switches in two locations. The one on the inside of your rig is often located in the bathroom, or on your main control panel. The one on the water heater itself is for convenience. You don't need to have both turned off. The main concern is to make sure your heating element has no power getting to it when your hot water tank is empty! You will burn out the heating element in very short order if it is not submersed in water. It really should be the first thing you turn off, and the last thing you turn on when flushing out the tank.
You're one intelligent handy lady... That's not sexiest. Its meant as a really big compliment. Its so awesome to watch you both fill-in for one another without hesitation. On Y/T you see all these very productive young family farmers who work hard, and do whatever needs to get done. Just like you both do. Then... I have to work around a few 20 somethings who aren't aware of what needs to be done, and won't even try.
Gosh...if I had a husband or another person to show me/guide me, would be a game changer. Doing much of maintenance/repair is not hard..figuring it out as a solo is very time consuming, frustrating and downright dangerous at times. 2 people versus 1 is never going to be the same. Not complaining just speaking to another side of things. Good job.
Ms. Stacy, If the water is hot you don’t have to heat it. The appliance is a “water heater” .Try not to trip the T & P valve very often, it is spring loaded, so flipping it too much could cause the spring to stretch and not function properly. Then you have to replace that, too. Married to a master plumber for 38 years and co-owner of a plumbing company. Safe travels!
Loved the video and Stacy's can-do attitude. However, you don't need to heat hot water so it's not a "hot water heater" it's a "water heater". Probably the most common reference mistake made by the lay and professionals when talking about water heaters. Keep up the great work!
Phil, you have a keeper there, but after 30+ years, I guess you know that. Stacey, you're a great handyman/handyperson/handywoman! I am learning from you all the time! Thank you. 🙂
I have a ladder like yours and I cut a pool noodle the same length as my top wrung and then slice it down the middle and slide it onto the top wrung. No scratches!
Hope this isn't a repeat, but when Phil gets back up to speed, I'd highly advise taking the Dryer out, pop off front or back cover and blow it out with a good compressor. Dryers get really dirty on the inside and you never see it. I'd say do it about once a year. AD1
I am so glad that I found this video. My husband and I are new to this we live in a fifth wheel. We are stationery, this help us become more informed about what to do help us enjoy our rv
Thanks for the outstanding maintenance video. Just a friendly reminder hot water heater needs to be vented after filling. This allow all air out of the tank and will last longer. Air trapped in top of tank will start rusting. CV41 number 4 engine room group LPO retired..
Hey guys, I am pretty certain the socket was still in the last bolt of the inside cover before you put the top cover on the AC. Look at 1:59 when you place the outer cover on, you can still see the socket sitting on the bolt.
Phil/Stacy - when you run your generator do you have a cut out switch to isolate the shore power. I run my generator twice a month (about 45 minutes) (1995 class C). I have an isolation switch, but my habit is to physically disconnect the shore power cable before I start the generator. Also I want to recommend a product. Sea Foam is a gas treatment that physically cleans the carburetor jets, and other areas in the gas line. It’s a miracle worker for maintenance & repair. When I discovered this product I had my generator carburetor gum up and had to remove the bowl to clean the jets (3 years ago). Since then I add a can to gas tank (biannually). I haven’t had any problems since including this product in my maintenance schedule. It if also great on lawn equipment, pressure washer motors, any automobile or small engine tool. I do not represent their company but am a fanatic about this product. You can find at Wal Mart, auto parts stores, etc. Thanks for your videos! Absolutely love your tips and experiences + I totally relate/identify with your similar Navy history as mine! All the Best - Wade 👍🏻
Thanks Wade. We do have a transfer switch, but I do the same as you....I disconnect power from the pedestal before I rub the generator. I don't trust that the switch will do what it is supposed to do and it takes seconds to disconnect. Thanks for your service....Go Navy!
I notice, while watching Stacy do her maintenance, that your US Map had the states that you had visited but Kentucky was not filled in. If the sticker was over looked, that great but if not your missing out on 1 of the most beautiful parts of the country. As you already know how great the US Army COE parks are, KY has several and may I suggest Kendall in Jamestown, KY as our favorite camping park. Have fun and still healthy.
Those holes in the seal for washer, are drain holes. Just make sure they are not clogged up or thw water stays in your seal and fets slimy as you can see. They drain into the bottom of the washer where the normal water goes and gets pumped out. I am sure your manual talks about them in the maintenance or troubleshooting section. All front load washers have them.
When you are married or in a couple relationship of any sort for a number of years it is ALWAYS bout the yin/yang of things, not who CAN actually do anything! I love how you guys interact and mesh, as it should be in any relationship.
I’m painfully new to RVing, as well as a single senior so this whole thing has been a leap of faith. This particular video of yours answered so many of my questions and I thank you for your step-by-step instructions. Each of these tips have brought me closer to feeling less stressed and have proved that (with your help) I CAN DO IT!😊 Thank you!
Nice work sailor. This retired CPO is also down for the count this season with a busted ankle. So thanks for showing my better half all the stuff she needs to do while I’m on the IR. BTW...the little hole in the washing machine door gasket is there by design to allow water to drain back into the basket and not stay in the channel. It also helps to wipe that out after every load and leave the door open between loads when not in use. I just hang a dish towel over the top of the door and helps to eliminate any mildew or odors. Safe travels.
Great job! One thing I’d like to mention when it comes to the water heater. That switch inside the water heater bay is a double switch safety for only the electric heating element of the water heater and wouldn’t turn off the propane side (propane only water heaters don’t have that switch). The reason you have the switch outside and inside is to (hopefully) prevent the electric element from being turned on with the water heater empty as you would burn up the heating element in under 30 seconds. One thing I always tell people is to keep both switches off until you’ve verified the water heater is full by just bumping the pressure relief valve since it’s on the top.
Phil you haven't FAILED because you were smart enough to find the perfect partner in life. Way to go Stacey. We military folks are always about Plan B.
Just for your info. Hole in washer gasket sends excess back to drum. When done using a front load washer it is recommended to leave the door open so moisture can dry in seal area. You probably know that though. Great video.
Great job! I think all women who rv need to learn and do everything the men usually do ( not just the inside stuff we women tend to do). I’m a single rver and am now learning to do everything on my own and also watching great videos such as yours to learn too!
Hey guys! Great video! I'm encouraged to see Stacy do the maintenance. It's inspirational to other women who are considering solo RVing. Thanks for showing how you do the maintenance and products you use.
For those of us with "selective memory", you can set up calender task reminders for your monthly, bi-monthly, yearly maintenance tasks, in whatever email system you use.
After watching you doing the PMS I believe you are better than half the sailors I've served with. HOOYAH Stacy!!! Make sure you update the PMS schedule.
I enjoyed this video, it’s stuff I try todo on a regular basis. I don’t like going up on the roof so much any more. When I was younger I didn’t mind but since I turned 79 I’m not so brave and now that I’m 80 I’m not as stable as I used to be. I really like that collapsible ladder, I have one similar to the little giant but I like yours better. I had a leak in the roof when I was in Florida over the winter and crawled up and fixed it. It leaked around the tv cable where it went through the roof. Enjoy your summer.
Just a tip Phil if you haven’t done so yet use a small twist tie on your heater door...I’ve seen them turn and fly off going down the road...great video btw, Stacy just taught me a lot about our rig...also we have the same hole in our washer seal it’s manufactured that way I believe ours is square
That hole in the washer seal is so the water can drain back into the drum. It's designed that way. I always dry out that area after we are done with the loads of wash and leave the door open as long as possible if we aren't traveling. 2016 40QBH
For us personally, this was one of our favorite videos because our 2018 Allegro RED 33AA has so much in common with yours. I knew those Coleman Mach scroll fans frequently self destruct, so we purchased spares, but I never knew how to change them. Now I know. Phil, Stacy is more than a great Navy wife; she is an inspiration to me to teach my career Army wife to be able to do all the maintenance I do now. Thanks so much.
The maintenance tips help, so thank you for the instruction video. Interesting that I skimmed past an inquiry posted about a clanking AC unit. Now I know what the problem was. Glad to see Phil's arm back to function and Stacy doing maintenance. That is progress. You all stay safe.
Tip/Trick for the washer gasket to stay nice... after doing a load of wash if possible leave the washer door open AND the drawer you put the soap in. This helps promote air flow and lets the washer dry out without getting moldy & Smelly . I know this may be harder in a RV but it really does help.
I may be to late with this info but when you had your propane troubles I read that when you turn the tank back on to open the valve slowly as going quickly sometimes tricks the regulator into thinking it's over full. Also doesn't hurt to have a spare regulator on hand. On the cautious side of things I saw a video of a family who had their tank overfilled at a station and it sprang a leak at the tank seams. No body was hurt thank goodness but they did have to call the fire department to handle it and then buy a new tank from the dealer. Also you can get a smaller tank like for a grill to keep on hand in case your tank gets punctured and can use that as a backup. Hope this helps Semper Fi and safe travels. God bless you richly in all things.😉👍👌
I liked the video. Instead of a spreadsheet I use 3X5 index cards stored in a box. Index cards separated by month and on each card the frequency required, i.e. q mos or q 3 most, etc. Just look at the cards in each monthly package, do the maintenance and then move card to next month maintenance needs to be done.
Proud of you both! I know exactly how you feel CDR! The Ladies were capable when we got underway and they're still capable! Just got our RV (Class C) and ready to roll! I'm learning a lot and excited to follow you guys!
My wife was a Air Force brat and later a RCAF wife. I was in the Air Transport business and she had to look after our house and son while I was living out of a suitcase while flying all over. And still helps me around our motorhome after over 52 years of marriage. Yes, Military wives are special.
Great job Stacy!! As little old ladies say “bless your heart” 🤣😂. We use your spreadsheet - thanks for sharing. Hope Phil is doing well and you will be able to get on the road soon, if they don’t shut us all down again 😜. Be safe 😊🇺🇸
Heads up, let the hot water tank fill with water first before turning the electric side back on. You will burn out the heating element very fast. My wife made that mistake and I had to replace it. Not fun when in tight quarters when it’s hot out. Keep up the great videos.
This was great to see...just one comment...& I'm not being judgmental, but the teflon tape should always be put on in a counter clockwise direction, that way it won't unravel as your screwing it on. One caveat...if you are wrapping on a Male thread on the rig, then go clockwise. Thinking of the direction of travel should be able to tell ...the tail of the tape should point in the direction you are screwing on or in. Good work young lady. Love your videos.
Love your vids On the hot water tank anode rod you technically put the tape on backwards. The edge of the tape should be facing to the counterclockwise direction so when you screw it in clockwise it can’t catch and unravel. It just makes for a smooth threading. Either will work. But one way is better. Cheers
Sorry, Stace... As an old plumber's son, I have to go with Phil on this one. It's a WATER heater. Your way sounds like you're heating hot water after it comes into the rig. Kinda like saying "PIN Number," which is also saying "Personal Identification Number NUMBER!!" Namaste
Thanks a mil for the info. I'll be cracking those maint books to see what else we have to do. We took our RV on our first journey to Tx, (right were I think you may have been if I'm reading the buildings and pool right). I'm glad to see that Stacy was doing the demos. Us girls can rock the maintenance too!
Welcome to older age Phil!! You need to accept that as you age, some things you are going to have to let someone else help you with. It isn’t an easy thing to deal with, but as we age there are things we simply can no longer do ourselves. It is a sad fact of life, and the sooner you can accept it, the less stressful it is. PS: Stacy, you rocked it!!
We absolutely love our telescopic ladder, safest way to get on top of our rig. While we do not have slides on ours, we do use the 3n1 slide lube for other things around our rig, it comes in very handy. We have been stationary in Houston for a couple of weeks and remembering to start the bus and run the generator is important.
Stacy, I insert a empty kitchen paper towel holder into vacuum hose and attach it solidly with a heavy duty rubber band, then it fits all the way down into the dryer vent and gets everything. It is one of my vacuum cleaner tools now. Hoping its safe to do so !
Great video - hubby walked in while I was watching and said “we should probably replace the anode in our hot water heater”. The weather is starting to get nice here in the Pacific Northwest and that means time to de-winterize our travel trailer and get ready for some weekends away from the house. Happy travels to you both!
Are you guys using surge suppressors at your shore power hookup. I've been told that there can be fluctuations at RV parks that could harm your rig. You can also get easy start batteries for your a/c units that will ease your power draw on start ups. I have it at my home but it's good for Rvs as well. Basically just a capacitor that stores power for start ups and will help extend the life of your a/c system
Welcome back to San Antonio. I don’t have an RV yet but your videos are giving me lots of things to look out for when I do decide which one to go with.
We love y'alls videos. Great job shipmates. Former Navy...did 9 years, and got into aviation. Now, we're about to go full time. We just bought a Fleetwood diesel and looking forward to the adventure. See y'all out there some where, from a fellow Texan dislocated to Florida.
Phil I really had to laugh. I served just under 12 yrs when I recieved my medical, USAF and USCG. I totally HATE ties and wore Class A less than a dozen times total in that time. Since then I wore one for my college grad. and a few funerals, I have a tie rack that looks just like your. Family and friends have given me ties,Oh you'll look great, and so on and they take up a hangar and space. Enjoy the both of you ,Enjoy Life,ltr.
We have the same AC. Put soft starts on them to help with the amperage surge and thud when the compressor starts. Wow! We can now run both out 15K BTU on 30 amps. Also, think about getting white covers for the roof units. Will help greatly when it is blazing Texas sun towards them not getting as hot.
We have a soft start in the one that broke actually. I have the other one to put in the rear AC. I have heard about the white shrouds on the AC's. I may dig into the as well. Thanks guys!
Good job. We basically do the same every 4-6 weeks and you now have forced me to do the anode rod tomorrow. We have only had the rod for the last two months and never seem to get around to it. So tomorrow for sure. Glad to see Phil is doing better. Pat is up to almost a 1/2 mile walk three times a day and next week we shoot for over a mile.
Atta girl! I am so impressed, I should learn more about how to do some of the maintenance. You are definitely an inspiration for me to get moving on that!
Correct me if I'm wrong but I have been told that you should leave the relief value open on the hot water tank when filling. When water starts coming out of it you know it's full and the tank has the required air gap.
Yes. That is what is described in our Airstream TT manual and the Dometic water heater manual. Once it starts flowing out the PTRV, turn off the water, close the PTRV, and open the hot water faucet closest to the water heater. Turn the water back on until no more air comes out, and then open the other hot water faucets. You now have all of the air out of the hot water lines.
The other reason to leave the pressure relief open for a bit is to allow water to cover the heating element. If it's not covered, it will burn out soon after turning on the power.
This is your correction. You leave the relief valve closed. You can open a hot water faucet to facilitate filling the tank. Here is why. You need a air pocket in the top of the tank to allow for expansion of the water. Otherwise it would leak out of the relief valve.
i too love and use the 3in1 RV products. A word of caution. Any silicone product is hated by body shops if you have a need to repair the paint, they will hate you. It's so hard to get rid of on the paint. So be careful and only put it where it needed, and not on your paint.
It's all the 'small' maintenance that makes a huge difference in daily life. You reminded me that I have a rear window that is sticking and need take care of that the next time I am out in the rig - thanks! And yes, your hair was pretty that day. Philz' thumbs up was really meant for you and your gorgeous hair and not for viewers to like the video - lol (looking out for you Philz - I got your back 😉 )
I’m sure with 609 comments and 2 year someone else saw that you left the socket on the inside cover on the air conditioner when putting it back together. But if you didn’t by now that is where the missing socket is ;-)
The roof plastic vents never last more than a few years. UV Ray's turn them to dust and they crumble.... BUT you can just look up from the inside and see cracks or notice water when it rains. EXCEPT over my shower the skylight is double... so if you don't inspect from the roof the outer layer will break up and the inner layer will funnel water into your ceiling and walls... causing big time damage.
Considering you were on your own on the roof, getting stuff up on top of the roof, and doing your own filming for much of it, you did absolutely great. Frankly, I would have been tempted to just put the video off until my "team" was fully together! :-). I feel compelled to help you out with a few suggestions... not critical, but hopefully helpful.
1. When crawling around on the roof (especially with bare legs), wear knee pads or use rubber cushions.
2. I'm with Phil. It's just a water heater, not a HOT water heater. The tank itself can accurately be referred to as a hot water tank.
3. Your old anode rod still had lots of life. It looks corroded, and gross, but as you mentioned, it is supposed to look like that if it is doing its job properly. It probably had at least another season on it (depending upon quality of the water you are getting). A worn anode rod will be pencil thin. BTW, your tank was nearly spotless, with very little debris! Obviously you have travelled where the water supply is good.
4. No need to tighten the anode rod with as much force as you seemed to use. Over tightening can easily strip the threads inside the water heater and is a pain to repair.
5. You want to wind your Teflon tape onto the threads in the same direction as you will be rotating the device to tighten it. It is not crucial but this helps keep the Teflon tight as you tighten the device. It is sometimes confusing if you are holding the threaded device upside down while winding the tape on, but as long as you think about which direction you will be rotating the exposed threaded end when tightening it, you will get it right.
6. I really feel that your instruction to close the pressure relief valve when filling the water heater is incorrect. You are going to be adding about 10 gallons of water to the tank, and the air that is in there needs to go somewhere! Either open a hot water tap while filling your tank or leave the pressure relief valve open until some water starts to spurt out of it indicating that your tank is full. The nice thing about leaving the pressure relief valve open while the tank fills is that you can see what's happening without leaving the water on inside the RV.
7.You didn't really make it clear that these water heaters have switches in two locations. The one on the inside of your rig is often located in the bathroom, or on your main control panel. The one on the water heater itself is for convenience. You don't need to have both turned off. The main concern is to make sure your heating element has no power getting to it when your hot water tank is empty! You will burn out the heating element in very short order if it is not submersed in water. It really should be the first thing you turn off, and the last thing you turn on when flushing out the tank.
You're one intelligent handy lady... That's not sexiest. Its meant as a really big compliment. Its so awesome to watch you both fill-in for one another without hesitation.
On Y/T you see all these very productive young family farmers who work hard, and do whatever needs to get done. Just like you both do.
Then... I have to work around a few 20 somethings who aren't aware of what needs to be done, and won't even try.
Thanks so much
Gosh...if I had a husband or another person to show me/guide me, would be a game changer. Doing much of maintenance/repair is not hard..figuring it out as a solo is very time consuming, frustrating and downright dangerous at times. 2 people versus 1 is never going to be the same. Not complaining just speaking to another side of things. Good job.
Ms. Stacy,
If the water is hot you don’t have to heat it. The appliance is a “water heater” .Try not to trip the T & P valve very often, it is spring loaded, so flipping it too much could cause the spring to stretch and not function properly. Then you have to replace that, too.
Married to a master plumber for 38 years and co-owner of a plumbing company.
Safe travels!
All military wives know how to step up an take care of ourselves when needed! Thanks for the video an the bloopers!
Hand Salute!
Yep, Navy Wife! People would be amazed by what we can do, we are a competent group of ladies!
You two should be on a poster for the navy, God bless the USA
Loved the video and Stacy's can-do attitude. However, you don't need to heat hot water so it's not a "hot water heater" it's a "water heater". Probably the most common reference mistake made by the lay and professionals when talking about water heaters. Keep up the great work!
Phil, you have a keeper there, but after 30+ years, I guess you know that. Stacey, you're a great handyman/handyperson/handywoman! I am learning from you all the time! Thank you. 🙂
I am a navy wife, and you are very encouraging. I CAN DO IT TOO!!
Yes, you can!
I have a ladder like yours and I cut a pool noodle the same length as my top wrung and then slice it down the middle and slide it onto the top wrung. No scratches!
With all that maintenance going on don’t forget to do the windows on the car the slides up and down the door locks and the seals.
Hope this isn't a repeat, but when Phil gets back up to speed, I'd highly advise taking the Dryer out, pop off front or back cover and blow it out with a good compressor. Dryers get really dirty on the inside and you never see it. I'd say do it about once a year.
AD1
A recommendation. You should turn water back on and leave pressure relief valve open until water comes out indicating the tank is full.
We were boneheads...we knew this....just overlooked it.
I am so glad that I found this video. My husband and I are new to this we live in a fifth wheel. We are stationery, this help us become more informed about what to do help us enjoy our rv
Glad it was helpful!
Phil is one lucky guy! What a gal! You guys rock!
Thanks so much! Phil is ONE lucky guy indeed! LOL
Thanks for the outstanding maintenance video. Just a friendly reminder hot water heater needs to be vented after filling. This allow all air out of the tank and will last longer. Air trapped in top of tank will start rusting. CV41 number 4 engine room group LPO retired..
Thanks for the info!
That 3 in 1 line looks great... Thanks, Aloha
Hey guys, I am pretty certain the socket was still in the last bolt of the inside cover before you put the top cover on the AC. Look at 1:59 when you place the outer cover on, you can still see the socket sitting on the bolt.
Phil/Stacy - when you run your generator do you have a cut out switch to isolate the shore power. I run my generator twice a month (about 45 minutes) (1995 class C). I have an isolation switch, but my habit is to physically disconnect the shore power cable before I start the generator. Also I want to recommend a product. Sea Foam is a gas treatment that physically cleans the carburetor jets, and other areas in the gas line. It’s a miracle worker for maintenance & repair. When I discovered this product I had my generator carburetor gum up and had to remove the bowl to clean the jets (3 years ago). Since then I add a can to gas tank (biannually). I haven’t had any problems since including this product in my maintenance schedule. It if also great on lawn equipment, pressure washer motors, any automobile or small engine tool. I do not represent their company but am a fanatic about this product. You can find at Wal Mart, auto parts stores, etc. Thanks for your videos! Absolutely love your tips and experiences + I totally relate/identify with your similar Navy history as mine! All the Best - Wade 👍🏻
Thanks Wade. We do have a transfer switch, but I do the same as you....I disconnect power from the pedestal before I rub the generator. I don't trust that the switch will do what it is supposed to do and it takes seconds to disconnect. Thanks for your service....Go Navy!
I notice, while watching Stacy do her maintenance, that your US Map had the states that you had visited but Kentucky was not filled in. If the sticker was over looked, that great but if not your missing out on 1 of the most beautiful parts of the country. As you already know how great the US Army COE parks are, KY has several and may I suggest Kendall in Jamestown, KY as our favorite camping park. Have fun and still healthy.
We just haven't added it yet. We went to the Chicken Fest in London, KY. We had a great time.
Great job guys! Using a Planned Maintenance System (PMS) is a good basic plan.
Thank you. If this Corona virus gets over and borders are open, maybe will see you on the road gasometer day. Stay well.
I was a jet mechanic in the Marine Corps so I maintenance does scare me! Great job Stacy you rock! My Sheroe
Thanks so much!
Those holes in the seal for washer, are drain holes. Just make sure they are not clogged up or thw water stays in your seal and fets slimy as you can see. They drain into the bottom of the washer where the normal water goes and gets pumped out. I am sure your manual talks about them in the maintenance or troubleshooting section. All front load washers have them.
Thanks Todd. We found that out when we researched it more.
Great video and great info! You guys do such a great job...explaining and showing. Safe travels!
Been a HVAC tech for 30 plus years that’s a squirrel 🐿 cage. Great job.
👍
Wow, Thank you so much your video was so extremely helpful!!!!
When you are married or in a couple relationship of any sort for a number of years it is ALWAYS bout the yin/yang of things, not who CAN actually do anything! I love how you guys interact and mesh, as it should be in any relationship.
I’m painfully new to RVing, as well as a single senior so this whole thing has been a leap of faith. This particular video of yours answered so many of my questions and I thank you for your step-by-step instructions. Each of these tips have brought me closer to feeling less stressed and have proved that (with your help) I CAN DO IT!😊 Thank you!
You can do it!
And answered so many questions I didn't know I have!
Nice work sailor. This retired CPO is also down for the count this season with a busted ankle. So thanks for showing my better half all the stuff she needs to do while I’m on the IR. BTW...the little hole in the washing machine door gasket is there by design to allow water to drain back into the basket and not stay in the channel. It also helps to wipe that out after every load and leave the door open between loads when not in use. I just hang a dish towel over the top of the door and helps to eliminate any mildew or odors. Safe travels.
Thanks for your service! Hand Salute! Thanks Chief. We did some more digging on the washer. All good.
Great job! One thing I’d like to mention when it comes to the water heater. That switch inside the water heater bay is a double switch safety for only the electric heating element of the water heater and wouldn’t turn off the propane side (propane only water heaters don’t have that switch). The reason you have the switch outside and inside is to (hopefully) prevent the electric element from being turned on with the water heater empty as you would burn up the heating element in under 30 seconds. One thing I always tell people is to keep both switches off until you’ve verified the water heater is full by just bumping the pressure relief valve since it’s on the top.
Phil you haven't FAILED because you were smart enough to find the perfect partner in life. Way to go Stacey. We military folks are always about Plan B.
No plan survives contact with the enemy.
Just for your info. Hole in washer gasket sends excess back to drum. When done using a front load washer it is recommended to leave the door open so moisture can dry in seal area. You probably know that though. Great video.
Great job! I think all women who rv need to learn and do everything the men usually do ( not just the inside stuff we women tend to do). I’m a single rver and am now learning to do everything on my own and also watching great videos such as yours to learn too!
The hole in your washer gasket may be a “weep hole” so any water that accumulates in that gasket drains into the washing machine.
You are very correct!
My thought too. Re washer gasket hole.
John is correct. It's a weep hole so that any water that gets into that gasket drains back into the washer and not outside of it 👍
We found out after doing more research on it.
Hey guys! Great video! I'm encouraged to see Stacy do the maintenance. It's inspirational to other women who are considering solo RVing. Thanks for showing how you do the maintenance and products you use.
Yes! Thank you!
For those of us with "selective memory", you can set up calender task reminders for your monthly, bi-monthly, yearly maintenance tasks, in whatever email system you use.
Thanks for the tip!
After watching you doing the PMS I believe you are better than half the sailors I've served with. HOOYAH Stacy!!! Make sure you update the PMS schedule.
I enjoyed this video, it’s stuff I try todo on a regular basis. I don’t like going up on the roof so much any more. When I was younger I didn’t mind but since I turned 79 I’m not so brave and now that I’m 80 I’m not as stable as I used to be. I really like that collapsible ladder, I have one similar to the little giant but I like yours better. I had a leak in the roof when I was in Florida over the winter and crawled up and fixed it. It leaked around the tv cable where it went through the roof. Enjoy your summer.
Thanks Fred. Be careful out there!
Just a tip Phil if you haven’t done so yet use a small twist tie on your heater door...I’ve seen them turn and fly off going down the road...great video btw, Stacy just taught me a lot about our rig...also we have the same hole in our washer seal it’s manufactured that way I believe ours is square
Good tip!
Also very impressive that I can see you give Stacy a thumbs up in the reflection of the coach after the lock demonstration 👍
Love, “I’m going to beat you.” Absolutely a comment from a wife of many years and still loves you.
That hole in the washer seal is so the water can drain back into the drum. It's designed that way. I always dry out that area after we are done with the loads of wash and leave the door open as long as possible if we aren't traveling. 2016 40QBH
Spot on Glenn. We figured that out with more research of the washer....we left it alone.
For us personally, this was one of our favorite videos because our 2018 Allegro RED 33AA has so much in common with yours. I knew those Coleman Mach scroll fans frequently self destruct, so we purchased spares, but I never knew how to change them. Now I know. Phil, Stacy is more than a great Navy wife; she is an inspiration to me to teach my career Army wife to be able to do all the maintenance I do now. Thanks so much.
Thanks for your service! Hand Salute! We are lucky to have great woman aren't afraid of a good challenge!
Good reminder of what we should all be checking on a routine basis
Absolutely!
The maintenance tips help, so thank you for the instruction video. Interesting that I skimmed past an inquiry posted about a clanking AC unit. Now I know what the problem was. Glad to see Phil's arm back to function and Stacy doing maintenance. That is progress. You all stay safe.
Tip/Trick for the washer gasket to stay nice... after doing a load of wash if possible leave the washer door open AND the drawer you put the soap in. This helps promote air flow and lets the washer dry out without getting moldy & Smelly . I know this may be harder in a RV but it really does help.
Thanks for the info!
CDR, y’all continue to knockem out of the park!! Stacy, an OUTSTANDING JOB!! From an old Seabee MasterChief. HHOORRAAHH!!
Look under air conditioner cover if you're missing a socket. 😉 it was stuck on top of screw. It was the last one you tightened.
Love your videos!
I saw it too! Was it a 10mm? They’re meant to be lost! Haha!
I am very proud of you fixing the AC
Thanks so much!
Learn everything you can Stacey! Life happens. You never now what's around the next corner. Be safe.
You are so right!
I may be to late with this info but when you had your propane troubles I read that when you turn the tank back on to open the valve slowly as going quickly sometimes tricks the regulator into thinking it's over full. Also doesn't hurt to have a spare regulator on hand. On the cautious side of things I saw a video of a family who had their tank overfilled at a station and it sprang a leak at the tank seams. No body was hurt thank goodness but they did have to call the fire department to handle it and then buy a new tank from the dealer. Also you can get a smaller tank like for a grill to keep on hand in case your tank gets punctured and can use that as a backup. Hope this helps Semper Fi and safe travels. God bless you richly in all things.😉👍👌
I liked the video. Instead of a spreadsheet I use 3X5 index cards stored in a box. Index cards separated by month and on each card the frequency required, i.e. q mos or q 3 most, etc. Just look at the cards in each monthly package, do the maintenance and then move card to next month maintenance needs to be done.
I’m in AWE of you Stacy, you ROCK!!! Feel better soon Phil...
Thanks!!!
Stacy! you go girl, kudos to you on the RV maintenance. Great job of explaining too.
Thank you!
Proud of you both! I know exactly how you feel CDR! The Ladies were capable when we got underway and they're still capable! Just got our RV (Class C) and ready to roll! I'm learning a lot and excited to follow you guys!
Congrats Mike B! We are very fortunate to have strong ladies by our sides while out to sea! Welcome aboard!!
My wife was a Air Force brat and later a RCAF wife. I was in the Air Transport business and she had to look after our house and son while I was living out of a suitcase while flying all over. And still helps me around our motorhome after over 52 years of marriage. Yes, Military wives are special.
Spot on Fred!!!!
🤣😂 I kept shouting at the TV "water heater not hot water heater" 🤣 great job guys. Your channel is always full of excellent tips.
😁
Great job Stacy!! As little old ladies say “bless your heart” 🤣😂. We use your spreadsheet - thanks for sharing. Hope Phil is doing well and you will be able to get on the road soon, if they don’t shut us all down again 😜. Be safe 😊🇺🇸
Just finished watching your video twice. Wow! Thanks for all the maintenance ideas. You guys are awesome. Hope to meet you someday. :)
Our pleasure!
Great video as usual. Not having to mow a lawn frees up time for maintenance. Won’t miss cutting the grass or the sniffles from the cut grass.
You got that right!
Heads up, let the hot water tank fill with water first before turning the electric side back on. You will burn out the heating element very fast. My wife made that mistake and I had to replace it. Not fun when in tight quarters when it’s hot out. Keep up the great videos.
This was great to see...just one comment...& I'm not being judgmental, but the teflon tape should always be put on in a counter clockwise direction, that way it won't unravel as your screwing it on. One caveat...if you are wrapping on a Male thread on the rig, then go clockwise. Thinking of the direction of travel should be able to tell ...the tail of the tape should point in the direction you are screwing on or in.
Good work young lady. Love your videos.
Good job Stacy, play it as long as you can Phil, hope your arm and shoulder get to feeling better soon.
You know it!! ;)
Love your vids
On the hot water tank anode rod you technically put the tape on backwards. The edge of the tape should be facing to the counterclockwise direction so when you screw it in clockwise it can’t catch and unravel.
It just makes for a smooth threading. Either will work.
But one way is better.
Cheers
Sorry, Stace... As an old plumber's son, I have to go with Phil on this one. It's a WATER heater. Your way sounds like you're heating hot water after it comes into the rig. Kinda like saying "PIN Number," which is also saying "Personal Identification Number NUMBER!!"
Namaste
Thanks a mil for the info. I'll be cracking those maint books to see what else we have to do. We took our RV on our first journey to Tx, (right were I think you may have been if I'm reading the buildings and pool right). I'm glad to see that Stacy was doing the demos. Us girls can rock the maintenance too!
Welcome to older age Phil!! You need to accept that as you age, some things you are going to have to let someone else help you with. It isn’t an easy thing to deal with, but as we age there are things we simply can no longer do ourselves. It is a sad fact of life, and the sooner you can accept it, the less stressful it is. PS: Stacy, you rocked it!!
Thanks William. I am slowly accepting it. LOL
We absolutely love our telescopic ladder, safest way to get on top of our rig. While we do not have slides on ours, we do use the 3n1 slide lube for other things around our rig, it comes in very handy. We have been stationary in Houston for a couple of weeks and remembering to start the bus and run the generator is important.
Agreed!! Please stay safe Texas is on the rise again!
Stacy, I insert a empty kitchen paper towel holder into vacuum hose and attach it solidly with a heavy duty rubber band, then it fits all the way down into the dryer vent and gets everything. It is one of my vacuum cleaner tools now. Hoping its safe to do so !
Thanks for the tip!
Great video - hubby walked in while I was watching and said “we should probably replace the anode in our hot water heater”. The weather is starting to get nice here in the Pacific Northwest and that means time to de-winterize our travel trailer and get ready for some weekends away from the house. Happy travels to you both!
Gotta stay on top of your maintenance or the RV will tell on you. LOL
Woohoo, Stacey!!! You go girl! Quick healing , Phil and Blessings on both.
Thanks so much!
Are you guys using surge suppressors at your shore power hookup. I've been told that there can be fluctuations at RV parks that could harm your rig. You can also get easy start batteries for your a/c units that will ease your power draw on start ups. I have it at my home but it's good for Rvs as well. Basically just a capacitor that stores power for start ups and will help extend the life of your a/c system
Welcome back to San Antonio. I don’t have an RV yet but your videos are giving me lots of things to look out for when I do decide which one to go with.
Awesome! Thank you!
Guys you are amazing! I have been subscribing to your channel for 3 weeks now and living with my dream of RVing
Thanks so much!
We love y'alls videos. Great job shipmates. Former Navy...did 9 years, and got into aviation. Now, we're about to go full time. We just bought a Fleetwood diesel and looking forward to the adventure.
See y'all out there some where, from a fellow Texan dislocated to Florida.
That is awesome! Thanks for your service as well! Go Navy!!!
Phil I really had to laugh. I served just under 12 yrs when I recieved my medical, USAF and USCG. I totally HATE ties and wore Class A less than a dozen times total in that time. Since then I wore one for my college grad. and a few funerals, I have a tie rack that looks just like your. Family and friends have given me ties,Oh you'll look great, and so on and they take up a hangar and space. Enjoy the both of you ,Enjoy Life,ltr.
She keeps wanting me to take them out....the minute I do, I will need them. LOL
Good for you knowing how to fix it.
We have the same AC. Put soft starts on them to help with the amperage surge and thud when the compressor starts. Wow! We can now run both out 15K BTU on 30 amps. Also, think about getting white covers for the roof units. Will help greatly when it is blazing Texas sun towards them not getting as hot.
We have a soft start in the one that broke actually. I have the other one to put in the rear AC. I have heard about the white shrouds on the AC's. I may dig into the as well. Thanks guys!
Pool Noodles work good to protect your RV surface.
Good job. We basically do the same every 4-6 weeks and you now have forced me to do the anode rod tomorrow. We have only had the rod for the last two months and never seem to get around to it. So tomorrow for sure.
Glad to see Phil is doing better. Pat is up to almost a 1/2 mile walk three times a day and next week we shoot for over a mile.
Glad Pat is doing well. Slow and steady for both of us.
Thank you for always giving us a great videos, and of course the bloopers are the best!!!!
Glad you like them!
Great job, Stacy. Love the two camera edit. Glad to see Phil is healing well.
Thanks so much!
Atta girl! I am so impressed, I should learn more about how to do some of the maintenance. You are definitely an inspiration for me to get moving on that!
You can do it! Besides It makes you feel good to know you can accomplish so much!
Corse a Sailor has no problem getting up there and sorting it!
I could be wrong, but that hole in the seal might be so that water that does get in the seal, can drain back into the washer
Correct me if I'm wrong but I have been told that you should leave the relief value open on the hot water tank when filling. When water starts coming out of it you know it's full and the tank has the required air gap.
I agree. Leaving the valve open also keeps you from getting air in the hot water lines and it will fill much more quickly.
Thanks for the tip! We didn't know that! This is why I love this community. We always learn from each other!!
Yes. That is what is described in our Airstream TT manual and the Dometic water heater manual. Once it starts flowing out the PTRV, turn off the water, close the PTRV, and open the hot water faucet closest to the water heater. Turn the water back on until no more air comes out, and then open the other hot water faucets. You now have all of the air out of the hot water lines.
The other reason to leave the pressure relief open for a bit is to allow water to cover the heating element. If it's not covered, it will burn out soon after turning on the power.
This is your correction. You leave the relief valve closed. You can open a hot water faucet to facilitate filling the tank. Here is why. You need a air pocket in the top of the tank to allow for expansion of the water. Otherwise it would leak out of the relief valve.
GEEZE Phil!!! Love the tee shirt and your left tatoo!! I'm A diehard bronco fan!!! Looking for good things this year!!! Safe travels to you guys!!!
Stacy I am proud of you nice job. Glenda can do it all including driving. Once again good job. Take care Phil we are lucky men.
Thanks so much
You go girl 💪🏼❤️ get better Phil!
Thanks
With Teflon tape, always go right.
What a comprehensive checklist! Thanks so much for sharing!
Love that Denver Bronco’s tattoo on your left shoulder!!!
Love that we can refer back to this video as we do our various chores!!
Well this makes me feel a little better knowing the blower wheel on my rv is steel. But of course its from 1978.
i too love and use the 3in1 RV products. A word of caution. Any silicone product is hated by body shops if you have a need to repair the paint, they will hate you. It's so hard to get rid of on the paint. So be careful and only put it where it needed, and not on your paint.
It's all the 'small' maintenance that makes a huge difference in daily life. You reminded me that I have a rear window that is sticking and need take care of that the next time I am out in the rig - thanks! And yes, your hair was pretty that day. Philz' thumbs up was really meant for you and your gorgeous hair and not for viewers to like the video - lol (looking out for you Philz - I got your back 😉 )
So true! Hahahaha!
I’m sure with 609 comments and 2 year someone else saw that you left the socket on the inside cover on the air conditioner when putting it back together. But if you didn’t by now that is where the missing socket is ;-)
Thank you for this, and for woman power! Now I feel more confident to do these things myself.
The roof plastic vents never last more than a few years. UV Ray's turn them to dust and they crumble.... BUT you can just look up from the inside and see cracks or notice water when it rains.
EXCEPT over my shower the skylight is double... so if you don't inspect from the roof the outer layer will break up and the inner layer will funnel water into your ceiling and walls... causing big time damage.