If you’re new to the world of RVing, welcome to an exciting way of life filled with freedom, adventure, and the open road. As a beginner, there’s much to learn, from driving and parking your RV to routine maintenance and setting up camp. One of the most crucial aspects you’ll need to master is leveling your RV. This seemingly minor detail is, in fact, vital for both your comfort and the longevity of your RV. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss why leveling is so important and give you a step-by-step guide on how to do it.

Why is Leveling Your RV Important?

Leveling your RV is not just about ensuring your comfort within the vehicle; it also has functional and safety implications. Here are some reasons why leveling is essential:

  1. Appliance Function: Some RV appliances, like refrigerators, rely on gravity to function correctly. If your RV isn’t level, these appliances may not work as efficiently or could even sustain damage.
  2. Comfort: Everything from sleeping and cooking to showering becomes more complicated when you’re on a slant. Doors may swing open or shut, objects may roll off the table, and you may find yourself rolling off the bed!
  3. Plumbing: The RV’s plumbing system relies on gravity for proper drainage. If the RV isn’t level, you might encounter issues with draining your sinks or shower.
  4. Structural Integrity: Continual usage of an unlevel RV can cause stress on the structure of the vehicle, leading to potential long-term damage.
  5. Slide-outs: If your RV has slide-outs, leveling is crucial. The additional weight of extended slide-outs can tilt the RV, and the mechanisms that operate them rely on the RV being level to work correctly.

Now that you understand why leveling is so important, let’s delve into the steps to level your RV.

Steps to Level Your RV

Before we start, it’s important to note that leveling should ideally be done at every new campsite you park at. Ground conditions can vary significantly, so what was a level position at one site may not be the same at another. Additionally, you’ll need a couple of tools: a bubble level (a small tool with an air bubble that indicates when a surface is level), and leveling blocks or ramps to adjust your RV’s height as needed.

Step 1: Find a Suitable Spot

Start by finding a reasonably flat spot to park your RV. This will make the leveling process easier. Take note of any slopes or uneven areas. If the site is too uneven, consider finding a different site if possible.

Step 2: Check the Level

Using your bubble level, check the level of your RV. It’s best to do this in several locations inside the RV, such as the floor, countertop, and fridge shelf. Check both the side-to-side and front-to-back level. Note which side of the RV is higher or lower.

Step 3: Level Side-to-Side

Start by leveling your RV side-to-side. If one side is lower, move the RV, place leveling blocks on the ground where the wheels on the lower side will be, and then drive onto the blocks. Check the level after each adjustment. Repeat until the RV is level side-to-side.

Step 4: Level Front-to-Back

Once your RV is level side-to-side, it’s time to adjust front-to-back. This is usually done using the RV’s built-in jacks. Extend or retract the front or rear jacks as needed to level the RV. Again, check the level after each adjustment.

Step 5: Secure the RV

Once your RV is level, be sure to secure it by applying the parking brake and chocking the wheels. This will prevent the RV from moving while you’re staying in it.

Tips for Leveling Your RV

Now that you know the basic steps to level your RV, here are some additional tips to make the process smoother:

  1. Invest in Leveling Tools: While basic bubble levels and leveling blocks can do the job, there are also advanced tools available. These include levels that can be read from the driver’s seat and leveling systems that automatically adjust the RV to a level position.
  2. Always Check the Level: Even if a campsite looks perfectly flat, always check the level. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
  3. Practice Makes Perfect: Leveling your RV can be a bit tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. Practice leveling at different sites with different ground conditions to become more comfortable with the process.
  4. Consider the Environment: Be mindful of where you place leveling blocks. Avoid placing them on soft ground where they can sink, or on delicate surfaces where they can cause damage.
  5. Safety First: Never attempt to level the RV while someone is inside, and always secure the RV once itis level to prevent any accidental movement.

Maintaining a Level RV

Even after you have initially leveled your RV, it’s important to periodically check the level, especially if you’re staying in one spot for an extended period. Over time, the ground underneath the RV or blocks may settle, causing the RV to become unlevel. Here are some tips:

  1. Regular Checks: Make it a habit to check the level of your RV every few days, or after any significant weather events like heavy rain or snowfall.
  2. Look for Signs: Be alert for signs that your RV may have become unlevel. This can include doors or cabinets swinging open, difficulty opening or closing slide-outs, or noticing that your RV’s refrigerator isn’t cooling as efficiently as it should.
  3. Re-level as Needed: If your RV becomes unlevel, don’t hesitate to re-level it. This might involve adjusting the jacks or adding or removing leveling blocks.
  4. Check the Ground: Regularly check the ground under the leveling blocks or jacks. If it’s starting to sink or become soft, you may need to move the RV or put down a stronger base, like a wooden plank.
  5. Don’t Forget Maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain your leveling equipment. This includes cleaning leveling blocks and lubricating jacks as needed.

Wrapping Up

Leveling your RV is an essential skill that every RV owner should master. Not only does it ensure a comfortable living and sleeping space, but it also ensures the proper functioning of your RV systems and appliances, maintaining the structural integrity of your RV, and preventing long-term damage. Like many tasks in RVing, it may seem daunting at first, but with a bit of practice and patience, you’ll be leveling your RV like a pro in no time.

Remember, the key to a successful RV trip lies in the preparation. The more thorough you are during your pre-setup inspection and leveling process, the less likely you are to encounter problems during your stay. So, before you embark on your RV adventure, make sure you’re equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to level your RV properly. With these tips and techniques in hand, you’re ready for a smooth and enjoyable RVing experience. Happy travels!

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