The Smart RVer: DIY RV Maintenance and Repair

Eric Stark
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Welcome to The Smart RVer Podcast: DIY RV Maintenance and Repair—your practical, no-fluff guide to keeping your RV reliable, safe, and road-ready. I’m Eric Stark, and each episode focuses on RV maintenance and repairs in a clear, down-to-earth way that makes sense—whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or you just want to understand your rig before you head to the shop. You’ll learn what’s happening, what to check, what to fix, and when it’s smarter to bring in a pro—so you can stay confident and in control. From tires and brakes to roof seals, electrical, plumbing, appliances, propane, slide-outs, and preventative maintenance, we cover the systems that matter most—plus the simple habits that prevent expensive breakdowns later. No internet rabbit holes. No confusing jargon. Just straightforward steps, smart tips, and real-world solutions you can use. Episodes are concise—around 30 minutes—packed with actionable advice you can apply right away. Press play and keep your RV ready for the road.

  1. 2d ago

    Get Those Last RV Trips In — But Start Preparing for Winter Now

    Intro: Fall can be one of the best times of the year to use your RV, but it is also the time to start thinking about freezing temperatures and winter storage. In this episode of The Smart RVer Podcast, Eric talks about enjoying those last RV trips of the season while getting a head start on winter prep. This isn't a detailed, step-by-step winterizing episode. Instead, it is a practical reminder of what RV owners should consider before the first freeze catches them by surprise. We cover watching the overnight forecast, gathering winterizing supplies early, checking your plumbing system, testing the furnace, inspecting batteries, roof seals, tires, awnings, and other areas that deserve attention before storage. The goal is simple: keep enjoying the RV while the weather allows, but have a plan in place so winterizing becomes routine maintenance rather than a last-minute emergency. Summary: There may still be a few good RV trips left before winter arrives, and there is no reason to end the camping season too early. But fall weather can change quickly. A warm afternoon does not mean temperatures will stay above freezing overnight, and one unexpected cold snap can create expensive problems in an RV plumbing system. In this episode, Eric walks through a practical early-winter preparation checklist for RV owners who want to keep camping while preparing for colder weather. We talk about why now is the time to watch overnight temperatures, gather winterizing supplies, and refresh your memory on how your RV’s plumbing system is laid out. You will also hear reminders about: Locating water-heater bypass valves and low-point drainsChecking outside showers, spray ports, filters, and other easy-to-forget plumbingTesting the furnace before the first really cold camping nightChecking battery condition before winter storageInspecting the roof and exterior sealantsPreparing for rodentsChecking tires, awnings, and slide-topper fabricsEmptying and cleaning the sewer systemMaking a list of repairs or maintenance items to tackle before spring This episode is not intended to replace a complete RV winterizing procedure. It is about getting ahead of the season so you already have the supplies, knowledge, and plan you need when freezing temperatures finally arrive. Enjoy those last trips of the year, but prepare like winter could show up next week. And don't forget to download the companionLast RV Trips Before Winter — Early Winter Prep Checklistto keep with your RV maintenance supplies. Takeaways: As winter approaches, prepare your RV for storage.Take last-minute camping trips before switching to winter preparations.Monitoring the weather forecast is crucial to ensure you winterize your RV on time.Prioritize rodent prevention by removing food and thoroughly cleaning the RV interior.Regular off-season maintenance checks can prevent larger issues.Utilizing quality parts for repairs and replacements is essential to maintain RV functionality. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Max Velocity Weather Winter Preparation Checklist How to Winterize Your RV Step by Step Contact Us - Call, Text, Video, Email Our Online Resources:The Smart Rver YouTube Channel - Check Out Our No-Nonsense YouTube Videos Sunpro Mfg - RV Sunshade, Windshield Covers & Slide Out Awning Fabrics Hot Boat Ropes - Marine Cordage- Anchor Lines, Dock Lines, Tow Lines, etc. Top Rated Podcast - The Smart RVer Podcast Website

  2. Aug 28

    What seemed like a simple purchase turned into a Life Lesson for me!

    Summary/IntroIn this episode of The Smart RVer Podcast, Eric Stark shares a recent experience that began with buying a boat and trailer and ended up changing the way he approaches RV repairs, hard-to-find parts, and the frustrations RV owners face when trying to keep older equipment on the road. The boat was in excellent condition, but the trailer was another story. Worn bearings, bad brakes, disconnected brake lines, aging axles, hard-to-find proprietary parts, and conflicting information from manufacturers and suppliers turned what looked like a simple purchase into a much bigger project. More importantly, the experience gave Eric a fresh perspective on what RV owners sometimes go through when they are told a part is discontinued, unavailable, or too difficult to identify. It also reinforced the importance of knowing your equipment, understanding the tools you carry, and developing enough basic mechanical knowledge to work through problems when they happen away from home. Eric also covers a quick late-summer RV air conditioner maintenance reminder, including checking filters and cleaning condenser and evaporator coils. And in RV Envy, he talks about Solbio Holding Tank Liquid and why it has been getting such positive feedback from RV owners. The big takeaway from this episode is simple: the more you understand your RV, your tools, and the systems you depend on, the better prepared you will be when something does not go according to plan. Show NotesIn this episode, Eric Stark shares a personal story that gave him a new appreciation for the frustrations RV owners experience when repairs are not straightforward, and replacement parts are difficult to find. It started with the purchase of a well-maintained boat in Seattle. The boat itself was in remarkable condition, but the trailer underneath it had been largely neglected. The tires were about ten years old, the wheel bearings were loose, the brakes were badly worn, and the brake lines were no longer functioning as they should. Rather than risk towing the boat hundreds of miles back to Montana, Eric left the boat and trailer behind, returned home, gathered the parts he thought he would need, and went back two weeks later to make the trailer roadworthy. That experience alone reinforced an important lesson: appearances do not tell the whole story. A trailer, RV, tow vehicle, or other piece of equipment can look excellent while still hiding serious mechanical problems beneath the surface. The bigger lesson came later. Once Eric started repairing and upgrading the trailer at home, he ran into proprietary axles, expensive replacement options, discontinued-looking components, conflicting information, and customer service that was not always willing to help him solve the problem. At one point, replacing the trailer entirely seemed easier than repairing it. Then a helpful trailer dealer changed the project's direction. Instead of simply selling Eric a new trailer, the dealer took the time to explain some practical alternatives, including converting the trailer from hydraulic surge brakes to electric brakes. That experience stood out because the dealer was willing to forgo a potential sale to help someone make a better decision. It also made Eric think about the calls he receives from RV owners who have already contacted multiple dealerships or parts departments and have been told that the part they need is unavailable. Sometimes the part really is gone. Other times, it is still available through another supplier, has been replaced by a newer version, or requires someone willing to spend a little extra time identifying an alternative. Eric explains how this experience has encouraged him to look even harder when helping RV owners find difficult parts. He has always tried to go the extra mile, but now he better understands how discouraging it can be when every phone call seems to lead to another dead end. The episode also highlights another important part of DIY RV ownership: knowing how to use the tools you carry. While repairing the trailer, Eric was reminded that simply owning a toolbox does not mean someone knows how to use what is inside it. RV owners do not need to become professional technicians, but becoming comfortable with basic hand tools, sockets, wrenches, electrical testing equipment, and simple repair procedures can make a huge difference when something goes wrong on the road. A little familiarity can help turn an emergency into a manageable repair. Eric encourages RV owners who are less comfortable with tools to practice at home. Learn what the tools are called, understand what they are used for, and spend some time looking at the systems on your own RV before you are forced to learn on the side of the highway. Quick Tip: Late-Summer RV Air Conditioner MaintenanceWith summer winding down, Eric also reminds you to check your RV air conditioner before the season is over. Start with the inside air filters. Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow and can make the air conditioner work much harder than necessary. The rooftop condenser coil should also be checked and cleaned. Depending on the air conditioner, the evaporator coil may also be accessible for cleaning. Eric points out that RV air conditioner filters can become extremely dirty, especially after a summer filled with dust, smoke, pollen, and campground debris. Clean filters and coils can improve airflow, help the air conditioner perform better, and reduce unnecessary strain on the system. RV Envy: Solbio Holding Tank LiquidIn the RV Envy segment, Eric talks about Solbio Holding Tank Liquid. Solbio has been gaining traction with Highway 93 RV customers, and the feedback has been very positive. It offers RV owners another option for maintaining their black and gray holding tanks without relying on the heavily perfumed approach found in many traditional holding tank treatments. Eric encourages RV owners who have not tried Solbio to take a look and see why it has become such a popular product among customers. The Bigger LessonThe trailer project turned into more than a repair job. It became a reminder that owning an RV, boat, trailer, or tow vehicle means continually learning about the equipment you depend on. Parts change. Manufacturers discontinue components. Suppliers give conflicting answers. Repairs sometimes cost more than expected. And occasionally, fixing an older piece of equipment makes more sense than replacing it. The more you know about your RV, the systems inside it, and the tools needed to maintain it, the easier it becomes to work through those problems without immediately reaching the point where you want to give up on the RV altogether. RV ownership is a learning process. Every repair, every breakdown, and every frustrating parts search teaches you something that can make the next problem easier to handle. Solbio - Holding Tank Liquid Coupon Code "Solbio10" 3X Chemistry - RV AC Foaming Coil Cleaner Sunpro Mfg RV Slide Out Fabrics - Use Discount Code "5 Percent Discount" Wholesale RV Extended Warranties Miller Marine Orofino Idaho - The Helpful Boat Guy Demco- Surge Brake, Couplers and Other Good Stuff Contact Us via our Website or Phone or Text us @ 406-961-8688 Our Online Resources: The Smart Rver YouTube Channel - Check Out Our No-Nonsense YouTube Videos Sunpro Mfg - RV Sunshade, Windshield Covers & Slide Out Awning Fabrics Hot Boat Ropes - Marine Cordage- Anchor Lines, Dock Lines, Tow Lines, etc. Top Rated Podcast - The Smart RVer Podcast Website Companies mentioned in this episode: Wholesale WarrantiesHighway 93 RVSunpromfg.comEZ Loader Trailers

  3. Aug 14

    How to Build a Roadside RV Repair Kit That Actually Makes Sense

    Summary/IntroIn this episode of The Smart RVer Podcast, Eric Stark walks through how to build a roadside RV repair kit that actually makes sense. This is not about carrying every tool and spare part you can fit into a storage compartment. It is about putting together a practical kit to help you handle the most common trip-ruining problems before they become bigger issues. Eric explains why a good RV repair kit should be tailored to your RV, your travel style, and the problems you are most likely to face on the road. From electrical basics like a multimeter, fuses, crimpers, and connectors to plumbing fittings, leak tape, roof sealants, sewer parts, propane safety items, zip ties, and fasteners, this episode focuses on tools and supplies that can help you make safe, temporary repairs and keep your trip moving. The goal is not to turn every RVer into a full-time repair technician. The goal is to help RV owners be prepared, organized, and confident enough to handle minor problems before they become expensive, frustrating, or vacation-ending repairs. Show NotesIn this episode, Eric Stark discusses one of the most practical things an RV owner can do before heading out on the road: build a repair kit that is based on real-world RV problems. Many RVers either carry too little or carry a pile of random tools and parts that may not even fit their RV. Eric explains that the best roadside repair kit is not the biggest kit. It is the kit that makes sense for your specific RV. The episode begins by looking at why generic repair kits often fall short. RVs have different plumbing fittings, electrical setups, roof materials, sewer connections, and propane components. Because of that, copying someone else’s list without looking at your own RV can leave you carrying parts that will not help when something actually breaks. Eric then walks through the major categories every practical kit should include. For electrical problems, he talks about the importance of a basic digital multimeter, assorted fuses, crimpers, wire strippers, connectors, and electrical tape. These items can help RV owners diagnose simple 12-volt and 120-volt issues instead of guessing. From there, the discussion moves into plumbing repairs. Eric covers the value of carrying fittings that match your RV, a tubing cutter, leak repair tape, a spare pump strainer, washers, and basic hand tools. A small water leak can quickly damage cabinets, flooring, and storage areas, so having the right supplies on hand can make a big difference. Roof and sealant supplies are also covered, including self-leveling lap sealant, non-sag sealant, RV roof repair tape, gloves, rags, and a plastic scraper. Eric reminds listeners that not every sealant is suitable for every part of an RV, and that using the wrong product can create more problems later. The episode also includes sewer-repair items such as a spare sewer cap, a twist-on waste valve, hose gaskets, bayonet fittings, and disposable gloves. These are small parts, but they can prevent a messy and frustrating situation at the campground. Propane safety is another important part of the conversation. Eric encourages RVers to carry leak detector solution, use the proper wrench, inspect propane pigtails, and know where the propane shutoff valves are located. He also makes it clear that propane is not something to guess with. If there is a leak or uncertainty, safety comes first. Eric wraps up the episode by covering fasteners, zip ties, hose clamps, bungee cords, tape, gloves, flashlights, and other simple items for temporary repairs. He also talks about what not to carry, including random parts, heavy tools you never use, incorrect sealants, unknown electrical parts, and plumbing fittings that do not match your RV. The main takeaway is simple: build your kit around your RV, not someone else’s. A good roadside RV repair kit should help you diagnose the problem, make a safe temporary repair, and keep a minor issue from ruining the trip. Takeaways: Building a practical roadside RV repair kit is essential for ensuring a smooth trip.Every RV owner should customize their repair kit to meet their specific needs and circumstances.Electrical issues are common on the road, so carrying a multimeter can be invaluable.Water leaks can cause significant damage; having the right plumbing fittings can prevent disasters. Sunpro Mfg RV Slide Out Fabrics - Use Discount Code "5 Percent Discount" RV Roadside Repair Checklist Wholesale RV Extended Warranties Contact Us via our Website or Phone or Text us @ 406-961-8688 Our Online Resources: The Smart Rver YouTube Channel - Check Out Our No-Nonsense YouTube Videos Sunpro Mfg - RV Sunshade, Windshield Covers & Slide Out Awning Fabrics Hot Boat Ropes - Marine Cordage- Anchor Lines, Dock Lines, Tow Lines, etc. Top Rated Podcast - The Smart RVer Podcast Website Companies mentioned in this episode: Wholesale WarrantiesHighway 93 RVSunpromfg.comCamcoValterraThetford

  4. Jul 31

    RV Slide-Out Stuck? Don’t Force It — Check These First

    Intro: In this episode of The Smart RVer Podcast, Eric Stark tackles one of the more stressful problems RV owners can run into: a slide-out that will not move. Whether it is stuck in, stuck out, moving unevenly, clicking, grinding, or not making any sound at all, the first step is the same — do not force it. Eric walks through the practical checks every DIY RVer should make before assuming the slide motor or control board has failed. He explains why battery voltage matters, how fuses and auto-reset breakers can stop a slide from working, and why loose wiring, poor grounds, bad switches, and weak connections should be checked early in the process. The episode also covers common slide-out warning signs, including unusual noises, one side moving while the other does not, and the room binding because of obstructions, leveling issues, or lack of maintenance. Eric also talks about slide-out motors, control boards, manual override basics, and when it is time to stop troubleshooting and call a professional. The goal of this episode is to help RV owners slow down, think clearly, and check the simple things first so they do not turn a small slide-out problem into an expensive repair. Show Notes: RV slide-outs are great when they work, but when they stop moving, they can quickly become one of the most stressful problems on a trip. A slide-out stuck in the closed position can make the RV feel cramped and unusable. A slide-out stuck in the open position can keep you from leaving the campground. Either way, it is easy to panic and start pressing the button over and over. In this episode, Eric Stark explains why forcing a stuck slide-out is one of the worst things an RV owner can do. If the room is crooked, grinding, clicking, or moving on one side only, continuing to hold the switch can damage motors, gears, tracks, cables, control boards, or the slide room itself. Eric walks through the first things to check when an RV slide-out will not move. The diagnostic process starts with power. A weak battery, low voltage, loose cable, bad ground, or corroded connection can keep a slide-out from working properly, even if the lights and other 12-volt items still seem fine. From there, Eric explains the importance of checking fuses, auto-reset breakers, wiring, switches, and controller connections before replacing expensive parts. This episode also covers how to listen to what the slide-out is telling you. No sound, clicking, grinding, or uneven movement can each point toward a different problem. Eric also discusses inside and outside obstructions, why the RV needs to be level, how seals and lubrication affect slide-out operation, and why every RV owner should understand their manual override procedure before they need it. The main takeaway is simple: do not force a stuck RV slide-out. Start with battery power, fuses, breakers, wiring, obstructions, leveling, sounds, seals, and the manual override procedure. A calm, step-by-step approach can save time, money, and frustration while helping RV owners stay confident on the road. Takeaways: The importance of checking battery voltage when experiencing issues with RV slide-outs cannot be overstated.When faced with a stuck slide-out, it is imperative to avoid excessive button pressing to prevent further complications.Identifying potential obstructions is crucial when operating RV slide-outs to avoid damaging both the slide and the RV itself.Understanding the specific slide-out system installed in your RV is essential for effective troubleshooting and maintenance.Maintaining a level RV is critical for the proper functioning of slide-outs, particularly when setting up at a campsite.Regularly lubricating and inspecting the slide-out mechanisms can significantly extend their lifespan and reliability. Sunpro Mfg RV Slide Out Fabrics - Use Discount Code "5% Discount" RV Slide-Out Troubleshooting Checklist RV Help - Mobile RV Techs Contact Us via our Website or Phone or Text us @ 406-961-8688 Our Online Resources: The Smart Rver YouTube Channel - Check Out Our No-Nonsense YouTube Videos Sunpro Mfg - RV Sunshade, Windshield Covers & Slide Out Awning Fabrics Hot Boat Ropes - Marine Cordage- Anchor Lines, Dock Lines, Tow Lines, etc. Top Rated Podcast - The Smart RVer Podcast Website Companies mentioned in this episode: SunPro ManufacturingLippertBALDometicFurrion

  5. Jul 17

    Episode 207 – Why Are My RV 110 Volt Electrical Outlets Dead?

    Intro: In this episode, Eric Stark covers a common RV electrical problem: outlets that suddenly stop working. Many RV owners assume they have a bad outlet, a bad breaker, or a serious electrical issue, but the problem may be as simple as one tripped GFCI outlet. Eric explains how RV 120-volt AC power differs from the 12-volt DC system and why that difference matters when troubleshooting. He also breaks down what a GFCI outlet does, why it is used near moisture-prone areas, and how a single GFCI can protect multiple outlets throughout the RV. Listeners will learn where to look for GFCI reset buttons, why bathroom, kitchen, basement, and outside outlets may be connected, and what can cause a GFCI to trip repeatedly. Eric also shares practical safety tips for checking moisture, extension cords, adapters, appliances, and for checking for loose connections. The goal of this episode is to help RV owners troubleshoot dead outlets with confidence, understand when a simple reset may solve the problem, and know when it is time to stop and call a professional. Show Notes: RV outlets that stop working can be frustrating, especially when several outlets seem to go dead at the same time. In this episode, Eric Stark explains why the problem may not be the outlet itself. In many RVs, one GFCI outlet can protect multiple outlets downstream, which means the reset button may be in a different location than the outlet that is not working. Eric begins by explaining the difference between the RV’s 120-volt AC system and the 12-volt DC system. This distinction matters because GFCI outlets are part of the 120-volt side of the RV. If wall outlets, the microwave, or plug-in appliances are not working, the GFCI may be involved. If the lights, water pump, furnace controls, refrigerator controls, slide-outs, or awnings are not working, the issue is usually on the 12-volt side. The episode also explains what a GFCI outlet does and why it is important. A GFCI is designed to help protect people from electric shock by detecting when current may be leaking where it should not be. That is why GFCI protection is commonly used near bathrooms, kitchens, outside receptacles, basement compartments, and other areas where moisture may be present. Eric walks listeners through a practical troubleshooting process. He explains where to look for GFCI outlets, how one tripped GFCI can shut off several outlets, and why it is important to check the bathroom, kitchen, outside receptacles, storage compartments, and other hidden locations before replacing parts. He also covers common reasons a GFCI may trip, including moisture in an outside outlet, wet extension cords, faulty appliances, cheap or damaged adapters, campground pedestal issues, loose connections, and worn outlets. Eric reminds RV owners that a GFCI that keeps tripping should not be ignored or bypassed. It may be warning them about a real electrical problem. The episode also touches on the importance of using quality electrical parts. RVers should be cautious about low-quality replacement outlets or electrical components from unknown sources. Electrical parts are not the place to save a few dollars if safety and reliability are at stake. By the end of the episode, listeners will have a better understanding of how GFCI protection works in an RV, how to troubleshoot dead outlets, and when to get professional help. The goal is to help RV owners solve simple problems safely, avoid unnecessary repairs, and stay on the road with more confidence. Takeaways: In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of RV air conditioners, particularly their operational mechanics and essential components.We highlight the significance of understanding the heat load and humidity removal, which are crucial for effective cooling performance.Our conversation emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance, specifically cleaning coils and filters to ensure optimal functionality of air conditioning units.We discuss common misconceptions among RV owners regarding air conditioner performance, particularly under extreme temperatures.The interview with Will Troyer provides invaluable insights into what buyers should consider when selecting an RV air conditioner.We conclude with advice on maintaining air conditioners to enhance their longevity and efficiency, both of which are crucial for any RV owner. View Burnt RV GFCI outlet RV GFCI Checklist Solbio RV Holding Tank Liquid Link - Use this Discount Code for 10% Off "Solbi10" Wholesale RV Extended Warranties - The Honest Warranty Our Online Resources: The Smart Rver YouTube Channel - Check Out Our No-Nonsense YouTube Videos Sunpro Mfg - RV Sunshade, Windshield Covers & Slide Out Awning Fabrics Hot Boat Ropes - Marine Cordage- Anchor Lines, Dock Lines, Tow Lines, etc. Top Rated Podcast - The Smart RVer Podcast Website

  6. Jul 3

    RV Air Conditioners Explained: Cooling, Maintenance & Common Problems

    Summary: RV air conditioners can be confusing, especially when they are not keeping up with the summer heat. In this episode, I sit down with Will Troyer from GE RV Appliances to explain how RV air conditioners actually work, what owners should realistically expect from them, and what to consider before purchasing a replacement unit. We discuss why an air conditioner does more than simply blow cold air, how BTU ratings and the RV’s overall heat load affect performance, and why insulation, humidity, airflow, and outside temperature all play a role in how comfortable the RV feels. Will also shares practical maintenance advice that can help an air conditioner operate more efficiently and last longer. Whether you are troubleshooting poor cooling, preparing for hot-weather travel, or shopping for a new unit, this episode will help you make better decisions and get more from your RV air-conditioning system. Show Notes: In this episode of The Smart RVer Podcast, I talk with Will Troyer from GE RV Appliances about how RV air conditioners work, why they sometimes struggle in extreme heat, and what RV owners can do to improve cooling performance. One of the most important points Will explains is that an air conditioner does not simply create cold air. Its primary job is to remove heat and moisture from inside the RV. Understanding this process helps explain why cooling performance can vary depending on outside temperature, humidity, insulation, window area, sun exposure, airflow, and the size of the RV. We also discuss realistic expectations for RV air-conditioning performance. Many owners expect the thermostat setting to determine how cold the RV should become, but the temperatures of the air entering the unit and the air coming out of the vents provide a more useful picture of how well the system is operating. Even a properly functioning air conditioner may struggle when the RV has been sitting in direct sunlight, and the walls, furniture, cabinets, and flooring have absorbed heat throughout the day. Will shares several practical ways RVers can help their air conditioners perform better. Starting the AC earlier in the day can prevent the RV from becoming heat-soaked. Closing blinds, reducing direct sunlight, maintaining good airflow, and avoiding unnecessary heat inside the RV can also make a noticeable difference. Regular maintenance is another major part of keeping an RV air conditioner operating efficiently. Dirty air filters, clogged coils, restricted airflow, and debris around the rooftop unit can reduce cooling performance and place additional stress on the system. Inspecting and cleaning these areas can often improve performance before more complicated repairs are considered. The conversation also covers what RV owners should know before purchasing a replacement air conditioner. BTU ratings are important, but bigger is not always automatically better. The size of the RV, ductwork, ceiling assembly, electrical system, thermostat controls, installation requirements, and overall heat load should all be considered. Rather than choosing a unit based solely on a familiar name or advertised feature, RV owners should ask questions and ensure the air conditioner is appropriate for their specific RV and camping conditions. This episode provides practical information for both new and experienced RVers who want to better understand their air conditioner, improve cooling performance, avoid preventable problems, and make a more informed decision when replacement becomes necessary. Takeaways In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of RV air conditioners, particularly their operational mechanics and essential components.We highlight the significance of understanding the heat load and humidity removal, which are crucial for effective cooling performance.Our conversation emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance, specifically cleaning coils and filters to ensure optimal functionality of air conditioning units.We discuss common misconceptions among RV owners regarding air conditioner performance, particularly under extreme temperatures.The interview with Will Troyer provides invaluable insights into what buyers should consider when selecting an RV air conditioner.We conclude with advice on maintaining air conditioners to enhance their longevity and efficiency, both of which are crucial for any RV owner. GE RV Appliances Our Online Resources: The Smart Rver YouTube Channel - Check Out Our No-Nonsense YouTube Videos Sunpro Mfg - RV Sunshade, Windshield Covers & Slide Out Awning Fabrics Hot Boat Ropes - Marine Cordage- Anchor Lines, Dock Lines, Tow Lines, etc. Top Rated Podcast - The Smart RVer Podcast Website

  7. Jun 19

    RV Toilet Problems: Leaks, Smells, and Simple DIY Fixes

    SummaryRV toilet problems can be frustrating, but most of them come down to a few basic areas: the bowl seal, water valve, floor flange, black tank, or water supply. In this episode of The Smart RVer Podcast, Eric walks through common RV toilet issues, including leaks, bad odors, a bowl that won’t hold water, toilets that rock, and toilets that won’t flush properly. Rather than assuming the whole toilet needs to be replaced, Eric explains how to narrow the problem down and look at the simple causes first. A worn blade seal, a loose water fitting, a clogged black tank, a cracked valve, or mineral buildup can often be diagnosed without tearing everything apart. He also explains the difference between a regular clog and a pyramid plug, and why knowing that difference matters. This episode also includes practical advice on what to check before buying a replacement toilet, such as the water line location, floor flange condition, bolt pattern, and available space. Eric also shares the “hold the line, turn the nut” approach for RV water fittings to help prevent leaks when making repairs. The goal is simple: help RVers understand what is going wrong, fix what they can, and avoid spending money on parts they may not need. Show NotesRV toilet problems are among the things every RVer wants fixed quickly. A leaking toilet, a bad smell, or a toilet that won’t flush right can turn a good trip into a frustrating one fast. The good news is that many RV toilet problems are easier to understand once you separate the issue into the right category. In this episode, Eric breaks down the most common RV toilet problems and explains where to start looking before assuming the toilet needs to be replaced. What We Cover in This EpisodeThe bowl won’t hold water If water slowly disappears from the bowl, the problem is usually the blade seal or ball seal. That seal helps hold water in the bowl and blocks odors from rising from the black tank. Water is leaking behind the toilet A leak behind the toilet often points to the water valve, the supply line, or a loose connection. Eric explains why it is important to check fittings carefully and avoid overtightening plastic parts. The toilet rocks or feels loose A rocking toilet may be caused by loose bolts, a damaged floor flange, or a soft floor. This is one issue you do not want to ignore because movement can lead to leaks or further damage. Bad smells in the bathroom Odors can come from a bad seal, black tank problems, venting issues, or poor tank treatment habits. The smell is not always the toilet itself, so it helps to look at the whole system. Clog vs. pyramid plug Not every blockage is the same. A simple clog and a pyramid plug are two different problems, and they require different solutions. Eric explains the difference and why black tank habits matter. Toilet replacement tips Before replacing an RV toilet, check the water line location, floor flange, bolt pattern, space behind the toilet, and the condition of the floor. A toilet may look like a simple swap, but small details can make installation harder than expected. Water fitting tip: hold the line, turn the nut Eric also explains a simple rule for working with RV water fittings: hold the line steady and turn the nut. This helps prevent the water line from twisting and creating a leak during repairs. Main TakeawayMost RV toilet problems are easier to fix once you identify their source. Start with the simple things first: seals, fittings, water supply, the floor flange, the black tank, and the venting system. A little troubleshooting can save money, prevent damage, and keep your RV trip moving in the right direction. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: RV Toilet Compact Water Valve Simple Upgrade Kit RV Pex Fittings and Tube - What to Keep in Your Tool Box RV Water Lines and Fittings Made Simple in 2026 Spray Port Fitting Video - Fix It Before It Breaks RV Pex Line Water Repair Kits - A must-have for any RV Contact Us - Call, Text, Video, Email Our Online Resources: The Smart Rver YouTube Channel - Check Out Our No-Nonsense YouTube Videos Sunpro Mfg - RV Sunshade, Windshield Covers & Slide Out Awning Fabrics Hot Boat Ropes - Marine Cordage- Anchor Lines, Dock Lines, Tow Lines, etc. Top Rated Podcast - The Smart RVer Podcast Website

  8. Jun 5

    How to Find an RV Water Leak Before It Ruins Your Trip

    Intro/SummaryWater leaks can ruin an RV trip fast, especially when they go unnoticed before you hit the road. In this episode of The Smart RVer Podcast, Eric Stark walks through the most common places where RV leaks occur and how to find them before they cause costly damage. Eric covers roof leaks, plumbing leaks, appliance leaks, and those sneaky drips that only show up when the system is under pressure. He explains why a simple flashlight, a few paper towels, and a little patience can make leak detection much easier. You’ll also learn why every RVer should carry a basic emergency repair kit with common PEX fittings, clamps, and a few simple tools. This episode is all about helping DIY RVers catch problems early, make basic repairs when possible, and keep small leaks from becoming trip-ending headaches. Show NotesIn this episode, Eric talks about one of the most important pre-trip inspections every RV owner should do: checking for water leaks. RVs are built with lightweight materials, and even a small leak can cause serious damage if it is ignored. Floors, walls, cabinets, insulation, and underbelly areas can all suffer when water gets where it does not belong. Eric explains the different types of leaks RV owners should watch for, including roof, plumbing, water heater, toilet, faucet, and appliance leaks. He also shares practical ways to track them down using simple items like a flashlight and paper towels. Sometimes the easiest method is still the best: pressurize the water system, slow down, and look closely. The episode also covers why it is smart to inspect your RV before a trip instead of discovering a leak at the campground. Eric encourages listeners to build a small emergency leak repair kit with common PEX fittings, tubing, clamps, and basic hand tools so they can handle minor problems on the road. Whether you are getting ready for your first trip of the season or preparing for a long haul, this episode will help you catch leaks early, protect your RV from water damage, and stay focused on enjoying the trip rather than dealing with repairs. Takeaways Identifying water leaks in an RV is crucial, as early detection prevents extensive damage.Using a flashlight and paper towels helps locate leaks in RV systems.It is vital to differentiate between the various types of leaks, such as freshwater and blackwater.Regular maintenance of RV seals and fittings is essential to prevent leaks and costly repairs.Tire-locking chocks effectively minimize movement in tandem-axle trailers, enhancing stability and comfort.Having an emergency kit with the necessary parts can ensure a smooth RV experience while traveling. Get The Free ChecklistResources Mentioned in this Episode: RV Pex Fittings and Tube - What to Keep in Your Tool Box RV Water Lines and Fittings Made Simple in 2026 Spray Port Fitting Video - Fix It Before It Breaks RV Pex Line Water Repair Kits - A must-have for any RV Contact Us - Call, Text, Video, Email Our Online Resources: The Smart Rver YouTube Channel - Check Out Our No-Nonsense YouTube Videos Sunpro Mfg - RV Sunshade, Windshield Covers & Slide Out Awning Fabrics Hot Boat Ropes - Marine Cordage- Anchor Lines, Dock Lines, Tow Lines, etc. Top Rated Podcast - The Smart RVer Podcast Website

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About

Welcome to The Smart RVer Podcast: DIY RV Maintenance and Repair—your practical, no-fluff guide to keeping your RV reliable, safe, and road-ready. I’m Eric Stark, and each episode focuses on RV maintenance and repairs in a clear, down-to-earth way that makes sense—whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or you just want to understand your rig before you head to the shop. You’ll learn what’s happening, what to check, what to fix, and when it’s smarter to bring in a pro—so you can stay confident and in control. From tires and brakes to roof seals, electrical, plumbing, appliances, propane, slide-outs, and preventative maintenance, we cover the systems that matter most—plus the simple habits that prevent expensive breakdowns later. No internet rabbit holes. No confusing jargon. Just straightforward steps, smart tips, and real-world solutions you can use. Episodes are concise—around 30 minutes—packed with actionable advice you can apply right away. Press play and keep your RV ready for the road.

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