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  • Increase RV and Motorhome Security

    Improve Motorhome and RV Security with SolarTrac2 the wireless solar security system. The main brain, the solar panel and 12 volt battery are all built into one small roof module. It installs in just minutes without any permanent modifications to the roof or interior. Once fully charged by the sun, the built-in battery will keep the system functional for two weeks.

    This RV security system supports up to 16 wireless devices made specifically for this solar security system (wireless key chain remote, wireless wall keypad remote, wireless window sensor, wireless motion sensor). The kit includes 1 window or motion sensor and one key chain remote, additional sensors and controls are purchased separately.

    The roof module contains a loud speaker which will sound when the alarm is triggered. On top of that, it can also send an alert to your email address and to your cellphone. With the solar security system you’ll also receive a 1 year membership for online monitoring. The system is completely functional without the membership but email and text alerts as well as GPS tracking will not be available.

    With the membership you’ll be able to login to your DrivTrac account at any time and check for alerts you may have missed, the current vehicle location and more. If you’ve received an alert that the motorhome or RV is moving down the road you can contact the authorities and give them the exact location of the vehicle as well as the direction of travel.

    The roof module is slim and sleek so that most will overlook it completely, but it has it’s own security built-in; just in case. The SolarTrac2 is designed to detect when it’s being removed from the roof, so if the alarm is in armed mode and the roof module detects that it’s being removed from the roof it will send alerts via text and email (with valid membership).

    This solar security system and wireless sensors can communicate up to 200ft apart. The wireless window and motion sensors are powered by 9v batteries that should be changed once every 3 – 6 months. The battery in window sensors on windows that are seldom opened can be changed every 6 months and motion sensors in high traffic rooms should have their battery changed every 3 months.

    Recap

    Kit includes one roof module, one wireless window or motion sensor, the key chain remote and a one year membership. No permanent modifications made to interior or exterior. Sensors and wall keypad must be located within 200 feet of the roof module. With active membership the roof module will sound the alarm, send text and email alerts to you, allow real time vehicle tracking on the web. Without an active membership the roof module will only sound the alarm.



    Source by JJ Martin

  • Motorhome Features To Look For When Hiring

    Motorhomes have become one of the first options for travellers who are looking for flexible transport and accommodation options when making their travel arrangements. Their popularity is due in part to their cost effectiveness as well as the ability for visitors to travel around the country at their own pace and in their own space.

    As with car hire there are many different options and features you can select when choosing a motorhome hire. Here are some things to keep in mind.

    First and foremost, of course, is how many people your motorhome needs to sleep, or berth. You can get as few as two berths which is suitable for a couple, up to as many as 6 berth for a family or a group wishing to travel together. Next choice is whether you want bathroom facilities onboard or if you are happy to stop at public conveniences or use those of the camping grounds you stay at. Obviously having a toilet and shower onboard does make things much easier for a family if you don’t need to find public facilities along your route or during the night, however you do have to consider the option of additional care required with onboard waste.

    Something you may not have considered is whether to choose a manual or automatic transmission. If all your drivers can drive manual [stick shift] vehicles then the choice is easier however if one of your drivers is only licensed to drive an automatic vehicle you need to make sure you book this type to ensure that all drivers can safely operate the vehicle.

    The other features you might like to consider are the little things that might make a big impact on your trip, particularly if you travelling as a family with smaller children. Ensuring the motorhome can fit a baby seat is a must, additionally having good heating and cooling throughout, additional seating could also come in handy as will having a TV with a DVD player to keep the kids entertained along the way. Your motorhome hire may also have are filtered water and a fresh water tank, electric step to make it easier to get in and out and, linen and bedding included.

    As you can see there are lots of features your motorhome hire can have so make sure you write a list of the most important ones for you and your travelling companions to ensure your holiday is memorable for the right reasons.



    Source by David Jon Smith

  • Police Auctions Or Motorhome Dealers?

    Police Auctions Or Motorhome Dealers?

    If you plan on buying a used motorhome you could decide to go to a police auction or a seized auction or you could buy from an established motorhome dealer. If you buy from the dealer this will be the most expensive option but will probably offer the most security. If you buy from the auction you will without a doubt be able to get a used motorhome at a fraction of the price offered by the dealer. The risk however will be a lot higher. In this article there are a few pointers that will help to minimize that risk and make buying at auction a little more attractive.

    Security

    When you buy from an established dealer you get a certain peace of mind that it is an established company with a reputation to withhold. They will know that if they treat you well then you will be you be counting on you to return in a few years time to renew your motorhome. At a police auction the only security you will have is that which is given to you by the mechanic you take along with you.

    Warranty

    At a police auction there are no guarantees offered except for if the vehicle is running or not. At a motorhome dealership you normally get a short 30 day guarantee with an option to extend that to a one year limited warranty for an extra fee. The warranties normally only cover the mechanical side and not the fixture and fittings.

    Finance plans

    Not offered at the auctions, the used motorhome dealer will be able to arrange a selection of payment plans so you can make your purchase with easy monthly payments.

    Take your time

    When buying from a motorhome dealer you do not have the same sense of urgency as you do at the police auctions. At the auctions you have a few hours to check out any number of vehicles you might be interested in bidding on. Buying from a dealer you will have time to view at your leisure and even think about your final decision for a few days.

    Money

    The cost is the main reason to buy from an auction instead of a motorhome dealer. The vehicles go for so much less that you can afford to bid on far superior models knowing that you will still be within budget.

    Motorhome dealers buy from auctions

    Dealerships buy and part exchange motorhomes from individuals but also the do attend police auctions and seized auctions where the often buy motorhomes to sell on later. Chances are the motorhome you are looking at with the dealer has come from a police auction itself.

    If you know what you are looking for, have a good mechanic with you and know some of the things to look for when checking over a motorhome then buying at a police auction will completely cut out the middle man and could get you an absolute bargain.



    Source by Barry Bushnell

  • Retractable Motorhome Awnings

    Retractable Motorhome Awnings

    Retractable motorhome awnings are a popular choice for many campers because they offer a simple and efficient way of adding extra protection from the elements. There are two main types to choose from, these being manual and motorised versions. Many modern motorhomes now come with a retractable awning already installed, however even if you don’t have a pre-installed design, there are many companies that can supply you with the necessary equipment to add your own.

    The manual awnings are typically stored on the side of the motorhome and can be rolled up for easy storage. To release them you just pull on the support straps and your awning will open up. The support tracks will then slide out and help to guide your awning into position. Strong support arms are essential to carry the weight of the actual awning and to avoid sagging and wear. It is worth spending a bit of extra cash to prolong the life of the awning.

    The motorised versions can be erected at the push of a button and are the most simple to use. They cost more than the manual one’s but they can be really useful in high winds, in that you will not have to wrestle to erect them. Again, the support mechanisms are important because these will be more prone to rust and corrosion. The best kinds are made from aluminium or stainless steel, as these offer the most durability from rain and wind. Support tracks can also rust and start to stain the awning fabric which comes into contact with them, so look for quality materials that will last longer than the plain steel tracks.

    There are many different styles and sizes of retractable motorhome awnings that will fit almost any motorhome on the market. The size you choose will depend on the size of your motorhome and your own requirements. You can purchase larger models that will extend out further and create more shade from the sun, but the downside is that they will be more prone to flapping around when it get’s windy. This can create pressure on the supports and increase wear and tear.

    For extra protection you can easily add side panels and blocking panels, which can be fitted to the awning wit a few simple steps. Many people choose this option to give them more privacy, or for added ventilation on hot sunny days. De flappers can also be bought to stop the awning from flapping in high winds at minimal cost. Another useful addition is the center support pole, which is great at diverting rain water from the top of the awning. Rain water can start to pool and cause sagging above your head.

    As always, make sure you know the dimensions of your motorhome before you buy any awning so that it will fit. If you are going to customise yourself then talk to experienced sellers first so you know what tools you will need to make the process as simple as you can.



    Source by Antony Cassidy

  • Beginner Motorhome Buyers, What You Need to Know

    Beginner Motorhome Buyers, What You Need to Know

    A motorhome is not like having a standard vehicle. It requires a big financial commitment and so when it comes to insuring the vehicle you want to make sure you buy a high quality policy that covers all your needs. As you will be traveling around in it, one of the most important things to consider is what replacement cover is offered in an accident/breakdown, as well as any alternative accommodation.

    Following on from this you need to check exactly how much you are entitled to claim for personal belongings in the event of theft or an accident; some companies may entice you with a cheap quote but not offer you the cover that you will need to pay for replacements. So do compare cover levels and read the policy wording in detail to understand what you are going to be insured for. Do not forget that if you use your motorhome abroad to check how much continental cover you are entitled to from a company, as they do differ.

    Know clearly your mileage as some companies set a limit and check how old the vehicle is as this can determine the premium cost. If the motorhome has been modified or converted always try to have it done professionally, confirm change to the DVLA and obtain an engineer’s report – this can sometimes save you money as some insurers will not then charge a premium for a modified vehicle. In terms of saving money as a new motorhome buyer, being an experienced driver will always be in your favour.

    However, various other cost cutting ideas are: Selecting a limited annual mileage; having a security device such as an immobiliser fitted; parking sensors for safety; secure storage; and belonging to a motorhome club. Also, if the vehicle is a particular model or import, consider going to a specialist company, as this could save you money on your overall premium.



    Source by Daniel T Somers

  • What Makes a Motorhome Green?

    What Makes a Motorhome Green?

    The green lifestyle is becoming ever more popular. It covers more and more aspects of our lives. You can have a green home and a green motorhome as well. With such a recreational vehicle, you will save money and help to preserve the natural environment. Find out what features and capabilities can make a campervan truly green.

    Fuel Economy

    A motorhome with excellent fuel economy is truly green. The less fuel is used for covering 100 kilometres the better. A fuel-efficient campervan will not only save you money. It will actually produce a lower volume of exhaust gasses which pollute the environment.

    There is a big debate whether diesel or gasoline is more efficient and better for the environment. Most experts vote for diesel, but some recent studies have revealed that gasoline may not be as bad as previously thought. In this situation, it is best for you to do the math based on the precise specs of the recreational vehicles which you compare.

    Design and Make

    In order to be green, a motorhome has to be made from green materials. Traditionally, manufacturers use hardwood or plywood materials like lauan for the interior. They are not environmentally friendly. The composite materials, however, fall into this category.

    In addition to being recycled, the composite materials are lighter than their traditional counterparts. This makes the campervan lighter as well. In fact, it has been estimated that if only composite materials are used for building the interior of an average recreational vehicle, it will be around 20% lighter. Due to its lighter weight, it uses less fuel and this brings benefits to your pocket and to the natural environment.

    Energy Efficiency

    There are different features and capabilities which can make a motorhome energy-efficient. Among the main ones, you will find tinted windows with double glazing. They prevent the hot or cool air inside the campervan from escaping. Many modern models are equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting systems. The bulbs use much less energy than their traditional counterparts. The heating and air conditioning systems can also be made so that they use less power to operate.

    The solar panels are perhaps the most innovative features for energy efficiency. They are preinstalled on the roofs of many new campervans. They can be added after purchase as well. A sufficiently large and powerful solar panel system can produce up to 70% and even up to 90% of the energy needed inside the average motorhome every day.

    It pays off to invest in a green motorhome.



    Source by Celine Potrov