Winter RVing can be peaceful, quiet, and downright beautiful — but it can also turn expensive fast if you’re not prepared. Every winter, I get calls that start with, “It froze last night and now nothing works.” Most of those situations are preventable with a little planning and some realistic expectations.

Whether you’re full-time, part-time, or just riding out a cold snap, here’s what actually matters when wintering in your RV — from someone who fixes the aftermath.

Start With the Biggest Question: Are You Staying Put or Traveling?

How you winterize depends entirely on whether you’re stationary or moving.

• Staying in one place: You’ll want insulation, skirting, and heat management.

• Traveling through cold areas: You need freeze protection that can handle changing temperatures quickly.

This matters because what works for a parked RV in Texas does not work the same way in Colorado or the Midwest.

Protecting Your Water System (This Is Where Most Damage Happens)

Frozen plumbing is the most common and costly winter RV issue.

Fresh Water Hose

If you’re hooked up to city water:

Nothing puts a dent in a Hill Country getaway faster than an RV problem showing up the moment you arrive at the campground. After years of providing RV repair New Braunfels locals rely on, I can tell you this: most RV issues give warning signs long before they become trip-ending disasters. Catching them early can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

Here are five of the most common RV issues we see around New Braunfels—and what you can do about them before you hit the road.

1. Air Conditioner Not Cooling

Texas heat is unforgiving, and RV A/C units work hard. If your air conditioner is blowing warm air, cycling constantly, or struggling to keep up, don’t ignore it.

Prevention tips:

Clean or replace interior filters regularly

Keep the rooftop unit free of debris

Don’t overload campground power pedestals

If performance is still poor, a professional inspection is recommended. Electrical components and capacitors often fail quietly before quitting altogether.

2. Plumbing Leaks or Low Water Pressure

Water leaks are sneaky and cause more damage than most RV owners realize. Loose fittings, cracked PEX lines, and failing faucets are common—especially after long drives.

If you’re gearing up for a Hill Country getaway and dreaming of hot showers under the Texas stars, your RV water heater needs to be ready to perform. As an RV repair expert serving New Braunfels and the surrounding areas, we see water heater issues derail trips all the time—usually right when guests arrive or after a long travel day. The good news? Many problems are preventable if you catch them early.

Here are five common RV water heater issues and what you can do about them before you roll out.

1. No Hot Water at All

This is the classic complaint. For propane units, the most common culprit is a pilot light that won’t stay lit or won’t ignite.

What to check:

Make sure your propane is turned on and not empty

Inspect the igniter for corrosion or loose wiring

Listen for the click when trying to light the pilot

If it won’t ignite after basic checks, it’s time to call a professional for RV water heater repair in New Braunfels TX—especially if you smell gas. Safety first.

2. Water Is Warm… But Not Hot

If your water is lukewarm at best, the heating element (electric units) or burner assembly (propane units) may be partially failing.

When Texas heat hits full throttle (and you’re sweating in places you didn’t know could sweat), a reliable RV air conditioner isn’t just a luxury — it’s survival. Whether your old unit finally tapped out or you’re upgrading for better cooling power, a properly installed RV A/C system makes every trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.

As Certified RV Technicians, we install rooftop A/C units almost daily, and we’ve seen just about everything — from 20-year-old dinosaurs barely hanging on, to brand-new units that weren’t installed correctly from the start. So let’s walk through what goes into a professional RV A/C installation and what RV owners should expect.

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🔧 Why Replacing Your RV A/C Matters

An air conditioner doesn’t just “go out.” It usually gives warning signs, like:

Uneven cooling or warm air

Loud grinding or squealing

Freezing coils

Tripping breakers

Water leaks inside the RV

Sometimes repairs make sense. Other times — especially with older units like the Dometic Brisk II or a failing Coleman Mach — replacement is the safer and more cost-effective option.

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❄️ What’s Involved in an RV A/C Installation?

Let me tell you about last Tuesday night.

We’re parked at our favorite spot near Canyon Lake, temps dropped to 28 degrees, and around 3 AM—you guessed it—the furnace kicked off. Michael and I both woke up to that specific kind of cold that makes you wonder if you’re camping or cryogenically frozen.

Here’s the thing nobody tells you when you buy an RV: your furnace has a personality. And sometimes, that personality is “dramatic diva who quits when you need them most.”

Why RV Furnaces Are Weirdly Temperamental

After years of living in our RV full-time and fixing hundreds of furnaces for other folks, we’ve learned that RV furnaces fail for the dumbest reasons. Not complicated mechanical failures—just weird little things that add up.

The sail switch gets dirty. This little guy is basically a flap that proves air is moving through your furnace. Dust builds up, the flap gets stuck, and your furnace says “nope, not today.”

The battery voltage drops just enough. Your furnace is picky about power. If your battery dips below about 10.5 volts, the control board throws a fit and shuts everything down. Even if your lights still work fine.

Spiders. I wish I was kidding. Spiders love to build homes in the exhaust vent during summer. Come winter, your furnace can’t breathe, and it quits.

Mobile RV Repair Services Throughout the Texas Hill Country

When your RV needs repair or maintenance, the last thing you want to do is unhook, pack up, and drive to a shop—especially when you’re enjoying the beautiful Texas Hill Country. That’s exactly why RV Rescue Rangers brings certified, professional RV repair services directly to you, wherever you’re parked.

Our Service Area: 50 Miles of Texas Hill Country Excellence

Based in New Braunfels, TX, we proudly serve RV owners throughout a 50-mile radius, covering some of the most popular RV destinations and communities in Central Texas. Whether you’re a local resident, a seasonal visitor, or just passing through, we’re here to help keep your RV running smoothly.

Communities We ServeNew Braunfels

Our home base! As one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas and a major RV destination, New Braunfels is where we live, work, and RV. We know the local campgrounds, storage facilities, and RV communities inside and out.

Gruene

This charming historic district attracts RVers from across the country. Whether you’re parked near the Guadalupe River or staying at a local RV resort, we’ll come to you for repairs, maintenance, or emergency service.

How RV Pocket Tech Can Help the Average RV Owner

If you’re an RV owner, you know that maintaining your home on wheels can feel overwhelming. Between complex systems, seasonal maintenance, and unexpected breakdowns, it’s easy to feel like you need a mechanical engineering degree just to keep everything running smoothly. That’s where RV Pocket Tech comes in—your digital companion that puts expert RV knowledge right in your pocket.

What Is RV Pocket Tech?

RV Pocket Tech is a comprehensive mobile resource designed specifically for RV owners who want to take control of their RV maintenance and troubleshooting. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time RVer, this tool helps you understand, maintain, and repair your RV with confidence—no matter where the road takes you.

5 Ways RV Pocket Tech Helps Average RV Owners1. Instant Troubleshooting Guidance

Your furnace stops working at 2 AM in freezing temperatures. Your water pump is making strange noises. Your slide-out won’t retract. Instead of panicking or spending hours searching online forums, RV Pocket Tech provides step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common RV problems.

Real-world benefit: Quickly diagnose issues and determine whether it’s something you can fix yourself or if you need to call a professional saving you time, stress, and potentially hundreds of dollars.

There’s nothing quite like the panic that sets in when you’re camping in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, the temperature drops to freezing, and your RV furnace decides to call it quits. One minute you’re cozied up enjoying the crisp evening air, and the next, you’re bundled in every blanket you own, desperately Googling “RV furnace repair Hill Country” at 2 AM.

If you’ve ever experienced a furnace failure while RVing—especially during those unexpectedly cold Texas nights—you know it’s not just uncomfortable; it can be downright dangerous. But here’s the good news: most furnace issues are fixable, and many can even be prevented with proper maintenance.

Whether you’re a full-time RVer calling the Hill Country home, a snowbird escaping colder climates, or a weekend warrior exploring Canyon Lake and Gruene, understanding your RV’s heating system can save you from a cold, miserable night. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about keeping your furnace running smoothly and what to do when it doesn’t.

Understanding Your RV Furnace System

Before we jump into troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand how your RV furnace actually works. Unlike your home’s heating system, RV furnaces are typically forced-air units that run on propane and require 12-volt DC power from your battery to operate.

By RV Rescue Rangers LLC

Rescuing Your Journey, One RV at a Time

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RVing as a family might sound like the dream — endless travel, national parks, cozy campfires, and the freedom to go wherever your heart desires. But if you’ve ever heard comments like “That must be cramped!” or “How do the kids socialize?” — you’re not alone.

Let’s separate myth from reality and explore what family RV life really looks like, both the challenges and the deeply rewarding social side that comes with it.

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🚐 Myth #1: “It’s too cramped for a family.”

Reality: Modern RVs are designed with families in mind.

Bunkhouses, slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, and clever storage solutions make full-time family RVing not only possible but comfortable. Many families discover that less space means more connection — fewer distractions, more shared experiences, and more time outdoors.

With smart organization, routines, and respect for personal space, even small rigs can feel surprisingly spacious.

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🏫 Myth #2: “Kids miss out on education and social life.”

Reality: Many full-time RV families embrace roadschooling — a blend of traditional education and hands-on learning.

By RV Rescue Rangers LLC

Rescuing Your Journey, One RV at a Time

Living and traveling full-time in an RV is an incredible adventure — freedom, flexibility, and endless views. But with that freedom also comes responsibility… especially when it comes to budgeting. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or on the road year-round, a few smart money-saving habits can make your travels smoother and your wallet happier.

Here are some tried-and-true money-saving tips for RV life 👇

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1️⃣ Plan Your Routes Smartly

Fuel is one of the biggest expenses for full-time RVers. Use apps like GasBuddy or RV Life Trip Wizard to plan the most efficient route and find the lowest fuel prices along your journey. Avoid unnecessary detours and check elevation maps — mountains and strong headwinds can significantly affect your fuel economy.

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2️⃣ Stay Longer in Each Location

Many RV parks and resorts offer weekly or monthly discounts that can save you hundreds compared to nightly rates. The longer you stay, the less you spend on fuel, food, and constant setup and tear-down. Plus, you get to truly explore the area and rest between travel days.

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3️⃣ Cook Your Own Meals

Electricity keeps your RV feeling like home — powering your lights, appliances, air conditioner, and entertainment systems. But when something goes wrong, it can leave you in the dark (literally).

At RV Rescue Rangers LLC, we’ve seen just about every electrical issue imaginable — from blown fuses to melted connections — and most can be prevented with routine checks and proper care. Here are the most common RV electrical problems and how to keep your system running safely and efficiently.

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🔋 1. Low or Fluctuating Voltage

Many RV parks have inconsistent power, especially during peak season when everyone’s running their A/C. Low voltage can damage appliances, air conditioners, and microwaves over time.

Symptoms:

Lights dimming or flickering

A/C compressor struggling to start

Electronics cutting off unexpectedly

Prevention Tip:

Use an RV surge protector or EMS (Electrical Management System). It automatically shuts down power if voltage drops too low or spikes too high, protecting your entire RV.

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⚙️ 2. Blown Fuses and Tripped Breakers

This is one of the most common issues in RVs. Overloaded circuits, short circuits, or faulty appliances can trip your breakers or blow fuses.

Your RV’s air conditioner works hard — especially under the Texas sun. The Dometic Brisk II is one of the most popular rooftop units out there, known for reliability and cooling power. But like any mechanical system, it doesn’t last forever.

Here are the most common reasons your Brisk II may need to be replaced and how to spot the warning signs before you’re left sweating through the summer.

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⚙️ 1. Compressor Failure

The compressor is the heart of your air conditioner. When it fails, the unit can’t produce cold air.

What you’ll notice:

The fan runs, but no cool air comes out.

The circuit breaker trips repeatedly.

A loud hum without startup.

Once a compressor seizes or shorts internally, replacing the unit is typically more cost-effective than repairing it.

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💨 2. Refrigerant Leak (Loss of Charge)

Your Brisk II’s refrigerant system is factory-sealed. If it develops a leak — often from corrosion or vibration — it can’t simply be “recharged.”

Warning signs:

The A/C blows lukewarm air.

Ice builds up on coils.

The compressor turns on and off frequently.

In this case, full unit replacement is necessary.

Your RV slide-outs make life on the road a whole lot more comfortable — giving you that extra space for lounging, sleeping, or dining. But like every moving part of your RV, they need regular attention to stay reliable. Neglecting slide-out maintenance can lead to costly repairs, water leaks, or worse — getting stuck halfway in or out.

Let’s dive into some key tips for keeping your slide-outs in top shape.

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🧰 1. Clean and Inspect Regularly

Dirt, debris, and tree sap can build up on slide-out seals and mechanisms. Before operating your slide-out, check for leaves or grit that might damage seals or gears.

Pro Tip: Use a soft brush or rag to gently wipe away debris, and make sure the rubber seals are clean and flexible.

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🧴 2. Lubricate Moving Parts

Your slide system relies on gears, tracks, and seals that need proper lubrication to prevent wear.

Use an RV-safe slide-out lubricant spray on the rails and gears every few months. Avoid standard greases that attract dirt.

For rubber seals, apply a seal conditioner to prevent drying, cracking, and leaks.

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💧 3. Check for Water Leaks

Water is your slide-out’s worst enemy. Inspect the top, sides, and corners for cracks or gaps in the sealant. If you notice soft spots or dark streaks, take action quickly — these could be early signs of water intrusion.

An RV breakdown can feel like the end of the road—but with the right help, it’s just a detour. That’s where we step in.

From air conditioners in the Texas heat to furnaces in chilly autumn nights, our certified technicians bring your RV back to life with same-day or next-day mobile service. We know time is precious when you’re on the move, which is why we come directly to you—campground, driveway, or roadside—so you can keep exploring without missing a beat.

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Travel Beyond Repairs

What sets RV life apart is freedom—the chance to discover hidden gems, wake up to mountain views, or rest beside a quiet river. Our mission goes beyond repairs; it’s about protecting your ability to travel without worry.

Imagine:

Rolling into New Braunfels and floating the Comal River after we’ve fixed your water pump.

Staying cool at your RV park because we got your A/C back in action.

Enjoying a Texas sunset, knowing your generator is running reliably again.

When we repair your RV, we’re not just fixing a system—we’re protecting moments, memories, and milestones.

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Tips for the Road

Every Rescue Rangers blog shares travel insights, so here are a few to inspire your next trip:

Protect your RV investment and ensure worry-free journeys with preventative maintenance from RV Rescue Rangers LLC. Our seasonal maintenance packages, designed for Texas travelers, include a full system check to keep your RV running like new, preventing costly breakdowns and maximizing your time exploring. Schedule your preventative maintenance today by visiting www.thervrescuerangers.com or calling (830) 217-3038.

Facing an RV emergency on the road? RV Rescue Rangers LLC, a Veteran-Owned and Lippert Certified mobile RV repair service based in New Braunfels, TX, brings the repair shop to you, handling everything from AC failures to slide-out issues with transparent pricing and skilled technicians. Don't let breakdowns interrupt your adventure—visit www.thervrescuerangers.com or call (830) 217-3038 for fast, reliable service and get back to enjoying the Texas Hill Country and beyond.

Water leaks are a silent enemy to your RV, leading to costly structural damage, mold, and electrical hazards if left unchecked. RV Rescue Rangers LLC specializes in detecting, preventing, and repairing water leaks, offering services like diagnostics, sealant replacement, and roof maintenance to protect your investment. As a Veteran & Woman-Owned business serving the Texas Hill Country, we ensure your home on wheels stays safe and dry, so book your water leak diagnostic service today.

Why Regular RV Maintenance Matters

Owning an RV is about freedom and adventure—but that adventure can quickly turn stressful if your rig breaks down. Regular maintenance is the key to safety, comfort, and reliability. From brakes to roof seals, keeping up with scheduled care helps prevent costly repairs and ensures every journey stays on track.

👉 Pro tip: Keep a maintenance log. It not only helps you stay on schedule but also adds resale value to your RV.

RV Rescue Rangers LLC – Rescuing Your Journey, One RV at a Time.

Serving New Braunfels, Texas & surrounding areas.