After a trip, if you are like me, all you want to do is prop your boots up! You worked hard to prepare for the trip (and used our handy preparing checklist) and had a wonderful time with your favorite horse.
But before you start dreaming of your next adventure, it is important to properly clean-up and store your trailer. This will make sure that your next trip is a success too!
Unload & Secure Items – Unload and secure all items including animals, equipment and supplies. Items that are to left onboard for your next trip should be safely stored.
Floors – Raise the nose of the trailer (and be sure to level the trailer afterward if you a LQ/fridge). Remove mats in the horse area and wash out thoroughly with soap and water. Let the area dry and re-install mats. If you have aluminum floors, it is critical that you wash the floor frequently to remove the urine, as it is corrosive to aluminum. Treated wood floors do not require washing as often but we recommend at least monthly or after no more than two uses.
Black and Gray Tanks – Drain and wash out black and gray tanks. Add a bit of water back when finished and add deodorizer. This will keep your trailer smelling good until next use!
Holding Tank and Water Lines – Drain and flush fresh water holding tank and water lines. Add fresh water just before your next trip. This will prevent that rotten egg smell.
Winterizing – If you are in freezing conditions, be sure to keep the interior of the trailer above 40 degrees so you don’t have to “winterize” the water system. You can do this with the onboard heating system or the use of a small electric heater.
Cleaning – Washing and clean the interior and exterior of the trailer with soap and water, as needed, to protect your investment and keep it looking good!
LP Tanks – Check and replace the LP tanks as needed. I suggest you always carry two full LP tanks as spares. Store them safely.
Parking and Storing – Park your trailer and plug it in to household power. Be sure your 12-volt master switch is in the “on” position and leave your refrigerator running. This will recharge your onboard batteries and prevent your refrigerator from having mold and mildew issues. If you are storing the trailer for an extended time, leave it unplugged from household power and leave the 12-volt master switch off and open the refrigerator door. A few days before its next use, plug it up and let it charge before saddling up!
Frequent Checks – Check your trailer frequently between each use to be certain all systems are ok and that you have it ready for your next trip with little effort or time required.
An opportunity can arise at any time and we sure would not want you to miss a trip because you are not prepared!
Enjoy your trailer and call us toll free anytime if you need anything. It is our pleasure to serve you!
Happy Trails!
~DON
The post Returning Home – Post Trip Clean-up Tips appeared first on Horse Trailer Help :: Dixie Horse & Mule Co.
