Preparing your HorizonVan after wintering: the checklist for a worry-free start

Why is a methodical overhaul essential?

A van left unused over the winter can suffer invisible stresses. Humidity, the natural discharge of batteries or even stagnation in the water circuits are all points to be checked.

Anticipating this preparation is the guarantee of a worry-free trip. By taking the time to check your specific equipment (Webasto heatingYou'll be protecting your investment and ensuring the longevity of your Horizon.Van.

The expertise of The Glénan Workshop : our HorizonVan are designed for adventure in all seasons. A spring check and regular maintenance will instantly restore your converted van to peak performance.

Mechanical checklist: The basis of your safety

Although Renault Trafic trucks should only be serviced by authorised professionals, a few simple visual checks can help you tackle your first few kilometres with confidence.

Batteries : The heart of your autonomy

Use your integrated control panel to check the voltage of your batteries (carrier and auxiliary).

If the voltage of your auxiliary battery is less than 12.8 V for lithium batteries or 11.6 V for AGM batteries, a full recharge is required.
Plug your van into the mains for 24 hours to stabilise the charge cycles before you leave.

Note: For any mechanical work or regular servicing, we recommend that you make an appointment with an approved Renault garage.

Living facilities: comfort and functionality

The layout of your HorizonVan is a concentrate of technology. Here's how to make sure it's up and running.

Water circuit and hygiene :

After wintering (the period during which you would normally have had your oil drained completely), it's time to put the system back into service:

– Rinse Fill your tank with clean water and run the water through the taps to rinse the system. Using diluted white vinegar can help remove light limescale deposits.
– Check Check that the water pump is working properly and that the circuit and tanks are watertight.
– Hot water If your van is fitted with a water heater (Whale type), test its ignition once the circuit is back on.

Gas and energy :

– Gas Check the level of your cylinder and the condition of the hoses. Test the ignition of your hob.
– Electricity Test all LED lighting, USB sockets and the compression fridge. If you have a solar panel (optional), make sure it's clean to get the best energy performance.

Webasto stationary heater :

Even in spring, the nights can be chilly. Start your Webasto heater and leave it running for about 20 minutes.. This purges the fuel circuit and ensures that the system is ready to provide you with gentle warmth during your stages at altitude.

Cleaning and caring for the passenger compartment

A healthy interior is the key to restful sleep and a pleasant life on board.

– Ventilation At home, open doors, cupboards and the pop-up roof wide for a few hours to renew the air.
– Textiles If your vehicle is fitted with microfibre comfort upholstery, you can use a slightly damp cloth to clean it.
– Surfaces Cleaning: Clean the wooden furniture and worktop with mild products (soapy water or black soap). A quick wipe down of the fridge and sink will finish the job.
– Pop-up roof Check: Visually inspect the condition of the fabric and the roof seals to make sure no snags have appeared.

Test drive and first outing in your converted van

Before you set off on another dream journey in your HorizonVan, with your family or as a couple (even pets are welcome!), we recommend that you take it for a test drive of around fifty kilometres. This will allow you to put the brakes to the test, check the roadholding and get a feel for the vehicle. make sure there are no suspicious noises.

And of course, above all, this test drive is an opportunity to enjoy yourself once again at the wheel of an exceptional van and to plan your future destinations.

Pro tip Organise your first 'fun' weekend close to home. It's the ideal opportunity to check your on-board organisation, test your sleeping arrangements and check your autonomy and equipment in real-life conditions.