How to Level an RV Trailer: A Comprehensive Guide

Leveling your RV trailer is paramount for comfort, appliance functionality, and long-term structural integrity. Improper leveling can lead to uncomfortable sleeping arrangements, malfunctioning refrigerators, and even damage to your RV’s frame. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on how to level your RV trailer accurately and efficiently.

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Why Leveling Your RV Trailer Matters

Leveling an RV trailer goes beyond mere comfort. The implications of neglecting this crucial step can range from minor inconveniences to significant repair costs.

The Ripple Effect of Unevenness

An unlevel RV affects several key areas:

Appliance Performance: Refrigerators, particularly absorption-type models common in RVs, rely on gravity for proper coolant flow. Being significantly off-level can cause them to operate inefficiently or even fail entirely. The same applies to other appliances that depend on precise liquid flow, like some washing machines or dishwashers.
Comfort and Sleep Quality: Sleeping on a slanted surface is uncomfortable and can lead to poor sleep. Similarly, walking on an angled floor can be disorienting and tiring.
Drainage Issues: Water in showers, sinks, and toilets may not drain properly if the trailer isn’t level. This can lead to standing water, unpleasant odors, and potential mold growth.
Door and Window Functionality: Warping of the RV’s frame due to uneven weight distribution can make doors and windows difficult to open and close.
Structural Integrity: Over time, continuous stress on the frame due to uneven weight distribution can cause bending, cracking, and weakening of the overall structure.

The Step-by-Step Leveling Process

Follow these steps to ensure your RV trailer is perfectly level:

1. Choosing Your Leveling Tools

Investing in the right tools is essential for accurate and efficient leveling. Here are some common options:

Bubble Level: This is the most basic tool and is still highly effective. Consider a carpenter’s level for larger surfaces or a smaller, more portable level.
Spirit Level App: Many smartphone apps utilize the phone’s accelerometer to function as a level. While convenient, ensure the accuracy of these apps by comparing them to a physical level.
RV Leveling System: These are automated systems that use hydraulic or electric jacks to level the RV with the touch of a button. They are the most expensive option but offer the most convenience and accuracy.
Leveling Blocks: These are typically made of durable plastic and are used to raise the low side of the RV. They come in various sizes and configurations.
Wheel Chocks: Essential for safety, wheel chocks prevent the trailer from rolling while you’re leveling it.
Tire Pads: These protect your tires from contact with the ground, especially on gravel or uneven surfaces. They can also help with minor leveling adjustments.

2. Positioning Your RV

Scout the Site: Before pulling into your campsite, carefully assess the ground for any obvious slopes or obstructions. Try to choose a spot that appears relatively level to minimize the amount of leveling required.
Position Strategically: Position your RV trailer in the best possible position relative to the slope. If possible, try to back onto the higher ground so you are only trying to bring the low side up to level.
Chock the Wheels: Before disconnecting the trailer from the tow vehicle, firmly chock the wheels on both sides. This is crucial for safety.

3. Determining Level

Placing the Level: Place your bubble level inside the RV, ideally in the center of the floor. Check the level both front-to-back and side-to-side.
Using a Spirit Level App: Place your phone on a level surface inside the RV and note the readings. Again, check both front-to-back and side-to-side.
External Assessment: You can also use a level on the exterior of the RV, such as on the bumper or a side panel. This can be helpful for initial assessment, but it’s important to confirm the level inside as well.

4. Leveling Side-to-Side

Identify the Low Side: Determine which side of the RV is lower.
Use Leveling Blocks: Place leveling blocks in front of the tires on the low side. The number of blocks needed will depend on the severity of the slope.
Pull onto the Blocks: Carefully pull the RV forward until the tires are resting on the leveling blocks.
Recheck the Level: Use your level to check if the RV is now level side-to-side. Add or remove blocks as needed.

5. Leveling Front-to-Back

Use the Tongue Jack or Stabilizer Jacks: The tongue jack is used to raise or lower the front of the RV, and the stabilizer jacks are used to stabilize the rear.
Adjust the Jack: Use the tongue jack or rear stabilizer jacks to adjust the height of the front or rear of the RV until it is level front-to-back.
Recheck and Fine-Tune: Use your level to recheck the level and make any necessary fine-tuning adjustments.

6. Stabilizing the RV

Lower Stabilizer Jacks: Once the RV is level, lower the stabilizer jacks to provide additional support and prevent swaying. Do not use the stabilizer jacks to lift or level the trailer, as this can damage them.
Chock the Wheels Again: Double-check that the wheel chocks are securely in place.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often should I level my RV trailer?

You should level your RV trailer every time you park it at a new campsite. Even slight slopes can cause problems.

2. Can I damage my RV by not leveling it?

Yes, as mentioned earlier, uneven leveling can lead to appliance malfunctions, door and window issues, and even structural damage over time.

3. What is the best type of leveling block to use?

Durable plastic leveling blocks are generally recommended. They are strong, lightweight, and resistant to weather. Avoid using wood blocks, as they can rot and splinter.

4. How many leveling blocks should I carry?

A good starting point is to carry at least four to six leveling blocks. This will provide enough flexibility to handle most campsite situations.

5. Can I use my stabilizer jacks to level my RV?

No, stabilizer jacks are designed for stabilization, not leveling. Using them to lift the RV can damage the jacks and the RV’s frame.

6. What if my campsite is extremely unlevel?

If the campsite is significantly unlevel, it’s best to choose a different site if possible. If that’s not an option, consider using more leveling blocks or, in extreme cases, contacting the campground management for assistance.

7. How accurate does the leveling need to be?

Ideally, you should aim for as close to perfectly level as possible. However, a slight degree of unlevelness (within a bubble’s width on a standard level) is generally acceptable.

8. My RV has an automatic leveling system. Do I still need to check it manually?

While automatic leveling systems are convenient, it’s always a good idea to double-check the level manually after the system has completed its cycle. Sometimes, the system may not be perfectly accurate, especially on extremely uneven terrain.

9. What is the difference between leveling and stabilizing an RV?

Leveling ensures the RV is horizontally and vertically aligned, while stabilizing prevents swaying and rocking. Both are important for comfort and safety.

10. Can I leave my RV unlevel for a short period of time?

While a short period of unlevelness may not cause immediate damage, it’s still best to level the RV as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues.

11. Should I level my RV before or after extending the slide-outs?

Level your RV before extending the slide-outs. Extending slide-outs on an unlevel surface can put undue stress on the slide mechanism and the RV’s frame.

12. Are there any RV leveling apps that are highly recommended?

While individual preferences vary, some consistently well-reviewed RV leveling apps include “LevelMatePRO” and “Bubble Level”. Always cross-reference the app’s readings with a physical level to ensure accuracy.

Final Thoughts

Leveling your RV trailer is a fundamental aspect of RV ownership. By following these steps and understanding the importance of proper leveling, you can ensure a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable camping experience. Don’t underestimate the value of taking the time to do it right – it will save you headaches and potential repair costs in the long run.