Minimizing Chemical Exposure
Recently, a shocking number of new RVs have been reported to have dangerous levels of formaldehyde and/or ethyl alcohol as manufacturers cut corners and try to save costs. These are dangerous chemicals that can cause headaches, upper respiratory problems, asthma and even death.
You can reduce this risk by buying a good quality RV that was manufactured prior to 1999 because these RVs were well constructed, made from better materials and are less likely to leak gasses. In addition, there are other chemicals that you get exposed to from new furniture, glue, and mattresses that are harmful to your health, and buying a used RV means these chemicals have already had a chance to dissipate.
Excellent info all in 1 place!!! I’m saving this article. Ty for your effort! -db
Thanks we’re in S. Florida looking for a use Class A or C right now.
We are looking to buy an RV and this was very helpful.
Beware of scams on Facebook Marketplace now. They bait you will a low price and have some sad, family story of why they are selling it and get you to make transactions via EBay. They assure you that you will get your money back once it’s been “delivered “ and you change your mind…you will never see the damper or your money again. They often use the same photo in multiple ads in different cities so that is a red flag right away.
I fell for something similar to the last scheme. Guy said his camping partner had died and he was no longer interested in camping. Paid $1000 down on a 1986 popup, changed my mind on the drive home. Seller said my money would not be refunded so I was out that $1000.
Most used RV’s are out of my area, so between Covid restrictions & travel costs it’s not practical to see each unit I’m interested it. Is a professional appraisal sufficient to base a decision?
For the reasons above, I would highly recommend seeing the RV in person to do an inspection. I don’t think I would feel comfortable buying an RV without seeing it myself. At the very least, I would recommend a zoom call and lots of in depth questions! Or perhaps sending a friend or relative…
Thank you everyone, my wife and I are looking at toy hauler 5th wheel and it’s a must sell. I agree I want a inspection. Any advice I am so grateful
This is a great article. Thanks for posting Reet. We currently have our Class A motor coach listed on RVTrader.com, have posted to a few RV groups and let our friends and family know we are getting off the road and back to work (after an extended sabbatical). We will look into your other suggestions as well (and want to avoid the scammers). It is a great RV and has been kept in pristine condition. We hope to find a new owner that will love it as much as we did.
I love how you suggest checking out an RV for yourself before you purchase one used. My parents are hoping to purchase a used RV. I will pass along your suggestion to them so they find the right one.