5 Most Common Heartland RV Problems and Their Solutions

When a group of RV enthusiasts and veterans of the industry came together in 2003, Heartland RV was born. Over the last decade, the company has steadily built a rapport in the RV industry. But that doesn’t really absolve it from certain issues. 

Some of the more common problems related to Heartland RVs are plumbing leaks, drainage issues, and a few structural issues. While most of the problems related to Heartland RV can be solved with troubleshooting, some require professional intervention. So it’s important to understand what kind of problem you’re dealing with.

Read along as we explore different Heartland RV problems and look at their possible solutions.

What Are The Common Problems With Heartland RV?

RVs are traditionally built to be recreational vehicles. Most of the RVs including that of Heartland aren’t built like standard cars or campers. As a result, they do tend to show problems over time. Here are some of the most common problems faced by users. 

1. Plumbing and Water leakage
2. Awning Issues
3. Faulty Components and furnishings
4. Flooring issues
5. Faulty Slide out

5 Common Problems with Heartland RV and Their Solutions:

Apart from the two problems mentioned above, the rest are easily repairable. To ease things more, we will take you on a step-by-step guide to identifying the problem and possible methods to solve them. 

Problem 1: Plumbing and Water Leakage

One of the main problems with Heartland RV is the plumbing and water leakage. More often than not, users complain of an overfilled fresh water tank or a leak from the underside of the sink. This is a common problem that is mostly attributed to the design elements of the RV. 

What Causes Plumbing and Leakage on Heartland RV? 

The main reason behind the plumbing and water leakage problem is the design of the RV itself. Heartland RV has a freshwater capacity of 105 gallons and a black tank capacity of 40 gallons. 

While investigating, we found that the toilet and the sink are connected to the black tank instead of the sink being connected to the gray tank. This often causes pressure to build up on the sink which eventually causes the pipe to rupture beneath the sink and leak. 

How to Fix Plumbing and Leakage on Heartland RV?

Unfortunately, the plumbing is intricately integrated into the RV flooring. As a result, the best option is to take the RV to the dealership if the case is of a ruptured sink hose. 

To identify the leak, closely look at the plumbing line under the slides, you should be able to see where the water is leaking from. 

In the case of overflowing the fresh water tank, you can check the check valve and tighten it. it mostly overflows because of a loose check valve. 

How Much Does It Cost to Fix Plumbing and Leakage on Heartland RV?

Since this problem requires dealership intervention, the factory is the best option to get a quote on the fixing cost. As for the overflowing fresh water tank, it doesn’t cost anything as long as you have a hex driver to tighten the check valve.

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Problem 2: Faulty Awnings

Heartland RVs are notorious for having awning issues. The retractable shade is operated using an integrated motor that uses struts to extend and retract the awning. The problem with awnings occurs when the struts don’t work or work slowly. In the worst cases, it might cease to work altogether. 

What Causes Faulty Awnings in Heartland RV?

Most of the time the problem with awnings is the strut and the integrated wiring used for the strut to extend and retract the strut. A quick observation will reveal the problem and appropriate fixation measures can be taken. 

How to Fix Faulty Awnings in Heartland RV?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to fixing faulty awnings.

Step 1: Remove and observe the Wall Mount

First, turn off the power of the RV. After that remove the wall mount on the back of the RV where the awning connectors are situated.

Step 2: Separate the Strut Lines

If the strut doesn’t extend or retract, chances are that the connector lines came in contact with each other. In that case, separate the wires and align them correctly. 

Step 3: Change Awning Switch

If separating the strut lines fails, try changing the awning switch power to the back of the power grid for a direct connection. This will solve the problem if the awning switch itself is faulty. 

How Much Does it Cost to Fix Faulty Awnings in Heartland RV?

The cost might vary depending on the diagnosis of the problem. If the problem is created by a strut line connection, then the existing tool kit is all that you’ll need to fix the problem. But if it’s the awning switch, you will need to pay a visit to the dealership.

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Problem 3: Faulty Components and Furnishings

Heartland RVs are known for their electrical component failures. However, most of these are minor problems that can be fixed with basic circuit knowledge. In addition to the components, the internal furnishings are also known to get worn out easily over time. 

What Causes Faulty Components and Furnishings on Heartland RV?

The main culprit in this regard would be the weather and the climate. Though Heartland can also be held accountable for poor connection finishes. The furnishing problem is often secondary as it gets triggered by humidity or a possible leak. 

How to Fix Faulty Components and Furnishings in Heartland RV?

Your best bet for electrical component failure is the troubleshooting guide. Depending on the problems, the troubleshooting guide will take you through a comprehensive process of finding the appropriate solution.

In case of water spillage through the washer, you will need to replace the existing washer or tighten it up using an Allen key if it’s loose. As for the furnishing problem, the only solution is to replace them or use them till you can’t use them anymore.

How Much does it Cost to Fix Faulty Components and Furnishings in Heartland RV?

The cost associated with faulty components is next to nothing.  Most of the time, troubleshooting can fix the problem without needing any extra material. In the case of the furnishing, the dealership is the best bet as they will be able to provide a quote on the price.

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Problem 4: Flooring Issues

Flooring issues are another set of persistent problems with Heartland RV. Typically the flooring of the RV is made from plywood and vinyl spread over it. The plywood might get bloated which harms the vinyl. The vinyl itself may be susceptible to cracks in certain conditions. 

What Causes Flooring Issue in Heartland RV?

Various causes can be attributed to flooring issues in Heartland RV. In case of under-mount leaking, the plywood may get bloated and cracked, destroying the vinyl finish in the process. Climate may also negatively affect the vinyl where humid conditions may cause the vinyl to crack. 

How to Fix Flooring Issues on Heartland RV?

The best possible solution is to replace the plywood once it has been damaged. This is again something that cannot be done alone or without a professional setup. Heartland suggests that the RV be taken to a dealership for floor repair and restoration process. 

How much does it cost to fix flooring issues on the Heartland RV? 

Since the flooring issues require professional intervention, the exact cost for the repair couldn’t be determined. Depending on the area to be restored, the dealership will provide a quote on the price.

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Problem 5: Faulty Slide Out

The slide-out door is one of the important aspects of any RV considering it’s the only way to get in and out of one. Heartland RVs come with retractable automated slide-out doors. But as things stand, some users have complained that the slide-out door on the Heartland RV often gets stuck. 

What Causes Faulty Slide Out on Heartland RV? 

Two reasons can be attributed to the failing slide out. The most prominent one is hydraulic pressure failure. The other one is the release valve which is controlled electrically. If the electrical component fails, chances are the slide-out door will also fail to open. 

How to Fix the Slide Out Problem on Heartland RV?

The first thing to do is to locate the hydraulic chamber which is situated on the side or at the front of the RV. Next, follow the below-mentioned steps. 

Step 1: Locating the Slide Out Valve

Inside the hydraulic chamber, you will see three valves. The unmarked valve is the slide-out valve among the three. 

Step 2: Rotating the Valve

Take an Allen key and turn the valve clockwise until it stops without putting any force. 

Step 3: Locate the Slide Out Manual Control

Once the slide-out valve is turned, it will put the hydraulic into manual mode. Now all you have to do is rotate the manual control shaft clockwise to slide in or counterclockwise to slide out. 

How Much Does It Cost to Fix Faulty Slide Out in Heartland RV?

The solution provided above is a makeshift one that is only to be used in case of emergency. To get the Slide Out properly fixed, you will need professional intervention.

Conclusion

Heartland RVs are some of the most reliable RVs out there. They are strong and durable on the outside which is why most people prefer them. But that doesn’t really abscond the RV from internal issues. 

Most of the issues related to heartland RVs are trivial. All you need is proper knowledge of troubleshooting and a knack with screws to solve them. 

But some issues will require professional assistance. We suggest you don’t nag around and contact the dealership as soon as possible. 

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