The PSI in an RV stands for pounds per square inch. This is the unit that is used in the US to represent the amount of air pressure in a tire.
Maintaining a suitable air pressure for your tires is important for the safety of the driver and their passengers, as well as any other vehicles on the road.
No, your RV tires should not be inflated to max PSI. It’s unnecessary and can ultimately damage the health of your tires.
Why Not To Inflate To Max PSI
It’s essential not to use the PSI value listed on the tire. This value tells you the maximum amount of air pressure your wheel is able to withstand.
While inflating to max PSI will activate the full capacity of load-carrying that the tires are capable of holding, you will rarely need all of this strength, so it’s pointless. Also, driving with your tires inflated to the maximum will lead to an extremely bumpy ride and ultimately can be detrimental to the health of your tires.
How Much You Should Inflate Your Tires
Inflating your tires to the maximum is dangerous, so what is the correct amount of air pressure to fill your tires with?
The answer for each driver is different, as the value varies for each RV. To find the PSI best suited for your tires, in particular, you’ll want to either look in the interior of your car’s door or look inside the manual. Relevant information inside the manual should be listed under “Tire Maintenanceā.
The recommended PSI for the average motor vehicle generally falls between the range of 27 and 35 PSI if it is not a commercial vehicle.
How To Check Tire Pressure
Checking, as well as correcting, your tire pressure is relatively straightforward, as long as you have a high-quality pressure gauge.
The best time to check the pressure in your tires is when they are cold. This means to wait until you haven’t driven your tires in a few hours, like first thing in the morning. Not waiting will give you an inaccurate reading.
These are the steps you’ll need to follow:
1. Remove the caps on your tires.
2. Place the gauge on the air valve firmly until you receive a reading 1-3 times to ensure it is accurate and consistent.
3. Compare the PSI with the manufacturer-recommended PSI levels. If your PSI is below the recommended level, add air until it reaches the proper level. If it is above, push down on the valve until you’ve released enough air.
4. Screw the valves back on.
How To Inflate Your Tires
To correct the air pressure for your tires and keep them at a safe level, you must know how to add air to your tires. Before starting, it’s important to note that you should inflate when your tires are cold.
Here are the steps you’ll need to take:
1. Remove the valve caps on the exterior of each tire and set them inside
2. Use an air pump to fill your tires. It’s best to go to your local gas station and use the available air pump. There’s the option to do it yourself by purchasing an automatic air compressor, but they can be pricey.
3. Set the desired PSI level on the machine if the feature is available. If not, you’ll have to check yourself after you fill and add or release air.
4. Screw the valves back on.
Why Checking Tire Pressure Matters
While you’re on the road, it’s vital to check the pressure of your tires regularly. One of the main reasons is, of course, passenger and other drivers’ safety. However, there are some other reasons, such as:
- Longer tire life
- Improved control of the vehicle
- Reduced risk of blow-outs and accidents on the road
- A reduction in carbon footprint
- Better fuel economy
Conclusion
While inflating your tires to max PSI can unlock the full potential of the carrying capacity of your wheels, it can quickly prove to be more harmful than beneficial. Extreme inflation can ultimately damage your tires and make your ride unsafe.
Instead, stick to the recommended PSI that the manufacturers of your RV provide. If you notice that your PSI is well above or below this value, it’s important to alter the amount of air in your tire accordingly.
