Understanding the features and operations of your Camp Kitchen.

Do you remember that trip to Mark Twain National Forest, where Bart fixed his famous Beef Stew for 2, what was his secret ingredient? We all know that stories and memories begin in kitchens.  Your RV kitchen whether interior or exterior is no different than your home, lasting stories are passed around the campfires with new friends for decades! In this episode of RV Pro Tips, Matt and Bart shed light on the operation of certain features in the exterior Camp Kitchen.

To help get the most out of your camp kitchen and understand some limitations and proper use, we have a Cougar 32BHS with a mini-refrigerator, cooktop, and sink that is plumbed to a black or grey tank.  Refer to your Owner’s Manual for more information on your RV’s specific camp kitchen features due to many variations.

Let’s get started.

Mini-refrigerator:  Like a residential refrigerator, the cooling process is done by transferring air across the cooling fins which removes heat from inside the refrigerator.  The mini-refrigerator is either housed inside on a shelf or countertop.  To cool effectively, the camp kitchen door should be open to allow air to move and circulate, it will not cool to its potential when the compartment door is closed. Getting ready to go camping, remember to turn on the refrigerator a few hours before filling it with food or drinks, keeping the compartment door open, this will help ensure the refrigerator is thoroughly chilled.  When the mini refrigerator is not being used and the compartment door is closed, it’s recommended to turn it off, remove all food and drink, defrost the freezer portion and wipe out with a soft cloth.

Outdoor sink: First be sure to understand how the sink is plumbed, in this Cougar 32BHS it is plumbed to a tank. Some RVs have a removable water tank and faucet that does not actually drain. This is always good to know before turning on the water and walking away to grab something else. If your sink is plumbed to a tank, it is important to know which tank either a black or grey tank.  Be mindful of water consumption if dry camping to maximize the holding tank capacity and keep an eye on your tank levels.

Cooktop Grill: Measure the cooking surface so you can use the proper size skillet and pans.  For everyone’s safety, NEVER use cookware that extends beyond the cooking surface, or rests over two operating “top burners”. This will cause excessive heat build-up resulting in damage to the grate, top burner, and cooktop. Refer to your Owner’s manual for proper cookware size.  DO NOT leave the cooktop unattended while in use.  Nothing is more serious to us than your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Please follow all warning labels and review the manufacturer’s instructions provided in the blue bag.  Safety first! DO NOT store the cooktop until cool to the touch.

People love to gather around a kitchen area, so don’t be surprised if this turns out to be the new hot spot in your camp setting.  And Bart’s secret ingredient?  Fresh mushrooms!