One of the vital aspects of RV maintenance that often goes under-discussed is tire care. Ensuring the correct inflation of your RV tires can dramatically impact their performance, fuel economy, and longevity. Most RV owners know this, but the question still lingers: should you inflate your tires with air or nitrogen? The answer is not as simple as one might think, and in this post, we'll dive into the nuances of both options to help you make an informed decision.
What's in your Air?
Let's start with the basics. Normal air, which is used by a vast majority of vehicle owners, is primarily composed of 78% Nitrogen, 21% Oxygen, and 1% other gases, including argon and carbon dioxide. It's readily available, inexpensive (or often free) at most gas stations, and does an adequate job of maintaining tire pressure.
The Nitrogen Difference
Nitrogen, on the other hand, is a pure gas that is commercially produced for a variety of applications. When used for inflating tires, the proposition is that nitrogen, being larger and less reactive than oxygen, will permeate the tire walls more slowly, resulting in more stable tire pressures over time and under varying temperature conditions. Nitrogen is also dry, which can help reduce the corrosion inside the wheels, a problem that can be exacerbated by the moisture often found in compressed air.
Benefits of Nitrogen
There are several benefits to using nitrogen in your RV tires. Nitrogen-filled tires tend to retain pressure longer, which is crucial for RVs that sit for extended periods. The pressure stability can also translate into a smoother ride and potentially longer tire life.
Moreover, the dry nature of nitrogen can decrease wheel corrosion, an essential consideration for owners of high-end RVs with expensive wheel sets. Nitrogen's consistency can also potentially lead to better gas mileage, as properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance.
The Flip Side
However, it's crucial to understand the trade-offs when considering nitrogen. Firstly, nitrogen inflation services are not as readily available as air pumps, which could leave you stuck in a tricky situation if you need to top up your tires while on the road. Secondly, nitrogen services often come at a price, unlike air, which is usually free or costs a nominal amount at most service stations.
Lastly, the benefits of nitrogen, while real, might not be as significant for casual RV users as for commercial fleets or race cars that heavily rely on optimal tire pressure for performance and fuel efficiency. In fact, many experts argue that regular pressure checks and top-ups with regular air can provide nearly the same benefits that nitrogen promises.
The Verdict
So, air or nitrogen? Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific use case. If your RV usage is sporadic and you are disciplined about checking and maintaining your tire pressures, regular air will likely serve you well. If, however, you tend to park your RV for extended periods or simply prefer the peace of mind of slower pressure loss and reduced wheel corrosion, nitrogen might be worth the added cost and effort.
Regardless of the choice you make, remember that regular tire maintenance, including checking tire pressures, looking for signs of wear, and rotating tires, is a non-negotiable aspect of safe and efficient RV ownership. It's the discipline of regular checks and balances that will keep your rolling home running smoothly, whether you fill your tires with air or nitrogen.