Tire pressure monitoring systems are important because they are our eyes and ears in our tires. They tell us when something is amiss with one or all our tires in regards to air pressure and temperature. This way we can avoid those annoyingly inconvenient flat tires and dangerous tie blow outs.
When it comes to recreational vehicles (RVs), you need specific kinds of TPMS because these vehicles have tires with higher air pressure than regular vehicles. They are used for long trips on the road. The importance of maintaining correct tire pressure levels cannot be over emphasized.
There are many TPMS brands in the market. Some reputable names are EEZTire, Bellacorp, TireMinder, CACAGOO, Zeepin among others. It could be confusing when you go out to buy a system and get bombarded with so many options with so many varying features.
Here is a list of top TPMS brands for your RV and some notable features you can enjoy from each of them.
Best TPMS for RV (Recreational Vehicles)
A comparison table
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EEZTire Tire Pressure Monitoring System
The first thing you notice when you look at this EEZTire TPMS is its large monitor. The 3.5 inch LCD screen allows you to keep track of the condition of your tires easily without squinting or having to hold it up close as you drive. With this, you can monitor pressure levels up to 210psi and receive feedback at 6-second intervals.
It is powered using a rechargeable lithium battery which not only helps you cut the cost of constantly buying batteries, but also gives you peace of mind as long as you remember to charge it.
Another outstanding advantage is the ease of installation. It will take you only a few minutes to set up and program it and there is little need for technical know-how of any kind. The system can be used to monitor up to 22 tires. In the event that there is something amiss with any one of your tires, the system gives you both visible and audible alerts so it is almost impossible to miss a warning.
You can get accurate pressure and temperature readings even if you have a longer-than-average RV because signals from the sensors can be picked up from longer distances.
An automated backlight makes sure you can view everything on the screen even while on night trips.
This is a multipurpose device. The monitor has separate controls for trailer and RV sensors. This allows RV owners to switch off trailer control and use only what is appropriate for them. Anti-theft sensors can be programmed with the monitor so it can also be used to add to security of the RV.
Key Features
- Large monitor
- Rechargeable lithium battery
- Monitoring capability – up to 22 tires
- Automated backlight
- Handles pressure up to 210 psi
- Multipurpose
Pros
- Visible and audible warnings and alerts
- Long range
- Automatic backlight
- 3 – year limited warranty
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TireMinder A1A Tire Pressure Monitoring System
The TireMinder A1A TPMS is a high end product which consists of 0.5. Oz. transmitter screws on valves stems. It can handle psi ranging from 0 to 232 and displays pressure and temperature readings for individual tires. If any of the tires is underinflated, or even overinflated, you get a visual and audible alert and alarm.
Updates on the state of your tires are given every 4 minutes. In addition to that is a system self-diagnosis which is done every 5 seconds. With these you simply cannot miss a problem in tire pressure and temperatures.
You can use this to monitor up to 22 tires and installation of the system, regardless of the number of tires is quick and simple. A single action search mode allows you to send all information to the system monitor at once.
The downside to keep in mind is that you will need up to 6 lithium metal batteries to get this device working. This increases the overall cost of operating it.
Key Features
- 5. Oz transmitters screws on valve stems
- Psi range – 0 to 232
- Single action search mode
- Self-diagnosis – 5 minute interval
Pros
- 4-minute report interval
- Sensors are easy to maneuver
- Easy installation
- Individual tire pressure displayed
- Visual and audible alerts
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Tire-Safeguard Tire Pressure Monitoring System
This is the ideal system for users who are looking for the most hassle –free system. It has convenient flow-through sensors. You don’t have to remove the sensors before refilling your tires which saves on time and energy and contributes to overall ease of use.
Like many other similar tire pressure monitoring systems, this one gives you both tire pressure and temperature readings. What is different in this case is that you have multiple options when it comes to reading units.
You can configure pressure readings to be reported in psi or bar and temperature can be read in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit. Bar is a metric unit of pressure which has been legally recognized in European Union countries since 2004 but is not internationally approved as part of the International System of Units.
When a problem is detected, the driver is immediately notified through visible icons and audible warnings so you are assured of early notification no matter what the issue is. A distinct feature which must be mentioned is that this system works continuously without interruption or intervals.
Even if you have an exceptionally long RV, a signal booster will not be something to think about because this system has an excellent signal range to ensure noting interferes with signal transmission. Where price is concerned, this products is relatively high priced compared to similar ones in the market.
Key Features
- Long signal range
- Optional reading units
- Weight: 64 ounces; Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 3 inches
Pros
- Works without interruption
- Convenient use
- Visible and audible warnings
- Great for long RVs
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Bellacorp Tire Pressure Monitoring System
With this system, you get full time, real time reports on tire pressure and tire temperature changes. It is a good choice for large RVs and trucks because it can be used to monitor up to 34 tires at a time.
This is probably why it is capable of providing a long signal range of up to 90 feet (27 meters). With this range, there is no need for a booster. Details of suspension air bags can also be provided by this system.
All information is displayed on a large monitor so you never have to strain to see exactly what the figures displayed are. If a problem is detected you are notified through a hard -to-miss red light indicator and an alarm which is activated by both high and low pressures and temperatures.
The sensors are waterproof, assuring you of reliable performance up to 3 feet. This makes the system good for wet terrains and rainy weather. Anti-corrosion sensor caps ensure you never have to deal with air leaks.
The user interface is easy to work with and the sensor set up process is quick and simple. If you have any challenges, don’t worry because a step-by-step guide is included to assist you.
Two drawbacks to keep in mind when using this system is that it has large and heavy sensor valves and it is slightly pricier than most pressure monitoring systems.
Key Features
- Simple user interface
- Full time, real-time reports
- Large sensor valves
Pros
- Straight forward sensor set up process
- Sensor installation guide included
- Waterproof sensors ( up to 3 feet)
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B – Qtech Tire Pressure Monitoring System
The B-Qtech TPMS is known for very accurate readings, making it a trusted brand in the industry. With it you are sure you will never find yourself with a flat tire. Tire pressure and temperature readings are displayed on a large LCD screen which makes viewing easy. The screen is also backlit to give you a clear view in very bright light or in the dark.
With up to 6 sensors which utilize the RF wireless technology, you can easily monitor multiple tires at a time. The system can handle pressure up to 215 psi. Another advantage of this brand is a relatively long signal range. However, if the distance between the sensors and the monitor exceeds 32 feet (9.6 meters), it is advisable to purchase a repeater separately.
A visual warning is displayed on the screen as soon as a low or high pressure or temperature is detected. Just in case you miss the visual warning, an audible alarm is also activated so there is little chance you could miss the warnings.
The main challenge we had with this system had to do with set up instructions. They were unclear and somewhat difficult to understand.
Key Features
- RF wireless technology
- Handles up to 215 psi
- Large LCD screen
- Up to 6 sensors
Pros
- Very accurate
- user friendly
- Long signal range
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Zeepin Solar Power TPMS
The Zeepin solar powered product had to feature in our list of top tire pressure monitoring systems for RVs because it can be charged either electronically (USB cable) or using solar power.
It has a tempered glass solar panel which comes in very handy when you are out on long trips where electricity is not available but the scorching heat of the sun can take its place.
It gives you both tire pressure and temperature readings using highly sensitive sensors. With these you are sure of very accurate readings. A large, clear screen makes it easy to see the readings even as you drive.
When setting up the device, you can choose to have tire pressure represented in either bar or psi. Tire temperatures can be reported in either degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit. As soon as an abnormality in tire pressure or temperature is detected, you get both a visual alert on the screen and an audible alarm.
This particular system features 4 sensors which boasts of other convenient features like corrosion resistance and water resistance. Sensors also utilize an anti-theft technology which adds to the RVs security.
Key Features
- Supports both electric and solar charging
- 4 sensors
- Corrosion resistant and water resistant sensors
Pros
- Accurate
- Both visual alert and audible alarm
- Multiple unit options for pressure and temperature (bar/psi and Celsius/Fahrenheit)
View price on Amazon
Factors to Consider When Buying A TPMS for Your RV
Are you looking to buy a tire pressure monitoring system for your RV? If so here are some basic and some not-so- basic factors to keep in mind. At the end of the day you are looking for a device which works reliably and gives you the highest number of quality features for your budget.
Type of TPMS
There are two main types in the market. It is important to understand how each of them works.
Direct TPMS: These make use of sensors fitted in individual tires to monitor pressure levels. They also provide temperature readings. The sensors send data to a central control module which analyzes it and interprets it. If the readings are found to be higher or lower than they should be, a warning light is automatically illuminated on the dashboard.
Indirect TPMS
An indirect TPMS doesn’t actually measure tire pressure to determine if it is too high or too low. How it works is that the sensors measure the number and rate of revolutions in each wheel. An on-board computer compares this reading to other wheels and determines if there is a significant discrepancy in any one of the wheels. If one wheel is rotating significantly faster than the rest, it is assumed to be underinflated.
Ease of installation
Look out for a system which is not particularly difficult or complicated to install. You don’t need to spend endless hours trying to figure out how to install it and still take off on your trip uncertain of whether you did it right or not.
User Friendliness
Yes, some systems are just not user friendly. Interfaces are complicated and it takes numerous steps to get the information you need. There are some easy to use systems which provide just about all the information you would need in one or two steps.
Battery
This is a very important detail especially since you are looking for a TPMS for an RV which will be used for long road trips. Look for a device with rechargeable batteries because these are more convenient than regular ones. Rechargeables also end up being cheaper than regular batteries. The only caution with these is that you have to remember to recharge them.
Readability and display
Choose a system which displays icons you can easily understand. You shouldn’t have to struggle to decode readings and messages.
Where display is concerned, the screen is very important. Pick a system with a screen you can easily read. If you often drive alone, a larger screen is better because you can place it on the dash or any other surface near you and still be able to read it as you drive. A backlight, whether automatic or not is a good advantage which comes in very handy at night.
The system should also have signal lights which you can interpret easily. A bright red light for instance, should indicate an emergency which must be looked into immediately. A yellow light can be used to alert you of something which need not be dealt with immediately.
Signal range
Signal range refers to the maximum distance at which the sensors can continue to send signals to the monitor. It becomes a concern when you are driving an exceptionally long RV.
Make sure you know exactly how long your RV is before going out to buy a TPMS. Be sure to check the range to make sure sensor signals will have no problem reaching the monitor.
If your RV is very long and none of the TPMS have a suitable range, at least you will know that you will need to purchase an additional device such as a range extender to help with that.
Multiple charging systems
Here we are referring to the fact that some TPMS can be charged using solar power. If you have been out on the road for days with no access to electricity, a solar powered device could be what saves you.
As long as the sun is out, all you need to do is put it out in direct sun and it recharges. You could even secure it to the top of your RV as you drive and let it recharge as you go.
Durability
It may sound obvious but we shall mention this quality all the same. Look out for a product which will serve you for many years. It should be one which is made from heavy duty materials to withstand falls and other minor accidents.
Since you will be using the system out on the road where you will come across all sorts of conditions, don’t be too quick to pass a system with water proof sensors and dust-proof screen and sensors. If the sensors are waterproof, find out the rating. It indicates how deep the sensor can be submerged before it gets damaged.
FAQs
How many TPMS sensors are required for an RV?
The basic calculation is done on the basis of one sensor per tire. You need as many sensors as the number of tires you want to monitor. If yours is a motor home, six sensors are recommended. If you are hauling a motorhome at least 10 sensors are recommended.
How does a range extender work?
It works by increasing the strength of the signal sent out by TPMS sensors. It is useful when the distance between the sensor and the monitor is long as happens when an RV being towed is far from the driving vehicle. It also helps when there is some interference preventing the signal from being transmitted as it should.
How are TPMS sensors powered?
Since the sensors are mounted inside the tire assembly they have to be battery powered. Some have lithium ion batteries and others have nickel metal hydride batteries.
How do I install a TPMS in my RV?
There is no standard procedure. Installation processes vary from one manufacturer to another. Most systems come with installation instructions so you only need to follow the provided guide.
How many tires can a TPMS monitor?
It depends on the specific brand of TPMS you are using. Some can monitor as many as 34 tires while others can only handle 4. For RVs, look out for the TPMS which can monitor the highest number of tires within your budget.
How can I tell if my TPMS sensors are not working?
The thought of driving for hundreds of miles believing that your TPMS is working only to discover it has been dead for days is an unnerving one. To avoid this, check the user’s manual to find out the specific reporting interval for your device.
If it is 5 minutes for instance, make appoint to watch your screen for five minutes and see if a new reading is displayed. If it is not, the sensor batteries may be weak or dead.
Is it safe to drive an RV without TPMS?
Considering the nature of trips taken in recreational vehicles, it is most advisable to always travel with a good quality, functional TPMS. Having one makes your trip a lot safer because the chances of tire blowouts are extremely low.
It is convenient because you will be alerted of an underinflated tire long before it goes flat so you can deal with it before it immobilizes you. TPMS also helps to improve fuel consumption.
Conclusion
Having a good quality TPMS installed in your RV will definitely give you the confidence you need to get on the road assured of accurate reports on the condition of your tires. These systems also help to increase fuel efficiency and overall lifespan of the tires.
After analyzing several brands, the EEZTire Tire Pressure Monitoring System scored highest because of its ability to monitor a large number of tires as well as an impressively long signal range. Other features we liked about this product are a large monitor, rechargeable batteries and a 3-year warranty.