Happier Camper HC1 Lightweight Travel Trailer User Guide
- June 3, 2024
- Happier Camper
Table of Contents
Happier Camper HC1 Lightweight Travel Trailer
We like to say you never truly own a Happier Camper… you just care for it for the next generation! This guide will help you better understand how our fiberglass trailers and products function and what to expect while owning one.
NATURE OF FIBERGLASS
With proper care and maintenance, your Happier Camper will last for generations. We chose fiberglass because it has one of the best strength to weight to cost ratios on the market. Additionally, it’s lightweight nature mean you’ll be spending less time at the pump (or the charging station)! There are some topics, such as gelcoat cracks and our construction processes, that we would like to share to help you understand what to expect while owning a Happier Camper.
FABRICATION PROCESS
Our fiberglass campers are constructed with a strong matrix of filaments and resin that is covered with a glossy gelcoat finish. We choose gelcoat instead of paint for its luxe, shiny finish and longevity. Paint is also heavier and does not last as long- especially when exposed to the elements.
HANDBUILT BY CRAFTSMEN
You will see the detailing of workmanship on each and every Happier Camper. This may include slight differences in the look or feel of the fiberglass or installation of an item in your camper. Since we don’t use a mechanized, industrialized assembly line, no two campers will be or look exactly the same. Installations may also have subtle differences from camper to camper.
Happier Campers, unlike mass-produced iPhones or automobiles, will bear the marks of the craftsmen who built it. The fiberglass is hand-sprayed into fiberglass molds before it hardens and cures. From there, accessories and components, such as the windows, air conditioners, and solar packages are installed by hand.
CRACKING CAN BE NORMAL
Though it is very strong, fiberglass products are known for exhibiting small cracks and fissures called gelcoat cracks and spider cracks. They are nothing to worry about and are considered cosmetic, not structural. These minor cracks are commonplace on the gelcoat of fiberglass products. Gelcoat cracks and spider cracks are a normal part of owning any fiberglass product and can be remedied in many ways! Our Support team will be happy to walk you through your options. It is to be expected for gelcoat cracks and spider cracks to occur in your camper. As opposed to other fiberglass objects like hot tubs, bathtubs, or airplanes, Happier Campers endure a lot of jostling while on the road which can result in these minor cracks developing. There is no way to truly avoid them but remember, they are completely normal and can be expected.
GELCOAT AND SPIDER CRACKS
Happier Camper is not responsible for the incidence or repair of gelcoat cracks or spider cracks. These small cracks are merely cosmetic. Please know our Support team will always be happy to answer questions and assess any cracks that occur. Small cracks can easily be repaired by some auto body shops, marine repair centers, or at home.
OFF-GASSING AND DUST
Your new camper is safe and ready to use as soon as it arrives. As with new
cars, our trailers will smell of the manufacturing process until the materials
have fully off-gassed. The length of the off-gassing process depends on how
long ago the camper was produced, factors such as temperature and humidity,
and how your camper is stored. Leaving windows & doors open will help with the
off-gassing.
Before each camper leaves headquarters, it is thoroughly cleaned by our
technicians. During the camper’s maiden voyage, it is possible for some
fiberglass dust to be displaced and end up on the cushions or floor. A quick
vacuum or dusting will remove any fiberglass dust.
GELCOAT VARIATION
In some occasions, there may be slight variations in the appearance of the gelcoat on the campers. We’ve included some examples of that below.
CONDENSATION
One of the benefits of fiberglass is that it does not absorb moisture. As such, you may notice condensation gather on the walls or collecting in nooks & crevices. This is normal and can be expected especially when its colder outside the trailer than inside.
WATER INTRUSION
Though the construction of our campers prevents leaking in general, sometimes our customers report water entering the camper through weep holes in the window, which is normal, or through open windows and doors, which can be prevented.
Contact: support@happiercamper.com with any questions you may have!
DESIGNED & CRAFTED IN CALIFORNIA
844.755.CAMP
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Read User Manual Online (PDF format) >>