Tips to Store Recreational Vehicles During Winter

The classic American road trip dream consists of the open road and RV. However, when summer ends, and the cold weather starts settling in, you need to store your RV until next year. With these essential storage tips, you can keep your RV comfortable, clean and ready for the road.

Interior

To keep the interior of your recreational vehicle in excellent condition and prevent any stale odors, follow these tips:
Disconnect all appliances, and fully defrost your fridge and freezer. Once defrosted, prop their doors open, to prevent any stale odors from sticking around. Make sure that your RV isn’t connected to any electrical sources, ensuring that the main breaker on the distribution panel is switched off. To avoid the spread of germs, thoroughly clean your cabin or upholstery, and allow your vents free circulation to keep the air flowing. Any tanks and plumbing must be winterized; you can do so by flushing them with antifreeze.

Exterior

When you properly protect your RVs exterior, you will extend its lifespan. To protect the exterior:
● Thoroughly wash and wax it before it goes into storage. This will remove any build-up that can damage your paint job. Any awning must also be properly cleaned to prevent any stains.
● Ensure that your RV is airtight by checking all your caulking and seals. If you see any damage, make sure you repair it as quickly as possible, as otherwise bacteria and moisture will set in during winter, leading to expensive damages.
● Invest in RV coverage, to keep away pests, rodents and moisture as well as protect your upholstery and paint from fading.

Safe Parking

Where you park, your RV is important when it comes to your tires. To prevent any issues when your RV is parked for a long time:
● Ensure that the RV is parked on level and smooth cement. Any other surface will shift with the temperature changes and lead to improper weight distribution, straining your chassis and tires.
● Placing wood underneath the tires will prevent them from sustaining damage due to the frozen ground. Make sure that the tires don’t hang over the sides, as this will also damage your tires.
● Cover your RVs tires, or keep them away from direct sunlight, as this degrades the rubber.
● Inflate your tires according to the manufacturer’s instructions, but don’t exceed their inflation capacity.

Engine

A costly engine repair can put a stop to your holiday. To maintain your RVs engine in its best condition, do the following:
● Add a bottle of fuel stabilizer and store your camper with a full tank of gas.
● The engine oil must be changed before storage. Any other fluids that are running low should also be filled. Add winter blend washer fluid to your reservoir to prevent it from freezing and cracking.
● Batteries should be removed and cleaned with a 50/50 mixture of water and baking soda. Your batteries need to be stored in a dry, cool place where they are not subject to freezing or the elements.

With proper storage, care, and maintenance during winter, your RV will be in good shape year-round. By taking the time and properly storing your camper during winter, you’ll be ready to hit the road whenever springtime rolls around!