In some parts of the country, colder weather is fast approaching, and many RV owners will soon put their vehicles in storage until the spring. However, when you are living the seasonal RV lifestyle, you may forget to plan ahead for the methods you’ll use to ensure the safety and condition of your RV while it’s not on the road. In the off-season, many owners put their motorhomes into specialized garages or storage yards to “hibernate” until the weather warms up.
If you’ll be putting your RV in storage in the coming months, it’s crucial to ensure that your home on the road is safe from hazards like the elements, rodents, and vandalism while you’re not using it. Consider the following RV storage tips when you settle down for winter this year:
1. Take Care of Your Tires
If you don’t consider the condition of your tires when you are storing your RV for an extended time, you may be at risk for a blowout the next time you get on the road. To avoid this, keep your RV in a cool, dry area that’s out of direct sunlight. You should also make sure the tires are inflated properly before and after putting your vehicle in storage.
2. Don’t Be a Target
Storing your RV at a facility that has security measures in place is always a great idea. Make sure to keep the vehicle locked and consider chaining the wheel (or using a wheel lock) if you are keeping it in an area where theft could be an issue.
3. Protect Your Plumbing
If you are in an area where freezing is not an issue, simply flush your tanks and keep a bit of warm water in them to prevent them from drying. However, if you live in a colder climate, you should remove all water from your RV’s plumbing system and add antifreeze to the waste tanks, P traps, valves, and pipes.
4. Don’t Drain Your Battery
To prevent your battery from dying while your camper is in storage, use its disconnect switch to turn off all electrical usage.
5. Keep Pests Away
For off-season RV storage, you should always ensure that any external openings are screened or blocked off to prevent rodents and other wildlife from getting inside. Pay close attention to air intake piping, furnace exhaust, and rooftop plumbing vents. Also, you should remove any food or other items that attract rodents, such as toothpaste, soap, and paper towels.
6. Prep Your Slide-Outs
Always retract your slides when storing your RV so that the rubber seals are not exposed. This helps to minimize the chance of leaks. You should also clean the seals and mechanical parts and consider using a rubber seal conditioner to prevent any damage from the elements.
7. Keep Moisture Out
It’s crucial to ensure that your RV is properly ventilated when it’s in storage. Excess moisture can create unpleasant odors and mold within your motorhome. If you choose to leave your rooftop vents open, cover them with specialized vent covers to prevent rain and animals from getting in.
8. Keep It Sealed
Before storing your camper, check its silicone seams, rubber seals, and caulking. If you find that any of the seals are cracked, get them repaired right away. This will help prevent water damage and can save you from costly repairs down the road.
All-Rite Custom Manufacturing: Your Go-To Source for Replacement RV Parts
By following these tips, you can keep your RV looking great for years to come and make sure it’s ready for another year of fun in the spring. If your vehicle needs repairs or upgrades before going into storage, look to All-Rite Custom Manufacturing for assistance. Contact us today to learn about our selection of custom RV parts!