Cold climates are catastrophic to your RV if it is not maintained correctly. If you neglect to store or protect your RV correctly, it will be a costly fix to repair. There are RV winter storage tips and methods that allow you to avoid these unwanted expenses.
Prepping Your RV
The exterior and interior of your RV need to be prepped before the winter comes around. Prepare your RV by doing a full inspection on the window, vents, access panels, roof, and cleanliness of the interior. Sealing the cracks is a good method for storing your RV for the winter. Resealing them prevents any additional or access water from getting in where it’s not meant to go. Consider the type of sealants that you are using as some sealants over vent covers. They may not solidify correctly that can prevent water from entering. An RV rule of thumb is to find a professional or discussing weatherization method with your RV dealer.
Drain-All The Water
If there is any water left in your RV it could lead to rust, line damage, or plumbing problems that are extremely expensive to fix. Most RVs will have a complex plumbing system. However, draining all the water out of the septic and the freshwater systems will be beneficial for your RV. You can add antifreeze into the entire water system. It that helps push out the water through the plumbing system as well as prevent from freezing during extended periods.
Use Tire Protection
Even during the winter UV rays from the sun can damage your tires RV. Most RV owners will use tire covers that will add an extra layer of protection and help to prevent flat spots. Covers that fit RV tires are more confined. The covers will be great when used with a whole RV body cover.
Give The Batteries Some Love
Your batteries of your RV are like the soul to the engine. If not maintained accurately or stored professionally they will get destroyed. Every battery loses charge when stored in cooler temperatures. Most owners will check the battery from 4 to 6 weeks with multimedia or voltmeter to keep them fully charge. You can also remove the batteries and put them in a safe location. If freezing occurs on your battery it could damage or destroy the battery which is an extra unneeded cost that you can avoid.
Consider Your Fuel And Deposits
Your fuel can go bad over a specific amount of time, especially when left unattended for weeks. To avoid oxidation leaks over into the engine, add a fuel stabilizer. Put it in the running engine for around 5 to 12 minutes. That can allow it to work into the whole system to prevent the oxidation process while it is in rest. Other owners will recommend changing all the fluids in the engine like oil, filters, washer fluid, and more before winter to avoid any asset corrosion.
Plug Up Any Holes To Keep It Critter-Free
Using different sealants can help your RV stay clean critter-free over the winter. You can also consider adding mouse traps to deter insects and mice from finding their home in your RV. Also, remove all food, and use baking soda in the fridge to deter creatures and smells.
Cover The RV
One of the best methods to winterize and protect your RV over the winter months is to cover it. This can mean by putting it into a garage or shelter or adding a tarp that is specifically made to protect UV rays and paint from overexposed weather elements. The covers will stop sap that can still get into the RV if it is not properly stored professionally. You can speak to professionals that sell quality garages, tents, sheds, or portable buildings that can accurately protect your RV for an extended period of time. A good company that is usually highly regarded and rated can be found here.
Storing Your RV In A Unit Or Storage Facility
The safety of your RV is essential in the livelihood of its functionality in the future. If you’re going to be away from the RV for an extended period you will need to find a location that is safe and protected that is away from wind and weathering elements. Choose to store your RV in a unit, or you can park your RV in a safe location and use the RV covers. There are also options of overhangs and garages may be more efficient and cost-effective.
Check The RV Often
In some states, winter can last longer than just a couple of months. If you plan to maintain your RV and prime condition, checking it often is key to ensuring its longevity. Most owners will inspect the vehicle every few weeks if it is in a winter storage unit.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, by preparing and utilizing methods and RV storage tips on how to winterize and protect your RV, it will ultimately last longer and be more beneficial for you in the future. If you find problems with your RV if it’s not maintenance accurately, it is a wise decision to get it to repair right away. If not it will only make things harder and more expensive. Finding an ideal cover that protects your RV, portable building, or if you have any questions for RV winter storage tips, then you can contact us today before it’s too late.