Snow, ice, and cold temperatures mean it’s time to store your RV. Preparing your vehicle for storage prevents damage and makes it easier to use your RV come spring. Explore four essential things to do before storing your RV for the winter.
Drain and Winterize Water Systems
Water left in pipes can freeze, expand, and cause significant damage to the plumbing system. Drain water systems to prevent these problems.
Here are some common RV components that you should drain:
Water Heater
Refrigerator Ice Maker and Water Dispenser
Washing Machine
Dishwasher
Toilets
Shower
Air Conditioning Units
Internal Plumbing
Some water may remain, for example, in low points in the plumbing. That’s why, after draining, you should add antifreeze to your plumbing system. Follow your RV manufacturer’s instructions to add antifreeze correctly.
Clean Thoroughly Inside and Out
Before storing your RV for the winter, clean the interior and exterior thoroughly. Cleaning the exterior removes dirt and debris that could cause damage over time. A clean interior prevents mold, mildew, and infestations of unwanted pests.
Wash the exterior with a specialized RV cleaner or mild soap, focusing on removing dirt, road grime, and any debris that may have accumulated. Afterward, rinse thoroughly. For the interior, vacuum all floors, including under furniture and in tight spaces, to remove dust and small particles.
Clean all surfaces with appropriate cleaners for the material, whether it’s wood, metal, or fabric. Pay special attention to the kitchen and bathroom areas to prevent mold and mildew growth. Finally, remove all perishables and food items to avoid attracting pests, and consider leaving cabinet doors open to promote air circulation and further deter mold and mildew.
Disconnect and Store Batteries
Batteries that remain connected can slowly drain over the winter, potentially leaving you with a dead battery in the spring. Additionally, extreme cold can damage batteries left in an unheated RV. After parking the RV at the storage site, remove the batteries, clean the terminals, and store them in a cool, dry place.
Pro Tip: Simplify RV Prep With Indoor Storage
For comprehensive protection of your RV, opt for climate-controlled RV storage with Luxury Vehicle Care. As part of our full-service protection program, we will check your vehicle daily and perform monthly exercise checks. We keep the batteries charged and properly maintained so that they can power your water pump, lights, and appliances when you pull the RV out of storage.
Check and Seal Openings
Leaks and cracks can allow water to enter and freeze or become entry points for pests seeking shelter. That’s why you should inspect your RV for leaks or cracks in all seals, windows, doors, and the roof.
Evenly apply a high-quality sealant designed for RVs to fill any identified leaks or cracks. Allow the sealant to dry completely per the manufacturer’s instructions for a watertight barrier.
Preparing your RV for winter storage is essential to avoid costly repairs and ensure it remains in pristine condition for your next adventure. By draining water systems, cleaning thoroughly, sealing openings, and properly storing batteries, you safeguard your investment against the harsh winter elements. When warmer weather returns, your RV will be ready for adventure.