Are you planning to store your RV for an extended period? Whether it’s over the winter or just while you take a break from traveling, taking proper care of your RV while in storage is essential. Without proper maintenance and preparation, your RV could suffer costly damage that will require expensive repairs when you return.
To help ensure that doesn’t happen, here are some tips on how to properly take care of your recreational vehicle while it’s stored away.
Clean the RV
Start by giving your RV a thorough cleaning and vacuuming to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated while in use. This will help minimize mildew growth during storage and keep the interior of your RV looking its best.
Check the Fluids
Change the oil before you store it away for an extended period, as well as checking all other fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. Don’t forget to check and add antifreeze if necessary depending on where you plan to store it over winter.
Top Off Your Tanks
Make sure both the fresh water tank and waste water tanks are completely empty before you store them for an extended period of time. This will help prevent any unwanted odors or growths that could occur while sitting idle.
Seal the Windows and Doors
To keep your RV in top condition, it’s important to make sure all windows and doors are sealed tight with weather stripping or caulk to keep out dust, moisture, and pests.
Cover Your RV
Investing in a quality RV cover is one of the best ways to protect your vehicle from damage while it sits idle for long periods of time. Make sure the cover fits snugly around your RV so wind and rain don’t have a chance of getting inside.
Disconnect Batteries
To prevent any potential damage, it’s important to disconnect the batteries while in storage. This will also help you save a little money on your next battery purchase as it won’t get drained from being connected while not in use.
Check Tires
Before storing away for an extended period of time, check the tires and adjust air pressure as needed to keep them from going flat or becoming damaged while sitting idle. Additionally, consider placing something under the tires such as plywood or pieces of foam to support them and keep them from developing flat spots due to weight distribution.
Rent a Reliable Storage Unit
Finally, consider renting a storage unit for your RV. This will keep it safe from the elements, as well as give you peace of mind that your vehicle is being looked after while in storage. Make sure you look for a unit that is clean, secure, and reliable with climate control to ensure that your RV stays in tip-top shape when you return.
Happy Camping!
By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your RV is in tip-top shape when you are ready to hit the road again. Taking care of your RV while it’s stored away will help maximize its lifespan and ensure you have a great time traveling with it for years to come. So start by following our suggestions above and get ready for your next big adventure!