If you’re one of the many Americans who own an RV, you know that it can be a lot of fun. But you also know that they require a lot of care and maintenance. No matter if you have a travel trailer, motorhome, or another type of recreational vehicle, there are numerous tasks that you need to be completed to maintain the camper.
One of the biggest considerations is storage. When you are putting away the RV for a while or storing it for the winter, there are several things to keep in mind. Let’s take a look at tips for storing your RV.
Select a quality RV storage facility.
RV storage is a great way to keep your RV in good condition while not in use. There are a few things you need to look for when choosing a storage facility. First, make sure that the storage unit is secured and has video surveillance. Also, there are many outdoor and indoor storage facilities, you’ll want to ensure that there is enough storage space for your RV and that the site is level. It’s important to note that some facilities offer winter storage, which means they will take care of draining and covering your RV during the cold months. If you’re not able to find a storage facility that offers winter storage, you’ll need to take care of those tasks yourself. Choosing a quality storage facility is critical for RV owners.
Drain the water system.
When storing your RV for the winter or for a long period of time, draining the water is one of the essential steps. You’ll want empty both the fresh water and waste tanks, draining all water out of the pipes. You will also want to pump nontoxic RV antifreeze through the entire water system. Nontoxic RV antifreeze pushes the water out of your plumbing system. Your owner’s manual should also include a checklist for draining the water system. However, if you don’t feel qualified to do it yourself, a trained professional at a reputable service center can help you drain the water.
Prep the exterior.
You’ll need to do a thorough inspection of the roof, sidewalls, seams, windows, exterior doors, and access panels before storing your RV. If you find any issues, it is important that you reseal or re-caulk any holes or cracks. This will help prevent water from getting in where it shouldn’t and also help prevent costly repairs in the spring.
Before you reseal any holes or cracks, you should speak with an RV dealer. It’s important to select the right sealant for your RV and your climate. The wrong sealant might not set properly, leaving your RV susceptible to water damage.
Cover your RV.
If you’re using outdoor storage or parking spaces, you’ll want to get a cover made especially for an RV. You should invest in a cover that will protect against extended exposure to ultraviolet rays and help keep your vehicle out of the weather. Extended exposure to the elements and UV rays can damage the paint finish. A quality cover will also protect your vehicle from wind damage, tree sap, and bird droppings. You can follow the manufacturer’s instructions for putting the cover on to ensure it’s cinched tight so that it keeps moisture and wind out.
The tires on your RV might also be susceptible to damage from UV rays. You’ll want to protect your tires with special covers as well. In general, your RV cover probably won’t extend far enough down to go over the tires as well. As a result, you’ll want to invest in tire covers that fit properly over your tires and will protect them all winter long.
RVs are a great way to travel and see the country, but they need proper care and storage. Overall, it’s important to take care of your RV and store it properly in order to keep it in good condition. By following these tips, you can ensure that your RV will last for years to come.
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