RV Storage: Winter Storage Tips
If you're looking to park your RV for the winter, winterizing your vehicle can help ensure that's it's ready for your next adventure this summer.
Here are some RV storage steps to take before driving away from your vehicle this winter.
Leveling Off and Letting Out
RVs, unlike traditional vehicles, provide both transportation and habitability. Preparing your vehicle for seasonable RV storage, particularly when the weather can dip below freezing, should involve attending to your vehicle's mechanical and living spaces.
Liquid Flush:
Any liquids stored in your RV's living spaces should be completely flushed before storing the vehicle. From your hot and cold water tanks to the water in your toilet and the water lines running throughout your vehicle, you'll want them completely dry before turning it over to an RV storage provider. To ensure that your lines are completely flushed, you can run compressed air through your water lines. When the air escaping the lines is visibly free of moisture, you'll have confirmation that your water lines are completely dry.
Anti-Freeze:
To prevent expanding and contracting frozen water from cracking your radiator and hoses, you should always remember to top off your radiator with an anti-freeze coolant. To ensure that the anti-freeze percolates throughout your radiator, you will need to top off the reservoir, wait for the liquid to settle, and add more until the reservoir remains full.
Air Pressure:
Sitting idly can wear out your suspension system, particularly if tire pressure drops and your wheels begin to sag. To account for the expanding and contracting that's likely to occur when the temperatures rise and fall during the winter, you should always top off your tire pressure. Aim for the maximum tire pressure rating for your tires.
Covering Up and Sealing Tight
Protecting your RV from moisture and UV damage is critical if you plan on storing your RV in an uncovered space. Covering your vehicle and sealing vulnerable locations can drastically minimize the impact of even the harshest winter conditions.
Cover up the Dark:
Anything on your RV that has a darker pigmentation will absorb UV rays. Investing in light-colored coverings for your wheels, grill, and anything else that's dark on your vehicle can reduce sun damage.
Sealing Your Seams:
RV leaks are most likely to occur where two seams meet. For instance, the seam holding a skylight in place or the seam around a side door can spots where moisture can penetrate your vehicle. Using clear caulk is a cheap and easy way to seal these seams tightly.
Contact a company like Drydock Depot RV Boat Storage to learn more.