When you first bought your RV, you knew you'd have to figure out a storage option. While an RV is great to have in the summertime for camping adventures and sightseeing, it can be a challenging item to store each wintertime. But finding the right place for it and getting it ready for storage are two challenges to overcome. So let's discover the best ways to prepare for long-term RV storage.
The first question on your mind might be, does it even matter? Does preparing my RV for storage do anything worthwhile? It really does. When you put the time into getting your RV ready for long-term RV storage, it'll be ready for you when you're ready to use it again—with no hiccups along the way. But, if you're still curious as to how it can help, let's take a peek into some of the benefits.
When you properly prepare your RV for winter storage, you're minimizing the risk of wear and tear on important components. This includes everything from rust to frozen water systems.
No one wants pests in their RV, and a well-prepared RV is less likely to be invaded by unwanted critters.
When you're ready to break out the RV for another season of camping, it'll be easier to get going if all systems are up and running well with no need for repairs or maintenance.
Now that we know why you should prepare your RV for storage, let's find out how to do it.
A thorough cleaning can make all the difference in preventing any mold or mildew from forming while your RV stays inactive for the cold months. Remember to remove all perishables from the fridge and cupboards. Use baking soda and moisture-absorbing bags to help keep stale air from gathering.
This is an important step to do before winter storage. Clean off all the dirt and grime that has collected over the summer months. It'll help maintain a well-kept look and prevent rust, mold, and mildew from forming.
If you want to be ready for long-term RV storage, it's important to take some time to check for any tears or holes in the exterior of your RV and make sure they are all patched up.
Take a look at any window seals and door seals to make sure they are still in good condition so you don't end up with a water leak while away from your RV.
This is a crucial step in preparing your RV for storage. Tire care is important throughout the year, but especially when you're storing it away for long periods. Make sure to check tire pressure. Putting something between the ground and your RV tires, like a tire cradle or a wheel block, will help them last longer.
If you plan on storing your RV for any length of time, it's always a good idea to treat the fuel with a stabilizer. This helps keep it from deteriorating while stored away. For propane, make sure all tanks are turned off before storage so they don't leak.
It's important to disconnect and remove the RV batteries before storage. This prevents them from being drained while away for long periods. It is also advisable to periodically check and charge the batteries during storage.
Just as it's important to winterize your house before cold weather, you've got to take the proper steps to winterize your RV for long-term storage. This includes draining water tanks, adding antifreeze fluid, and winterizing the toilet as well. All these steps are important to ensure that no pipes burst or crack while stored away.
It goes without saying, but you want your waste and water tanks as empty as possible before going into storage. This will help reduce the risk of leaks and other potential damages.
We know no one wants pests in their RV, so to prevent this from happening you should take the necessary precautions. This means sealing off any openings or gaps where pests could enter. This is an important step for keeping your RV safe and sound.
It's important to have proper air circulation and moisture control within your RV while it is in storage. This means using a dehumidifier to help regulate the humidity levels inside your RV.
Before you do long-term RV storage, it's a good idea to give the engine and mechanical systems a check-up. This includes changing the oil and filters, checking the brakes, and making sure all other moving parts are properly lubricated.
An important step when storing your RV is to use a quality cover for protection against wind, sun, rain, snow, dirt, and debris. Use a cover that will block UV rays to protect your RV from fading, dried-out paint, and cracked roof seals.
Now it’s time to find the right long-term RV storage facility. This means taking into consideration all factors such as location, size, and budget. This is one of the most important parts! Putting your RV in a place you can trust matters.
At North Texas Storage, we care about keeping your RV safe during your long-term RV storage stay. Our facilities are secure so you can rest easy knowing your RV is in good hands. Plus, we provide excellent customer service to help make the entire process easier for you. Don't wait any longer—contact us today to find out how we can help with your RV storage needs.