The first and most important step to take before putting your RV into storage for the winter is to complete a thorough and detailed cleaning of every nook and cranny. One of the biggest dangers to your rig will be pests looking to make your home on wheels their winter hideout, and the first thing to draw them will be food crumbs. Make sure your refrigerator and cabinets are completely emptied of food, and all of your surfaces are wiped clean of any cooking residue. You’ll also want to wash the outside of your rig, as well as sinks and shower stalls to keep mold at bay. Some other tasks to cross off your list early on are emptying your tanks, draining your water system, and utilizing anti-freeze if you live in a particularly cold part of the country.
If you store your RV close to home it’s always a good idea to make a trip to check on it every few weeks. Start up the engine to ward off any critters looking to chew on your wires and cables, as this type of activity can mean incredibly expensive repairs for you come Spring. Additionally, be sure to stock up on dryer sheets and peppermint oil, which are rumored to be the safest methods of warding off rodents and creepy crawlers of all types.
Those who store their rigs indoors may also want to remove their propane tanks, and keep them in an openly ventilated area while the rig is locked up tight. Another safety concern includes vehicle sinking, which may occur if you park on soft ground for long periods of time, so be sure to utilize tire blocks in these types of situations. Tires might also be damaged by having the weight of your RV press on them in one specific position all winter, so if possible it’s always a good idea to move your rig once or twice during the season. Also, be sure to utilize your RV Warranty and have any necessary repairs completed before putting your rig into storage. You don’t want to let problems sit all winter!
Do you have great tips for storing your RV all winter? Sound off in the comments section below!
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