Ugh. You don’t know how much we hate using the ‘w’ word when it still feels like the middle of summer. But, as we get into August, there’s no denying that September is on its way. So, even if you’re in the middle of a road trip and you’re enjoying your RV every day, pretty soon it will be time to find RV storage space for the winter.
One of the reasons that we’re getting you to think about your RV storage now is that we see so many people making easily-corrected mistakes when they put their vehicles away. One of the overall issues is that it seems people don’t think of their RV as both a home and a vehicle, storing it with the best practices for one or the other, but not both.
In any case, here are some of the tips we’d like you to think about before putting your RV into storage this year.
1. Give your Tires a Break
While most of us know that it’s best to store their cars on blocks for extended periods, it doesn’t seem to be the practice for RVs. The reason you put a car on clocks is to prevent the tires from developing flat spots, which could lead to rougher rides and uneven wear on the tires. Even if you don’t put the RV entirely on blocks, you may want to consider raising it enough to take at least some pressure off the tires. You can also reduce the chances of flat spots developing by making sure the tires are properly inflated before storage.
2. Clean It & Check All Seals
A thorough wash and wax of the RV’s exterior will give it added protection while in storage and make your spring-time roll out that much easier and quicker. Remove anything you can from the RV, especially food, both for safekeeping and to get even more weight off the tires. Check all your door and window seals, silicon seams and caulking all around the RV. If they need any attention, now’s the time because you’ll be chomping at the bit to get going next spring and not want to take care of it then.
3. Cover it Up
You might want to go all the way in protecting your RV by putting it in a heated, indoor vehicle storage lot. Even if you choose this route, and especially if you opt for the outdoor vehicle storage lot, it’s a good idea to cover your car. Inside, you’ll keep dust from covering the vehicle. Outside, you’ll protect the RV from the elements, bird droppings and animal traffic.
4. Plumbing
Just like you turn off the plumbing at home before you head out on the road, it makes sense to flush out all waste and clean out all the pipes before putting the vehicle in storage. Even a relatively small amount of water, trapped in the right spot, can damage your plumbing if it freezes. But also remember to add back water to your tanks to stop them from drying out.
5. Let some Air in to Keep Moisture Out
While we sometimes like to make the RV airtight for storage, that lead to mold forming and you don’t want that smell to hit you in the spring. Keep your roof events open during storage to keep the RV ventilated. But be sure to buy vent covers as well so no more moisture gets into your vehicle.
6. Pest Control
Even if you cover your RV, it’s not enough to keep pests from getting in. Make sure all screens and openings are sealed off. This is another reason for you to remove food and cover your vents.
OK. We’re going to leave it there and let you get back to enjoying the rest of the summer, but call us if you’re looking for storage for your RV this winter!
