How Do You Prepare Your RV For Storage?
When you store your RV for an extended period, you’ll need to make sure it’s properly prepared and ready for its stay. You don’t want to come back to it after months of storage and find out it has been damaged or is otherwise not in good condition.
To make sure your RV is properly prepared for storage, here are a few steps to ensure your RV is safe and secure:
Clean the Interior of Your RV Thoroughly
The last thing you want to do when you open your RV back up after storage is clean a mess. Make sure the interior is free and clear of any food, moisture, or dirt that could attract pests or cause mold to grow during its stay in storage.
Don’t let bugs make a home in your RV while it’s in storage. Use a commercially available insecticide to make sure no critters decide to call your RV home during storage.
Fill All Tires With Air
It’s important to make sure all tires are filled with air before you store your RV. This will help to prevent flat spots from forming and keep the tires in good shape for a longer period. This will help you avoid the inconvenience of having to replace the tires before you even take your RV out of storage.
Replacing tires is not fun and can be expensive, do this to avoid it.
Check All Fluids
Make sure all fluids are topped off and filled according to the owner’s manual before storage such as:
- Engine oil
- Radiator fluid
- Brake fluids
Also, make sure the fuel tank is full and that all other tanks are emptied and treated with antifreeze if necessary. This will help to prevent any leaks or damage while the RV is in storage.
Disconnect Your Battery & Cover It
Having a battery die out is not only inconvenient but expensive. To prevent this from happening, disconnect your battery before storage to preserve its life and prevent corrosion. Once you’ve disconnected it, make sure you cover the terminals with a layer of petroleum jelly or another waterproof material to help keep it dry and safe.
Use a Cover or Tarp
Using a cover or tarp on your RV will help to protect it from the elements. This is especially important if you’re storing your RV outside. Make sure the cover or tarp is securely fastened in place and covers the entire RV. You’ll often see this step when storing boats, but it’s just as important for RVs.
Find a Secure Storage Unit
The most important step is to find a secure storage unit for your RV. Make sure it’s properly gated, with good lighting and security cameras to ensure that your RV is safe from thieves or vandals. You should also inspect the units before signing any contracts to make sure they’re suitable for storing an RV.
Secure All Doors & Windows
If you’re storing your RV outside, make sure all doors and windows are locked and secure. This will help to prevent theft or vandalism while it’s in storage. Believe it or not, RV theft is a thing.
These are just some of the steps you can take to make sure your RV is prepared for storage. Make sure to check your owner’s manual for additional instructions on how to properly prepare your RV for storage. Doing so will help to ensure a smooth and safe return when it’s time to hit the open road again. Happy camping!
