Studies show that RV ownership is at an all-time high. In fact, there are over 11 million households that own an RV and even more looking to purchase one. However, there are some parts of RV maintenance that you should understand if you own an RV. This includes preparing your RV for extended storage. Do you want to learn more about RV storage near me?
Keep reading these top tips to prepare your RV for storage.
Find the Right Space
When you own an RV, it can be difficult to store it on your own if you do not have space on your property. So, the first step to preparing your RV for storage is to find the right RV storage facilities.
Finding the right storage space for your RV will ensure that it is protected from the elements as well as other dangers, like vandalism, theft, and more.
For the best protection, you should look for covered RV storage. This will keep your RV protected and more secure.
Invest in a High-Quality Cover
Next, you need to invest in a high-quality cover for your RV. This is important even if you find a covered RV storage facility.
If your RV is parked outside, an RV cover will protect your RV from UV rays, rain, and other natural elements. It will keep it looking new for much longer, as it will prevent the exterior from fading in the sun.
It can also prevent pests from damaging your RV while it is in storage.
Repair & Clean Your RV
Once you have found a place to store your RV, you need to make any necessary repairs and deep clean your RV before you store it for the season. If there are any cracks or holes in your RV, they need to be repaired before the changing weather causes these problems to worsen.
Making these repairs also prevents rust from forming on your RV.
Next, you need to deep clean the interior and exterior of your RV. First, start by washing and polishing the exterior of your RV. This simple step will keep your RV looking new for future use. It is also important to grease your tires to prevent the rubber from getting cracked.
Finally, you should remove any perishables from your RV before cleaning out your appliances, vacuuming, dusting, and more. By deep cleaning your RV before you store it, it will be ready for immediate use after the winter.
Shut Down Appliances
Next, you need to shut down each of your RV appliances.
You can start by defrosting and cleaning out your fridge. This will ensure that you do not forget any food in your fridge and that you will not come back to an unpleasant smell. Make sure you leave it unplugged to prevent any electrical problems while your RV is stored.
You also need to empty holding takes, clean the filters on your air conditioners, and make sure each of your appliances is disconnected from their outlets.
Drain Water & Other Fluids
Before you store your RV for an extended period of time, it is important that you drain all the water and any other fluids out of your RV.
To do this, you can start by flushing out your water tanks, the plumbing system, and even your motor home. To prevent any future problems with your plumbing, you can add antifreeze to your pipes to keep the remaining water from freezing over the winter.
Cover Interior Furniture
While it is important to cover the exterior of your RV, it is also important to invest in interior covers. If you are not going to use your RV for several months, you need to cover the furniture inside to prevent dust and grime from building up.
These covers make it easier to keep your RV clean and ready for future use!
Interior covers will also protect your furniture from fading if you do not have an exterior RV cover. If your RV is parked outside, the constant sunlight may cause your couches and other furniture to discolor.
Open Vents
Leaving your RV stored for a few months without proper air circulation may result in mold and mildew growth. To prevent this from causing problems when you are ready to use your RV again, it is important to open your vents.
However, you also want to be sure that you have vent covers when you do this. Using vent covers allows you to keep your vents open without worrying about rain, pests, or other debris from getting into your RV.
This will keep your RV smelling fresh and free of mold during the winter!
Prevent Tire Problems
Finally, you should care for your tires to prevent problems in the future. Because your RV is so heavy, it can cause a lot of strain on its tires. If you are storing your RV for an extended period of time, it may be best to put your RV on blocks to lessen the pressure.
Otherwise, you may want to drive your RV every few months to prevent uneven tire wear.
Find Boat and RV Storage Near Me
Properly storing and maintaining your RV is vital to protecting your investment. By following each of these tips, you can properly prepare your RV for storage. Do you need more RV storage advice?
Ideal Storage can help! We offer drive-up storage options to protect your investments like boats, RVs, cars, and more. With covered RV storage, your RV will be protected from the elements and from pests.
Check out our website to learn more about our storage solutions and to rent RV storage online.