Author: Guest
The more you drive your RV, the greater the wear of the engine and the rest of the vehicle. However, long trips aren’t the only factor that shortens the lifespan of your ride. Improper storage can also wreak havoc on various systems. But no worries – we’ll help keep your RV in one piece.
Here are the seven most important tips on storing your RV for an extended period.
Tip 1 – Cover It Up
The first and most important item on your storage to-do list should be to cover your RV. If possible, park it in your garage or rental indoor facility that keeps your vehicle in ideal climate conditions. Preferably, the inside should be air-conditioned to minimize temperature fluctuations.
Renting a facility can be expensive, but think about it – is it really more expensive than fixing a breakdown caused by improper storage? That’s where A-1 Auto Transport RV shipping services can come in.
Their team has all the expertise it takes to safely transport your vehicle to the nearest storage and eliminate the need to expose your ride to the elements. This way, you provide the engine with much-needed rest and enjoy the ultimate peace of mind, knowing top-rated professionals are handling your crown jewel.
If that’s not an option, make do with whatever you can. Found a spare tarp in your backyard that’s big enough for your RV? Great! Place it over the vehicle to reduce the risk of hail, snow, heavy rain, and other threats compromising your vehicle.
Also, keep in mind that your tires need as much attention as the rest of the vehicle. Shield them with a specialized rubber protectant or dressing to avoid wear caused by UV rays if your area is known for sunny weather.
Tip 2 – Take the Battery Out
Removing the battery from your RV might sound like an overkill, but trust us – you’re better off without it during cold seasons. When not in use, the battery discharges and can release acid. Like most other liquids, acid freezes in frigid weather, which is why leaving it under the hood is a risk you can’t afford.
The safest way to remove the battery is to consult your RV’s manual. Take out the negative first and move on to the positive. Make sure the positive and negative terminals don’t touch each other to avoid completing a circuit.
If you’ve never removed the battery from your RV, it might be best to contact a professional.
Tip 3 – Keep Pests at Bay
If they make their way inside, pests can be a pain in the neck for RV owners. Besides soiling your furniture, they can gnaw on any exposed wiring, resulting in expensive repairs.
As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Therefore, seal off any entrances to your vehicle before parking it for icy days. You may need to use some spray foam or steel wool for this purpose, as it’s perfect for covering doorways, vents, and other weak points.
To further reduce the chances of an infestation, dispose of any food from your vehicle, especially perishables.
Tip 4 – Protect the Interior
No matter how exhaustive your sealing efforts are, some pests may still enter the RV. From ants and termites to mice and worms, these critters can damage your furniture if left uncontested.
What can you do about this? Many things, but covering your furniture with a tarp is your best option. Go for thicker materials to keep pests from biting through the cover and digging their way to your couch or sofa.
Adding a protective cover also makes sense from an aesthetic standpoint. It stops dust from piling up throughout your RV and leaving stubborn stains or other visual problems.
So, don’t forget about tarping your RV when storing it. Come springtime, you’ll be welcomed by a well-preserved interior when you remove the tarp.
Tip 5 – Empty Water Lines
What happens to water when temperatures plummet to record lows? That’s right – it freezes, which is a major problem for RV owners. There are many water lines in the vehicle, all of which are prone to freezing in cold months. When water turns to ice, it expands, and the pipes might not be able to withstand the pressure. Eventually, they crack and bring about widespread damage.
A few minutes of your work is all it takes to avoid a disaster. Drain your water heater and any other system with water. Consult each system’s instruction manuals to learn how to do so safely.
Tip 6 – Fill Your Tank
Filling your RV tank when it’s not in use? That sounds crazy!
However, this is one of the smartest moves you can make when storing your RV. By topping your fuel tank off, you reduce the risk of condensation on the outside of the container. Over time, the moisture can trickle down into your fuel, which can cause a number of issues down the line.
So, always check your fuel level and add gas if necessary before your RV’s hibernation.
Tip 7 – Turn It On Every Once in a While
An RV engine that sits idle for months on end can fail when you need it most. Low temperatures can make the motor oil solidify, turning into a sludge that can harm the rest of the system.
To stop this from happening, fire your RV up for a few minutes once per week. It’ll help the engine snap out of its slumber just enough to keep essential liquids circulating.
Treat Your RV the Way It Deserves
Think about all the adventures your RV has taken you on. Many more are yet to come, but only if you minimize wear and tear. Therefore, don’t take a gamble – store your vehicle the right way, and it’ll serve you great for many years to come.
If need be, you can always get in touch with A-1 Auto Transport to deliver the ride to a local storage facility, delivering the ultimate protection. They’ve been in the business for three decades and served thousands of customers over the years. Plus, their drivers are qualified and well-trained to handle all types of RVs.
Joe Webster always knew the auto transport industry would be a great career option. And with decades of experience, Joe is now an established consultant for A1 Auto Transport.
Joe was born in Santa Cruz, California. During high school, Joe worked as a mechanic; a job continued to work part-time during his bachelor's degree.
Related Tags
Budget, Buying/Selling, Camping Gear + Accessories, Education, RV Tips