RV Winter Storage: 5 Important Keys
RV Winter Storage: 5 Important Keys
It's that time of the year again. As the end of summer rolls around, it's time to put aside a day or so to get your RV ready for winter storage. The first thing you should do is to give it a thorough cleanup. We've written a helpful post about end-of-summer RV cleaning, but for now, let's focus on the most important elements of preparing your RV for winter storage.
- Decide on where you want to store your RV
When deciding where you will store your RV, consider the effort and risks involved in the option you choose. Options include:
RV Storage Unit: This is an enclosed storage unit specifically designed for recreational vehicles.
At Home: If you have a large carport at home that will fit your RV, this can save you money. However, you will have to make time to clear the roof on a regular basis, and ensure the tires are raised.
Speak to Central Ontario RV Rentals about our new on-site RV storage options. We offer convenient pick-up hours, and you can call ahead for pickup when you want to make a winter trip.
- Clean your RV properly
Cleaning your RV thoroughly before putting it into storage is crucial to keeping it in a great condition. It pays to buy quality, specialized RV cleaning and protection products that were formulated with your needs in mind, and made for the materials used to manufacture your RV and weather conditions.
- Winterize your RV batteries
Since RV batteries are not in use during winter, require proper care to ensure reliability and an extended life.
- Disconnect any unused batteries to avoid self-discharge when they are fully charged and recharge every 90 days to ensure they remain 75% full.
- RV batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place with temperatures above 0C to 27C.
Need more information about how to care for your Deep Cycle RV batteries? Read this post.
- Invest in an RV cover
No matter which RV storage option you choose, an RV cover will help protect your investment, as it can help keep leaves, bugs, and dust out.
If you're storing your RV outside, you should know that exterior of your vehicle is vulnerable to sunlight, rain, temperature fluctuations, and various debris such as bird droppings, falling leaves or sticks. These elements can all damage your RV's exterior, which is why you need an RV cover.
- Protect your tires
Tire covers and gards are an inexpensive tool which protects your RV tires all year round by preventing harmful rays of the sun from resulting in dry rot, particularly at higher elevations.
Tire covers are made from lightweight vinyl and are available in sizes A-J (27"-34") and in a range of popular prints, solid colors, dealer logo prints, camouflage and diamond plated embossing.
Tire gards have a super heavy duty vinyl construction made to look and feel like diamond-plated steel. A rear strap and buckle are used to secure the gard to the back, and a elasticized rear seam for a snug fit. Tire gards are UV and cold crack treated and carry a 3 year warranty. Sizes vary from 30" - 40" and options are available for bus, XL and multi axle double and triple options.
- Keep your RV Mouse Free
One of the biggest causes of damage to RVs (no matter whether they are stored at home or in a storage unit), is rodents. During the cold winter months, rodents, squirrels and insects enter through holes and gaps in the undercarriage of your RV. Experts recommend that you reseal your vehicle at least once a year to help guard against rodents and pests.
You can use anything from mouse traps to poison, moth balls, scented dryer sheets, or you can stuff steel wool into access holes. You can use or cotton balls scented with peppermint essential oil too. Alternatively, you could use Mouse Free - an all-natural, convenient alternative. It works on a large scale by preventing entry. Importantly, it is humane and leaves no trace.
Are you ready for winter? If you need a storage unit, be sure to book as soon as possible while RV storage is still available.