Essential Maintenance Tips for Your RV While in Storage

 Owning an RV provides much-needed liberty to travel, explore, and be on the move. However, proper care regarding storage and maintenance should also be given to the vehicle when it is not in use. If you are just storing the RV for a short period or during off-season usage, it would be best to ensure that the vehicle remains in excellent condition while parked. By adopting necessary precautions, you can prevent recurring costly repairs and extend the length of life of your RV. 

This guide will give you very valuable maintenance tips to keep your RV in excellent condition while keeping it in a storage unit. It will provide you with step-by-step process on how to prepare the exterior, interior and essential systems of the RV for your safety, ensuring that your investment is at its best. 

1. Clean Your RV Thoroughly Before Storage 

You prepare your RV for storage by cleaning it thoroughly. A well-maintained RV has minimal chances of developing issues based on mold, mildew, or pests. Dirt and grime left on the exterior can cause damage to paint and surfaces over time. 

  • Washing the exterior: This entails the cleaning of the roof in addition to the whole exterior to remove dirt and debris that may cause rust or corrosion.  

  • Interior cleaning: Vacuum and dust all surfaces so that the interior is free from dust and debris. Clean out the fridge, cupboards and pantry. Remove all food and perishable items to keep pests from entering your RV. Consider the use of moisture absorbers to prevent mold and mildew. 

2. Drain and Winterize the Plumbing System 

Some of the most important aspects for keeping your RV maintained during storage are draining and winterizing the plumbing. When you store your RV in cold climates, it becomes more than just necessary because frozen pipes can be the cause for one of the costliest repairs. 

  • Drain All Water Systems: First, drain the freshwater tank as well as the black and gray water tanks. It is also advisable to drain the water heater, so there is no water left in the system. 

  • Add Antifreeze: Drain the tanks first and then introduce a bit of non-toxic RV antifreeze to the plumbing system. This prevents the water remaining inside the plumbing system from freezing and thus bursting the pipes subsequently. 

3. Maintain and Check the Tires 

Tires are a major component of the composition of your RV, and they need special care when the RV has been placed in storage for a longer duration. Without involvement, the tires begin to develop flat spots, which may affect their performance. 

Inflate Tires to the Required Pressure: Before you stash your RV at a vehicle storage facility, check its tire pressure and inflate it up to the recommended PSI by the manufacturer’s recommendations. This ensures that avoiding flat spots keeps tires in the best condition. 

Use Tire Covers: This is especially useful for those who store their RV outdoors. It protects the tires from those damaging UV rays caused by the sun that gradually crack and degrade your tires. 

4. Protect the Exterior with an RV Cover 

One of the most crucial RV maintenance tips is to use a good cover for your vehicle. The cover will protect your RV from extreme harsh weather, for example, heavy rain, snow, and UV rays. 

5. Disconnect and Store the Battery 

RV batteries do lose their charge over time, but especially when the vehicle is unused. So, in maintaining a battery while it is stored, proper care will ensure it will be ready for action when you bring out that RV again. 

  • Disconnect the Battery: If you are planning to keep your RV in one place for many months, it is advisable to have the battery disconnected so that it does not drain. Store it in a cool, dry place and check its charge every little while. 

  • Keep using a Battery Maintainer: If you will keep the battery on, use a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep it full while in storage. The battery will not discharge and it’ll be ready when you need to use it in your RV. 

6. Inspect Seals and Roof for Leaks 

The seals for windows, doors and roof lose their tightness over time and allow entry of water to the RV. Water damage, especially, can be expensive for you to rectify so inspection frequently, with any needed repair work done before storage. 

  • Check Seals: Look for any cracks or openings around windows, doors, and vents. If you observe any form of damage, apply RV sealant to the seals to avoid leakage. 

  • Check the Roof: You should inspect your roof for signs of damages also. If you find any areas that need some form of attention, use the roof sealant to avoid leakage. 

7. Rodent and Pest Protection 

Rodents and pests can cause havoc on an RV especially in instances of long-term storage. They are usually effortless at chewing through the wires, insulations, and upholstery. This can end up costing you, literally, a fortune to repair once they have damaged parts of your RV. 

  • Plug All Access Opening: Check your RV for any potential opening of pipes and vents. Seal them with foam or weatherproof tape to prevent them from entering. 

  • Use Natural Repellents: Position natural pest repellent such as peppermint oil or mothballs near the interior of the RV to hold at bay rodents and insects. 

8. Regular Maintenance Inspection 

Even while your RV sits in storage, think of performing regular maintenance inspections to make sure that everything remains in good condition. For you to catch some potential problems before they even manifest, like low tire pressure, leaks, and pest infestations, it is best to keep up your visiting the RV periodically. 

With all the RV maintenance tips above, your RV should now be good to go for when you take it out of storage sometime in the future. 

Storage of Your RV in a Vehicle Storage Facility 

A good vehicle storage facility will make all the difference regarding keeping your RV looking pristine and ready to be used right away after putting it into storage. Factors to look for include ample-sized angled parking spaces, electricity to each covered unit, and 24-hour access. Such options provide convenience and protection for one's RV, so it remains safe and secure during storage. 

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