If you don’t use your RV all year round, it’s a great idea to put it into storage to keep it safe and secure. However, it’s not just a case of picking a storage unit and leaving it there until you need it again. There are some essential things to carry out before it is stored away.
If you’re thinking about placing your RV in storage, check out these top tips:
1. Clean inside and out
It’s surprising how dirty an RV gets even after a few uses. Before it goes into a storage facility, cleaning your vehicle inside and out is one of the first steps to take. On the outside of the RV, be sure to wash thoroughly to spot any issues such as blistering or corrosion. Check window seals and ensure mold or grime build-up is removed.
On the inside, it’s a great time to declutter. Remove anything that is not essential, especially perishables like food. After all, you don’t want to discover moldy food in time to come. Clean upholstery and disinfect any appliances such as the refrigerator.
2. Run maintenance checks
Every RV should have annual service checks as part of its general upkeep. However, if you’ve used your vehicle more regularly, it’s essential to do this frequently. Before putting it in storage, carry out an oil change and filter changes, plus check wires and hoses.
When you store your RV, take out the battery to prevent it from draining. It’s best to keep this connected to a smart charger to ensure it stays in optimum condition for when you need it.
3. Turn off the LPG supply
For safety, be sure to turn off the LPG supply. It’s also a good idea to remove any LPG bottles from your RV while it is not in use. Clear any vents and cover them to ensure insects are unable to crawl through. Remove any flammables, including your extinguisher bottles.
4. Install insect screens
Not all openings can be covered, which can cause an issue, especially if you live in an area known for its bugs and rodents. To avoid them crawling into small spaces, install a screen that allows for airflow but keeps the pests at bay. These can be purchased in most RV parts outlets for an affordable price.
5. Ensure your RV is well ventilated
While keeping the water out of your vehicle during storage is vital, it’s also important to allow some airflow to prevent moisture build-up. You can do this by leaving the rooftop vents open. However, to stop any water from getting through these small gaps, purchase a vent cover so you have the best of both worlds.
6. Close the curtains but not the blinds
It’s often thought that closing the blinds and curtains is the best way to keep the furniture inside from fading. However, this can also cause mold growth as the temperature drops from no sunlight getting in. An excellent way to prevent this is by using curtains or blinds that allow some sunlight to penetrate. Avoid using complete blackout blinds as issues with moisture build-up can occur.
7. Check plumbing
Even when your RV is not in use, there may still be water in the hoses and tanks. Before you store it away, try to remove this excess. If the temperature drops, issues with frozen pipes and cracked hoses can cause water leaks and moisture. There are lots of articles online about how to check the plumbing in your RV for extra help.
8. Think about the tires
The tires on your RV may look fine and be within legal limits, but after prolonged storage, flat spots and UV damage can cause them to perish over time. Check out these handy tips to keep your tires in the best condition throughout their storage:
- Store your RV in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight.
- Empty the vehicle as much as possible, so there is less weight on the tires.
- Inflate the tires to the optimum pressure level and add 25%. Be sure not to go over the manufacturer’s inflation capacity limit.
- Clean the tires and wheels before placing your RV in storage. This will remove any oil or grit.
- Try to move your vehicle at least every three months—slight adjustments to its position help to reduce cracking and a flat spot in your tire.
- If you can, place your RV on blocks to take the weight off the tires.
- Store it on level ground that drains well to avoid the tires sitting in water.
9. Choose the best RV storage facility
When you prep your vehicle for storage, a significant part of the process is choosing a suitable facility to ensure it is safe and secure. There are lots of options available, including indoor storage, outdoor storage, and covered storage. Consider aspects such as the security of the site, accessibility, and the cost when choosing, but cheaper doesn’t always mean better.
Indoor storage is optimal for RV storage, although it is more expensive than other options. You can also choose climate-controlled facilities for ultimate peace of mind. Outdoor storage is a great option for affordable storage. There are generally plenty of facilities across the country that cater to RVs of all sizes.
10. RV insurance
Before you put your RV into storage, contact your insurance company to check whether they cover you while your vehicle is in storage. Some policies may require additional cover for this, and many storage providers require proof you have insurance to cover losses. There may be the option to purchase storage insurance with the provider itself, but this can typically cost more than other providers. Shop around for the best deal.
These are a few things you need to consider before putting your RV into storage. By preparing your vehicle in advance, it will be ready to go without any major hitches when you want to use it again. Plus, staying on top of maintenance will keep your RV in the best condition all year round.