How To Properly Store Your RV in New York, Pennsylvania, or New Jersey
Winter is coming, and for most folks that means it is time to store your RV. It is very important you store your RV properly so it is damage free and ready for the next camping season. You must always winterize your RV before storage! Winterizing will protect the RVs water system from potential damage caused by exposure to freezing temperatures. Frozen and damaged water lines are in fact, the most common problem related to not winterizing your RV properly. If you do not know how to winterize your camper click here to view our 15 steps for winterization.
Interior
Always inspecting the underside of your RV for any gaps or holes. Fill any gaps using silicone or expanding foam. Check all open drawers and cabinet doors inside your RV. Look in all of the corners and crevices, especially where plumbing and wiring enter the RV. If you can see any daylight, mice will make their way in. Fill these areas with silicone or foam! When RVs are stored for the winter, they sit for months. It’s not uncommon for mice and squirrels to make their winter home in the RV. Rodents are notorious for chewing through vehicle wiring, plastic and rubber components, resulting in extensive damage to the RV.
Remove all food, drinks and bedding. Anything that would attract rodents to your RV. If you live close by to your RV storage facility or have access to it on a regular basis it doesn’t hurt to place traps just in case. However, make sure you check often and empty traps!
- Clean everything! Defrost the freezer compartment, clean the refrigerator and leave the doors open.
- Turn off the main breaker in the power distribution panel.
- Turn all LP gas appliances off and turn the LP gas supply valve off.
- Leave doors drawers and cabinets open.
- Clean A/C filter(s).
- Close the window blinds to avoid sun exposure to the carpet, drapes and upholstery.
- If you have vent covers installed on the overhead vents, leave them cracked open to allow for some ventilation to prevent rain from getting inside.
- Remove any dry cell batteries from devices like smoke alarms, clocks etc.
Exterior
If your RV is stored outside, it experiences all the elements and over time that will show. The suns UV rays will cause decal fading and make products like rubber and vinyl dry out, crack and deteriorate. So before you pack your RV away for the season, clean and wax the exterior using a quality wax formulated for the type of exterior surface your RV has. You can find this at any of our retail stores! A good coat of wax protects your RV finish and keeps your RV looking brand new year after year.
While cleaning the exterior, inspect all seals and be aware of cracks and openings that would allow water to get in. Lubricate all hinges, cover your LP gas appliance, clean the awning fabric and let it dry.
Do I cover or not cover? If possible it is best to store your RV is a covered area like a barn, but for a lot of people that isn’t attainable. So, be sure to avoid parking under trees, fields and wooded areas. Covering your RV can be a logical and a cost effective way to help protect your RV. If you decide to use a cover, make sure it is made of a breathable material. If not, moisture trapped inside the cover can cause extensive issues in the future. Keeping your RV covered will prevent harm from the elements and extend the lifespan of your RV.
Need a cover? Click here to view our RV cover inventory.
Properly storing you RV for the winter months is crucial for your RVs lifespan. Make sure you have a plan and follow these steps for bundling your RV up for the winter!
Meyer’s RV can help!
