Prepare for winter storage of your RV, boat, or trailer!

As the temperature drops and the last leaves fall, it’s time to wrap up another season of outdoor adventures. Whether you’ve explored national parks, spent weekends at the lake, or taken spontaneous road trips, your RV, boat, or trailer has helped create lasting memories. Now it’s time to take care of it, so it’s ready to roll when spring returns.

Winter storage is more than just parking; it’s a critical step in protecting your investment and avoiding costly damage. At Jimmy’s RV Storage in Edmonton, we make it easy to store your RV or boat with confidence. But before you bring it in, a few smart steps can make all the difference.

Here’s how to get your recreational vehicle or watercraft winter-ready; and why it’s worth doing it right.

1. Give It a Deep Clean, Inside and Out
Before storing any RV or trailer, start with a full cleaning. Wash the exterior thoroughly to remove road salt, dirt, or organic buildup that could damage the finish over time. A wax coating or protective spray can add a layer of defense against the elements.

Inside, remove all food, vacuum every surface, wipe down cupboards, and disinfect the kitchen and bathroom areas. Empty the fridge and freezer completely and prop the doors open to prevent mold or lingering odors. Even a single overlooked crumb can attract rodents; so take the time to do a full sweep.

2. Drain All Water and Winterize the Plumbing
One of the most common and expensive issues RV owners face during winter is frozen pipes. If you plan to store your RV in a cold climate, you must drain all tanks and lines. This includes:

• Freshwater tanks
• Grey and black holding tanks
• Water heater and pump
• Faucets, toilets, and showers

Once drained, add non-toxic RV antifreeze into the system according to your manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t forget to bypass the water heater when doing this to avoid wasting antifreeze.

If you’re unsure how to do this, many local service shops offer winterizing packages; a small investment that prevents big repairs.

3. Take Care of the Battery and Power Systems
Batteries can lose their charge and even freeze if left unused in cold conditions. Disconnect and remove your RV battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Check the charge level every 30 to 60 days and top it up as needed to maintain battery health.

For boats, disconnect the battery and store it indoors. If it stays installed, make sure it is fully charged and hooked up to a maintenance charger.

4. Stabilize Fuel and Prep the Engine
For motorhomes, tow vehicles, and boats, add fuel stabilizer to a full gas tank. This helps prevent fuel breakdown and gumming in the fuel lines. After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for several minutes to circulate the treated fuel throughout the system.

Change the oil and replace filters as needed. For boats, follow manufacturer instructions for fogging the engine and lubricating internal components.

5. Prevent Rodents and Moisture Damage
Rats and mice can squeeze through tiny openings and make nests in RV insulation or upholstery. Use steel wool or expanding foam to block any gaps where pests might enter. Set traps or use safe deterrents like peppermint oil to discourage invaders.

Place moisture absorbers or dehumidifier packs throughout the interior to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Keep cabinet doors open for airflow and remove bedding and textiles that can trap moisture.

6. Tire and Brake Protection
Tires can develop flat spots or lose pressure during long periods of storage. Inflate them to the recommended PSI and consider placing your RV or trailer on leveling blocks to reduce pressure on one side.

If possible, move the unit a few feet every month to avoid wear on one section of the tire. For boats with trailers, chock the wheels and store them on a level surface to reduce strain on the axle.

7. Cover and Protect Exterior Components
A breathable RV or boat cover adds a layer of protection from UV rays, snow, and ice. Make sure the cover fits well and is secured properly so it doesn’t flap or tear in the wind.

Cover vents, A/C units, and exhaust pipes with mesh or screening to keep out debris and critters. Retract awnings, secure all windows and doors, and remove any portable electronics or valuables from the unit.

8. Bring It to Jimmy’s for Safe Storage
Once your RV, trailer, or boat is cleaned, winterized, and covered, bring it to Jimmy’s RV Storage for a secure winter home. Our site features:

• A fully fenced facility with 6-foot perimeter and RBtec armored sensor cable
• 60+ high-definition 4K security cameras and 40+ floodlights
• Free on-site air station, sani dump, propane sales, and firewood
• On-site ownership and friendly customer support
• Flexible stall sizes for all vehicle types

And because we’re located inside Edmonton city limits, you don’t have to drive far to drop off or pick up your vehicle.

Visit Jimmy’s RV Storage to reserve your spot before winter hits.

Your RV, boat, or trailer is more than just equipment; it’s a gateway to adventure. Taking the time to properly prepare it for storage will protect your investment, extend its lifespan, and ensure it’s ready to go when you are.

At Jimmy’s RV Storage, we don’t just store vehicles; we help secure the memories you make. Our goal is to make it easy for you to focus on your next adventure while we focus on protecting what got you there.

Securing the memories you make.