Storing your RV over the Winter: What to do before the winter season comes?

Properly storing your RV over the winter is crucial for prolonging its lifespan and ensuring it’s ready for your next adventure. At Jimmy’s RV Storage in Edmonton, we understand that your RV is not just a vehicle, but a vessel for creating cherished memories. Our comprehensive storage solutions and expert advice help you secure the memories you make.

 Protecting the Exterior and Preventing Damage

 Winter storage can be harsh on your RV’s exterior if not done correctly. One of the first steps is to thoroughly clean and inspect your RV. Cleaning the exterior removes dirt, grime, and potential corrosive substances that can damage the paint and body. Inspecting for cracks and sealing them with RV-specific caulk ensures that moisture doesn’t seep in, which can lead to rust and structural damage.

 Using a high-quality RV cover is essential to protect your RV from the elements. This cover shields your RV from UV rays, rain, snow, and wind, preventing issues such as fading paint, rust, and damage to the roof and tires.

Winterizing Plumbing and Preventing Freezing

 One of the most critical steps in winterizing your RV is to protect its plumbing system. Draining all water from the plumbing system, including tanks and pipes, is necessary to prevent freezing, which can cause pipes to burst and lead to costly repairs. Adding RV antifreeze to the system ensures that any remaining water does not freeze and damage the plumbing.

Battery Maintenance and Fuel Stabilization

 Proper battery maintenance is vital during winter storage. Removing the battery and storing it in a cool, dry place helps prevent it from discharging completely or freezing. Regularly checking and charging the battery can prolong its life and ensure it’s ready when you need it.

Adding a fuel stabilizer to your RV’s fuel tank prevents the fuel from breaking down and causing engine problems. Running the engine briefly to circulate the stabilized fuel through the system helps keep the engine components in good condition.

 Tire Care to Prevent Flat Spots

 Tires can develop flat spots if they bear the weight of the RV for an extended period. To avoid this, consider placing your RV on leveling blocks to take the weight off the tires. Ensuring the tires are properly inflated and covered to protect them from UV damage and the elements will also help maintain their condition.

Interior Preparation to Prevent Pests and Mold

The interior of your RV needs to be prepared to prevent pests and mold. Remove all food items to avoid attracting rodents and clean the refrigerator thoroughly. Leaving the refrigerator and freezer doors open with a box of baking soda inside helps prevent mold and odors.

Sealing any potential entry points with steel wool or spray foam can keep rodents out. Additionally, using deterrents like mothballs or essential oils can further protect your RV from unwanted critters.

Regular Checks and Maintenance

Even while in storage, it’s beneficial to check on your RV periodically. Inspecting for any signs of damage, leaks, or pest infestations can help you address issues before they become major problems. Keeping the RV clean and well-ventilated during storage also prevents mold and mildew buildup.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

 At Jimmy’s RV Storage in Edmonton, we provide a secure, well-maintained storage facility that caters to all your RV storage needs. By following these comprehensive steps, you can ensure that your RV remains in excellent condition, ready for your next journey. Remember, properly storing your RV not only prolongs its life but also secures the memories you make on the road.