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STORAGE TIPS

Winter RV Storage: What You Need to Know Beforehand

Posted on November 30, 2016

RV storage

We've compiled a step-by-step guide to help you get your trailer ready before parking it at an RV storage facility.

The weather this year was perfect for camping, and because of this you've probably managed to visit more your fair share of campsites during the summer months. Now that the camping season has come to an end, it's time to pack up and put away your favourite summertime accessory: the RV. From finding suitable RV storage options to sweeping out the interior to washing the exterior, we've compiled a list of everything you need to know to get your trailer ready for winter.

 

Step 1: Start with the Exterior

It's really important to wash your RV's exterior thoroughly. Damp materials are a breeding ground for mildew and will be nearly impossible to clean in the spring when you bring your trailer home from an RV storage facility. To minimize the risk, make sure to wash the following:

  • Awnings
  • Wheel wells
  • Tires
  • All exterior surfaces

While wiping down your summer second home, be sure to check all the seals for cracks or damage and replace if necessary. If you plan on covering your RV with a tarp for the winter, you'll want to make sure everything is completely dry first.

 

Step 2: Perform an Inspection

RVs need frequent maintenance to ensure they're running in tiptop shape. Before placing your ride into RV storage, check the tires, bearings, and any other moving parts. As a rule of thumb, you should always lubricate bearings, use a tire cover to preserve your tires and look for things that may be cracked, rusted, or broken. By fixing these things before pulling up to your choice of storage facilities, you can avoid being held up by repairs come springtime when you're eager to get out into the great outdoors.

 

Step 3: Mouse Proofing

As much as you love spending time in your RV, so do rodents and other little critters. To avoid a surprise when you first fling open that door after months of being separated, do a little mouse proofing before parking your motorhome in winter storage. Check around the exterior for any holes, cracks, or openings that lead to the interior. If your finger can fit, so can a pesky critter. Fill any openings with brass or aluminum wool. For smaller openings, you can use foam insulation. 

For added protection, install mouse and ant traps inside as well as outside near your tires and next to the hitch (basically any place that touches the ground). It's also a good idea to get in the habit or removing all food and perishables from the cabinets. These goodies will attract unwanted attention throughout the winter months.

 

Step 4: Remove Propane Tanks

Disconnecting and removing propane tanks while in storage is a good habit to get into. Besides limiting the potential for accidents, you can prevent the tanks from rusting while not in use. Store them in a dry, well-ventilated area until next camping season.

 

Now that your trailer is ready for storage, it's probably time to winterize the boat too. For a comprehensive boat winterization list, check out our previous post: Boat Storage Kelowna Tips: Winterize Your Boat Like a Boss

 

Are you looking for safe and secure RV and boat storage Kelowna residents consistently return to each winter season? If so, check out Space Centre Storage. Call us today to arrange a tour of our facility.

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