Summer has come to a close, which means those prime RV months are behind us for this year. So, it’s time to switch gears and get your rig ready for the cold winter months. To help you out, we’ve put together this guide with 5 tips for winterizing an RV and making sure it’s safe and sound while in long-term RV storage.
Why Do You Need to Winterize Your RV?
Freezing temperatures can cause serious and often costly damage to your RV’s plumbing system, water heater, and pump, especially if water is left to sit in the pipes. Additionally, the exterior of your RV can easily be damaged by snow, ice, and even sunlight if it isn’t properly protected.
Some of the most common issues you’ll experience if you don’t put your RV in long-term storage are:
- Frozen pipes and other plumbing issues
- Dry rot, mildew, and water damage
- Structural damage from snow weight
- Loosened or cracked windows
- Pests using your RV as a winter home!
To avoid these issues, it’s essential to take the time to winterize your RV correctly and plan for long-term RV storage.
5 Essential Tips For Winterizing Your RV and Preparing It for Long-Term RV Storage
To keep your RV safe and ready for spring and summer adventures, follow these five steps for RV winterization.
1. Gather the Necessary Supplies
To start, gather all the necessary supplies for winterization. You’ll need a variety of tools, including a wrench, tubing cutter, antifreeze, and a water heater bypass kit. A checklist can be handy to ensure that you have everything you need before starting the winterization process.
2. Drain and Flush the Water System
Before winter sets in, it’s essential to empty your fresh water tanks, black and gray water holding tanks, and water heater. Once they’ve been emptied thoroughly, flush out all the tanks until they’re clean and free of any leftover debris. To protect against freezing, you can add antifreeze into the plumbing system.
3. Protect the Exterior
To protect the exterior of your RV during winter, it’s important to give it a thorough cleaning and inspection. Clean off any dirt and debris from the exterior of your RV, and pay special attention to the roof, as snow and ice buildup can be hazardous. Afterward, cover vulnerable areas with RV-specific tape or sealant to protect them from the elements.
4. Regular Maintenance Checks
Schedule regular maintenance checks for your RV during the offseason. Inspect your RV regularly for any issues or damages and address them promptly to prevent further damage. This also ensures that your RV is in top condition for the next warm-weather season.
5. Maintain the Battery
Disconnect or remove your RV battery and store it in a warm, dry place during the winter months. Regularly check the battery’s charge throughout the season, and recharge as necessary to prevent any damage from freezing.
Trust Good Shepherd RV Park With Your Home Away From Home
After these steps, your RV should be winter-ready! If you’re looking for a reliable place for long-term RV storage, consider Good Shepherd RV Park and Storage. Our secure and well-maintained facility is designed to provide you with peace of mind as your RV hibernates during the winter months.
Get in touch with us today and let us help you protect your home-on-wheels, so that you can be sure that it’ll be ready for your next great adventure when the sun shines again.
