Storing an RV
Storing an RV properly is very important. Winterizing it for cold weather and preventing critters is necessary!
Depending on where you live or want to store your RV will have an influence on what you need to do as a minimum.
First things first - if it will be a below freezing area - you will have your work cut out for you. It is imperative that any and ALL water be removed from all pipes, commodes and drains. Take a look at our Winterizing Page to get some information about that.
Depending on your economic situation, you may be storing it in your yard outdoors or within a sheltered building.
Storing an RV Outdoors
Outdoor storage presents more problems for your RV. The roof and paint should be protected as much as possible. Even in a none freezing area, your tanks, drains (p-traps) and lines should be drained.
The batteries are probably best disconnected? There are many opinions on this. However, putting your batteries on a small charger or plugging in your RV for months at a time will create other concerns - overcooking the batteries? Fire? Don't forget to prop open your refrigerator door.
Critters are a nuisance. We recommend "Fresh Cab" as a proven method of keeping mice, chipmunks out of things. If your generator has a start button on it - be sure to prevent it from being started by an animal stepping on it (course, it can't if the battery is disconnected!)
Your fuel/gas tank should be filled as much as possible to prevent moisture and condensation buildup.
Your tires should be just slightly touching the ground - minimal actual load bearing weight on them and the bearings - do NOT have wheels totally off the ground.
I recommend a rubber lubricant spraying of all things rubber within the suspension system before storing for the winter - you'll thank me in the spring!!
Indoor Storage
Indoor storage is great, if you have the financial means to do so. Typically, it will make it so much easier for you. I still recommend draining the tanks, lines and traps though. The main thing you will accomplish with indoor storage is the vehicle stays clean and weather proofed.
I would still recommend disconnecting the batteries and opening the refrigerator. Running your refrigerator during storage is just asking for a fire! Even if it is running on 110 versus Propane - heat is heat!
Critters will be smaller - but they will still get within a shelter. Plan accordingly!
