Three Things You Need to Do Before You Store Your RV in the Winter
If the cold, blustery winter days mean that your RV will be parked and stored for a few months, make sure that you take the proper steps to prepare your RV for winter storage. Doing so prolongs the lifespan of your motor home. There are a few chores you need to complete to make sure it is ready for the road when spring comes.
1. Safeguard It from Rodents
During the winter months, it isn't uncommon for mice and squirrels to seek a warm haven to make their nests. These pesky guests like to chew and can cause significant damage to both rubber and electrical components in your RV.
Keep these pests out of your RV by checking the underside of your RV for holes. If you find a hole, you can fill it with expanding foam. Be careful when using the foam, as the foam significantly expands once it is completely dry.
Make sure that you go through your entire RV and remove all traces of food from the interior. This will prevent hungry rodents from seeing the inside of your RV as an all-you-can-eat buffet.
2. Prepare the Interior of Your RV
Don't forget to pay attention to the inside of your RV. Many owners make the mistake of paying attention to only the exterior of the home and neglect the interior.
First, go through all of your electronics and devices and remove all the batteries.
Then, defrost your freezer. Once it is defrosted, clean out both your freezer and refrigerator.
If you won't have your RV connected to electricity during the winter months, turn off the main electrical breaker.
Clean any filters in your RV. Close the blinds in all your windows and doors to prevent the interior from being exposed to sunlight.
3. Maintain the Exterior of Your RV
If your RV will be stored in an uncovered storage facility, it is essential to check the outside of your motor home for any maintenance needs. After thoroughly washing your RV, use wax on the finish. The wax helps protect the finish from the elements, keeping your motor home looking as good as new.
As you wash your RV, you want to make sure that there aren't any cracks or holes that will allow moisture to get into your RV. Reseal any areas that do not appear to be capable of keeping water out.
Take a few minutes to lubricate all of your RV's hinges so that they do not rust during the winter months.
Cover any vents that might let insects enter your RV. This includes appliance vents and those that are a part of your cooling and heating systems.