How to Prepare Your RV for Long-Term Storage: Tips and Guide

Owning an RV offers endless opportunities for travel and adventure. However, there may come a time when you need to store your RV for an extended period. Whether due to seasonal changes, a planned hiatus, or other reasons, proper preparation is crucial to ensure your RV remains in good condition and ready for your next journey. 

This comprehensive guide will provide detailed steps to help you prepare your RV for long-term storage effectively.

Importance of Preparing Your RV for Long-Term Storage

Preparing your RV for long-term storage is essential to protect your investment. RVs are complex vehicles with numerous systems that can deteriorate if not properly maintained during storage. Elements such as weather, pests, and lack of use can cause significant damage. 

Taking the time to prepare your RV ensures it remains in optimal condition, prevents costly repairs, and extends its lifespan. Proper storage preparation also ensures that your RV is ready to hit the road when you are, without the hassle of dealing with unexpected issues.

Steps to Prepare Your RV for Long-Term Storage

Here are step by step guide on how to get your RV ready for storage:

1. Choose the Right Storage Location

Selecting the right storage location is the first step in protecting your RV. Indoor storage offers the best protection against weather, pests, and vandalism. It is the most secure option but can be costly. Covered storage provides a balance between cost and protection, shielding your RV from most elements while being more affordable than indoor storage. 

Outdoor storage is the most budget-friendly option but leaves your RV exposed to weather conditions and potential damage. Regardless of the type of storage, ensure the area is secure, well-lit, and has a level surface to prevent any shifting or settling.

2. Clean the Interior and Exterior

Before storing your RV, give it a thorough cleaning inside and out. For the exterior, wash and wax the surface to remove dirt and protect the paint from the elements. Inspect for cracks, rust, or any other damage and make necessary repairs to prevent further deterioration. Inside, clean all surfaces, vacuum carpets, and wipe down appliances. 

Removing any food and perishable items is crucial to avoid attracting pests and preventing unpleasant odors. This thorough cleaning not only protects your RV but also makes it more pleasant to return to.

3. Protect Against Pests

Pests can cause significant damage to an RV during long-term storage. To protect against rodents and insects, seal any gaps or openings with foam or caulk. Use rodent repellents or traps around the RV, and place mothballs or dryer sheets inside to deter insects. 

Controlling moisture is also important to prevent mold and mildew, so consider using desiccant packs inside the RV. Ensuring your RV is pest-free before storage will save you from dealing with potential infestations and damage later.

4. Drain and Winterize the Plumbing System

If you are storing your RV during cold weather, it is essential to winterize the plumbing system to prevent freezing and damage. Drain all water tanks, including fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks. Use non-toxic RV antifreeze to protect the water lines and fixtures. 

Open all faucets and the drain plug on the water heater to ensure no water remains in the system. Properly winterizing your RV prevents costly repairs due to burst pipes and damaged plumbing components.

5. Maintain the Tires

Proper tire maintenance is crucial to avoid flat spots and deterioration during storage. Inflate the tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure, and consider using tire covers to protect them from UV rays. If possible, place the RV on jack stands to relieve pressure on the tires and prevent flat spots. 

Regularly checking and maintaining tire pressure throughout the storage period is also important to ensure your RV is ready for safe travel when you take it out of storage.

6. Battery Care

RV batteries can lose charge over time and may even be damaged if not properly maintained during storage. Disconnect the batteries to prevent any drain, and store them in a cool, dry place. 

Use a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep them charged and ready for use. Proper battery care ensures your RV's electrical systems will function properly when you are ready to use it again, avoiding the hassle of dealing with dead batteries.

7. Engine and Generator Maintenance

For motorized RVs, taking care of the engine and generator is essential. Change the oil and filter to prevent corrosion, and add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank. Run the engine and generator for a few minutes to circulate the stabilizer. 

Check and top off all fluids, including coolant and brake fluid. Proper engine and generator maintenance prevent mechanical issues and ensure your RV is ready to run smoothly when you take it out of storage.

8. Cover and Ventilate

Covering your RV can protect it from the elements, but proper ventilation is also necessary to prevent moisture buildup. Use a high-quality RV cover that fits well and allows for ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. 

Open vents slightly to promote airflow and reduce the risk of mold and mildew. A well-covered and ventilated RV will be in better condition when you return, avoiding issues related to moisture and lack of airflow.

9. Disconnect and Store Appliances

To avoid damage and potential fire hazards, disconnect and store appliances. Turn off the propane supply and disconnect propane appliances. Remove batteries from smoke detectors, clocks, and other devices to prevent corrosion. Properly stored appliances and devices ensure they remain in good working order and prevent potential safety hazards during storage.

10. Secure and Lock

Ensuring your RV is secure is crucial to prevent theft and vandalism. Lock all doors, windows, and storage compartments. Consider installing a security system or using a wheel lock for added protection. A secure RV gives you peace of mind during the storage period and reduces the risk of theft or damage.

Bottom Line

Properly preparing your RV for long-term storage involves a series of detailed steps to protect it from the elements, pests, and potential damage. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure your RV remains in excellent condition, ready for your next adventure when the time comes. 

Taking the time to care for your RV now will save you time, money, and hassle in the long run, ensuring it is ready to hit the road whenever you are.