Winterizing or preparing your RV for storage involves a set of guidelines to ensure that its components are protected from elements such as freezing temperature, humidity, pest infestation, and dust and grime.
Hobby Condos, a real estate company that sells luxury garage condos that can be transformed into any functional space, shares some tips on how to store your tiny house on wheels.
Choose a reputable storage garage.
Whether you’re planning to buy a luxury condo or just want to rent a storage unit, it is important that you choose a reputable storage facility that carries insurance. For instance, Hobby Condos offers title insurance to owners to cover any property loss stemming from a defect in the title.
It also makes sense to choose an RV storage that offers climate-control units. With a ventilation and temperature control system, your RV’s components won’t freeze during winter, while its upholstery won’t grow mold and mildew, which happens when the air has a high level of humidity.
Deep clean your RV.
To prevent deep stains and grease build-up, deep clean the exterior of your RV and apply wax to protect it from dirt. Also, seal any cracks and crevices to prevent any critters from making your motorhome their home.
Of course, your RV’s interior also needs some deep cleaning before prolonged storage. Wipe the countertops and other surfaces, vacuum the floor and furniture, and remove any dirt and dust that may cause deep stains.
Consider placing covers on your furniture.
Avoid dust and grime by placing a protective cover on your furniture. Another bonus of this simple technique: You don’t have to worry about dusting and vacuuming when you need to use your RV again.
Remove food supplies and clutter.
Remove all foods from the fridge, freezer, and pantries to prevent pest infestation, mold and mildew growth, and funky odor. Also, eliminate clutter, especially cardboards and papers, where molds may grow.
Drain all the fluids.
Even though you live in a region with a mild climate, it remains ideal to flush out the water tanks, water heater, and plumping system before storing your RV. Remember, stagnant water can lead to bacteria and mold growth and can also ruin the water quality of your tank (it may taste or smell unpleasant).
Meanwhile, draining all the fluids becomes more critical if you are winterizing your motorhome. For added protection, use a small amount of antifreeze to its pipes, waste tanks, and valves.
Pest-proof your RV.
Aside from sealing the cracks and crevices of your RV’s exterior, you should also place plugs into vents, pipes, hoses, and valves (especially the main LPG supply valve) to further deter insects from entering.
Retract all sides of your RV.
If you’re going to store your RV for an extended period, it is ideal to retract all its sides to protect them from elements.
Prepare your RV chassis (for long-term storage).
It is ideal to take out your battery if you will store your RV in the winter. But if you think that it is too much work, a good alternative is to fully charge it before storing your motorhome. Also, make sure to turn off all power sources.
Meanwhile, these are the other chassis preparations you have to keep in mind:
- Add fuel stabilizer and run the engine so it can circulate in the system.
- Change the oil.
- Ensure that your radiator contains the right amount of antifreeze.
To learn more about RV storage garage ideas, contact Hobby Condos at (916) 680-8245. They have storage condo facilities in Lincoln CA, Truckee CA, and El Dorado Hills, CA.