10 Suggestions for Winterizing your RV

Here are 10 suggestions for winterizing your recreational vehicle. Most RVs may be in storage already. Did you remember to do all these things before storing your investment for the winter? You can prevent unnecessary spring maintenance expenses by taking a few preventative measures right now.

Water levels in all batteries need to be checked before storage. Low water levels can affect battery life. Follow manufacturers guidelines to top off all cells. This will add perhaps a year to battery life. Make sure all batteries are free from dirt. Enough dirt on a battery can create a connection between the positive and negative terminals slowly draining your battery while in storage, an unwelcomed surprise for spring.

Drain your tanks. All tanks should be drained completely and refilled to 1/4 full with manufacturer recomended additives.

Install manufacturer recommended additives into all water lines to keep from freezing. Perform standard manufacturer recommended service on the engine’s heating and cooling system.

Anytime the coach is in storage you should cover your tires. This will prevent cracking which results from daily exposure to UV rays.You can use slip over covers or something as simply as plywood leaning against the tires to block the sun.

Keep the insects from building their winter condos in your furnace and heater access panel areas. The mud and dirt they leave behind in the spring will result in additional costs to clean.

Spiders love to make their homes in the vents, especially the water heater vent. Cover all vents. Spider webs will significantly reduce efficiency when the heater is restarted after storage.

This one is so important. Before storage you should roll out your awnings. Wash them then make sure they are completely dry. This will prevent mildew from leaving a lasting impression on your awning.

Have your vents checked for leaks before storage. A small leak before storage will result in a big leak when the RV comes out of storage.

A whole roof cover is a great investment. I adds years to the life of your roof and your coach. It prevents premature cracking of the rubber roof covering material.

You probably know this already but here it is again. Leave the refrigerator/freezer doors open just a bit. You will need to put something in the door to make sure it doesn’t close by itself. This is a preventative measure against mold and mildew inside your refrigerator.

Your RV investment deserves the best in preventative maintenance you can provide. If you have not yet done so, find a great RV mechanic and stick with him. He can save you tons of cash over the life of your coach. Look for your dependable RV mechanic at places that provide parts and service but do not sell recreational vehicles.  Their primary focus is service, parts and preventative maintenance.

Extend the life of your RV with these 10 suggestions for winterizing your recreational vehicle. Coming soon, 10 things to consider when bringing your RV out of winter storage and getting it ready for the road in the spring.

1. 

   Denis Foley says:

   September 27, 2009 at 6:16 pm

   Bill,

   A very in depth well written article. Being in vehicle repair and restoration for
   25 years I can sure appreciate the points you laid out for people to check.

   Thanks for a good one,
   Denis
   Denis Foley´s last blog ..Classic Citroen Concepts Premiere in UK
2. 

   Bill Beavers says:

   January 2, 2009 at 5:40 pm

   Jeff, people buy RVs just to go to Arizona. Kimi, Yes you would really need to enjoy driving. I used to but no more. I would live in one if I could afford the payments and the driver’s salary and Amy, appreciate it. I’m looking forward to a post or Hub page under 3 hours. Haven’t done that yet. Thanks everyone for your comments. Bill
3. 

   Amy Boyack says:

   January 2, 2009 at 2:59 pm

   Bill,
   This is a great article. You’ve covered every detail there is to winterizing your RV. Thanks for the information.
4. 

   Kimi says:

   January 2, 2009 at 12:38 pm

   I have always wanted one of these. I love to drive and think it would be a great way to see these our United States. Great info for my future purchase.
5. 

   Bill Beavers says:

   January 2, 2009 at 11:53 am

   Ron, thanks for your comment. There is pretty much always something that “should” be done to any type of recreational vehicle. It’s a lifestyle committment or one sort or another depending on size, value and frequency of use. Thanks again, Bill
6. 

   Jeff Polhill says:

   January 2, 2009 at 11:53 am

   I don’t own an RV but good tips for RV owners to protect their investment. I live in Arizona so protecting your tires is really important.

   Jeff Polhill
7. 

   Ron Nevers says:

   January 2, 2009 at 11:48 am

   Bill,

   Nice article. We have park model 39 ft trailer parked at a conference center in upstate NY. I probably should have put a cover over it.

   Thanks for the info.