RV Storage Tips: What to Do When You’re Not On the Road

When you are using your rig, it helps deter unwanted pests.  Regular use also prevents buildups.  And when you are not on the road, this is the perfect time to take care of your RV for when you have been using it. Take care of your rig based on a few areas and ensure it is ready for the next road trip. What are those areas of RV storage to focus on?

What did you use a lot in your RV on the road?

Any items you used regularly while you were RVing will need special attention.  Here are some areas to zone in on:

·         Refrigerator – ensure it is cleaned and wiped down so no mildew can build up.

·         Windows – lubricate the windows.  It is easy for them to get ‘stuck’ when sealed for long periods.

·         Batteries – unhook your batteries from your rig which could continue to drain them.  Hook them up to a charger so they will stay active and ready to use again.  Some batteries do not function well in cold weather.  Review how to care for your battery types.

·         Air Conditioners – Clean all your vents and turn off all the temperature settings.  You don’t want the A/C to start up if you don’t have access to electricity.

·         Pantries – Remove all food items!  Don’t leave a buffet for unexpected visitors.  Wipe down cabinets and shelves to remove crumbs.

·         Floors – Clean your floors.  This will prevent anything left on the floors that could damage them when you pull in the slides.  It will also help not to have crumbs to attract animals or leave behind anything that will create mildew or rotting odors.

What liquids does your RV use on the road?

Any kind of fluid flowing in and through your RV will need attention.  Not using the RV can cause buildup, clogs, and unwanted expansions.

·         Tanks – Empty and flush all of your RV tanks.  That includes your fresh water and your gray and black tanks.  Follow the sanitation steps for cleaning your tanks and the attached hoses and adapters.

·         Pipes– Drain your water system completely.  This means you should shut off any water to your RV, then open faucets and toilets and drain the remaining water. 

·         Canisters – Propane is one of the greatest resources for RVers.  But you need to shut off all valves and appliances using the propane.  Move the canisters away from the rig and store them upright in a ventilated area.  This might be a good time to do a regular annual inspection of your propane setup and tanks.  It is also important to take your fire extinguishers to your local fire department and have these canisters checked.

What RV security items do you use?

You may not use all your security features all the time on the road.  But there if you are storing your RV, you will want to have all of these features working at peak capacity.

·         Detectors – Carbon monoxide and fire alarms are important even when your rig is stored.  Test them and make sure they have new batteries.

·         Video cameras – Don’t rely on the storage security.  If you have security cameras with your rig, keep them operating.  Ensure they are charged or have batteries and keep your app running on your phone.  Set alerts and regularly check the status of your RV. 

·         Monitors – Do you have monitors on your RV?  Tools that help you monitor the status of items on your rig like tire pressure monitors, propane tank level monitors, etc.  It is a good idea to monitor these while your rig is in storage.  Keep them operating so you know these items are at optimal service.

·         Pests – Sometimes rig security is not about someONE breaking in but someThing.  You don’t want unwanted rodents, snakes, or insects making your RV home when you aren’t.  Wherever you store your RV, know what area pests can be an issue.  Set traps, use bug bombs, and seal spaces.

·         Insurance – Having the right coverage can give you peace of mind and help you feel secure.  Check with your insurance and see if there is coverage you can ‘pause’ while the rig is in storage.  Or, there might be coverage you want to add based on the kind of storage you will be using.  Be prepared.

Returning to your stored RV

Keep in mind you will have some follow-up when you return to your rig after storing it.  There might be some cleanup from unwanted guests.  Keep a checklist of everything you did before you stored it to ensure it is still in working order.  Don’t forget to reactivate extra insurance if you have additional coverage for road trips versus RV storage. 

Depending on the size of your RV, allow yourself a week or two to go through your rig.  If you have had some problem areas in the past it might be a good idea to allow more time to make repairs or order parts so you do not experience trip delays or cancellations.

When you are ready to escape on your next RV vacation, it is nice to come back to a clean rig.  With minimal work, you can stock your rig and be ready with just a little planning.  See you on the road!