What You Need To Know About Storing Your RV Or Camper Through The Winter

If you are not using your RV or camper in the winter, it is best to put it in storage to protect it from the cold and winter weather. You will need to do some things before storing it, and there are several RV storage options to consider.

Indoor Storage

Storing your RV or camper inside is the best way to protect it during the winter. If the space is heated, this offers even more benefits, but the cost of indoor storage can be something to consider.

Indoor RV storage is often done in large garages or warehouse-like spaces where multiple RVs can be parked and secured until you are ready to use them in the spring. Typically they are climate controlled and have either a security system or active security officers on the property to ensure no one gets into the space and damages your unit.

Storage costs can fluctuate by the size of the RV and the amount of space it will take in the building. If you have a small class RV, it will be significantly cheaper than storing a motor coach in the same building. The benefit in both cases is that the water systems in RVs stored inside are better protected, the roof stays free of snow, and the battery doesn't run dead in the cold. 

Outside Storage

Many storage lots offer vehicle and RV storage, but these spaces are often just a place to park the unit during the winter. When storing your RV outside, it is crucial to cover the top of the unit with a high-quality tarp that will protect it from water damage inside if the roof has a small leak you did not know about. 

After a snowstorm, brush the snow off the top of your RV to reduce the weight on the structure. RV roofs are not intended to handle heavy snow loads, and when left on the roof, it can cause the roof to sag and cause severe damage. 

Park the RV on some wooden boards when you leave it in the same spot for a while. The wood will keep the rubber tires off the ground, and help prevent dry rot on the tires. Drain the water system in the RV as well, but do not leave it empty. Instead, fill it with an RV water system anti-freeze to ensure the pipes and tanks don't freeze up, keeping the plumbing safe for the winter. 

Lastly, it is a good idea to take the batteries out of your RV and take them home so you can keep them warm. Most outdoor storage facilities will not have a place to plug in a battery tender all winter, but if you take the batteries out, you can put them on a tender in your garage or shed, and they will be ready for use in the spring. 

For more information, contact a company like Lone Oak RV Storage.


Share