As an RV owner, you know how important it is to take care of your beloved home on wheels. Whether you're taking a break from traveling or the camping season has come to an end, properly storing your RV is crucial. Extreme weather conditions can pose a threat to your vehicle, causing damage that could be costly to repair. In this article, we will discuss effective ways to protect your RV from extreme weather in storage, ensuring that it remains in pristine condition for your next adventure.
Choose a Suitable Storage Facility
The first step to protecting your RV from extreme weather is finding a suitable storage facility. Look for RV storage facilities near you that offer secure and weather-controlled storage options. A storage facility with climate-controlled units can help protect your RV from temperature fluctuations, humidity, and other weather-related conditions.
Consider exploring different storage facility options and compare their prices to stay within your budget. Look for trusted storage facilities with positive customer reviews that offer flexible rental terms. Finding a storage facility near you might be convenient for regular maintenance and easy access to your RV whenever needed.
Ensure Proper RV Preparation
Before you store your RV, it's crucial to ensure proper preparation to protect it from extreme weather conditions. Start by thoroughly cleaning both the exterior and interior of your vehicle. Remove any dirt, debris, or stains that might attract pests or cause damage during storage.
Next, inspect your RV for any leaks or areas that might allow water to enter. Seal any gaps or cracks using appropriate sealants to prevent water damage. Taking these simple steps before storing your RV can go a long way in ensuring its protection against extreme weather.
Protect with RV Covers
Investing in a high-quality RV cover is an excellent way to protect your vehicle from extreme weather conditions during storage. When purchasing an RV cover, ensure it is specifically designed to fit your RV's dimensions. A well-fitted cover will not only keep your RV clean but also shield it from rain, snow, UV rays, and other weather-related elements.
To further protect your RV, consider investing in additional covers for key areas such as the tires, air conditioner, vents, and other vulnerable parts. These covers will provide extra protection against weather damage and help prolong the lifespan of your RV.
Keep Your RV Elevated
One of the essential aspects of protecting your RV from extreme weather is ensuring it remains elevated off the ground. When storing your RV, consider using RV stands or blocks to lift it off the storage yard's surface.
Elevating your RV helps to prevent moisture buildup and potential water damage. It also reduces the likelihood of rodents and pests finding their way into your vehicle. Therefore, take the time to properly level and stabilize your RV to safeguard it against extreme weather conditions.
Check and Maintain Tire Pressure
Tire pressure is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in protecting your RV during storage. Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect tire pressure, leading to tire damage or flat spots.
Prior to storing your RV, check the tire pressure, and inflate or deflate them as recommended by your vehicle's manual. Maintaining the proper tire pressure while in storage will help prevent unnecessary damage and ensure your RV is ready for the road when you are.
Implement Pest Control Measures
Pests can be a nuisance and cause significant damage to your RV during storage. Implementing pest control measures is vital to protect your vehicle from these unwanted intruders.
Thoroughly clean your RV, removing any food crumbs, trash, or debris that might attract pests. Use natural pest deterrents such as peppermint oil or mothballs to deter pests from entering your RV. Additionally, consider placing mouse traps or deterrents around your RV to prevent rodent infestations.
Perform Regular Inspections
Regular inspections during RV storage are essential for identifying any potential problems early on. Set a schedule to inspect your RV at least once a month, and pay close attention to the roof, seals, and other vulnerable areas.
Check for any signs of leaks, water damage, or pest infestation. If any issues are identified, address them immediately to prevent further damage. By performing regular inspections, you're able to catch and fix any problems before they become major concerns.
Consider Investing in Climate-Controlled Storage
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as very hot or cold temperatures, you may want to consider investing in climate-controlled storage for your RV.
A climate-controlled storage unit can maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, protecting your RV from fluctuating weather conditions that could potentially cause damage. This type of storage facility might be pricier than regular storage, but the added protection is worth the investment, especially for those who live in regions with extreme weather.
Keep the Battery Charged
Properly maintaining your RV's battery during storage is essential to ensure it stays in good condition. Extreme weather conditions, such as freezing temperatures, can cause the battery to lose charge or even freeze.
Before storing your RV, fully charge the battery and consider using a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep it charged throughout the storage period. Regularly check the battery's voltage and recharge as needed to prevent damage caused by a depleted battery.
Protect Exterior Seals
The seals around your RV's windows, doors, and other openings are critical for keeping out water, dust, and pests. Over time, these seals can deteriorate, leading to leaks and potential damage.
Regularly inspect and clean the exterior seals of your RV, removing any dirt or debris. Apply a silicone-based sealant to keep the seals in good condition and prevent moisture from seeping inside, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Use Moisture Absorbers
Moisture can be a significant problem during RV storage and can lead to mold, mildew, and other damage. Using moisture absorbers, such as dehumidifiers or desiccant packs, can help combat moisture buildup inside your RV.
Place moisture absorbers strategically throughout your RV to keep the humidity levels low. This will protect your RV's interior from moisture-related damage and maintain a healthy environment inside the vehicle for your next adventure.
Conclusion: Keep Your RV Protected and Ready!
Protecting your RV from extreme weather during storage is vital to ensure its longevity and prevent costly repairs. Choose a suitable storage facility, ensure proper RV preparation, use RV covers, and keep your vehicle elevated off the ground to protect it from harsh weather conditions.
Remember to perform regular inspections, maintain tire pressure, implement pest control measures, and consider investing in climate-controlled storage if necessary. Keep your RV's battery charged, protect the exterior seals, and use moisture absorbers to prevent moisture-related damage.
By following these tips, you are taking proactive steps to safeguard your RV from extreme weather in storage. When the time comes to hit the open road again, your RV will be in excellent condition and ready for your next adventure.
