Preparing Your RV for Long-Term Storage

Getting your RV ready for storage can be an overwhelming task, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Simply parking it anywhere won't suffice, and failing to prepare it properly can lead to costly repairs. To help you get started, Boyer RV Center has shared some camper winterization tips, but if you need more assistance or have any questions, feel free to visit our location in Erie, PA. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you!

Look Over Your Owner’s Manual

With any maintenance process, it’s a good idea to start with your owner’s manual to see if they have advice on the topic at hand. We can provide you with general winterization information that will help, but your manual is specifically designed to work for your camper. It may have a guide that can add to the steps we provide, so give it a quick read!

If you don’t have the manual or you’re not sure where it is, go to the manufacturer’s website. They’ll often have copies of all the manuals they’ve made, which you can then download and even print for yourself. 

Shut Down Appliances

You should make sure that all appliances are shut down and as clean as possible. Defrost your fridge, first and foremost, so that it can be turned off without letting water pool. Your manual should have all the information you need on how to prepare your appliances for colder weather storage, so check there for more.

Preparing For Pests

Keep an eye out for cracks that might give pests a cozy place to hibernate. Fill them with expandable foam or a silicone sealant. This should prevent any infestations of larger critters, though traps might work better for insects.

Storage Locations

It can be hard to find a good spot to store your RV, especially if it’s a larger model. A large garage, barn, or other flat and covered area is best, as these locations balance convenience with safety. Even just pulling it into your driveway or yard and covering it with a cover or tarp can be sufficient.

If there’s no room on your property, there are dedicated storage facilities where you can rent a spot for your RV while you’re not using it. This is more expensive, but it will keep your RV safer during those months you’re not using it. These facilities range from dedicated parking lots to environmentally controlled parking garages.

Either way, try not to leave your RV on the street. This leaves it open to theft and debris from passing vehicles, but more than that, many local ordinances forbid leaving a vehicle on public property for long periods.

As a part of the RV winterization process, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection of your camper and identify any potential problem areas that might require attention before you store it. While we hope you won't encounter any significant issues, if you need help from our experienced technicians, feel free to contact our service department at Boyer RV Center in Erie, PA.