How to Prepare Your RV for Winter Storage in Missouri
Storing an RV for the Winter? Get the Best Advice From Our Experts at Missouri Self Storage
If you’re in a family that likes to travel or live on the road almost exclusively, an RV is great for packing up and crossing destinations off your bucket list. However, the winters in mid-Missouri can be harsh on the lifespan of a motorhome or travel trailer, and proper storage is required if you want to save your investment.
An indoor storage unit is best for your RV, but the preparation is just as important as the storage location. With careful maintenance and a spacious unit from Missouri Self Storage, you can keep the vehicle in good condition for the warmer months, when it’s ready to be used again.
What are the risks of dismissing your RV’s winter storage?
Storing an RV for the winter is more than a suggestion of maintenance; it is crucial for the quality and longevity of your trailer. Ignoring this step can destroy the vehicle in a plethora of ways besides ruining the exterior. The inside of your RV could develop mold due to moisture, a pest infestation could spread, and food left behind could make the space stink. Improper storage can also mess with vital parts such as the plumbing system and the battery. Don’t let winter get the best of your RV. Follow our guide and find the perfect storage space for your model in Columbia or Fayette, MO.
Prepare your RV’s plumbing for storage in mid-Missouri
The biggest part of winterizing an RV is ensuring the pipes are ready for cold weather, as they could burst from the pressure of freezing. Since every vehicle is a little different, checking your owner’s manual can teach you about its plumbing, but draining the tanks is always necessary for winter in central Missouri. You should also drain your water heater, making sure to safely release the pressure first.
Pumping a non-toxic antifreeze in the plumbing can also protect your pipes from sub-zero temperatures; just run it through your faucets, showerheads, and toilets until the flow is pink. Once you have clear plumbing, you can move on to the next phase of winter storage prep.
Clean out the interior & exterior of the RV before it goes to a mid-MO storage facility
Dirt and other contaminants can worsen after sitting in an enclosed RV storage unit for a full season. To clean the outside of your travel trailer, wash it with a non-abrasive solution and follow up with a layer of wax to prevent corrosion. After drying it off with a microfiber towel, make sure to reseal any cracked seams, vents, or windows along the RV.
You’ll also need to clean the inside of your RV before putting it in a storage space. Vacuum the floors, clean out the cupboards, and disinfect surfaces to prevent pests from entering. It is also important that you take all food out of the fridge, wipe it down, and prop the doors slightly open for airflow. Make sure there aren’t any moisture buildups that could lead to mold before finishing the interior cleaning.
Check on the RV’s batteries & electrical system over the winter
The last thing you want to do is waste energy while your RV is in storage. An essential step is to disconnect the power and gas supply valve, and put your vehicle battery in a dry, room-temperature place for the winter. If you don’t take the battery out, at least use a trickle charger to stabilize the voltage over time, and be sure to check on its charge levels each month while in a storage unit. Do you own a generator for your RV? Add fuel stabilizer to the tank and change out its air filters and generator oil.
Optimize the HVAC system before storing your RV in a mid-Missouri storage unit
Without decent HVAC performance, your travel trailer or motorhome can be unpleasant to drive when the weather is extremely hot or cooling down. Proper ventilation, heating, and cooling ensure everyone has a good time, so maintaining the system is vital for winter storage. Start by replacing any air conditioning filters that are dirty or outdated; for outdoor units, laying a cover on top will protect the airways. You’ll also need to close the vents near your roof with a breathable fabric, keeping rodents and other pests from getting inside. If your RV has an awning, clean and dry it off for the next summer season, and you’ll have a nice shaded area with no mold or buildup!
Take proper care of your RV’s tires during the winter in central Missouri
Too much weight in one area can be trouble for your vehicle's tires, especially if the weight of objects inside the trailer is heavy. For tire protection in your storage space, make sure they are dry and out of the sun in a climate-controlled area. Additionally, the tires’ positions will need to change periodically instead of focusing on one pressure point. You can also implement leveling blocks to reduce the weight. With Missouri Self Storage’s easily accessible units, you can check on your RV at any time and know it’s secured from intruders.
Preview Our Storage Units for RVs & Contact Missouri Self Storage for the Dependable Care You Need
Whether you’re storing an RV or the contents of an entire home, you’ll find plenty of room at Missouri Self Storage! Our facilities in Columbia and Fayette, MO have endless security features and temperature control, so your vehicle won’t fall victim to the winter weather outside. Get in touch with our professionals and choose the right storage unit for your RV in mid-Missouri.
