6 Steps to Winterize Your RV – Part 2
For almost three full months a year, your RV is your home away from home, offering you respite on the road, and the opportunity to explore your world in comfort and style. Before the cold weather sets in, give your RV some TLC and winterize it properly. This will not only significantly prolong the life and resale value of your RV, but it will prevent expensive and totally avoidable weather-related damage.
Winterizing an RV is not quite like winterizing a car or most boats. For one, there’s the issue of plumbing. There’s also the consideration of linens, kitchenware, and electronics. Don’t worry, the part two of this 6-step guide will help you make sure you’ve covered all your bases.
6 Steps to Winterize Your RV – Part 1
6 Steps to Winterize Your RV – Part 2
Step 4: The Water Works
Next up, you’re going to deal with your RV’s water supply and plumbing. This is probably the most cumbersome — but also one of the most necessary — steps in winterizing your RV. Here’s what to do:
- Remove and bypass any inline water filters first.
- Drain your fresh water holding tank.
- Drain then flush your grey and black holding tanks. In the event your RV isn’t equipped with a tank flushing system, you need to do it yourself. First, use your wand to clean the black tank. Alternatively, you can use a product like Flush King to clean both tanks. Follow the product’s instructions carefully.
- Use WD 40 to lubricate your termination valves.
Step 5: Electrical Matters
Winterizing your RV’s electrical system is super easy. You can do it all in three simple steps.
- Take out the battery, checking the water level and ensuring it is charged fully. Store it in a cool, dry place, but NEVER on concentre floor (this will cause it to discharge very quickly). Depending on your battery, you may need to recharge it every three months. Be sure to do this if necessary.
- Turn off your battery disconnect switch.
- Flip the main breaker to “off”.
A final word on batteries: remove any dry-cell batteries from radios, smoke detectors, clocks, etc, to prevent damage.
Step 6: Exterior TLC
Begin by washing and waxing your RV. Waxing is especially important if you are going to be storing your RV outside since elemental conditions can wreak havoc on your RVs exterior. Sun is particularly harmful since it will fade paint, as well as the inside of your RV. Unless you are renting a storage unit for your RV, it’s a good idea to place sun shades in your RV’s front window to protect your interior from sun damage. Also, close all blinds and curtains.
Have an awning? Make sure it has been cleaned and is completely dry before you roll it in.
Also, prior to closing and locking all doors and windows for the season, spray hinges and locks with WD 40 to give them a final (and much appreciated) hit of lubrication.
It may seem like an exhaustive (and exhausting) process, but a little love can go a long way to save you time and money on repairs and keep your RV running happily for years to come. These tips are supplied by findstoragefast.com. If you want to read the full article, please visit their blog. Need an off-site storage unit for your RV or boat? Find a Maple Leaf Self Storage location in your area.
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