To protect your investment and get many years of reliable service and use from your motorhome, there are certain measures you need to take. One important measure is how you store it.
- When your motorhome is stored for the winter, it’s not uncommon for mice and squirrels to make their winter home inside. These animals are notorious for chewing through vehicle wiring and plastic and rubber components, resulting in extensive damage to the motorhome. Try to cover any gaps where a mouse could enter, such as the exhaust pipe or an air intake. Steel wool works well for this. Next, spread mothballs or cotton swabs dipped in peppermint oil along the perimeter of the vehicle. The smell is said to drive mice away.
- Defrost the freezer compartment and clean the refrigerator. Leave the doors propped open and place baking soda in the compartments to absorb odors. If the RV is in long-term storage and won’t be plugged in to electricity, it’s a good idea to turn off the main breaker in the distribution panel. Also, turn off the LP-gas supply valve at the LP tank.
- If the RV is in long-term storage, it’s better to remove the batteries and store them where they will not freeze. If it is difficult to remove the batteries, make sure they are fully charged and then disconnect the negative battery cable. In either case, keep the batteries fully charged while they are in storage. We provide outlets so you can plug in trickle chargers for your batteries.
- Change the oil and oil filter on the vehicle engine and the generator prior to storage. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct type of engine antifreeze. Drain, flush, and refill the system according to recommended service intervals.
- Winterize your RV’s water system, following the instructions in your unit’s owner’s manual. This includes draining water from the pipes leading to all sinks and heads, as well as draining the water tank.
- Pump out the black and gray water tanks prior to storage.
- Fill the fuel tank prior to storage and add a fuel stabilizer (follow manufacturer’s instructions). Run the engine and the generator long enough for the stabilizer to get through the entire fuel system. If possible, exercise the generator for at least two hours every month with a minimum of a half-rated load on it. Consult your generator owner’s manual for load ratings.
- Consult your vehicle and RV owner’s manual for additional storage tips specific to your motorhome.