This summer and fall we had perfect travel weather! The open road gave us amazing adventures! Now with winter right around the corner, it is time to prepare the RV for some down time. The task of RV winterizing can be daunting. So many systems and aspects to prepare!
Use this SMART guide to break the task down into manageable bits.
S: Spick and Span
Throughout summer, the RV accumulates treasures from our travels. Time to clean everything out for next year’s loot. Thoroughly clean and vacuum the drawers and closets. You will be surprised how a lost sock can become a mouse home over the winter. And don’t forget to clean out all those nooks and crannies between the cushions! Remember those delicious chocolate chip cookies you ate in bed? Those crumbs are going to be magnets for mice in the winter.
Clean your refrigerator and oven. Pull all food and drink items out of the RV – and don’t forget your secret chocolate stash! Place a box of baking soda in the refrigerator for odor control. Leave the door of the refrigerator propped open for air circulation.
Bring your bath and bedroom linens indoors for laundering. If you do decide to store supplies in your camper, place the items in a secured plastic bin. This way the items will be protected from possible rodent intruders.
Finally, place moisture control containers in your RV camper. This simple container will help decrease mold and mildew.
M: Maintenance
Maintenance of RV Mechanics “Under the hood” – Check the engine, radiator, fuel tanks, oil, and brake fluids. Top off the fuel tanks to prevent condensation in the tank.
Maintenance of Interior – Make sure your kitchen suite (oven, stove, sink) is working properly before you winterize. If you have a bathroom, make sure that all aspects of the water and waste systems are working well. It is easier to make any necessary repairs now when the problem is still fresh in your mind.
Maintenance of Exterior – Check your roof and skylight for any leaks, dents, or damage. Check the door and windows for damaged caulking or broken glass. Remove the battery and propane tanks if you live in a cold climate. Open your awning. Clean it and make any repairs. Check your tires for proper tire pressure.
Maintenance of RV Storage Site – If you are covering the RV with a protective cover, check the material’s integrity. You want the cover to withstand harsh winter conditions. If you are parking the RV under a big tent, check the ground to make sure the tires don’t sink into the ground after winter thaw.
A: Antifreeze
Make sure the RV pipes don’t freeze. Pump RV antifreeze through the fresh water and waste water systems. Fill the radiator with automotive antifreeze. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with windshield washer antifreeze.
R: Reseal and re-caulk
Back at “M” you checked the RV exterior and interior for any seal damage. Now at “R” you fix those findings.
Reseal the seams along the roof and edges of the RV. Re-caulk any holes on the underside of the RV. A simple test is to open cabinet drawers and closets. If you see sunlight streaming in, then re-caulk that area. A mouse can easily find its way into your RV through that small hole. Re-caulk around the door and windows. Use spray foam to close up larger holes. Screens can also be placed over large holes to prevent entry. Plug openings and connections from the outside. This helps to prevent bugs from entering your lines.
T: Timely RV insurance payments
The RV is going into storage. Do I still need to pay for RV insurance? Yes!
Continue your coverage throughout the hibernation period of your RV. Be timely in your RV camper insurance payments. Speak with your personal insurance agent regarding storage policies for your RV insurance policy.
Now you are SMART about RV and Camper Winterizing!
*Please note: ALWAYS refer to your owner’s manuals for specific procedures and checks that should be followed for your RV and camper.