RVs usually tend to be used less during the winter, even though there are people who love driving through snowy roads, changing destination every few days. However, if you tend to leave your RV dormant for most of the winter, then here are some helpful tips that will show you how to keep your vehicle intact throughout the season.
Make sure that everything is clean
There’s nothing worse than opening your RV when spring comes and realizing that it’s due for a deep scrub. Sure, you might still be required to clean it, but that will be much easier if the vehicle’s already clean, to begin with. So, before you start doing anything else, be sure to thoroughly clean the living room area, kitchen, and bathroom. That includes washing all the windows and floors, removing all the food and toiletries, and cleaning the appliances.
Take care of the sewage system
The sewage system is an integral part of your RV, which is why it’s important to pay it due diligence during the winter. Since guidelines for maintaining the sewage system depend on the RV itself, then be sure to find an instruction manual or talk to a licensed maintenance company before moving on to more complicated aspects of this. But generally, it is important to switch off the water to the toilet, sewage pump, and all the other lines. Then, flush the toilet, and disconnect the sewage pipe and other lines, so the water can be drained. After that, reconnect the sewage lines and finally, don’t forget to fill in the toilet tank with antifreeze. Flush, and repeat the process.
Maintain a normal temperature
Your RV cannot freeze in subpar temperatures, as that can cause a lot of harm. If you own a garage, then you’re aware of how freezing it can be during the winter. Therefore, be sure to seal all the cracks and use the weather stripping to prevent cold from getting inside. Additionally, you can opt for a diesel truck heater especially if your vehicle is already compatible with it. Now, that doesn’t mean you have to heat the vehicle all the time, but turning the heating from time to time can be of great help if you want to maintain a normal temperature during the winter.
Replace everything that’s been broken or faulty
Sure, winter is a perfect period to let your RV rest, but if there is anything broken or faulty such as appliances, then it’s best to deal with it before the spring comes. In case you’re planning to use your RV for winter travel, then replacing or fixing broken items should be your top priority. Checking the battery periodically during the winter is essential since many batteries can’t stand the cold weather. Also, if there are any old knobs or hinges, it’s better to deal with that straight away.
Don’t forget about the insurance
Insurance is crucial, as it keeps you (and your vehicle) covered in case anything bad happens. Since you probably won’t be driving your RV during the winter months, then you’ll need to pay for comprehensive insurance only. That includes protection from theft, fire, and possible vandalism. So be sure to contact your insurance agent to work out all the details that could help you save money in the long run, especially when your RV is not in use.
Conclusion
Your RV deserves to be in great condition, which is why it’s essential to prepare it for winter. These tips will help you get started, but keep in mind that every vehicle is different, and it requires a unique approach to maintenance. However, following these guidelines will be of great advantage, and your RV will be in great shape when you start using it after the winter.
