RV & Boat Storage Tips

RV Storage Tips:

• Review your owner's manual for system storage tips.
• Make sure to remove all perishable items from cabinets and refrigerator.
• Clean the inside of refrigerator and leave door open to ventilate.
• Turn off refrigerator, verify that all power sources are off by checking 12 volt, 110 volt and LP gas.
• Clean rooftop A/C filters and cover the outside unit.
• Clean the interior of the RV, pull shades and close blinds.
• Turn off the propane cylinders and cover the regulator.
• Cover vents to the furnace and range hood for long-term storage.
• Close all roof vents and windows. If needed, used chemical-type dehumidifiers to prevent condensation.
• Check tire pressure and cover the tires if they are exposed to outdoor elements.
• Inspect roof, body, interior, soft molding and caulking.
• Service locks with spray lubricant to prevent rust and freezing.
• Remove batteries, store in an area that is not subject to outdoor elements and and test periodically; charge if necessary.
• For motorhomes, check all operating fluid levels under the hood, top off the gasoline tank and add a fuel stabilizer.
• Make sure to empty and thoroughly rinse out all holding tanks. During the winter, all water tanks, lines and pumps should be drained and filled with non-toxic RV antifreeze to keep from freezing the system.

Boat Storage Tips:

• Review your owner's manual for system storage tips.
• Prepare your engine for winter including: drain and flush the cooling system; drain and refill the crankcase; apply oil to the inside of each cylinder through the spark plug holes; and other preservative actions as needed.
• Clean the hull, decks, cockpit, bilge, compartments, lockers and the exterior of engine.
• Wax your boat before storing.
• Drain fuel lines, pumps, carburetor and tanks or fill completely and add fuel stabilizer.
• Leave all floorboards up, doors, ports, drawers, lockers and skylights open, and hatches partly open
• Carefully fit a well-made cover, provided with ventilation ports. If boat is to be stored outdoors, make sure there are no low spots in the cover that will hold rainwater.
• Place a cover over engine. Do not leave the engine exposed to the outdoor elements.
• Check all trailer components including tire pressure and jack add lubiricante if needed. Cover tires if they are exposed to outdoor elements.
• Note your dates of registration, tags, certificates and insurance, etc. and plan for renewal if they expire during your storage term.