How to Prepare Your RV for Long Term Storage in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin’s cold and wet winters can severely damage your RV if it is not properly prepared for long term RV storage. In fact, the damage caused by cold temperatures, dampness, and changing weather conditions may require you to spend thousands of dollars repairing your RV.
Preparation of your RV for long term storage is just one half of the battle. Finding a reputable RV storage location is the other half. When you prepare your RV for long term RV storage, you are protecting your investment.
If you fail to prepare your RV for long term RV storage, you may encounter:
- Broken or frozen water lines
- Dead battery
- Damaged tires
- Leaks through the roof
- Mold and mildew growth
However, when you prepare your RV for long term RV storage, you extend the life of your RV and prevent many of the problems that develop while your RV sits in storage.
1) Clean Your RV Before You Put It Into Storage
Before you even think to store your RV in an RV storage lot, you should clean your RV properly.
- Start the process by removing all perishable foods and beverages from the RV.
- Clean all tables, cabinets, and appliances.
- Vacuum those floors & also Mop all hard floors and surfaces.
By cleaning your RV, It can help eliminate dirt, bugs, and road debris. Make sure to clean the roofs and seams too.
2) Winterize Your Plumbing System
One of the main aspects of preparing your RV for such long term RV storage is winterizing the plumbing system.
- Drain your fresh water tank, gray water tank, and black water tank.
- Drain the RV water heater. Use RV antifreeze to protect pipes and plumbing lines. Water left in the plumbing system can freeze and expand, causing costly damage.
If you are not sure how to properly winterize your RV, you should consider hiring a professional before storing your RV.
3) Protect Your RV Battery and Maintain It During Storage
In cold temperatures, your RV battery can rapidly lose its charge. Prior to putting your RV into an RV storage lot, fully charge the battery.
If possible, disconnect the battery and store it in a dry location. If you cannot remove it, check the charge periodically or use a battery maintainer. Proper care helps prevent having to replace the battery when retrieving your RV from storage.
4) Protect Your RV Tires During Long Term RV Storage
Long term RV storage can create tire problems if proper maintenance is not performed.
Before parking your RV into storage, inflate the tires to the manufacturer recommended pressure. Park on a solid surface whenever possible. Consider using tire covers to protect against moisture and UV exposure.
If feasible, move your RV slightly every few months to prevent pressure points from developing on the tires.
5) Inspect All Seals on Your RV and Protect Against Moisture
Because of the large amounts of snow that fall on WI and the high levels of humidity present in WI, moisture is likely to be a problem for you when you store your RV for the winter.
Be sure to inspect the seals around all the windows, doors, vents, and roof seam areas of your RV to determine if there are any signs of leaks or if the seals have cracked. Make any repairs to damaged seals prior to storing your RV in an rv storage facility.
Also, consider the use of moisture-absorbing products within your RV to help eliminate condensation and prevent mold and mildew from growing.
6) Put a Cover Over Your RV and Lock It Up
In addition to protecting your RV from weather conditions when it is placed in RV storage, a breathable RV cover will protect against snow accumulation, ice buildup and debris, while allowing moisture to escape as well.
In order to provide even greater security for your RV before you place it at one of our many WI RV storage lots, make sure that you have locked all doors and windows on the RV, and removed any valuables or important documents.
At Lakestone Storage, we provide safe and secure RV storage options for WI residents, so you can use your RV without having to worry about it when you are not using it.
Things to Look for When Searching for RV Storage Options in Wisconsin
When searching for RV storage options in WI, choose a facility that provides:
- Secure gated entry
- Large storage spaces
- Reasonable access hours
- A well maintained property
At Lakestone Storage, we offer reliable RV storage options for WI residents who want peace of mind while their RVs are stored.
Store Your RV with Confidence at Lakestone Storage
Preparation of your RV for long-term storage can help prevent repair costs and ensure your RV is ready for your next trip. Due to WI's fluctuating weather, preparing your RV with the right steps to go into a secured RV storage facility will help you maintain your investment.
Lakestone Storage provides Wisconsin RV owners with a low-cost and convenient RV storage option. Reserve your space today and have peace of mind knowing your RV will be taken care of until your next camping adventure starts.
