The snow is finally melting and camping season is right around the corner. It’s about that time of year to get our home on wheels ready for the warm weather! De-winterizing your RV isn’t too hard, but you should probably dedicate an entire afternoon to it. However, once you’re done you’ll get an entire season of fun out of it!
- Remove any covers that you put on your RV: Make sure you remove All of the covers, including the ones on the refrigerator, A/C and furnace vents.
- Remove antifreeze from the plumbing system: You need to run fresh potable water through the entire plumbing system until all traces of the RV antifreeze is removed. Make sure you run fresh water through the entire plumbing system including the outside shower, toilet, ice maker and washing machine (if you have one). Need a hose? Click here
- Sanitize the water system: Once you make sure all the drains are closed and the drain plugs are installed you are ready to sanitize. Make sure you use the proper chemicals when cleaning your water tanks. Turn the pump on and run each faucet and then add chemicals. Let the chemicals sit for a few hours then drain the fresh water tank and refill it with clean water. Run water through the faucets multiple times till all chemicals are out. (Be sure to open your release valve in a sewer dump area when cleaning your black water tank) Chemical Treatments Click here
- Check the outside of your rig: Check on all of your sealants for any cracking. If you find cracking, make sure you seal them up. Check the roof condition for any soft spots. Sealants: Click here
- Replace the batteries: Battery condition is dependent on how well the batteries were cared for during winter storage. A battery can discharge up to 10% a month when it is in storage so it is a good idea to check and recharge the batteries while in storage. You should check the battery water level and to make sure they are fully charged, and there was no cracking. Solar Batteries: Click here
- Check the tires: Check the tires for proper inflation. Your tires lose a percentage of air pressure while in storage as well.
7. Examine the inside of your rig & its appliances: Check for signs of damage like discolored ceilings or window panels and vents that could indicate any problems that developed over the winter. Open up the windows to air out your RV. Check the LP gas valve at the cylinders or tank and check the operation of all LP gas fired appliances.
(Check for any unwanted visitors like mice, squirrels, etc.)
8.If you have a motor home: Check all the fluid levels first. Examine under the hood and then start up the engine. Test out all of the lights, brakes, turn signals and listen for any unrecognized noises.
9. If you have a towable: Look over your hitching and check for damage. Hitch up your vehicle and test out all the lights and signals.
10. Generator: Check the oil level and service the generator according to the owner’s manual. Be sure to check the exhaust system for any damages before running it.
11. Water Heater: Be sure the drain plug is closed then run the water pump and open a hot water faucet. Once the water heater tank is full, close all the faucets and make sure the pump shuts off. Water Heaters: Click here
12. Check all detectors: Change batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon Monoxide detectors. CO detectors Click here
There are many things you should check over after your RV has been in storage, but once you are done you are ready for camping season! We have everything you need here at Meyer’s and if you have any questions be sure to call our friendly support team!
Churchville: (866)817-9964 Bath: (866) 819-7842 Caledonia: (585) 294-5088
