Are you among the 11.2 million Americans who own an RV?
If so, you might be wondering which vehicle maintenance advice you should follow to ensure that your RV can run as long as possible. Not only does proper maintenance boost the lifespan, but it also keeps you safe and comfortable during your trips.
While lots of people know about common RV maintenance tasks, like changing the oil, not as many people understand what they should do when they want to store it. Keep reading for 5 simple tips that can help protect your RV when you won’t be using it.
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1. Give Your RV a Nice Clean
Whether you have an old or new RV, it’s important to clean the exterior thoroughly before you put it into storage. This chore can help prevent filth from getting caked on, which will make cleaning faster and more efficient in the future.
Deep cleaning can also alleviate the buildup of dust and other debris that could accumulate depending on where and how you plan on storing your RV.
2. Remove Food for Long-Term Storage
One of the lesser-known RV maintenance tips is removing food from the vehicle before storing for long periods. It may not seem like much, but expired food can attract tons of pests that will infest your vehicle.
Food that expires can also promote mold growth and bad odors overtaking your RV.
3. Find the Perfect Place to Store Your RV
The best place to keep your RV is in places like this boat storage facility where there’s plenty of indoor space that’s climate-controlled. This shields your RV from sun damage and other issues caused by being exposed to the elements.
If you don’t have access to an affordable indoor storage facility, then you also have the option of purchasing RV covers and parking under shaded areas.
4. Try to Drive Your RV Every Couple of Months
Even if you’re not going on any trips for a long time, it’s still a good idea to take your RV out for a spin every couple of months to make sure that everything is running well. Going out for short drives can also extend the lifespan of your tires and battery.
5. Drain the Fluids
Anyone who lives in a cold climate should never store their RV without draining the fluids. This is a key element of winterizing your RV. In addition, you can pour some anti-freeze into your pipes to cover your bases and prevent expensive repairs.
Keeping Up With RV Maintenance Doesn’t Have to Be Challenging
RV maintenance is essential for improving the lifespan of your vehicle. By following this guide, you can have peace of mind that you’re protecting your investment.
Did you enjoy this RV maintenance checklist to keep your vehicle in top condition while in storage? If you want to know other ways you can take care of your RV and any other vehicles you own, then our site has all the resources you need. Explore our blog for more insightful auto tips.