During the winter, many people store their RVs to keep them in top shape through the cold months. That requires placing the rig in outdoor storage. First, though, you should prepare the home-on-wheels. Here is some advice for readying your RV for winter outdoor storage.

4 Tips to Ready Your RV for Outdoor Storage

1. Remove All Food

It’s critical to remove every crumb of food from the RV before placing it in storage. This simple step prevents rodent and pest infestation that can be an unpleasant surprise when you want to use the rig once the weather warms. Once you’ve removed all the food, sanitize the surfaces to ensure there are no odors left behind to entice unwanted visitors like squirrels and ants.

2. Winterize the Fuel

If your RV features a cab, consider winterizing the fuel. Add a stabilizer to the gas or completely remove it to avoid water build-up as the rig sits for a few months. Watery fuel can damage the engine when you use the RV in the spring.

3. Drain the Water

Many RVs feature plumbing systems like kitchen and bathroom sinks, a toilet, and a shower. It’s critical to drain out all the water and waste tanks and add RV antifreeze to ensure the liquid is fully drained. This move will prevent freezing and potential pipe bursting when the temperatures drop.

4. Remove Dry Cell Batteries

Many small dry cell batteries trickle charge over time even if the device they’re plugged into isn’t being used. For example, RVs should have a carbon monoxide and fire alarm that features a battery. When in outdoor storage, the battery may corrode and damage the appliance. Remove the batteries from fire alarms, flashlights, clocks, and other devices before leaving the RV for the season to prevent this issue.

RV owners interested in storing their rig should contact A-Lotta Storage in Pulaski County, AR, to learn about their outdoor storage options. The 24/7-access company is gated and fenced to promote top security. Call the Cabot-area storage facility at (501) 982-5443, or visit the website for information on their storage units — from small to large options and RV or boat storage.