Storing An Rv Outside In The Winter
So, winter's coming. Brrr! And you're thinking, "Okay, Bessie the RV needs a winter nap." But where? Outside? Eek! Let's chat about that. It's not as scary as it sounds, promise!
The Great Outdoors... Or Not?
First things first: should you even store your RV outside? Well, sometimes you gotta. Garages aren't exactly built for these behemoths, right? But don't fret! Outdoor storage isn't a death sentence for Bessie. It just requires a little prep.
Think of it like this: You wouldn't send your kid out to play in a blizzard in shorts and a t-shirt, would you? Same logic applies here. We're going to winterize that bad boy until it’s practically a snowman itself! A comfy, weatherproof snowman.
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Winterizing 101: Operation Cozy RV
Okay, class, let's get down to business! Winterizing your RV is the single most important thing you can do. Seriously. It's non-negotiable. Why? Because frozen pipes are the enemy. They can burst and cause a ton of damage. Think expensive repairs and a sad, soggy RV. No bueno!
The main goal? Get all the water out. Every. Last. Drop. This usually involves draining the water system, including the tanks, pipes, and water heater. Blow out the lines with compressed air (carefully!) or use RV antifreeze. Check your owner's manual for the specific procedure for your RV model. It’s like following a treasure map, only the treasure is an un-exploded RV in the spring!
Don't forget the little things! Drain the toilet. Add antifreeze to the traps in your sinks and shower. Empty the ice maker. Basically, anything that holds water needs to be addressed. Think of water as tiny, insidious ice ninjas just waiting to wreck havoc.
Cover Up! The RV Fashion Show (of Protection)
Now that Bessie is water-free, let's talk about clothing. Yes, your RV needs a coat. A really good coat. An RV cover is your best friend. Choose one that's breathable and specifically designed for RVs. A tarp might seem like a good idea, but it can trap moisture and cause mold. Yuck!
It's like putting your grandma in a plastic garbage bag to “keep her dry.” Not good. Breathable is key. Think Gore-Tex, but for your RV.
Consider tire covers too! The sun can wreak havoc on your tires, even in winter. Plus, covering them makes Bessie look a little less abandoned and a little more... cared for.
Battery Blues and Rodent Rendezvous
Ah, the dreaded battery issue. Cold weather is a battery's worst nightmare. Ideally, you should remove the battery and store it in a warm, dry place. If that's not possible, disconnect it and check the charge periodically. A dead battery is a sad, sad thing.
And now, for the slightly icky part: rodents. Mice and other critters LOVE to cozy up inside RVs during the winter. It's like a free vacation home for them. Seal any cracks or openings. Set up traps or use rodent repellents. Mothballs are also an option, though they smell... interesting. Think grandma's attic meets RV adventure.
Location, Location, Location! (Seriously)
Where you park your RV matters! Avoid parking under trees if possible. Falling branches and snow can damage the roof. Plus, you don’t want sap dripping all over your beloved RV. It's like nature's sticky revenge.
If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider removing the snow from the roof periodically. Too much weight can cause damage. A long-handled snow rake is your new best friend.
The Check-In: Visiting Bessie During Winter
Just because Bessie is hibernating doesn't mean you should forget about her! Check on her periodically. Make sure the cover is still secure. Look for any signs of damage. It’s like visiting a sleeping beauty, only you’re looking for mold instead of a prince.
A little TLC goes a long way. Plus, it gives you an excuse to dream about your next RV adventure! Imagine yourself on a sunny beach, sipping a cold drink, with Bessie sparkling in the background. Ah, bliss!
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Adventure!
Storing your RV outside in the winter might seem daunting, but it’s totally doable. With a little preparation and some common sense, you can keep Bessie safe and sound until spring arrives. So, go forth, winterize, and dream of warmer days! Happy RVing!