RV Self Storage Tips for First Time RV Owners
If you just got your first RV, you’ll soon discover how fun it is to take it on the road, stay at campgrounds, explore new cities, and have your RV to come home to. In fact, some people enjoy RVing so much they do so full time.
Most RV travelers, however, take a long vacation or two every year to visit national parks, see the scenery around the U.S., and get away from ordinary life for a while. During the time they’re not traveling, they need a safe place to store their ride.
Where to Store
When choosing where to store your RV, there are a few big considerations. First, you’ll want to put it somewhere allowed. Most neighborhoods have ordinances against parking large vehicles on the street, so that won’t work. You can also store it in your driveway or even in your backyard. However, this still makes it possible for strangers to get close to it and doesn’t feel safe to everyone.
Also, you shouldn’t park your RV in the grass or around trees or weeds. Sap and debris from the trees can drop onto the vehicle from trees, and bugs occupying the foliage may find their way inside.
A good self storage facility with vehicle storage avoids the aforementioned problems. Your RV will be behind a high fence or wall and a locked gate and away from plants.
Types of RV Storage
There are three types of RV storage: outdoor, covered, and indoor. Outdoor storage is the cheapest. At Derrel’s, you’ll get a spot in a protected lot at one of our storage facilities.
Covered storage is like the parking spaces at many apartment complexes. Your RV will have a roof over it, but the sides of the structure are open. This provides partial weather protection for your vehicle. With indoor storage, your RV will go into a storage unit and be protected from the elements. Many of our larger units are perfect for storing your RV.
Clean Your RV
Before you store your RV, you’ll need to prepare it. This is true no matter if you use an outdoor, covered, or indoor space. Scrub off any dirt, grease, and grime. Wax the outside of the RV to protect it from any sun damage. We also suggest you check for cracks in the seams and seals and make necessary repairs. An RV sealer is a great help.
Keep it Ventilated and Lit
While you don’t want bugs or water getting in, keep the vehicle ventilated. A great way to do this is by keeping the roof vents open. Just make sure they have screens to keep the pests out.
If the RV is parked outside, keep the curtains open to let light in. Just in case any moisture has gotten inside, sunlight can help prevent mold and mildew growth.
Block Openings
Look all over your RV for external openings, anywhere bugs can get in. If they aren’t covered, such as with screens, then you’ll need to take other measures to protect them. Steel wool in the exhaust pipe and other underside access points can prevent rodents from getting in, for example. You can also put mothballs inside. Or, if your RV is stored in a unit, you can put mothballs around the vehicle. Rodents hate the smell and will avoid the area.
Battery Power
Before storing your RV, fully charge the batteries to ensure your vehicle has power when you return, and is ready for a new adventure. A fully powered battery is also safe from the winter chill.
When you put the vehicle in storage, then disconnect the battery with the battery disconnect switch to prevent power leaking.
At the End of Fall, Winterize
Fortunately, most of the areas we serve have moderate temperatures, so winterization won’t be necessary, but it’s good to understand in case you move somewhere colder.
In Canada and many parts of the U.S. winters get frigid, and in those places, before you store your RV, it’s critical that you winterize it. Our partners at Storage Front have an excellent article covering this process. You can do it yourself, or, if you don’t have the time or inclination, you can hire a professional. Just make sure the RV is winterized before you put it in storage at the end of fall.
What can cold damage do to an RV? It can burst pipes, crack water heaters, and damage the body of the vehicle. Repairs will cost you far more than the winterization process.
If you’re ready to store that new RV, check our listings. You’re bound to find a great space or unit to keep your vehicle safe.
