What the heck is RV Winterization? The concept of RV Winterization is actually pretty simple. Basically, it is preparing your rig for the winter months to avoid damages caused by the dropping temperatures. If you plan to head South for the Winter, this may not apply to you. However, if you plan on storing your RV in the Midwest, there are some things that you need to know!
Winter can be beautiful, but it can also be brutal in the Midwest! We see everything from ice, to snow, to everything in between. The elements can cause major damage to your RV if you are not prepared. What you may not know, is that there are some simple guidelines that you can follow to ensure that this doesn’t happen. We recommend using a professional to take care of your RV Winterization needs!
First, the Maintenance Department at Lost Valley Lake Resort will take care of this for you! RV winterization costs $140 per unit, or $160 if the unit has a washer or ice maker etc, at the Service Center. There will be an additional charge of $25 per unit after November 15 or the first freeze regardless of the date. We reserve the right to decline any request after the first freeze, regardless of the date. All Winterization requests MUST be made at the Service Center and must be PRE-PAID. Do not mail in payments with RV Keys. You may call the Service Center at 314-658-9987 for more information! It is as easy as it sounds!
Winterization can be a time consuming and frustrating task. Again, we recommend that you see a professional for winterization, but here are some things to remember if you plan on doing it yourself.
Tires. Check your tires often. As with any vehicle, your tires can develop flat spots after sitting for awhile. One quick and easy tip is to move your RV a little bit, a few times throughout the Winter to decrease the likelihood of damage to your tires! Another tip is to park your rig on a concrete or a paved surface to avoid your tires and wheels sinking into the soft ground when it begins to thaw. Remember to set the parking brake (if applicable) and use wheel chocks!
Engine. The engine is very important in a motor home. Remember to top off your fuel tanks to prevent condensation from forming. It may even be a good idea to add a fuel stabilizer. Be sure to check all fluids, and top them off prior to the Winter season.
Batteries. Make sure that all batteries are fully charged, and remove them, storing them in a dry, warm environment—NOT INSIDE THE RV! Also, flip off the RV’s main circuit breaker, and remove batteries from other items such as clocks, radios, and detectors. Also block the exhaust pipe with steel wool or aluminum foil to guard against unwanted pests.
Propane. Make sure to fill all propane tanks and remove them from your RV. Store them in a sheltered location—NOT INSIDE YOUR RV! Remember to also cover your connection fittings with plastic bags and rubber bands to guard against insects!
RV Interior. Be sure to clean the interior of your RV. Remove any food or drink from the RV. Open the refrigerator/freezer doors to thaw and dry them. Remove any valuables such as TVs, tools, and other valuable possessions. Remove and wash all bedding and linens.
Other areas. Be sure to check for holes, close roof vents, check seals around windows and doors, and check all other vents to be sure that there are no issues that need to be addressed. You’ll also want to make sure that you empty water lines and tanks to avoid them from freezing, causing your pipes or holding tanks to burst.
Protecting your RV from weather. RV covers are available to cover your RV and protect it from the elements. Parking your RV under an awning or using a plastic or fabric cover can help protect your investment.
Whether you let us take care of it, or do it yourself, RV Winterization is essential to protect your RV from Winter damage. By preparing for the Winter months, you are ensuring that your rig will be ready to enjoy in the Spring!
Sources
1. http://rvservices.koa.com/rvinformation/rvmaintenance/step-by-step-rv-winterizing-checklist.asp
2. https://www.reserveamerica.com/outdoors/how-to-winterize-an-rv.htm