Motorhome Winter Storage And Cleaning Tips
Ultimate Guide to Winter Care and Storage for Your Motorhome
Winter can be a challenging season for motorhomes, with colder temperatures, moisture, and road conditions all taking a toll on your vehicle. Whether you're planning to continue adventuring through the winter months or putting your motorhome into storage until spring, proper care is essential to maintain its condition and performance. Preparing your motorhome for winter use ensures a comfortable and safe journey, while thorough cleaning and careful storage help prevent costly repairs and preserve the longevity of your vehicle. This guide will cover the key steps to keep your motorhome winter-ready and protected during storage, so it's ready for the road when you are.Cleaning Your Motorhome
- Start with a thorough exterior clean. Wash and wax the bodywork, carefully removing any green mould or mildew that might have accumulated. When using a pressure washer, avoid high-pressure settings on sensitive areas to prevent damage. Pay special attention to the motorhome’s awnings, wheel wells, and seals around windows and doors, ensuring these are moisture-free before adding a cover. Leave all taps open to allow any residual water or pressure to escape.
- A tarpaulin cover can protect your motorhome from the elements, but ensure it’s dry and free of holes to prevent moisture or mould from getting in and damaging the bodywork.
- Inside, remove all food items, including crumbs, which could attract pests. Take out bedding and blankets to prevent mould, and close curtains or blinds to avoid sun damage. Keep cupboard doors, the fridge, and freezer open to prevent odours, and defrost the freezer if needed.
Winter Storage Safety
- For electrical safety, unplug small appliances like kettles and toasters, and switch off the main breaker. Drain any remaining water from the pipes to avoid freezing and bursting, and consider using a dehumidifier or a tub of silica gel inside to reduce moisture.
- Be mindful of your motorhome’s positioning. Avoid storing it under trees, and if parked on grass, use blocks to raise it slightly to prevent flat spots on the tyres.
- Pest control is also crucial. Place traps around possible entry points to keep out mice, insects, and even squirrels, which can cause significant damage if they get in. Cover vents to deter wasps, and remove bathroom products like deodorants, as they can attract insects.
- Avoid starting the engine too often, as moisture can accumulate in the exhaust, leading to rust. Remove and store gas tanks safely outside the motorhome, and apply lubricant to all locks and hinges to keep them moving freely.
Maintaining Key Components During Storage
- For added protection, consider a fuel additive to keep the tank in good condition, and change the oil before storage. Turn off all LP gas appliances, remove batteries from devices like clocks, and unplug any potentially perishable electronics, such as LCD TVs.
- Lubricate the chassis and remove all batteries, disconnecting the negative terminal first. Store them in a cool but not freezing location and check them every few weeks.
- Lastly, remove any valuables to prevent theft while your motorhome is not in use.
