While it was once unusual for people to own RVs, RV ownership is currently at a record high and is rapidly becoming more commonplace. An estimated 11.2 million households owned RVs in 2021, which is 62% more than the 6.9 million owners in 2001, and 26% more than the 8.9 million owners in 2011. But just because you own an RV doesn’t mean that you necessarily know how to take care of it, especially during the wintertime. Winter presents unique challenges for RV owners. Not only do you need to make sure that you have the best RV warranty possible; you also must make sure that you winterize your RV properly.
With that in mind, let’s look into what you should do to ensure that your RV is maintained and prepared for the winter chill.
1. Prepare the Exterior
Often, your RV’s interior can survive the winter without issue. But its exterior is more readily exposed to the wintertime, and it needs to be prepared accordingly. Go through a thorough examination of windows and seams before ensuring that all holes and cracks are resealed and recalked. Consult with your RV dealer as well to check that you aren’t resealing things that shouldn’t be sealed in the first place.
2. Drain the Water System
If water is left in your RV’s plumbing system, it may freeze and break. This would cause potentially severe damage to your RV’s brake lines and fittings. Drain all freshwater from your RV’s waste and water tanks, plus the pipes. Water should be replaced with non-toxic antifreeze, which will push the remaining water out of your RV’s system. Although you can do this yourself, if you’re uncertain, this task can be executed at a service center for a fee. Or, if you have the best RV warranty, your service center may perform this task for free.
3. Protect the Tires
Tires are also quite vulnerable during the wintertime. Your RV dealership will probably sell tire covers, which you should utilize during winter. Tires will often lose pressure during storage as well, so you should inflate yours to the pressure indicated on the sidewalls beforehand.
4. Store Your Batteries
Make sure that your batteries are disconnected prior to winter storage and placed in a cool, dry place. This will ensure that your battery will survive the winter without issue.
Make sure that you care for your RV throughout winter. It’s too great an investment to dismiss! For the best RV warranty options, contact No Repair Cost today.
