Is your motorhome safely stored for Winter?
By following this checklist we will show you how to not only save yourself time but money.
Your motorhome is a great investment and the best way to ensure that you get the most for your money is to use and take care of it. While there may be one or two months out of the year when you have no use for your motorhome, protecting yourself from expenses that are likely to occur when it has been parked up for a period of time can often be avoided by following a few simple rules.
If your motorhome is damaged by frost or rust, replacing a part may become expensive. This short list can not only extend the life of your motorhome but also make your journeys much safer.
Wash and clean the outside – This will discourage animals and insects from making themselves comfortable inside your motorhome while it is in storage. You should finish with a coat or two of wax for extra protection.
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Drain your motorhome of all water – Check the taps or bungs from the outside. This includes the waste tank. If the motorhome is older, drain the pump completely. One way to get as much water out of the system as possible is to empty all of the containers, turn on any taps and then take the motorhome for a short drive; this will hopefully dislodge any residual water.
Drain the water heater – If you are not sure how to do this, read the owner's manual or handbook. Make sure that it is empty and that all taps are left in the "on" position before storing.
Remove and replace water filters – These can freeze when they contain water inside; again, if you are not sure how to do this, read the owner's manual or handbook. The best rule would be to change these every season.
Empty the toilet – Remove and wash cassettes after every trip. If your motorhome has a separate rinse tank, make sure this has been drained and cleaned, also.
Give the batteries a full charge – Move these to a dry area and use an intelligent battery conditioner when not in use. If using lead acid batteries, check the electrolyte levels.
Turn off and remove any gas bottles – Store in a cool, dry place where they are safe from children. Immediately turn off all gas control valves.
Leave the refrigerator door open – After removing all food, wipe down with a mild cleanser and let the air circulate.
Remove all food from cupboards – The slightest smell will entice all sorts of animals and insects that will eventually make themselves at home while your unit is in storage. One way to test if rodents have taken over is to leave a chocolate biscuit on the floor. Check the floor the next day and if the biscuit remains uneaten, your motorhome is free of unwanted guests.
Check the awning – Make sure these are free of moisture before they are rolled up and if possible store somewhere free from the extreme cold and damp as it may start to absorb moisture from the surrounding air when the temperature starts to rise again.
Check the tyre pressures – Pump tyres to their maximum inflation point as stated in the owner's manual. It may be a good idea to cover them before storing to protect them from the worst of the weather.
Cover and secure outside vents – By using polyurethane and tape, this will help to protect your motorhome from extreme weather conditions, insects and leaves.
Remove all dry cell batteries – This includes clocks, remote controls, etc.
Waterproof exposed electrical connections – By using a little WD40 or other lubricant, this will help to protect from winter moisture and rusting.
Check your insurance – double check your insurance policy to see if there are any clauses that your policy insists on whilst it is being stored.
Whilst these checks are a good idea before storing your motorhome away for the winter months, it should also be checked throughout the year – sometimes, extreme weather conditions can have an effect on the motorhome's performance. By checking fluid levels and the tyre pressures before going on a trip, you can determine whether it can handle being on the road.
If you are not sure how to complete any of these tasks, your Devon Motorhomes will be happy to advise you as to the best course of action, Call us on 01803 220512
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