9 Tips for RV Storage Preparation in Florida

Posted: April 26th, 2021

When you purchase an RV, you are purchasing an investment. An investment that will bring countless explorations for your family and friends and the ability to make memories that will last a lifetime. In a perfect world, you’d be able to drive around in your RV year-round, and maybe as a retiree, you have the opportunity to do that. In most cases, RV owners only use this home-on-wheels a few months or even weeks out of the year. Due to life circumstances and responsibilities, an RV owner typically needs a place to store their RV when not in use.

Introducing: The Safe Lot, located in Melbourne, Florida but serving surrounding cities and beyond. The Safe Lot offers security, convenience, accessibility, payment options, and more. We take care of our customers and their investments with the utmost care and respect.

Here are 9 simple tips to prepare your RV for storage:

1. Clean & Wax the Exterior - Thoroughly washing and waxing the exterior of the RV can prevent possible damage from dirt and debris that has built up. Waxing will seal the surface of the paint and serves to prevent damage to the exterior paint. Once your RV is clean and waxed, it's a good time to inspect the silicone seams, rubber seals, and caulking.
2. Use an RV Cover - The heat in Melbourne, Florida we feel from UV rays is seriously hot and they can seriously damage your RV! A great way to protect your RV from the sun is to cover it with a breathable anti-UV cover that will help to thwart off the sun's rays and damage that may follow.
3. Repair/ Replace Damaged Seams/Rubber Seals - Fixing any cracked or peeling seams and seals will protect your RV from not only weather elements but also from insects and pests.
4. Proper Ventilation - Keeping moisture out of the RV is a must, you can leave the vent open and buy a vent cover that will allow for airflow while at the same time keeping rain, dirt, insects, and pests out!
5. Clean the Interior From top to Bottom - Clean all surfaces in the RV, clean all food out of the cabinets and especially the refrigerator. Allow the freezer to thaw and be sure to leave refrigerator and freezer doors propped open. Also, leave and bedroom or bathroom doors open to allow for maximum airflow and to eliminate stagnant air as much as possible.
6. Cover The Windows - Even if you have an RV cover in place, it's recommended to use a windshield cover and curtains and blinds to cover the windows.
7. Unplug Appliances and Disconnect Electrical - In addition to unplugging all appliances and anything that could drain the battery bank, some feel more comfortable to manually turn off all electrical using the battery disconnect switch.
8. Plumbing & Tanks - Empty and wash holding tanks. The holding tanks can allow mildew, mold, and even algae to grow. This includes draining the freshwater tank. Be sure the tanks are dry prior to storage. As far as the interior is concerned, eliminate all standing water and plug sink drains and shower drains.
9. Insect and Pest Protection - Inspect the underside of the RV and take a look for any areas that may allow insects or pests to enter, be sure these areas are sealed. Screens for all vents will also be a big help but may not keep out smaller insects, take a look into fiberglass/charcoal small insect screens.

These are just a few of the more popular ways to prepare your RV for storage, however, there are other things to consider. Stay tuned to our blog page for more tips on preparing your RV for outdoor storage in Melbourne, Florida.