Your van or RV is in storage. You think it's ready to face the winter... Not so fast!
Even the most experienced owners sometimes make small mistakes at the end of the season that, unfortunately, turn into problems in the spring.
Here are three common oversights and tips on how to avoid them so that your van or RV (and you!) can get through the winter hassle-free.
1. Neglecting accessories
Mats, magnetic mosquito nets, magnetic curtains, removable shelves... These are often the first items we forget before storing our vehicles.
The result? They become misshapen, stained, or accumulate moisture during the long months of storage.
Tip:
Make a quick inventory of the accessories you added during the season and store them inside your home or in a dry place. You'll avoid unpleasant surprises when the warm weather returns!
2. Leaving batteries connected “just for a few weeks”
This is a mistake we hear about often... and one that can sometimes end up costing a lot! A battery that is connected or inactive all winter may discharge completely or be damaged by the cold.
Tip:
Disconnect your batteries and store them in a temperate place. If you store your RV or van outside, consider installing a circuit breaker or recharging the battery once a month.
3. Forgetting to ventilate
Closing all openings “to keep out the cold air” seems like a logical idea... but it often has the opposite effect. Without a minimum amount of air circulation, humidity builds up, which can cause mold, condensation, and persistent odors.
Tip:
Leave cabinet doors slightly open, keep a small opening in the vents, and install a moisture absorber to keep the air healthy.
Helpful reminders
If you own an RV, now is also the perfect time to:
• Have the roof and seals inspected: a quick preventive check can save you from costly water leaks in the spring.
• Equip yourself with rodent repellents: take the opportunity to have the underbelly of your RV checked, as it can be an entry point for small animals!
Our team at Vanlife Canada RV offers all of this—and can even take care of the complete winterization of your RV while you focus on your next adventure.
In summary
Before saying goodbye to summer for good, take the time to check these few points:
• Remove temporary accessories
• Disconnect the batteries
• Let your interior breathe
And if you want to be sure that everything is done properly, our team can help!
Contact us now to schedule winterization of your RV before the cold weather sets in.