Owning a boat for your summer escapades or an RV for your road trips can be a significant investment in your leisure time. However, the winter season can be a hassle for boat and RV owners–especially those who do not have proper winterization and storage techniques. Failing to take the necessary precautions can lead to damage, breakdowns, and costly repairs when it is time to use them again.
But worry not, as there are simple and effective ways to winterize and store your boat or RV to keep them in good condition. This blog will share tips and tricks on preparing and protecting your recreational vehicle for the winter season. Whether you are a seasoned boat, RV owner, or a newbie, these tips will help ensure your investment lasts for years.
Why Winterizing Your Boat or RV Matters
Winterizing prepares your vehicle for the winter season, including draining water systems, protecting the engine, and storing it safely and securely. It is not just a routine task you can forgo to ensure your vehicle runs when you are ready to use it again. We have listed why winterizing should be part of your regular maintenance routine as a boat or RV owner.
It Extends the Lifespan of Your Boat or RV
Winterizing your boat or RV is an essential part of maintaining its lifespan. Proper winterization helps prevent rust and corrosion by removing water from the systems and components that could lead to damage. It also protects the engine and its members from freezing temperatures that could cause injury. Plus, winterizing helps preserve the appearance of your boat or RV by preventing mold and mildew growth, which can cause discoloration and unpleasant odors.
It Prevents Costly Damages and Repairs
Neglecting to winterize your boat or RV can lead to costly damage and repairs. For example, if you fail to winterize your boat or RV’s water systems, frozen pipes could burst and cause considerable damage to your vehicle’s interior. Freezing temperatures can also cause engine damage, such as cracked engine blocks and damaged cylinders, which can be expensive to repair or replace.
It Ensures Your Safety While on the Road or Water
Proper vehicle maintenance can avoid accidents or breakdowns that may endanger you and your passengers. In addition, by taking the necessary precautions to winterize your boat or RV, you can provide peace of mind and make your next season’s adventures more enjoyable. Safety should always be a top priority for any craft or RV owner.
How To Winterize Your Boat or RV
Now, how exactly should you winterize your boat or RV? Check out this step-by-step process:
Clean and Dry Your Boat or RV
Before winterizing your boat or RV, cleaning it thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or debris that may have accumulated during use is crucial. After cleaning, dry it thoroughly to prevent any moisture from causing damage during storage.
Change the Oil and Filters
Changing the oil and filters in your boat or RV is essential in winterizing to prevent moisture buildup in the engine during storage. However, old oil and filters can also contain contaminants that may damage the engine.
Add Antifreeze to the Engine and Plumbing System
Antifreeze is a chemical that lowers the freezing point of water, preventing water from expanding and damaging the engine and plumbing system—another crucial step in winterizing your boat or RV. Depending on your manufacturer’s recommendations, you can use either a propylene glycol-based antifreeze or an ethylene glycol-based antifreeze.
Drain and Flush the Water Tanks
Draining and flushing the water tanks is essential to prevent any leftover water from freezing and causing damage to the plumbing system. Pro tip: you should use a non-toxic antifreeze like the ones mentioned above to protect the tanks from freezing.
Remove Batteries and Store Them Properly
Remove the batteries from your boat or RV to prevent them from draining or freezing during storage. Store them in a cool, dry place and charge them periodically to maintain their lifespan.
Cover and Secure Your Boat or RV
Finally, cover and secure your boat or RV to protect it from the elements during storage. Use a durable, weather-resistant cover to keep it clean and dry, and secure it with straps or ties to prevent it from shifting or moving.
Tips for Storing Your Boat or RV
Ready to park your precious boat or RV and let it have its break? There are things you should consider when storing them.
Choose a Secure and Reliable Storage Facility
You would not want to stress the safety and security of your boat or RV while in storage, so choosing a trustworthy facility is essential. Look for storage facilities with security features such as video surveillance, electronic gate access, and on-site management. MacArthur Drive Self Storage, for example, offers state-of-the-art security systems to ensure that your boat or RV is safe and secure while in storage.
Opt-in for Climate-Controlled Storage if Available
Extreme temperatures and humidity can wreak havoc on your boat or RV, causing damage to the interior, exterior, and mechanical components. Opt-in for a climate-controlled storage unit that can regulate the temperature and humidity levels. This can help prevent mold growth, rust, and cracking. You can learn more about climate-controlled self-storage units here.
Use Jack Stands to Support Your Boat or RV
When storing your boat or RV, taking the weight off the tires or hull is essential. This can be done using jack stands to support your boat or RV. This will help prevent flat spots from forming on the tires, and it will also help distribute the weight more evenly across the support points. Please ensure that the jack stands are on a solid surface and stable and secure before leaving your boat or RV in storage.
Remove All Food and Perishable Items
Of course, you would not want rodents or insects making a feast out of your food supplies while your boat or RV is in storage. So, make sure to remove all perishable items, including food, drinks, and pet food, before storing your vehicle. It is also a clever idea to wipe down any surfaces where food or crumbs might have been left to prevent attracting pests. This can help keep your vehicle clean and fresh for your next adventure.
Cover All Vents and Openings to Prevent Critters from Getting In
Even the tiniest opening can be an invitation for critters to enter your boat or RV and make themselves at home. To prevent this, make sure to cover all vents and openings, such as exhaust pipes, air intakes, and access panels, with mesh screens or tape. This will help keep pests out and prevent damage to your vehicle’s interior.
Check on Your Boat or RV Regularly During Storage
Even with all the necessary precautions, it is still important to check on your boat or RV regularly during storage. This will help you catch any issues or problems early on, and it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is safe and secure. Check the tire pressure, battery charge, and the condition of the cover or tarp. If you notice any issues or concerns, address them immediately to prevent further damage or costly repairs.
Finding the Right Boat and RV Storage
If you do not have your own space at home that can accommodate your boat or RV, chances are you will need to find a storage facility that can meet your needs. Here are things to consider when looking for a storage company:
The Location of the Storage Units
When considering the location of the storage units, it is essential to choose a facility that is conveniently located and easily accessible. You will want to choose a facility that is close to your home or a frequently traveled route, making it easy to drop off and pick up your boat or RV.
The Ease of Access to the Storage Units
Another vital factor to consider when choosing a storage unit for your boat or RV is ease of access. The facility should have wide and clear driving lanes, easy entry and exit points, and adequate space for maneuvering large vehicles. It is also worth checking if they have extended access hours, which can be useful if you need to retrieve your vehicle outside of regular business hours.
The Price and Lease Options
Storage unit prices can vary widely, so it is important to shop around and compare prices. You should also consider the lease options available, including month-to-month or long-term leases, to ensure that you find a storage solution that suits your needs and budget.
The Space and Other Features of the Storage Units
When choosing a storage unit for your boat or RV, the space and other features of the unit are crucial factors to consider. Make sure the unit is large enough to accommodate your vehicle comfortably and that it has additional features like climate control, security measures, and electrical outlets to maintain your vehicle’s condition while in storage.
Give Yourself that Peace of Mind While You Let Your Vehicle Rest
Winterizing and storing your boat or RV may seem like a tedious process, but it is worth every sweat and penny, given that these vehicles are investments that you want to last for years to come. By taking the necessary steps to winterize and store your boat or RV properly, you can extend its lifespan, prevent costly damage and repairs, and ensure your safety while on the road or water. And when it comes to finding the right storage solution, MacArthur Drive Self Storage offers secure, climate-controlled units that can accommodate your boat or RV. With the peace of mind that your vehicle is safe, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the winter season knowing that your investment will be protected.