Last Minute Winterizing Tips

By this point most of us are aware of the concept of winterizing your RV and that the plumbing/water has to be flushed and replaced with an RV anti-freeze but there are a few other tips that may help save you time, money, and hassle when camping season rolls around.
Do’s
*Wash your unit and check all seams and sealants for cracks or leaks. Reseal any voids in the sealant with an RV sealant
*Extend all of your awning and open pop-up campers to let fabric dry completely before storage
*Lubricate all doors and hinges with an appropriate lubricant
*Inflate tires to maximum cold pressure (should be listed on sidewall)
*If storing outdoors protect each tire with an ultraviolet-ray resistant cover
*Place a barrier between the tire and the ground such as a piece of wooden plank
*Defrost and dry the inside of your refrigerator/freezer. It may be wise to leave a container of baking soda inside the refrigerator to absorb odors and moisture
*Leave appliances turned off and unplugged
*Close all windows and draw the shades
*Many RV owners suggest a dehumidifier of some sort. This could even be in the form of a power free product
*Make a list of items remaining in the RV and photograph the interior and exterior. This could come in handy in case of fire, vandalism, or theft.
*If stored in freezing temperatures, removing the rigs batteries is suggested
*Deter pests as much as possible. Many RV owners swear by fabric softener sheets which emit a scent that most pests can’t stand. Simply place these at any and all possible entrances and even beneath each tire.
*Keep out the smaller pests such as ants as well. Many RVers find that placing a ring of Comet cleanser around each tire protects against an ant invasion.

Don’ts
*Park your RV for the winter below a tree. You may think you are adding protection but the risk of breaking limbs outweighs the benefits.
*Remove your trailer tires for the winter or jack up your unit to lessen the weight. Both of these have proven a fruitless exercise.
*Use a standard tarpaulin (common blue tarp) to cover your RV. It can trap moisture and will almost certainly damage the exterior paint