Hot topics for both consumers and webmarketers on WebmasterRadio.FM
Every Wednesday, 5PM Eastern.
RV Storage Tips
RV Cover Accessories
If covered RV storage is the best fit for you, consider the following accessories to compliment your classic RV cover:
Tire guards - Tire guards keep the rain out and protect against damaging light, heat and tire wall cracking. Cracks can cause a tire blowout - a chance you don't want to take on the highway! Tire guards come with bungee attachments to keep them from blowing away in high winds.
Spare tire covers - Protect your spare from damage using a tire cover while parked and on the road.
RV mask - A front-end mask for Class A motorhomes protects the nose guard from nicks, stones, scratches, and bugs while allowing for battery-tray slide out. A mask can be used with or without an RV cover. Masks should fit tight and be removed to dry if the felt backing becomes wet.
Windshield cover - For your pickup truck, SUV, or Class C motorhome, use a windshield cover for privacy when parked. Covers also protect your windshield from the elements during storage.
Wiper blade and mirror covers - To protect Class A wiper blades and mirrors from UV damage and aging, use wiper blade and/or mirror covers. They can be used with or without an RV cover to protect against the elements.
Air conditioner cover - Protect your air conditioner from the weather while your RV is parked. Air conditioner covers come in a variety of sizes. Be sure to get the right fit!
Rooftop vent covers - Vent covers insulate and block light and heat from the interior of your RV.
RV cover patch kit - Keep a patch kit available in case of rips and tears. Your RV cover should come with a warranty, but even temporary holes or tears in the cover may cause damage to your RV in bad weather.
Note: When purchasing an RV cover and accessories, be sure to get the right size to ensure full protection from the elements!
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Camping World Inc. Tip: What You Should Know about RV Covers
RV storage is always a topic of interest for lovers of the over-the-road lifestyle. Unless you live in your RV full-time, you need a place to keep it when you return to your permanent home. Many people choose outdoor RV storage at home. If this is the case, it’s wise to make the investment in a classic RV cover. RV covers do a variety of jobs including:
Block UV rays to keep the body from fading and cracking
Reflect infared rays to keep temperatures lower
Block dirt and dust
Resist chemicals and harmful substances in rain and bird droppings
Allow moisture to escape to prevent mold and mildew
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Don't Let Your RV Get a Chill! Check Temperatures and Winterize!
Is your indoor or portable RV storage temperature controlled? If you are fortunate enough to have a temperature controlled RV garage, you may not need to winterize your RV. Monitor your RV temperature frequently. If the internal temperature falls below freezing, you will need to winterize your RV.
To winterize, empty and flush out your holding tanks. This will keep the water lines from freezing and bursting. Drain the fresh water tank and water heater (leave the drain plug out - do not open the safety valve - it may not seal properly).
Pour two to three gallons of non-toxic RV antifreeze through the plumbing. Put antifreeze in each sink, shower/bath, and stool.
Use a manual hand pump to push the anitfreeze through the system.
It is recommended to purchase a hot water heater bypass kit. This will allow you to empty your hot water heater to avoid freezing damage without using an excessive amount of antifreeze.
Remove the battery for winter storage. Store the battery in a warm spot but not in your living area.
Don't forget to de-winterize and do a safety check after storing your RV for long periods!
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Camping World Inc. Tip: RV Storage and City Regulations
If you have not made storage arrangements for your RV this year, remember that an RV cannot be parked on a public street for more than 72 hours. Some cities or neighborhoods prohibit RV parking on residential lots and some even require a licence to do so. Be sure that you check city ordinances and neighborhood covenants for RV storage on your lot. Some neighborhoods have written guidelines that prohibit motorhomes, fifth wheels, travel trailers and certain types of portable RV garages from being on site as well.
Being a polite RV owner should also be a consideration when you choose outdoor RV storage. If you are allowed to choose home storage but your RV sticks out like a sore thumb, reconsider your options. Even a new, top of the line model is an eyesore if it blocks your neighbors' view!
If you cannot park your RV at home due to ordinances or covenants, check with your local RV store or sales center. You are likely to get reliable information about an RV storage garage or an outdoor lot. And if you store your RV outdoors, remember to use an RV storage cover to protect your investment!
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Portable RV Garages for Protection at Home
Have you decided to invest in proper motorhome storage this year? If you like the idea of having your own RV storage garage, there are several options on the market. Choose from peak roof style, rounded, square and double-wide. A portable RV garage offers a temporary shelter in several sizes to fit your RV storage needs. They are made with polyethylene fabric, heavy-duty metal frames, and tubes and a slip-fit system that connect for easy construction. Water-proof with UV protective covering, portable covered RV storage units offer accessibility, protection and they are movable!
Be sure to check city ordinances and neighborhood covenants for rules related to residential RV storage on your lot.
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Camping World Inc. Tip: The Advantage of Indoor RV Storage
If you make the investment in an RV, consider inside RV storage to maintain its condition when you are not on the road, especially during the winter or rainy season. Choose indoor storage to:
Keep the forces of nature at bay. The long term value of your RV will be extended when you protect it from paint oxidation, roof cracking, and water damage.
Keep it clean. Your RV will accumulate dirt and debris outdoors.
Keep the critters out. Insects and mice like the comfort of your RV just like you do and indoor storage will greatly reduce this risk.
Reduce the chances of vandalism.
Give you peace of mind. You know your RV is safe when being stored indoors.
If you do not have your own enclosed RV storage, check your local RV parts and service center for information about a reputable RV storage garage. Insurance companies will be happy with your choice of indoor RV storage and you can enjoy nature on the outside!
Save Tip
Comments
Tip Rating
Waking Up Your RV After Winter Storage
If you are a warm-weather camper, there are a few things to remember when starting the season after a snooze. Whether your RV storage is indoor or out, here's what you need to remember to get going again:
Fill your holding tank with a 50/50 percent bleach/water solution to kill any mold or fungus that may have grown over the winter and flush with fresh water. Hook up a pressurized fresh water line and turn on all sinks, including outdoor shower, to flush out all traces of antifreeze.
Treat your black and grey tanks with RV tank treatment solution from your RV store.
Inspect your appliances. Gas appliances need to be inspected for cracked or worn hoses.
Inspect electrical system for corrosion and/or malfunctions. Turn on all lights, radios, and operate any electrical equipment to be sure it works.
Test for carbon monoxide leaks.
Check tire pressure and condition of tires. Be sure pressure is at the recommended level for your RV.
Open all doors, drawers and cabinets and check for critters who may have camped out over the winter. They probably don't want to live with you either!
Clean your RV inside and out with recommended cleaner from your RV store to get a good start on the season.
Remember that none of these tips can replace the need for regular maintenance during indoor or outdoor RV storage.
