rv maintenance checklist

You may not need to perform each of the tasks on this winter RV maintenance checklist if you are a permanent Florida resident or if you use your RV year-round. However, if you store your RV for any length of time, you should always check your owner’s manual for storage advice from the manufacturer. In the meantime, this list of RV maintenance tasks will give you an idea about what you might need to do.

RV Maintenance Tasks

  1. Drain your RV’s plumbing system. Even a little water left in pipes, faucets, valves or pumps can freeze and split apart.
  2. Winterize your engine by topping off the fuel tanks to prevent condensation and adding a fuel stabilizer. Fill the radiator with automotive antifreeze.
  3. Check your fluids — including oil, brake fluid and windshield washer solution. Make sure your windshield washer solution is formulated with antifreeze.
  4. Shut-off your RV refrigerator and clean the inside thoroughly using a mixture of warm water and dishwashing liquid. Once the inside is clean, place an opened box of baking soda on one of the shelves to help absorb any lingering odors.
  5. Clean the inside of your oven. Leave your oven door open slightly for air circulation.
  6. Check your electrical systems and battery. You can remove the battery and store it in a safe place at room temperature, or buy a device that keeps the electricity periodically flowing through the battery in order to prevent discharge. Check your breakers, fuses, and outlet voltage to avoid any damage while storing your RV in any extreme weather. Also, remember to turn off and unplug all appliances in your RV.
  7. Remove dry-cell batteries in your clocks, gas detector, smoke detector, remote controls, and anywhere else you might be using them.
  8. Wash the exterior of your RV while checking for cracks, leaks, or the peeling of caulking.
  9. Check your tire pressure. Inflate your tires to the proper winter pressure and check weekly. This will ensure that your tires will be safe throughout winter (or your storage period) and ready to go for the next season.
  10. Clean and dry your RV awnings. Be sure they are completely dry before storing your RV for the winter in order to prevent mold and mildew. Lubricate any moving awning parts using a silicon spray. Once you know that the awning is completely dry, roll it up, and place it in the locked position.
  11. Shut all windows and window blinds. Consider leaving one protected window or roof vent open just slightly to provide some airflow through the RV — this can help prevent musty odors or mildew. While closing the windows, check the window seals and any vent openings to see they need to be resealed or re-caulked.
  12. Lubricate all locks with a graphite spray lubricant. Use WD-40 to lubricate any hinges or moving parts.

If you are looking for more helpful RV maintenance information, check out a list of RV maintenance tips that can save you a bundle on unnecessary repairs.

Note:  These winterizing/storage tips are general in nature and may differ for the make and model of your RV. Consult your owner’s manual for specifics before starting any winterizing procedure.