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Spring RV Checklist

May. 19 2023 Seasonal By Price Right Auto & RV

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De-winterizing your RV can be a tiresome, overcomplicated task, and few people would blame you for dragging your feet. However, not taking the proper steps to get your RV ready before you leave on your first trip is likely to result in disaster.

1. Wash Your RV

Even in storage, your RV can accumulate gunk and grime. The longer you wait to clean it, the more likely it is that your camper’s exterior will eventually be damaged. However, you don’t want to get any water inside your RV when you rinse it off. Before you start cleaning, examine the roof seams and check the sidewalls and corners for any holes that may have formed while in storage. 

2. Air Out Your RV

If your RV has been in storage for months, the air inside is more than likely stale. Open your RV’s doors, windows, cabinets, slide-outs, and awnings to get air flowing again. This is also a good chance to find squeaky hinges and deal with them before your vacation.

3. Look for Pests

Your RV can be a tempting source of shelter for pests during the cold winter months. Do a complete check to make sure there aren’t any unwanted guests before you continue with your de-winterization. 

4. Test the Appliances and Lights

It is better to discover that your RV’s tail lights or refrigerator aren’t working when you get it out of storage rather than while you are on vacation. Test all of your RV’s lights and appliances, and make appropriate repairs before you set out on your next trip. 

5.  Inspect Your RV's Tires and Battery

Cold temperatures can do a lot of damage to your RV’s tires and battery. Check that your RV’s tires are properly inflated, have proper tread depth, and are free of any cracks. As for the battery, check that it is free of cracks, disconnect it, clean the connections, check the fluid levels, and finally recharge it. 

6. Address the Water System and Fluid Levels 

Drain and rinse your freshwater tanks, and then fill them back up and run your water pump to remove any lingering antifreeze. You should also check the fluid levels of your brake fluid, windshield fluid, antifreeze/coolant, etc, and top them off if they are low. If your RV has a generator, check its oil and filters as well.