Your big summer and spring toys – like boats and Motorhomes – can’t stay out all year (even if we wish they could). Boats and Motorhomes are huge items, and it’s more than likely that you don’t have enough space at your home to store them year-round. So instead of parking them in the street or your driveway all season, you should consider renting storage. Here are some reasons why:
- Affordable rates
- Protection from the elements with a roof
- Electrical Hookups
- Minimised risk of vandalism and burglary
So now that summer is over, do you know how to properly winterise and prepare your toys for storage? Here’s a helpful guide for everything you need to get done before storing them for the winter.
Tips for Properly Storing Your Boat:
1. Clean the Hull and Deck
You’ll be leaving the boat for almost a whole year. You wouldn’t be happy to open it up to find it dirty or full of trash from last summer, would you?
2. Add a Fuel Stabiliser
Some experts suggest that you should fill the tank and add a stabiliser to keep from extra condensation forming inside the engine.
3. Change the Oil
You’ll want to change the engine oil, and the antifreeze.
4. Remove Electronics Including the Battery
You shouldn’t leave any electronics inside the boat over the winter. If you live somewhere very cold, you may also want to consider removing the battery to keep warm and safe.
5. Make Repairs
If your boat took on any damage this summer, now is the best time to make repairs. Take the time to fix up any cracks or dings in the hull. This way, it won’t cut into your boating time next year.
6. Double Check Your Boat Cover
Your boat cover is the last line of protection from the winter elements. If there are holes or damaged areas, the cover won’t be able to protect your boat.
7. Do Engine Maintenance
If there are engine problems, you should think about fixing them sooner rather than later. If you’re hiring someone, this could be their off-season, so you might save money.
8. Check Tire Pressure on Your boat Trailer
Your trailer will be holding your boat for the entire season, probably without being moved. Will the tires hold up? They need to.
9. Find Out When Your Registration Expires
There would be nothing more disappointing than getting ready to get in the water next year and realising that your registration expired over the winter.
10. Rent Outdoor Storage
You can’t leave your boat in the driveway all year! Outdoor storage is a safe and affordable alternative.
Tips for Properly Storing your Motorhome:
- Drain All the Tanks
This includes the fresh water holding tank, as well as the black and grey holding tanks.
2. Drain the Water Heater
Caution: Do not drain when water is hot! Remove the drain plug and open the pressure relief valve.
3. Remove Food and Supplies
Like the boat, you’ll be leaving this vehicle unmanned for almost a year. Any food left in the RV will become inedible and moldy, and could attract bugs.
4. Shut Down the Refrigerator and Leave the Door Open
Just like when you move homes, you should leave the refrigerator door open to prevent stale air and condensation.
5. Consider RV-Approvedon-Toxic Anti-Freeze
You don’t want to use toxic anti-freeze because it could poison your water lines. Look into RV-approved brands to keep your pipes safe.
6. Pressurise the System
Start with the faucet closest to the water pump, and slowly open the hot and then cold valves until the anti-freeze appears.
7. Cover All External Vents to Prevent Pests
Pests will be looking for a warm home during the winter—don’t let that home be your RV.
8. Check Roof Condition to Prevent Leaks
Take this time to repair any holes or damages to the roof. You don’t want to come back to find a leaky roof!
9. Consider a Coat of Wax
If your RV needs a wax anyway, why not do it now? It will keep the exterior looking brighter by the time next season rolls around. The wax also adds another layer of protection from the weather.
10. Rent Outdoor Storage
With all of the great things that come along with outdoor storage, why wouldn’t you sign up? Come and see us now, spaces are limited and going fast.
