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Dick & Pat · 03-09-2011, 03:40 PM

Most anywhere in RV forums, one can find checklists for winterizing an RV for storage; however, in searches we've never found a checklist for storing an RV over the summer. We may be leaving our fifth wheel in Texas, on our lot at an RV park, through the summer till we return in the Fall. What we need are tips as to what preparations should be made to the RV so it survives through hot, humid conditions without severe damage from weather, insects, rains, etc.

If anyone can provide a link to a checklist for summer storage preparation, or if you have any suggestions based on your own experiences we'd like to hear them.

Larry & Rita · 03-09-2011, 03:53 PM

Try this;
live. work. dream. | Full Time RVing Sabbatical Lifestyle Blog | Pullrite Superglide Fifth Wheel Hitch RV Summer Maintenance Tips
hAVE A GREAT SUMMER

Ray,IN · 03-09-2011, 06:45 PM

I've seen the effects of Southern sun on a 5er, not good. I would put foil in the windows to block any sunlight from fading or rotting any fabric inside. Use sufficient containers of "Damp Rid" to keep humidity from being absorbed by stuffed furniture, carpet, and bedding-DW sits them in the shower, kitchen sink,etc in case they spill for any reason or develop a leak. Cover tires to prevent sun rot, or remove and store them if the site restrictions permit. I would blow out water lines, drain water heater, just like winterizing except do not use anti-freeze.
Rodent damage may be a concern. I choose to use mouse poison placed in vacant cubby-holes where no pets have access. That's exhausted my brain for now.

Cat320 · 03-09-2011, 07:07 PM

The foil is a great idea and necessary to protect the inside. The insulated kind is best: Insulation for Less : Prodex : Reflective Insulation : Pole Barn Insulation : Metal Building Insulation : Bubble Insulation

4Knights · 03-09-2011, 09:00 PM

2 thoughts, mud duabers if you have them in your area you should consider shrink wrapping the entire rig and put dehumidifier tanks inside. Or better yet! Rent it out with a reputable dealer, you make money, the rig gets use so things don't fall apart from non use.

Dick & Pat · 03-10-2011, 08:39 PM

Great Advice so far & thanks all

Lookin' forward to more tips

hooverbill · 03-12-2011, 08:27 AM

JMHO, but I would not use shrink wrap, especially in Texas in the summer. The temp will go off the scale in that heat, no telling what that heat would do to the electronics, upholstery, glue that holds wall paper, wood, etc.

Ray,IN · 03-12-2011, 07:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hooverbill

JMHO, but I would not use shrink wrap, especially in Texas in the summer. The temp will go off the scale in that heat, no telling what that heat would do to the electronics, upholstery, glue that holds wall paper, wood, etc.

You just reminded me about that 5er in South Florida I was describing. The dining room wood table was cracked(broken?) end-to-end, about 1/8" wide from excess heat.

4Knights · 03-12-2011, 08:19 PM

When we were stationed in Germany we left our boat in Oklahoma for 3 years shrink wrapped with dehumidify tanks in it, yes it was under cover but not indoor storage and no heat related issues or moisture problems, If we we going again I would rent my rig out or leave it with family to use.