Ready to hit the open road with your RV or boat after it’s been in long-term storage? Preparing your vehicle for the journey ahead is one of the most important things you can do to enjoy a
smooth and fun experience.
Did you know that Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage offers long-term covered and paved RV storage near Concord?
From inspecting the exterior and interior to checking mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, we've got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, these practical steps can help you make sure your vehicle is road-ready. Here are 5 things you should check before taking your vehicle out of long-term storage and on to your next adventure.
Long-term RV Storage Checklist
1. Look over your vehicle
After your vehicle has had a lengthy stay in storage, the first thing you’ll want to do is check over both the exterior and the interior of your vehicle. Inspecting the outside for damage and the inside for signs of mold or pests can help you spot issues before you use your vehicle again. When looking over your RV or boat, be sure to do the following:
Walk around the entire RV and examine the exterior for any visible damage like cracks, dents, or scratches.
Inspect the roof for signs of leaks, punctures, or loose seals.
Examine all windows for cracks and ensure the seals are still intact.
Check the tires for cracks or low pressure.
Look for signs of pests, rodents, or insects that might have found their way into your RV or boat while in storage.
Check for potential mold or mildew.
If you notice any mold or pest issues, deal with them immediately. Also, now’s a great time to deep clean the interior of your vehicle by washing any bedding and wiping down all surfaces to remove dust and grime.
2. Check mechanical systems
Several mechanical areas on your RV or boat will need to be checked after a stay in long-term storage. These areas are important to look over as they can affect the overall performance and reliability of your vehicle:
Check over the engine's condition.
Inspect all belts and hoses to make sure they haven’t gotten brittle, which can lead to cracks and leaks.
Make sure your battery is working properly or replace it if necessary.
Look over the generator for signs of damage or wear.
The last thing you want to experience on your next journey is an unexpected breakdown. Taking the time to look over and freshen up your mechanical systems can save you from potential issues down the road.
3. Test electrical and propane systems
Before hitting the road, it’s critical to test your electrical and propane systems to avoid inconveniences or safety issues when you travel. It’s important to note that before you begin testing electrical components, you should test your propane hoses and connections first. If you discover that you have a leak, you must fix that before proceeding to check your electrical components.
Once you’ve checked for propane leaks, here are a few things you should examine:
Test your battery’s voltage and look for signs of corrosion.
Try all of your power outlets to make sure they are working properly.
Test all your RV's appliances, including the refrigerator, stove, oven, and microwave.
Turn on and check all electrical components, including lights, headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and interior lights.
Inspect your furnace and turn it on to make sure it works.
This is also a great time to perform a few safety checks. When checking for propane leaks, also investigate your ventilation system and make sure your gas shut-off valve is operating correctly.
Did you know Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage offers propane for purchase at the facility? Propane for purchase is one of the features and amenities included with rent.
4. Inspect the water, plumbing, and HVAC systems
One of the many reasons to own an RV is to experience comfort away from home. To make sure your next journey is enjoyable, you’ll need to have a well-functioning water, plumbing, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. Here are a few things to look over:
Flush the freshwater tank and refill it with clean water.
Turn on the water pump and verify that it pressurizes the system properly.
If your RV has a hot water heater, turn it on and allow it to heat the water.
Turn on the RV's air conditioning system and check that cool air is blowing from all vents and that the AC unit cycles on and off as needed.
When checking over these systems, it’s also the perfect time to sanitize the water system so you can safely use it for drinking or cooking. This is especially important if you’ve had antifreeze in your vehicle.
Start by hooking your RV up to a freshwater source and running water through all of the faucets until it looks clear. Then, add 1 cup of bleach to every 60 gallons of water in your tank and run that through all of your faucets until you can only faintly smell bleach. Shut off the valves and let the solution sit for at least 12 hours. After this has been done, you can run fresh water through the pipes until all the bleach is gone.
5. Perform simple maintenance
Lastly, you’ll want to complete a few simple maintenance tasks to ensure your vehicle is ready to hit the road. Here are a few final items to check over and/or replace before you take off for your adventure:
Refill propane tanks if necessary.
Get an oil change.
Replace or refill all fluids, like windshield washer fluid, engine oil, and coolant.
Check smoke detectors.
Clean or replace the HVAC system's air filters.
Give your vehicle a thorough wash.
These are also items that you will want to routinely check and complete to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Next Steps
With your RV or boat now road-ready, it's time to hit the open road and create unforgettable memories. Looking for long-term storage solutions when your vehicle’s not in use? Check out our pricing and options to reserve a spot today.
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