Winter wellness for your motorhome
And so, the winter months are upon us, and time about the winter storage of your motorhome.
Some motorhomes such as the Dethelffs Globebus models that do have features to help with winter storage but please do check what your vehicles does or doesn’t have when planning your motorhome’s winter hibernation.
Here are some of the key things to remember for your motorhome winter storage here in the UK.
Storage
Is it in secure place? Most owners will be keeping it close to home, others may seek to find a storage facility. It may be worth considering using a good quality wheel clamp and steering lock for additional safety whilst is enjoys its winter hibernation.
Do if you can us wheel chocks and put the vehicle in gear to secure rather than keeping handbrake on. Plus make sure tyres are inflated sufficiently as cold temperatures can decrease the pressure.
Plus, on those bright winter days (yes we do have them occasionally) take your motorhome out for a drive to help prevent anything seizing up or problems when it comes to restarting your motorhome adventures.
For some you may choose to also cover the vehicle so to protect from the elements. Please ensure you use a breathable cover to protect from dirt, water, and UV damage. If you don't have a cover, close all blinds or curtains to protect from UV rays.
However, before the cover goes on …
Clean
It is important to ensure that all food has been removed, then clean out cupboards and appliances. Once cleaned, ensure fridge door is kept ajar, to ensure ventilation whilst the motorhome is not being used.
Vacuum thoroughly including all furnishings ensuring no crumbs are left which can potentially attract mould and vermin. You may wish to remove the soft furnishings. If you do, then wrap in a cotton sheet and store in your home.
Clean the exterior to prevent damage to the paintwork from bird droppings.
Water
During the winter months, any water that is left is liable to freeze and cause damage. Therefore, it is really important to empty the freshwater tank, gray water tank, water heater, and toilet. If water freezes, it can expand and split pipes, causing dampness.
Please ensure you follow the guidelines for your specific motorhome if you are planning a full drain down. However, the key points are:
- Water system drained and taps left open
- Waste and freshwater tanks emptied, and valves left open
- Toilet cassette emptied and cleaned and flush water tank drained (where installed)
Moisture
Moisture is the real enemy of all motorhomes during the cold, damp winter months for both the base and the habitation area. It can affect soft furnishing, be harmful to electronics in the controls for the habitation equipment.
It is so important to regularly inspect for damp to avoid any potential water ingress becoming a much bigger problem in the future.
That is why it is important book your annual habitation checks with us here at Goodmans ready for when your new season of motorhome adventures begin.
Gas
Ensure engines and electrical equipment are switched off and then check that all valves on gas cylinders are closed but again please check with your motorhome handbook as this can differentiate between vehicles.
Further help and advice
Goodmans Motorhomes have an expert technical services team at both locations in Hertfordshire and Scotland who are here to help.
