Owning an RV gives people the opportunity to travel to a number of interesting destinations. However, few people use their RV year round, and when an RV is not in use, it needs to be properly stored. Taking the time to prepare your RV before putting it in storage can help prevent some problems. Use the following tips to get your RV ready to be stored for an extended period:

Clean the Exterior

Before you store your RV, it is essential to thoroughly clean the exterior. After you wash your RV, put a coat of wax over the entire vehicle. A good wax can help prevent dirt and grime build up while the RV is in storage and will also help protect the exterior of the RV from sun damage.

Ensure Proper Ventilation 

When an RV is going to be in storage for a few months, moisture control and ventilation should be a major priority. If an RV does not have proper ventilation, moisture build-up can lead to mold and mildew growth. One of the easiest ways to ensure that the interior of an RV stays dry is by leaving the rooftop vents open so that air can flow through the interior of the RV. If you choose to leave the rooftop vents open, make sure that you have vent covers installed that allows for air flow but prevent rain and other moisture from getting in.

Remove All Items from Refrigerator and Freezer

It is extremely important to pay careful attention when emptying out the refrigerator and freezer inside your RV before placing it in storage. Remove every single item from both the fridge and freezer and then clean each one out with soap and water. Make sure that the fridge and freezer remain propped open while your RV is in storage to prevent bad smells from developing.

Protect Against Pests

The last thing any RV owner wants to deal with when they take their RV out of storage is a pest infestation. Luckily, there are several things that you can do to keep insects, rodents, and other pests out of your RV while it is in RV storage. One of the most effective things you can do is place screens on all exterior openings, such as the rooftop plumbing vents, the furnace exhaust, and the air intake piping. Also, inspect your RV and repair any cracked seals with silicone caulk.