First-Time RV Owner? Here’s What You Should Know About Storage

Joe Collins
November 29th, 2023

Congratulations on joining the RV-life club! Whether you're chasing sunsets along the coast or weekend getaways in the Sierras, owning your first RV is a milestone. But before your next adventure, you’ll need a solid storage game plan, especially here in sunny Rancho Cordova. Here’s what every first-time RV owner should know about smart, stress-free storage.

Clean Inside & Out

Think of this as a spa day for your RV. A deep clean helps prevent mold, odors, and surprises come spring. Experts suggest washing and waxing the exterior, then vacuuming and wiping down interior surfaces. Don’t forget to defrost the fridge and freezer, prop doors open, and leave baking soda inside to absorb lingering smells. Even a few crumbs can attract pests.

Empty All Tanks & Drain the Water System

Full water tanks don’t stay full, they freeze, expand, and crack. Professionals advise draining freshwater, gray, and black tanks, and blowing out lines to make sure no moisture is left behind. Bonus tip: leave faucets slightly open to help everything dry out.

Buddy Up with Fuel Stabilizer & Monthly Engine Start-Ups

Sitting around can cause stale fuel and dead batteries. To avoid trouble, fill your tank nearly full, add a stabilizer, and run the engine for a bit so the additive circulates. And don’t forget the battery, disconnect house batteries or hook them to a trickle charger and turn on the engine every month to keep everything happy.

Cover Up & Ventilate for Maximum Protection

Sun, dust, and pests can do a number on an RV left exposed. If you're storing outdoors, go for a breathable, UV-resistant RV cover, not just a tarp. And don’t seal things up tight, crack a roof vent and propagate airflow to prevent moisture and mildew. It’s a small move that saves you from big headaches later.

Guard Against Pests & Critters

Rodents love cozy RV bunkers. Before storing, remove all food, leave cabinets open, and consider using mothballs or natural repellents. Seal gaps around hoses and vents with steel wool or sealant to keep unwanted visitors out.

Pick the Right Storage Location

Take away the hassle of home storage, limitations of your own driveway, neighbors that don’t allow RV parking, and the needed expansion for safe RV care, to make sure your RV is well cared for at an off-site option, MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage.

We offer:

- Gated, well-lit outdoor & covered RV parking

- Wide aisles for easy maneuvering

- 24/7 surveillance and keypad access

- Convenient location right off Folsom Blvd

It’s everything you need to store smart and stress-free.

Do a Quick Check Every Few Months

Treat storage like houseplant care: every 4–6 weeks, pop in to:

- Check tire pressure & inflate if needed

- Look for critters or leaks

- Top off batteries or run the engine

- Ensure the cover is still secure

Even a short visit helps catch small issues before they become major headaches.

Wrap Up

Being a first-time RV owner is exciting, and a little daunting. But with just a bit of preparation, your rig will stay in great shape and always be ready when adventure calls.

Remember the essentials:

- Deep clean & defrost

- Drain all tanks & lines

- Fuel stabilize & check batteries

- Cover, vent, and pest-proof

- Choose a secure, amenity-rich storage spot

- Do occasional check-ins

At MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage, storage is easy, secure, and built with RV-lovers in mind. So when you're ready to roll, your home-on-wheels will be, too.