Summer Storage: How to Keep Your RV or Boat Safe in the Heat
Joe Collins
June 13th, 2024
We get it, summertime in Rancho Cordova is made for road trips, lake days, and open-air adventures. But when the season’s over (or your schedule gets packed), storing your RV or boat safely is key to keeping it ready for your next getaway. And with California's summer heat turning up the dial, protecting your big toys from sun, dust, and damage is more important than ever.
Whether you’re a weekend road warrior or a full-on water fanatic, here are some smart, simple tips to help you store your RV or boat like a pro this summer:
1. Clean It Like You Mean It
Before your RV or boat goes into storage, give it a serious cleaning: bug splatter, road grime, lake water residue, the works.
For RVs: Wash the exterior, clean the awnings, and vacuum inside
For boats: Rinse with fresh water, flush the engine, and dry everything thoroughly to prevent mildew.
Trust us, the last thing you want when you're ready for your next trip is a moldy mattress or mystery smell.
2. Cover Up That Investment
UV rays in California aren’t messing around. Extended exposure to sunlight can crack vinyl, fade paint, and wear down rubber seals. If not cared for properly, your vehicle will age way faster than it should.
Use a UV-resistant cover made specifically for RVs or boats. If storing outside isn’t for you, you could always utilize the indoor storage options at MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage for an added layer of protection.
Covers don’t just keep the sun out, they keep dust, leaves, and bird messes out too. Win-win.
3. Protect Your Tires
Hot pavement can take a serious toll on your RV’s tires. Long-term exposure to heat and pressure can cause flat spots or even dry rot. Before storing, inflate tires to the recommended PSI. If possible, park your RV on boards or tire pads instead of directly on hot asphalt or concrete.
For boats on trailers, check the tires too, trailers are often overlooked, but they’re just as important. It’s a small step that can save you from a big headache (and a big bill) down the road.
4. Ventilation = No Funky Odors
Ever stepped into an RV after it’s been baking in the sun for a month? Not pleasant. Trapped heat and moisture can lead to musty smells, warped wood, and mildew.
To help prevent this, try cracking a few vents slightly to allow airflow (just make sure rain and pests can’t get in), use moisture absorbers inside the RV or cabin of your boat, and prop open cabinets and leave the fridge slightly ajar; this helps prevent mold and that dreaded stale air.
Bonus tip: Leave a box of baking soda inside for natural odor control. Cheap and effective.
5. Don’t Forget the Battery & Fuel
Summer heat can do a number on your vehicle’s battery life. If you’re not planning to use your RV or boat for a while, it’s best to:
- Disconnect the battery (or remove it entirely and store it in a cool, dry place)
- Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent gunk buildup if your vehicle will be sitting for more than a month.
Also, double-check all fluids—oil, coolant, transmission. Just like your car, your RV or boat needs a little TLC to handle the heat.
6. Store Smart with MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage
Now for the good part: with MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage, you don’t have to stress about finding a secure, spacious, and summer-friendly place to store your boat or RV. At our facilities we offer:
- Outdoor and covered parking options
- Wide driveways for easy access
- Gated facility with keypad entry and 24/7 surveillance
- Conveniently located in Rancho Cordova, just off Folsom Blvd and near US Route 50
Wrap-Up: Prep Now, Play Later
A little prep work now means a whole lot less stress (and fewer repairs) later. Whether you're between road trips or letting your boat rest after a summer on the water, proper storage keeps your gear adventure-ready when the mood strikes.
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