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The main concern for Adco RV covers kept in below-freezing temperatures is to protect the water lines from freezing. All water lines, including those in the hot water system, the toilet and the water pump, should be drained thoroughly, then filled with a non-toxic antifreeze (available in RV supply stores). The water tank and the holding tanks also must be drained.
All openings where rodents can enter or where insects can nest should be sealed: holding tank vent pipes, outside refrigerator compartment and roof vent, power cord compartment, outside furnace ports, range hood vent and any outside locker doors with vents. On the other hand, if the RV is sheltered from rain and snow, open a screened window just a crack or open a roof vent at the front and rear of the RV to keep it ventilated and to keep it from smelling musty.
Those who store RVs in damp climates may want to have a couple of 120-volt AC, low-wattage light bulbs turned on inside the RV. The heat from the bulbs will dry out the air somewhat. Ideally, to protect the RV from the weight of heavy snow or tree limbs that might blow down in strong winds, the unit should be stored in a garage or under a solidly roofed structure. However, this is not practical for many RV owners.
The only other choice for protecting an RV from the elements - but not windfalls - is to cover it with a tarp or a special RV cover. The covers, which can cost about $20 a linear foot, enclose the entire RV. Tarps generally cover only the roof unless the RV is very small. Most covers are made of a material that breathes. This is important if the RV is stored in a damp climate because air circulation is vital to prevent mildew and condensation from forming.
Tires should be protected from the sun; the damaging ultraviolet rays exist in the winter just as they do in the summer. Special tire covers that snap on can be purchased, or a piece of plywood can be put over the tires to shield them. The tires will last longer if the RV's weight is taken off them while the RV is not being used. The RV can be propped up safely with properly placed concrete blocks or jack stands, but never, ever uses stabilizing jacks for this purpose; they are not designed to support weight.
The RV's batteries should be fully charged and kept in a cool place where they cannot freeze. They can be left in the RV if it is stored in a climate not subject to freezing temperatures. If they are left in the RV, disconnect the cables to prevent corrosion and wrap the cable ends with plastic electrician's tape. Check the batteries with a hydrometer periodically. Recharge them fully if the charge level is below 75 percent.
In a severely cold climate, the engine in a motor home will need some preparation before storage. It is best to change the oil and oil filter so dirty oil won't remain in the engine for months. While you are at it, replace the air filter so this job won't have to be done in the spring.
Fill the fuel tank as full as possible to allow no space for condensation to form. Check the antifreeze level and add some if needed. Don't overlook your generator, if you have one. Its engine will need some preparation before it can be stored. Follow directions in the owner's manual for proper procedures.
Check your owner's manual for the fine points of winterizing your particular RV. In the absence of a manual, your RV dealer can provide you with the necessary information as well as supplies.
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