Refreshing Your RV for Summer
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March 6th, 2025
_03062025131438403.jpg "Shutterrock RV")
On any crisp winter day in the Foothills, if you’re extra quiet, you just might hear the distinct call of the Albertan RVer: Is it Spring Yet?
Yes, the snow may still be falling, but if you’re an avid camper or traveller you’ve probably been using your winter months to plan your summer getaway. After all, there’s no better way to escape the February cold than by dreaming of July, am I right?
Uncle Bob’s Self Storage understands that preparation is the key to a perfect summer, so whether you’re a new RV owner ready to hit the road, or you’ve been doing this for years, taking a few moments to review the steps to removing your trailer or camper from self-storage will save you a ton of headaches - and time - when you’re heading out for the weekend.
Here are a few quick and easy ways to ensure your RV, trailer or camper is ready when you come to pick it up:
Exterior Inspection
Our covered RV storage units protect your RV from snow and UVs, but it’s nevertheless an excellent idea to perform a visual inspection for any cracks or leaks. This way you can make any required repairs before you park outside during the first big rainstorm of the year!
Body & Structure: Check the exterior panelling, and weatherstripping around windows, doors, slideouts and vents. Is all of your glass and plastic in good condition? Don’t forget to check the roof as well!
Tires: Your camper is your home-away-from-home, but your wheels and tires will get you there. Check these for proper inflation, tread wear and depth, noisy or wobbly wheel bearings, and your springs and axles - and make sure your spare tire is properly inflated and secure.
Lights: Double check that all LEDs or bulbs are functioning properly, including turn signals, brake lights, and side and front markers. Keep a few spare inside your RV or trailer so you can replace these when you’re on the go.
Interior Inspection
Storage Areas: Check the condition and contents of all closets, dresser drawers, and cupboards. Inspect hinges and any magnetic or mechanical latches to prevent them from accidentally opening on the road. While you're in there, make a list of anything you might want to take with you when you travel this summer - extra dishes, sunscreen, whatever you’d like!
Walls & Floor: Even if you gave everything a good scrub before parking your RV for the winter, we know it will appreciate another clean, vacuum and polish in the spring. Reapply any protective coating, like Armor All, every week or so during the spring and summer. You can also leave your windows and vents open on a calm, dry day to invite spring into your camper!
De-Winterization
Almost every RV or camper owner knows all about these next steps, but again, a bit of a refresher is always a good idea.
Freshwater System: Thoroughly flush and sanitize the freshwater system to completely remove any antifreeze or sediment from the lines. When the tank is full of fresh water, visually inspect the tank and fittings for any leaks or cracks.
Grey & Black Water Systems: These are ESPECIALLY important to check. Make sure the tanks and lines are free of leaks and cracks, fully drained, and cleaned and sanitized as required. Repeat this process each time you head out, and whenever dumping the tanks when moving on.
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