Purchasing a new motorhome is a major investment which requires a great deal of care and attention both when it’s in use and while it is being stored away. Protecting your investment means you are guaranteed reliable service from your motorhome for many years to come, so its important to carefully consider how it will be stored while it’s not in use.
As the camping season is starting to wind down and we approach the autumn/winter months, now is the perfect time to start thinking about storing your motorhome so it is sufficiently protected from the cold, wet conditions.
Preparation is key when looking after your vehicle, which is why our experts at Glenns have compiled a list of top tips for storing your motorhome so you know how to do so correctly.
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Motorhome policy
The convenience of storing a motorhome at home makes it a popular choice for many who would prefer to have easy access to their vehicle in case they decide to take an unplanned trip. While it may seem obvious, storing your motorhome at home means it must be stored on your premises and not on the road outside your property. Storing your motorhome on a public road will most likely invalidate your insurance, meaning your vehicle will not be covered against theft or damage.
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Security
Storing your motorhome on your premises means it is your responsibility to put the correct security measures in place by investing in features for your vehicle. Most motorhomes have a built-in immobiliser which prevents any thieves who manage to gain access to your vehicle from driving it away. Therefore, you must start your security checks by making sure your motorhome has an immobiliser fitted.
There is also an extensive range of security alarm systems available on the market which can deter thieves from stealing your motorhome while lowering your insurance premium in the process.
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Cleaning
Exposure to the elements and UV light can cause your motorhome to show signs of general wear and tear and ageing. Giving your motorhome a thorough clean is an effective way of helping restore its condition and prepare it for storage. Begin by washing the exterior of the motorhome using the correct cleaning products followed by a coat of wax to help protect its finish.
You could also take this opportunity to inspect your vehicle, checking for any cracks, gaps or openings which will need to be sealed to prevent water from filtering in. To remedy this problem, contact your motorhome dealer to ensure you get the correct sealant for your vehicle and re-seal as required.
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Battery
When preparing your motorhome for winter storage, battery maintenance plays a very important part. If you need to power any security alarms or plan on using your vehicle while it is in storage for spontaneous trips, we advise that you keep the batteries in the vehicle. If your motorhome has a battery disconnect switch, you must also make sure that it is off when you are not using the vehicle or while it is in storage. Batteries in storage can self discharge up to 10% a month so it’s important to check the batteries regularly and recharge when required.
If you are storing your motorhome away for a long period of time, it’s recommended that you remove the batteries from the vehicle and store them in a secure place where they will not become damaged or freeze.
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Engine
If left over a long period of time, the acids in oil can cause components of the engine to corrode. Therefore, prior to putting your motorhome into storage you must change the oil and oil filter on the engine and generator so it is fresh in the system. You must also remember to check that the engine radiator has the correct concentration of antifreeze; if you are unsure whether it’s the right type of antifreeze for the model of your vehicle, consult the owner’s manual.
If you choose to put your motorhome into storage over the winter, our experts at Glenns can offer a service and vehicle check ready for the next year in their fully fitted garage to ensure reliable use for many years to come. For those looking to purchase a new vehicle, we also offer expert advice on which type of motorhome will best suit your requirements from our comprehensive range of second hand motorhomes, including:
For further information, don’t hesitate to contact our specialist team today – we are always happy to help with any enquiry.
