Putting a motorhome away for winter involves more than preparing the living area. You also have an engine, a starter battery, tyres, brakes and the rest of the base vehicle to think about. Look after both sides now and you will have a much better start when you tour again.
This guide works through each job in a sensible order. Your motorhome and base-vehicle handbooks always come first, because procedures vary between manufacturers. If you are laying up a caravan instead, our caravan winter storage checklist covers that.
Motorhome Winter Storage: What Does It Involve?
Start straight after your last trip of the season, while everything is fresh in your mind. Note anything that needs fixing, then split the work into two halves: the vehicle and the habitation area.
Give the motorhome a thorough clean inside and out. Empty the fridge and cupboards and take out anything that could attract damp or pests. Then work through the steps below.
How Should You Look After the Engine and Cab Battery?
A starter battery can slowly drain while a motorhome is parked. Alarms, trackers and some onboard systems keep drawing a small amount of power, even when everything seems switched off.
Your base-vehicle handbook will tell you the safest way to keep it charged. Options usually include a trickle charger, a solar panel or disconnecting the battery. Check before you disconnect anything, because your alarm or tracker may rely on that supply.
It also makes sense to check the coolant, top up the screen wash and make sure fluid levels are correct before the vehicle sits for weeks.
Should you run the engine during motorhome winter storage?
There is no single rule. A short idle on the drive does little for the battery and can leave moisture in the exhaust. Follow the base-vehicle manufacturer’s advice, which may suggest a proper drive instead.
How Do You Look After the Leisure Battery?
The leisure battery powers the habitation side and needs its own care. Charge it fully before storage and check it regularly. Leaving it flat for long periods can shorten its life.
We cover this in detail in our guide to leisure battery care over winter. The same principles apply to motorhomes.
How Do You Drain a Motorhome Water System?
Water left in the system can freeze, expand and crack pipes, pumps and the water heater. Draining down properly is one of the most important winter jobs.
Empty the fresh and waste tanks. Open every tap, including the shower, and leave them in the middle position so both hot and cold lines drain. Then open the drain valve on the water heater. Your handbook will show you exactly where it is.
Do not forget the toilet. Empty and clean the cassette, drain the flush tank and leave the blade slightly open. Our accessory shops stock Elsan products for sanitation and winter water system protection.
How Do You Protect Motorhome Tyres and Brakes?
Tyres can develop flat spots when a heavy vehicle stands still for months. Check the pressures before storage and follow the handbook on whether to move the motorhome slightly every few weeks.
Handbrake advice varies. Some manufacturers suggest leaving it off with the wheels chocked, so the brakes do not stick. Follow your handbook rather than a general rule. Our caravan tyre maintenance guide explains how to check tyre age and condition.
How Do You Stop Damp in a Stored Motorhome?
Moisture needs regular attention while a motorhome is stored. Keep the fixed vents clear and leave cupboard and locker doors open where you can. Follow the fridge manufacturer’s storage advice too. The aim is to stop damp air getting trapped inside while keeping the vehicle secure.
Take bedding, cushions and clothes home if you can. Our guide on preventing condensation has more ideas for keeping the interior dry.
If you are considering a cover, read our advice on covering over winter first. A breathable cover made for your vehicle is essential.
Is Your Stored Motorhome Secure?
A motorhome sitting unused is an attractive target. Use a steering wheel lock, keep the alarm and tracker active and take valuables out. Our caravan security tips apply to motorhomes too, especially when you are choosing a storage site.
What Should You Check Before Using Your Motorhome Again?
In spring, check the tyres, lights, batteries and fluid levels. Refill and flush the water system, test the gas and heating, and make sure the habitation and base-vehicle services are up to date.
After a long lay-up, a habitation check before your first trip gives real peace of mind. Our servicing team can book you in. If you are thinking about a change for next season, browse our latest motorhomes.
Motorhome Winter Storage FAQs
Should I leave the handbrake on in storage?
Follow your base-vehicle handbook. Some manufacturers advise leaving it off with wheel chocks in place to stop the brakes sticking.
Should I fill the fuel tank before storing?
Many owners do, as it can reduce condensation in the tank. Check the storage advice for your model.
How often should I check a stored motorhome?
Every few weeks is sensible. Look for damp, check the batteries and make sure security devices are still in place.
Can I keep a motorhome on my drive over winter?
Usually, yes. Check your insurance, any property restrictions and local rules first.
Need a habitation check or service before next season? Our workshop teams are ready to help.
Couplands Louth: 01507 603496
Couplands Worksop: 01909 475220
