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Van life is all about freedom and adventure, but when your campervan is parked and not in use, proper storage is essential for keeping it in top shape. In this blog post, we’ll cover practical tips for safely storing your campervan during periods of inactivity, ensuring it stays in great condition for your next adventure. Depending on your van's setup and the components you use, this may not be an exhaustive list, but it will cover the most important steps to consider. We’ll also touch on specific hot and cold weather tips to help protect your van year-round.
1. How to Prepare Your Electrical System for Storage
Proper care of your electrical system is crucial when storing your van for an extended period.
Plug into Shore Power: If possible, keep your van plugged in to shore power. This will allow you to use the heating and air conditioning systems to maintain interior temperatures between 44°F and 90°F. Doing so helps preserve your electrical system as well as adhesives and other components.
Shut Down When Necessary: If shore power isn’t available, fully charge your battery and turn off the system. In cold weather, you may want to keep the interior warm using a space heater or a heated blanket over the electrical cabinet. Always prioritize fire safety when using heating devices.
2. How to Protect Your Water System and Prevent Freezing and Leaks
To prevent damage to your water system, especially in freezing temperatures, here are a few things to do:
Drain the Lines: If you have an exterior water tank, open the valve underneath it to drain completely. Turn on the water pump and run hot and cold water from all lines, including the sink and shower, until no water remains. If you have an interior water tank, turn on the water pump and run hot and cold water until the system is empty.
Drain the Water Strainer: After draining the water pump and lines, make sure to empty the water strainer located inside your water pump to prevent any residual water from freezing. This would also be a great time to check your owner's manual for specific recommendations on winterizing your water pump.
Empty the Gray Tank:Â Be sure to completely drain your gray water tank.
Blow Out Remaining Water: To ensure all lines are fully dry, use an airline-to-garden-hose adapter to blow out any remaining water. Keep the pressure below 50psi.
Consider Antifreeze:Â To lower the freezing point of any leftover water in your plumbing system, especially if you didn't blow out any residual water from the lines, use food-safe RV antifreeze. (This is different from engine coolant!) Make sure to flush it thoroughly before your next trip.
Open Cabinetry:Â Leave cabinetry open to allow airflow and prevent trapped moisture or freezing.
3. How to Prep Your Van's Fridge for Storage
If you’re shutting down your electrical system, then you’ll also need to prep your fridge.
Defrost Ahead of Time:Â Empty the fridge and freezer, and place towels inside to catch condensation. Leave the door slightly open for airflow to prevent mold growth.
How to Get Your Van Road Ready Again
Before you hit the road again, make sure to go through the following list:
Electrical System:
Turn on the inverter, charger, and 12V switches to confirm everything is operational.
Water System:
Partially fill the fresh water tank and run water through all lines, checking for leaks in the PEX fittings, accumulator, and water pump.
If you used antifreeze, flush it thoroughly.
Inspect the water pump strainer and ensure there are no air leaks.
Clean your tanks with an appropriate cleaning solution or a vinegar rinse.
Replace any water filters as needed.
General Maintenance:
Turn on your heater to ensure it's functioning properly and check for glycol leaks.
Refill the glycol tank if the levels are low.
Perform a thorough check of all systems to ensure everything is functioning as it should.
This could also be a great time to water-test your van. Simply use a hose to check the sealant and waterproofing around all windows, fans, and exterior components. Catching leaks early helps prevent serious damage.
How to Protect Your Van Conversion From Summer Heat
Protecting your van from extreme heat is essential for keeping your components in good condition. Here are a few tips:
Avoid Extreme Heat: Park in a shaded location or use a cover to shield your van from direct sunlight. This helps protect your van’s components and interior finishes from the harsh effects of heat.
Temperature Control: If possible, use your van’s air conditioning system to maintain interior temperatures below 90°F. This will help preserve your electrical system, adhesives, and other components.
Ventilation:Â To prevent overheating, crack a window and set your Maxxair fan to exhaust hot air out of the vehicle, promoting airflow and keeping the interior cool.
Insulated Window Shades: Insulated window shades work wonders when it comes to temperature control. We recommend Vanmade Gear for top-quality shades that will help protect your van from the sun’s harsh rays and keep the interior cooler.
Let's Wrap Things Up
Properly storing your van conversion during periods of inactivity is crucial to preserving its components and ensuring everything stays in working order for your next adventure. Whether you're protecting it from the summer heat or preparing it for winter storage, following these tips will help keep your van in top condition. Remember, every van setup is different, so be sure to adjust these guidelines based on your van’s specific needs. We recommend reviewing the owner's manual for each component in your van build.
Want this information in video form? Check out our YouTube video on the same topic. Safe travels, and happy adventures!
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