How To Prepare A Caravan For Winter Storage (Winterising)

Did you know that winter temperatures can plummet less than -10°C, potentially causing severe damage to your caravan’s systems?

However, proper caravan winter storage isn’t just about finding a parking spot and hoping for the best. From preventing frost damage to your water systems to protecting against mould and mildew, there’s quite a bit to consider. Furthermore, storage costs can vary significantly depending on whether you choose covered facilities with CCTV and security personnel or outdoor options.

We understand that protecting your caravan investment requires careful planning and the right approach. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate all aspects of caravan winter storage, from choosing the right facility to maintaining your vehicle during the cold months.

Choosing the Right Winter Storage Option

When winter approaches, deciding where to store your caravan becomes a crucial decision. The right choice not only protects your investment but can also impact insurance costs and convenience.

Professional Storage Facilities vs. Home Storage

Storing your caravan at home offers immediate benefits – zero storage fees and 24/7 access for maintenance and packing. Additionally, you can avoid storage compound opening time restrictions, giving you complete freedom for departure and arrival times.

In contrast, professional storage provides superior security advantages. Sites operated by the Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association (CaSSOA) feature independently assessed security measures including CCTV surveillance, perimeter fencing, and controlled access. Many caravan insurers recognise these benefits, potentially offering premium discounts when using approved storage facilities.

Consider these practical aspects before deciding:

• Home storage requires checking property deeds for any restrictive covenants
• Professional sites may offer maintenance services and battery charging facilities
• Keeping a caravan at home could signal an empty house when you’re away
• Storage compounds typically provide vermin control programmes (damage from mice is excluded from most insurance policies)

Comparing Storage Costs Across the UK

Storage costs vary considerably by location and facilities offered. London commands the highest rates at approximately £1,200 annually, while Birmingham averages £600, northern England about £350, and Edinburgh around £600. Some more affordable options start from just 93p per day (approximately £340 annually).

Club memberships can offer significant savings, with some sites charging from just £1.24 per day. Essentially, prices fluctuate based on:

• Geographic location (urban sites cost more than rural)
• Indoor versus outdoor storage (covered facilities command higher prices)
• Security features (advanced security measures increase costs)
• Additional services (electricity hook-ups, maintenance availability)

What to Look for in a Storage Contract

Before committing to any storage arrangement, visit the site personally to assess conditions. Check spacing between caravans, as some sites park units very closely, making manoeuvring difficult.

A proper storage contract should clearly outline:

• Access arrangements and restrictions
• Security provisions and responsibilities
• Insurance requirements (most facilities require proof of valid insurance)
• Payment terms and notice periods
• Any additional services included

Always verify if the site operates a vermin-control programme and notify your insurer about your storage choice. Request written terms that meet consumer contract regulations – vague or unfair contract terms generally favour the consumer in disputes.

Primarily, seek balance between cost, security, and convenience when making your final choice.

Essential Pre-Storage Preparation Steps

Preparing your caravan properly before winter storage is essential for preventing costly damage. A few hours spent on pre-storage preparation can save you significant repair costs when spring arrives.

Thorough Cleaning Inside and Out

Start with a complete interior clean to remove anything that might attract pests or cause unpleasant odours. Vacuum all surfaces and wipe down cupboards, appliances and upholstery to prevent mould formation. Remove all food items, especially perishables, and leave fridge and freezer doors slightly ajar to prevent odour buildup.

For the exterior, a thorough clean removes dirt and corrosive elements like road salt that can damage surfaces over time. Pay special attention to:

• Seams and window frames
• Roof areas (check for green or black mould)
• Bodywork cracks or damaged seals

Subsequently, inspect all seals around windows, doors and roof vents for damage that could allow water ingress during winter months.

Draining Water Systems to Prevent Freezing

Draining down your water system is absolutely crucial – even small amounts of trapped water can cause expensive damage when frozen. Primarily, the process involves:

1. Open all taps (for mixer taps, ensure the lever is in the central position)
2. Open all drain valves and remove drainage plugs
3. Remove the shower head and shake free of water
4. Run the on-board pump briefly to clear the remaining water
5. Drain portable water containers completely

Due to the importance of complete drainage, many experienced caravanners recommend completing the drain-down during your final site stay, then travelling home with open drainage points to allow any remaining water to escape.

Disconnecting Gas and Electricity Safely

Prior to storage, ensure all appliances are turned off and unplugged where possible. At this point, turn off and disconnect the gas and electricity at the mains. For gas safety, the valves on cylinder tops must be closed or regulators disconnected, with protective caps fitted over any open pipework.

Remove batteries from devices like alarm clocks or radios to prevent corrosion damage. Furthermore, if not needed for alarm systems, disconnect the leisure battery and store in a cool, dry location at home, checking and topping up the charge periodically throughout winter.

Protecting Your Caravan from Winter Elements

Even with the best storage location, your caravan remains vulnerable to winter’s harsh elements without proper protection. Specifically, you’ll need to address external covering, ventilation, and tyre care to maintain your vehicle’s condition throughout the cold months.

Caravan Covers: Types and Price Ranges

Quality caravan covers provide essential protection against rain, UV damage, and pollution. There are two main categories to consider:

Tailor-made covers offer superior protection with a perfect fit for your specific make and model. These covers eliminate loose fabric that might flap and cause abrasion. Made from multi-layered waterproof and breathable material, they protect your caravan from sunlight, dirt, and damp weather. Many feature access doors with Velcro strips for convenient entry during storage.

Universal-fit covers represent a more affordable option. These typically come with adjustable straps to secure them properly and include features like entry points for maintenance access. Brands like Maypole, Crusader, and Kampa offer various options, with prices ranging based on material quality and features.

Price ranges vary considerably—from basic universal covers to premium tailored solutions—with most quality covers including extras like hitch covers and storage bags.

Ventilation Solutions to Prevent Damp

Proper ventilation remains crucial for preventing damp and mould during winter storage. Consequently, you should ensure all built-in ventilation points remain unobstructed.

Natural ventilation through floor vents and roof lights (even when closed) typically provides sufficient airflow. Nevertheless, some caravanners place dehumidifier sachets or moisture control products at either end of the caravan for added protection.

Warning signs of damp include musty smells, black marks around windows or doors, and soft-feeling walls. Consider investing in a damp metre (available from hardware stores) to detect early signs before serious damage occurs.

Tyre Care During Long-Term Storage

Tyres require special attention during extended storage periods. They can develop cracking or bubbling when left stationary, particularly during winter.

To minimise damage:

• Move your caravan slightly each month to ‘flex’ the tyres and keep them supple
• Consider covering tyres to protect them from frost damage and UV rays
• Inflate tyres to the maximum pressure stated on the sidewall during storage

Remember that tyres have a life expectancy of approximately five years, regardless of apparent condition, and should never be used after they are seven years old. Ultimately, proper tyre care extends their lifespan and maintains safety for future journeys.

Maintenance During the Storage Period

Regular monitoring of your caravan throughout winter is just as important as initial preparations. Even with excellent pre-storage measures, periodic maintenance ensures your investment remains protected against unforeseen issues.

Creating a Winter Check-up Schedule

I recommend establishing a consistent check-up schedule throughout the storage period. Ideally, visit your caravan at least once every 4-6 weeks to inspect for potential problems. During each visit:

1. Check for signs of dampness or condensation
2. Ensure ventilation points remain unobstructed
3. Examine doors and windows for proper closure
4. Move the caravan slightly to prevent tyre deformation
5. Release and reapply the handbrake if necessary

These regular inspections allow early detection of issues before they develop into costly repairs. Indeed, opening windows and rooflights briefly during visits helps circulate fresh air, preventing musty odours and mould growth.

Battery Maintenance and Charging Options

Battery care represents one of the most critical aspects of caravan winter storage. According to experts, a leisure battery should not be left much more than six weeks before recharging. For optimal battery health, you have several options:

Home charging method: Remove the battery and store it in a dry, warm place, recharging every 6-8 weeks. This approach is ideal for maximising battery lifespan.

On-site charging: If your caravan has security systems requiring power, consider solar panel solutions. A 30W or larger panel can maintain battery charge throughout winter. Alternatively, some caravanners use a twin-bank battery charger or periodic battery swapping.

Remember that a battery left below 12.4V will deteriorate quickly and cannot be recharged to its original capacity. Above all, never leave a battery in a discharged state as this causes sulphation—an incurable condition requiring battery replacement.

When to Visit Your Stored Caravan

Aside from scheduled maintenance, there are specific circumstances warranting additional visits. Most importantly, check your caravan after extreme weather events such as heavy snow or storms. Furthermore, if storage is longer than anticipated, additional battery check-ups become necessary.

Throughout winter, each visit provides an opportunity to air out the interior and perhaps briefly run heating systems (though remember butane gas won’t work as temperatures approach zero).

Conclusion

Proper winter storage stands essential for protecting your caravan investment. Through careful planning and regular maintenance, you can safeguard your vehicle against frost damage, damp issues, and other winter-related problems.

Most importantly, selecting the right storage facility balances security, cost, and convenience. After securing appropriate storage, thorough preparation becomes vital – cleaning, draining systems, and protecting against elements make significant differences. Regular check-ups every 4-6 weeks help catch potential issues early, especially regarding battery health and dampness.

Remember that winter storage requires active management rather than a simple park-and-forget approach. Following these guidelines will help ensure your caravan emerges from winter storage ready for another season of adventures. Take time now to implement these protective measures – your future self will thank you when spring arrives.

Are you looking for storage in Corsham? Get in touch with Now We’re Storing on 01225 287725 or by filling in our contact form.

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