How to Prepare Your RV for Winter Storage in Overland Park

Published on 9/1/2025
RSS

Not all storage options are the same. If you’re keeping your RV outside through a Kansas winter, you’ll face a long list of prep tasks to guard against snow, ice, and UV damage. If you choose enclosed storage at All Purpose Garages in Overland Park, your to-do list is shorter—and your RV stays cleaner, safer, and easier to get rolling again in spring. 

⚠️ Important Note: Before you begin, always consult your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s documentation for your specific vehicle. Each make and model may have unique requirements for draining, flushing, or engine care. The checklist below is a general guide to common winterization practices, not a replacement for model-specific instructions.

Essential Prep for All RV Storage (Enclosed or Outdoor)

These steps are required no matter where you store your RV, because Kansas winters bring freezing temperatures:

  1. Drain and Winterize the Water System

    • Empty fresh, gray, and black tanks.

    • Bypass and drain the water heater.

    • Pump RV antifreeze through all lines.
      Freezing temps threaten plumbing whether indoors or outdoors.

  2. Battery Care

    • If you have access to power (like in All Purpose Garages’ powered units): keep the batteries installed, disconnect the negative cable, and connect to a quality maintainer/trickle charger.

    • If you do not have power access: remove the batteries and store them indoors in a cool, dry place to prevent freezing or discharge.

  3. Fuel and Engine Prep

    • Fill the tank and add fuel stabilizer.

    • Change the oil if due.
      Reduces corrosion and prevents fuel breakdown.

  4. Deep Clean the Interior

    • Remove all food and perishables.

    • Vacuum and wipe down surfaces.

    • Prop open fridge/freezer and place desiccants inside.
      Protects against odors, mold, and pests.

  5. Pest-Proof

    • Seal entry points.

    • Use pest deterrents inside.
      Keeps critters out during long storage months.

  6. Tire Care

    • Inflate to proper PSI.

    • Place plywood or blocks under tires.
      Protects from flat spots and ground moisture.

If Storing in Enclosed Storage (like All Purpose Garages)

Once the essentials above are complete, you’re done. Enclosed units protect your RV from:

  • Snow and ice buildup

  • Sun and UV damage

  • Wind and debris

That means less prep, less worry, and less spring cleanup.

If Storing in Outdoor or Unenclosed Storage

If your RV sits in the open, you’ll need to complete these additional steps to protect it:

  1. Wash and Wax the Exterior

    • Shields paint and decals from salt, ice, and UV rays.

  2. Inspect and Reseal Windows, Doors, and Roof Seams

    • Prevents water intrusion from snow melt and rain.

  3. Use a Breathable RV Cover

    • Essential outdoors to block UV, snow, and ice buildup.

  4. Cover Tires

    • Protects sidewalls from sun cracking and UV rot.

  5. Clear Snow During the Season

    • Plan to brush off heavy snow loads to avoid roof strain.

Why Enclosed Storage is Worth It

With enclosed RV storage, you:

  • Skip the exterior prep (washing, waxing, covering).

  • Avoid snow shoveling or scraping all winter.

  • Eliminate sun, hail, and ice damage risks.

  • Save hours of work now—and again in the spring.

  • Keep batteries maintained with onsite power—no heavy lifting required.

At All Purpose Garages in Overland Park, our oversized insulated units with 24/7 access let you winterize just the essentials and rest easy knowing your RV is safe until the open road calls again.

list of text items