WINTER CARE
39 TOGETHER WE’RE GOING PLACES
Care should always be taken to ensure your motorhome is receiving the best attention, particularly prior to going
into winter storage. The following tips will be helpful for the periods when it is not regularly used. This applies if
you store it in a compound away from home, or on your own driveway.
Electrical
If you plan to store your motorhome connected to a 230v mains hook up:
• Ensure the leisure battery is connected and the that the leisure battery fuses are in place.
• The isolator switch on the power supply unit should be in the ‘ON’ position, but the control panel should be
switched o.
• A vehicle can be left in this condition for a number of weeks, with the charger keeping the battery charged.
However, periodic maintenance and inspection is advised, which should include checking the battery
condition.
If you plan to store your vehicle not connected to a 230v mains hook up:
• Charge the leisure battery for 24 hours before putting the vehicle into storage.
• Ensure the power supply unit isolation switch is in the ‘OFF’ position.
• The battery should not be adversely aected by winter temperatures, but the level of charge should be maintained
to maximise the lifespan of the battery. This can be achieved by using an automotive battery charger.
• Disconnect the vehicle negative battery terminal as per the base vehicle handbook instructions.
Windows
Ensure all windows, roof lights, habitation doors and exterior locker doors are firmly closed and locked. To
maximise airflow through the vehicle, ensure all high and low ventilation points are clear from obstructions.
Window blinds should not be left in the closed position for long periods, as this may aect their folding back into
the open position.
Appliances
• Check the battery expiry date on the smoke alarm and the CO detector, and replace if required.
• Ensure the refrigerator is turned o and clean the inside of the unit.
• Ensure that the refrigerator/freezer compartment doors are left open. Fit fridge vent winter covers (if available).
• Clean all cooker, hob and microwave surfaces.
• Ensure the toilet is empty and clean all surfaces. If necessary, lubricate the seals with a suitable acid free
lubricant (see Thetford user manual).
Tyres
Care should be taken to ensure that your vehicle is not stored with slightly deflated tyres, as this could cause
damage to the side walls that could lead to an accident when driving at speed. Ideally, you should rotate your
wheels every couple of weeks try to eliminate flat spots developing.
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