How to Winterize Your RV Before Putting It in Storage

Every fall, St. Louis area RV owners face the same question: how do I store my RV so it's in perfect shape when spring rolls around? The answer is proper winterization. Skip it and you could be looking at burst pipes, mold, dead batteries, and a very expensive spring awakening.

Step 1: Drain and Flush the Water System

This is the most critical step. Any water left in your pipes, water heater, or holding tanks can freeze and crack your plumbing. Here's the process:

1. Turn off the water heater and let it cool completely
2. Open all faucets (hot and cold) and the low-point drain valves
3. Drain the fresh water tank completely
4. Use an air compressor to blow out remaining water from lines
5. Add RV antifreeze (not automotive antifreeze) through the system using a bypass kit or hand pump
6. Flush antifreeze through every faucet, the toilet, and the outdoor shower until pink comes out

Step 2: Protect the Battery

Missouri winters will drain a disconnected battery. Your options: remove the battery and store it indoors in a warm place, or keep it on a trickle charger. Big River's Eureka location will offer trickle charger hookups at enclosed units starting in 2026, specifically for this purpose — one less thing to worry about during the off-season.

Step 3: Clean and Seal the Exterior

• Wash and wax the exterior to protect paint and fiberglass
• Inspect and reseal roof seams, around vents, and slideout seals
• Lubricate slide mechanisms and door hinges
• Cover tires to prevent UV cracking (even in winter, tires can degrade)
• Close all vents and cover roof vents to keep out moisture and pests

Step 4: Deal with Food, Pests, and Moisture

• Remove ALL food — even canned goods attract rodents in cold months
• Leave cabinet doors open to allow air circulation
• Place rodent deterrents (dryer sheets, peppermint pouches) in cabinets and storage bays
• Leave the refrigerator door propped open with baking soda inside
• Run the generator under load for a couple of hours before storage to keep it healthy

Step 5: Fuel and Engine Care

Add a fuel stabilizer to a full tank of gas before your last drive to storage. A full tank prevents moisture condensation inside the tank. Run the engine for 15–20 minutes after adding stabilizer so it circulates through the fuel system.

When to Drop It Off at Big River

We recommend completing winterization before bringing your RV to storage — not after. Once it's in the lot, it can be harder to access all systems. Bring it in fully prepped and you won't have to make a second trip before the first freeze.

All three St. Louis locations accept move-ins year-round. Reserve your space online →