Preparing Tiffin RVs for Winter Storage

Owning a Tiffin motorhome is a ticket to comfort, adventure, and luxury on the road, but winter months can be harsh on even the most well-maintained motorhomes. 

Properly preparing your RV for storage is essential to prevent from freezing temperatures and moisture. From winterizing your plumbing to prepping your generator and propane alarms, taking the right steps now can save you time, money, and headaches when it’s time to hit the road again. 

Exterior Preparation 

Before putting your Tiffin RV into storage, start with the exterior. A clean and protected exterior helps prevent damage from dirt, moisture, and UV exposure over the winter months. 

• Wash your RV thoroughly to remove debris, road grime, and bugs. 

• Apply a wax or sealant to shield the paint and decals. 

• Inspect seals, caulking, and slide-outs for cracks or wear, and repair as needed to prevent leaks during storage. 

• Cover or store awnings, mirrors, and vents to protect them from snow, ice, and wind damage. 

Taking the time to maintain the exterior ensures your RV stays in top condition and reduces the risk of costly repairs when spring arrives. 

Interior Preparation 

Winter storage isn’t just about protecting the outside of your Tiffin RV, your interior needs attention too. Cleaning and prepping the living space helps prevent mold, mildew, and damage to appliances and furnishings. 

• Remove all food, perishables, and personal items to prevent pests and odors. 

• Treat fabrics and surfaces with appropriate cleaners or protectants to help prevent mold and mildew during damp or cold storage conditions. 

• Disconnect and store batteries, if applicable, or ensure they are fully charged and maintained to avoid damage from freezing temperatures. 

Proper interior preparations ensure your RV is fresh, safe, and ready to enjoy when the travel season returns. 

Winterizing Plumbing 

Protecting your Tiffin RV’s plumbing system is one of the most critical steps for winter storage. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes, water tanks, and appliances to crack or fail, leading to costly repairs. 

• Drain all water tanks to remove standing water that could freeze. 

• Blow out water lines with compressed air to ensure no residual water remains in the plumbing system. 

• Add RV antifreeze to protect pipes, water heater, and traps from freezing. 

• Winterize faucets, pumps, and appliances connected to your water systems. 

Taking the time to fully winterize your plumbing system will make your RV ready for a worry-free winter and help you save a lot of money in repairs down the road. 

Generator & Propane Alarm Prep 

Ensuring your generator and propane systems are properly prepared for winter storage protects both your RV and your safety. 

• Drain or stabilize generator fuel to prevent stale fuel from gumming up the engine. Run the generator briefly after adding stabilizer to circulate it through the system. 

• Test propane alarms and detectors, replacing batteries if needed to ensure they’re operational. 

• Close propane valves and remove portable tanks if applicable to prevent leaks and maintain safety over the storage period. 

By prepping these critical systems, you reduce the risk of malfunctions, fuel-related damage, and safety hazards when your Tiffin RV sits unused throughout the colder months. 

Mechanical Systems & Engine 

Properly preparing your Tiffin RV’s mechanical systems for winter storage helps prevent engine and component damage during months of inactivity. 

• Add fuel stabilizer to the diesel tank and run the engine briefly to circulate it through the system, preventing fuel degradation. 

• Check all fluids, belts, and hoses, topping off or replacing as needed to ensure everything remains in good condition. 

• Consider fogging the engine with a manufacturer-recommended fogging oil to protect internal components from corrosion. 

• Inspect the cooling system and ensure mechanical systems stay in peak condition, reducing maintenance headaches when it’s time to hit the road again. 

Tires & Suspension

Proper tire and suspension care is essential for preventing flat spots and damage during winter storage. 

• Inflate tires to the recommended pressure to avoid deformation while the RV is stationary. 

• Use tire covers or storage blocks to protect against UV exposure and prevent flat spots on long-term storage. 

• Inspect the suspension for signs of wear, rust, or damage, and address any issues before storing your RV. 

Taking these precautions helps maintain the safety and performance of your Tiffin RV when it’s back on the road.

Storage Location and Covering 

When and how you store your Tiffin RV over the winter can have a big impact on its condition when spring arrives. 

• Choose indoor vs outdoor storage carefully. Indoor storage protects against snow, ice, and UV exposure, while outdoor storage may require extra precautions. 

• Use a breathable RV cover to shield your motorhome from debris, moisture, and sunlight without trapping condensation. 

• Ensure proper ventilation in the storage area to reduce the risk of mold, mildew, and musty orders. 

Selecting the right storage location and using protective coverings helps your RV stay clean, dry, and ready for your next adventure. 

Final Checklist 

Before you tuck your Tiffin RV away for the winter, running through a final checklist ensures nothing is overlooked.