As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to dip, it’s time to think ahead to next spring. Taking a few simple steps now will help you protect your investment and make sure your RV or boat is ready to hit the road or water the moment warmer weather returns. Whether you’re new to seasonal maintenance or a seasoned pro, a little preparation goes a long way toward preventing costly repairs and keeping your adventures running smoothly.
Step 1: Drain, Clean, and Protect Your Systems
Winterizing your water systems is one of the most important things you can do before storing your RV or boat for the season. Start by draining and flushing your gray and black tanks, then empty and bypass the water heater. Be sure to open all faucets and low-point drains to clear out any remaining water, and use non-toxic RV antifreeze to protect your plumbing lines from freezing.
If you’re not comfortable tackling the process yourself, many service centers offer affordable winterization packages that can take the guesswork out of the job. Either way, properly draining and protecting your systems now means you’ll avoid cracked lines or costly leaks when it’s time to de-winterize in the spring.
Step 2: Give Your Lighting Some Attention
As you’re storing your RV or boat, take a moment to check your interior and exterior lighting. Replacing dim or outdated lights now means you won’t have to scramble when you’re getting ready for your first trip of the season.
Interior Lighting
Bright, energy-efficient LED lights make a big difference in comfort and visibility. Our lighting options are designed to fit seamlessly into modern RV and marine interiors, providing long-lasting illumination that’s easy on your power system.
Exterior and Porch Lighting
Your outdoor lighting matters just as much as what’s inside. Porch and flood lights enhance safety when loading gear or navigating at night, and they can elevate the look of your setup with clean, modern styling. Swapping older fixtures for LED upgrades is a simple, high-impact improvement that helps you get the most out of every adventure.
Step 3: Check and Upgrade Your Assist Handles
Cold-weather storage season is a great time to take stock of your hardware. Assist handles see heavy use throughout the year, so inspect them for wear, loose mounting points, or cracks. If you notice any damage, replacing your handles is a quick and worthwhile upgrade.
We offer a variety of assist handles designed for both function and aesthetics, including sleek designs with integrated LED lighting to add safety and style to your entryway. Choosing durable, corrosion-resistant materials ensures your handles will hold up through every season and environment.
Step 4: Add Convenience Where You Can
While you’re in maintenance mode, consider small upgrades that make a big difference in everyday usability. One of the easiest additions? Adjustable drink holders.
Our foldable, adjustable drink holders mount easily to walls, furniture, or helm stations, and they collapse down to just ¾ of an inch when not in use. They’re designed to fit a range of cup sizes, so whether you’re sipping morning coffee or staying hydrated on the water, you’ll always have a secure spot to set your drink. Simple, functional upgrades like these make your time on board more enjoyable year-round.
Step 5: Cover, Store, and Recharge
Once you’ve handled the essentials, finish your prep by giving your RV or boat a thorough cleaning and applying a protective wax or sealant to the exterior. Remove any perishables, store soft goods like bedding in a dry space, and disconnect your batteries or keep them on a trickle charger to maintain their life through the winter.
If you’re storing outdoors, invest in a high-quality cover to protect against moisture and UV damage. Taking a few hours now to clean, charge, and cover your unit will help preserve its condition and save time when you’re ready to hit the road again.
Ready for Next Season
Winterizing doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about taking care of the details that protect your investment and make your spring setup easy. From upgraded lighting and assist handles to space-saving drink holders, ITC products are designed to enhance your comfort and keep your RV or boat ready for adventure, season after season.
Explore our full range of RV and marine service parts now and get everything you need to prep for the off-season today.
