Winterising Your Van

Whether you lay up you van for the winter or use it all year round, there will be something here for everyone...

Van interior: Before storage clean up everything inside as dirt and debris simply hasten deterioration. Close curtains, or cover windows to avoid deterioration by sunlight of fabrics and finishes. Try to have air circulation to avoid damp odours or worse—mildew, it is possible to purchase  window ventilators for airflow, and prop all cabinets and drawers open. Another idea is to fit odour or moisture adsorbent packages inside. These can be purchased from most DIY stores (Homebase £10.99) and consist of  moisture absorbing crystals which sit in a plastic tray to collect water. You would be surprised to see how much water is actually collected in these units during a winter season. Another good idea is to put a small dish of baking soda in the refrigerator if you have one and leave the door slightly ajar. 

Rodent Control/Insect control: The most common rodent problem is mice, who starting looking for a nice winter home about the same time you're putting the Van/Camper up for the winter. Your Van is a perfect place for them, dry, wind proof, up off the ground, deserted, and possibly even heated. These furry little creatures are highly destructive too, they will chew up paper, or worse yet, cloth such as curtains or furniture. Try to block up all access holes, mice are extremely small when young so look out for even the tiniest of holes.
In the spring the bugs will be all over the place searching for a place to call home. A few well placed ant traps will likely suffice here.  

Damage occurs when the water pipes (hoses) freeze solid and thus expand, breaking the pipe (hose).  Make sure all water systems are correctly drained. Maybe consider using non-toxic antifreeze for the fresh water system 

A full cleaning and inspection of the exterior of the Van (check the roof canvass and roof for leaks before standing) 

Check engine Anti-freeze: If you haven't got your own tester then go to one of your local tyre fitting companies (Quick fit) and they will usually check it for free.

Perform a minimal Service: If you are using your van through the winter then its not a bad idea to do a minimal service, check spark plugs, distributor, oil level, oil condition, tyre wear, tyre pressures and battery condition.

Ten Point Check list 

1. Clean appliances

2. If fitted, leave refrigerator wedged open for air flow

3. Remove all food items

4. Remove any/all items that may rust/explode (spray cans)

5. Remove leisure battery and store inside (remember to keep it charged during the winter)

6. Cover/seal any exterior openings (gases, air outlets)

7. Open Water taps both internal and external

8. Remove Gas bottles and store

9. Fit moisture absorbers – available from most DIY stores

10. Remove fuses for interior clock/radio to prevent drain on battery

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