Coach storage up north?

folivier · 01-05-2011, 03:24 PM

Just getting info right now. We have the house for sale and depending on when it sells determines when we head to Alaska (either this summer or next summer). What Cindy and I were thinking about is maybe find a place up near the route (Bismarck, ND to Saskatchewan) to store the coach over the winter and what the costs would be. We're thinking maybe this summer to spend time roaming towards that area then store it, next year pick it up and head to Alaska from there. Or reverse it and store it on the way back.
Being fortunate enough to keep the coach parked at the house I've never had to store it so I'm assuming I would want a covered place with electricity to keep the batteries charged. Is heated storage worth the extra costs?
Do campgrounds up there offer storage?
I'd appreciate any info to point us in the right direction.
Thanks.

chockwald · 01-05-2011, 03:40 PM

The cost to store inside with power in Southern California is very expensive. Don't know how the cost varies in the midwest, or northwest. My son kept his 2007 Fleetwood Discovery indoors the first two years. I think he paid $600 per month. That included power, as well as dumping the tanks for him each time he returned the coach to storage, as well as topping off his fresh water.

prairieschooner · 01-05-2011, 05:08 PM

I can only speak about our campgrounds in Arizona but they do offer storage only it is exposed. Most of the RV Storage facilities here in So Cal do not offer electricity.
How about using a solar panel to keep the batteries charged? it could be placed somewhat remote?
When our coach is in storage I disconnect the batteries. I have found that they stay charged but they are kept serviced and I check on them regularly.

chockwald · 01-05-2011, 05:52 PM

We have been blessed with a very effective system of 4 switches that completely isolate our 4 batteries when in the "off" position. Am glad I don't have to disconnect the batteries when in storage......just flip 4 switches. All that being said, I am close to installing solar panels so the batteries will always be at full charge, whether, or not I remember to turn off the switches.

HoosierDaddy · 01-05-2011, 10:26 PM

Both of my Newells have had switches to disconnect the batts. Typically I've had very little trouble during storage when I disconnect them. I store my '93 in an industrial building that has extra unused heated space for $65.00/ month. Over the last 13 yearrs I have rented similar space at similar rates from two different owners. In some areas there are thousands of square feet that is empty but must be kept heated to protect fire sprinkler systems required by the building's insurer. Be sure to shut off the LP at the tank when you store inside and check with your insurance company as well.