Storing TM Open vs Closed?

03-09-2012, 10:42 AM

Are there disadvantages to leaving my TM open most of the time while I have it parked at the house? It's nice to be able to do things in the TM when I have a little extra time without having to open and close the camper. I have the battery disconnected so that there isn't a draw from sensors, etc but wonder if there are reasons I should be storing the TM in the closed position.

03-09-2012, 01:19 PM

We usually store ours open most of the time. That way we just keep it plugged in and we keep a small ceramic heater in it during the winter to keep the water lines from freezing. The only disadvantage I have found is you must be more diligent about washing it as it does collect dust and dirt just sitting there.

03-09-2012, 04:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brifla

I have the battery disconnected so that there isn't a draw from sensors, etc but wonder if there are reasons I should be storing the TM in the closed position.

I can't think of any reason to keep it closed. I have a large garage with a high ceiling so we keep it inside, opened up, and plugged in. It's like having an extra bedroom and grandkids love sleeping in it when they visit. We also use the oven as a second one during big family events like Thanksgiving or Christmas. DW has also been known to send me out there when sinuses cause me to snore too much.

But as you point out, the best thing is that you can go out and do a bit of work on it when you have a few minutes. So my sense is that unless there is a reason to keep it closed, like limited space in the garage, it's a lot more convenient to keep it open.

Keith

**Bill** · 03-09-2012, 04:59 PM

Whether you store it open or closed (and I can't think of a reason either way), be sure you prop open the refrigerator and freezer doors.

Bill

Barb&Tim · 03-09-2012, 07:35 PM

The only time i feel that closed is a necessary option is when there is potential for extremely high wind. Lower profile catches less wind!

Tim

03-10-2012, 09:20 AM

It sounds like keeping it open most of the time (except when large storms are expected) isn't a problem. Thanks for all the great input!

Brittany Dogs · 03-10-2012, 12:05 PM

I suppose it depends on your country location. In Western New York most of us stop camping from October to May. So the TrailManor unit is stored during that time and most times it has to be stored outside.

Storage during high winds, snow, more snow, wet snow, more wet snow, I guess I'm inclined to store the unit closed with an Adco cover over it. The cover helps keep the sunlight off of the vent covers and the water seals on all the edges which I suppose might keep the seals lasting longer.

For those of you who can keep it open most times or even have a garage large enough to store it opened, I envy you. I wish I could do that.

With the winter we had this year, I could have gone camping for New Years Eve and a few more times.