Tips For Winterizing Your RV This Season

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Drain the Water System

Properly draining the water system is an essential step to winterize your RV and prevent freezing damage to the plumbing. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Drain the Freshwater Tank:  Start by locating the drain valve on your freshwater tank, which is often marked for easy identification. Open the valve and allow all the water to flow out completely. This removes most of the water from the main tank, reducing the risk of any remaining water freezing and expanding.
2. Empty the Gray and Black Water Tanks:  For health and sanitation reasons, it’s crucial to thoroughly flush both the gray and black water tanks. Head to a designated dump station and drain each tank entirely to avoid leftover waste that could freeze or cause odors over time. Many RVers use a tank flush system or add water after dumping to rinse out any remaining residue.
3. Drain the Water Heater:  Before draining, ensure the water heater is turned off and given time to cool to prevent burns. Locate the drain plug or petcock on the water heater (often found outside the RV) and open it to let the water flow out. This step is important, as the water heater tank can be particularly vulnerable to freezing if water remains inside.
4. Open All Faucets and Fixtures:  Go inside the RV and open all faucets - both hot and cold settings - on kitchen and bathroom sinks, showerheads, and outdoor showers if available. Don’t forget to flush the toilet as well. This allows water in the lines to escape, helping to ensure no residual water is left in the pipes.
5. Use the Low-Point Drain Valves:  Most RVs are equipped with low-point drain valves located underneath the vehicle. These valves are specifically designed to remove water from the lowest parts of the plumbing system, where it tends to settle. Opening these valves will allow any remaining water to drain out completely, minimizing the risk of pipes freezing and bursting.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Bypass the Water Heater

A water heater bypass kit saves you from filling the entire water heater with antifreeze, which can save time and money.

Bypass Steps:

• Locate the Water Heater: Typically found on the outside of your RV, near the hot water outlet.
• Install or Activate the Bypass Kit: Turn the bypass valves to prevent antifreeze from entering the water heater. Most modern RVs come with a bypass system, but kits are also available for older models.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Add RV Antifreeze

RV antifreeze is non-toxic and specifically designed for use in plumbing systems, unlike automotive antifreeze.

How to Add RV Antifreeze:

• Connect a Pump Converter Kit: Attach the kit to the water pump to draw antifreeze directly from the bottle.
• Run Antifreeze Through Faucets: Turn on each faucet one at a time, starting with the closest, until you see pink antifreeze running out. Repeat for hot and cold faucets, showerheads, and the toilet.
• Don’t Forget the Exterior Shower: If your RV has an outdoor shower, run antifreeze through it as well.
• Pour Antifreeze Down Drains: Pour a small amount into each sink, shower drain, and the toilet to fill the P-traps and prevent them from freezing.

Tip: You’ll need about 2-3 gallons of RV antifreeze, depending on your RV's size and plumbing setup.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Protect Appliances and Accessories

Winterizing isn’t just about the plumbing—it’s also about protecting your RV's other systems.

Appliance Protection Tips:

• Refrigerator and Freezer: Empty the fridge and freezer, clean thoroughly, and prop the doors open to prevent mold and mildew.
• Propane Tanks: Turn off propane supply at the tank and check for any leaks before storage.
• Disconnect the Battery: Remove or disconnect the RV battery to prevent drainage and store it in a warm, dry place.
• Seal Vents and Openings: Close all exterior vents and cover any openings, such as the furnace and refrigerator vents, to keep out pests and moisture.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Seal Windows, Doors, and Roof Vents

Preventing drafts and moisture buildup inside your RV is crucial for avoiding damage during winter.

Sealing Tips:

• Inspect Weatherstripping and Seals: Check around windows, doors, and vents for cracks or gaps, and replace or repair any worn seals.
• Apply RV-Safe Caulk: Seal any cracks around the roof, windows, or other areas to keep water out.
• Close Roof Vents and Windows Tightly: Use vent covers if you plan to store the RV outdoors to protect from moisture.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Protect Your RV’s Exterior

Cold weather, snow, and ice can cause damage to your RV’s exterior, so it’s important to take precautions.

Exterior Protection Tips:

• Wash and Wax the RV: Cleaning and waxing your RV helps protect the finish from winter weather.
• Cover the RV: Use a breathable RV cover designed for winter use to prevent moisture buildup, dirt, and UV damage.
• Protect Tires: Inflate tires to the proper PSI, cover them to shield from UV rays, and consider placing the RV on blocks to prevent flat spots.
• Lubricate Locks and Hinges: Apply lubricant to door locks, hinges, and slide-out mechanisms to prevent freezing.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Store Your RV in a Safe Location

Where you store your RV over the winter can make a big difference in its condition when you’re ready to hit the road again.

Storage Tips:

• Indoor Storage: Indoor or covered storage offers the best protection from the elements.
• Outdoor Storage: If storing outside, use a high-quality cover and choose a location away from trees to avoid damage from falling branches.
• Park on a Level Surface: This ensures water drains properly, preventing pooling around the RV.
• Avoid Parking on Grass or Dirt: Parking on a hard, paved surface reduces moisture buildup around the RV and helps prevent rust.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Check On Your RV Periodically

Even if you’ve winterized your RV, it’s a good idea to check on it a few times during the winter.

Periodic Check Tips:

• Look for Leaks or Moisture: Check the interior for signs of leaks, condensation, or mildew.
• Inspect the Cover: Make sure the cover is secure and hasn’t shifted or torn.
• Run the Generator (If Applicable): If your RV has a generator, run it monthly to keep it in good working order, especially if temperatures are mild.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

De-Winterize Your RV in the Spring

When spring arrives, it’s time to reverse the winterization process and get your RV ready for travel.

De-Winterizing Steps:

1. Flush the Antifreeze: Connect to a water source and flush all lines until clear water runs through.
2. Reconnect the Water Heater: Turn off the bypass valves, allowing water to flow into the heater.
3. Sanitize the Water System: Mix a bleach solution (1/4 cup of bleach per 15 gallons of water), run it through the system, and flush until clear.
4. Reconnect the Battery and Check Appliances: Reinstall or reconnect the battery, and test all appliances to ensure they’re in working order.
5. Inspect Seals and Tires: Re-check weatherstripping, seals, and tires before your first trip.

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Essential Tools and Supplies for Winterizing Your RV

• RV antifreeze (2-3 gallons)
• Water heater bypass kit
• Water pump converter kit
• Adjustable wrench
• Mild soap and cleaning supplies
• RV cover and tire covers
• Lubricant spray (for locks and hinges)

WINTERIZING YOUR RV

Key Takeaway: Protect Your RV with Proper Winterization

Winterizing your RV is essential for protecting it from freezing temperatures, moisture damage, and pests. By following these steps, you can ensure that your RV remains in great condition throughout the winter, ready for your next adventure when warmer weather arrives.

RV Expeditioners Pro Tip: Take the time to winterize your RV properly to avoid costly repairs in the future. With a little preparation, you can store your RV with peace of mind, knowing it’s safe from winter’s harsh effects.