How to winterize your RV: a quick overview for new RV owners
You have finished your first camping season. Here is what to do before the cold arrives, so you do not spend the spring paying for it.
Why winterize?
Water left in pipes can freeze, expand, and lead to leaks. Most seasonal damage to an RV is preventable with a couple of hours of work.
1. Preparing the water system
Drain the fresh water tank, the water heater and the pipes. Switch the water heater bypass valve so you do not fill it with antifreeze. Empty and flush the grey and black tanks, then add RV-specific antifreeze. Use an external pump or a converter kit to push antifreeze through every faucet and the toilet until it runs pink. Add antifreeze to each drain to protect the P-traps.
2. Protecting appliances
Defrost and clean the refrigerator and leave the doors open so it does not go mouldy. Drain the water heater tank and replace the anode rod if it needs it. Cover the exterior air conditioning components and clean the microwave. Run an antifreeze cycle through a washer and dryer if you have them, and take out the small appliances — coffee makers, kettles.
3. Controlling moisture in the cabin
Use a desiccant like DampRid, or a dehumidifier. Fit vent covers so you get ventilation without moisture, and add insulating window coverings. Check the window and door seals, and put an exterior cover on.
4. Interior cleaning and pest prevention
Clean thoroughly — pests follow crumbs. Empty the cabinets of food, sanitize the bathroom, empty the water tanks. Seal any gaps around doors and windows, and use natural repellents like peppermint oil and cedar chips.
5. Exterior winterization
Wash the exterior and apply a good wax to protect the paint. Inspect the seals around the roof and the windows. Fit vent covers so snow cannot build up inside. Check the tire wear, set the recommended pressure, and cover the tires against UV.
6. Battery and solar panel care
Disconnect the batteries and store them somewhere climate-controlled. Use a battery tender if you have power. Disconnect or cover the solar panels so they cannot overcharge.
7. Motorized RV checklist
Top off the fuel and add stabilizer, change the oil, cover the exhaust, and check the coolant. Disconnect both the chassis and house batteries. Check that the transmission oil suits low temperatures. Put it on jack stands to take the pressure off the suspension.
If you would rather someone else did it, our service department winterizes and stores RVs every year.
