Last Updated on December 9, 2023 by Jess
Winterizing RVs for Storage: A Comprehensive Guide
Winter is a time when many RV owners store their vehicles away until the warmer months return. However, properly winterizing an RV is important to ensure that it remains in good condition and is ready to use again when the weather improves.
Winterizing an RV involves several steps, including protecting the plumbing system, ensuring the battery is properly stored, and protecting the exterior from the elements.
One of the most important steps in winterizing an RV is protecting the plumbing system. It involves draining the water tanks and lines and adding antifreeze to prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing damage.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that all faucets and shower valves are open to allow any trapped water to escape. RV owners can find detailed instructions for winterizing their plumbing system online or in their owner’s manual.
Another important consideration when winterizing an RV is the battery. Batteries should be removed from the RV and stored in a dry, cool place to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
It is also important to ensure that the battery is fully charged before storing it. RV owners can find more information about preparing their batteries for winter storage in their owner’s manual or by consulting with a professional.
Understanding the Basics of RV Winterization
When it comes to winterizing an RV, there are a few basic steps that every owner should follow to ensure their vehicle is properly prepared for storage during the colder months.
The goal of winterizing an RV is to protect it from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures, which can cause everything from cracked pipes to damaged appliances.
One of the most important steps in winterizing an RV is to properly drain all of the water from the vehicle’s plumbing system.
Also includes not only the fresh water tank, but also the hot water heater, water lines, and any other components that may hold water.
Once all of the water has been drained, it’s important to add RV antifreeze to the system to prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing damage.
Another important step in RV winterization is to protect the vehicle from rodents and other pests that may try to make a home in the RV during the winter months.
We can do this by sealing up any openings in the vehicle’s exterior, such as vents and access panels, and by using rodent-repellent products inside the RV.
In addition to these basic steps, there are a few other things that RV owners can do to ensure their vehicle is properly prepared for winter storage.
For example, it’s a good idea to remove any food or other perishable items from the RV, as these can attract pests and may spoil during storage. It’s also a good idea to cover the RV with a breathable cover to protect it from the elements and prevent moisture buildup.
By following these basic steps, RV owners can ensure that their vehicle is properly prepared for winter storage and will be ready to hit the road again come springtime.
Preparing the Interior
When winterizing an RV for storage, it is important to take care of the interior to prevent damage and ensure that it is ready for use when spring arrives. Here are some essential steps to follow:
Cleaning and Protecting Surfaces
Before storing the RV, it is important to give the interior a thorough cleaning. This includes wiping down all surfaces with a mild cleaner and protecting them with a protective coating.
This will help prevent damage from moisture, dust, and pests. Additionally, all linens and fabrics should be washed and stored in a sealed container to prevent moisture and pest damage.
Pest Proofing
Pests can be a major problem when storing an RV for the winter. To prevent infestations, it is important to thoroughly clean the RV and seal any openings where pests can enter, such as vents, pipes, and windows.
Additionally, placing mothballs or other pest repellents in the RV can help keep pests at bay.
Moisture Control
Moisture can cause serious damage to an RV during storage. To prevent this, it is important to remove all moisture from the RV before storing it.
You can do this by using a dehumidifier or by placing moisture-absorbing packets throughout the RV. Additionally, all windows and vents should be sealed to prevent moisture from entering the RV.
By following these steps, RV owners can ensure that their vehicles are properly prepared for winter storage and will be ready for use when warmer weather returns.
Preparing the Exterior
Winter weather can be harsh on RVs, so it is important to take steps to protect the exterior of your RV during storage. This section will cover two important aspects of preparing the exterior of your RV for winter storage: sealing and repairs, and covering your RV.
Sealing and Repairs
Before storing your RV for the winter, it is important to inspect the exterior for any damage or areas that need to be sealed.
This includes checking for cracks in the roof, windows, and doors, and ensuring that all seams and joints are properly sealed. Any damage or leaks should be repaired before storing the RV to prevent further damage from winter weather.
In addition to sealing and repairs, it is important to clean the exterior of your RV before storing it for the winter.
Including washing the exterior and removing any debris or dirt that may have accumulated during use. A clean RV will be easier to inspect for damage and will help prevent any damage from becoming worse during storage.
Covering Your RV
Covering your RV during winter storage can help protect it from the elements and prevent damage.
There are a variety of RV covers available on the market, ranging from basic covers to more heavy-duty options. When choosing a cover, it is important to ensure that it fits your RV properly and is designed for winter weather.
In addition to covering your RV, it is also important to ensure that it is properly ventilated during storage.
This can help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. One option is to use RV vent covers, which allow for ventilation while still keeping the interior of the RV protected from the elements.
By taking the time to properly prepare the exterior of your RV for winter storage, you can help ensure that it is protected from the elements and ready for use when the weather warms up.
Plumbing System Winterization
When it comes to winterizing an RV, one of the most important steps is to properly winterize the plumbing system.
This involves draining all water from the pipes, tanks, and water heater to prevent freezing and damage during the winter months. There are two main methods for winterizing an RV’s plumbing system: draining water systems and using antifreeze.
Draining Water Systems
The first step in draining the water systems is to turn off the water supply and open all faucets, including the outside shower and toilet.
Once all the water has drained, remove the drain plug from the water heater and open the pressure relief valve to allow any remaining water to drain out. Next, locate the low point drains and open them to remove any remaining water from the system.
It’s important to note that some RVs may have more than one low-point drain, so be sure to locate them all.
Using Antifreeze
The second method for winterizing an RV’s plumbing system is to use antifreeze. To do this, first, drain all water from the system as described above. Then, close all faucets and low-point drains and bypass the water heater.
Next, connect a hose to the inlet side of the water pump and place the other end into a container of antifreeze.
Turn on the water pump and open each faucet, one at a time, until the antifreeze runs through the system and out of each faucet. Remember to also flush the toilet and pour antifreeze into each drain.
Overall, winterizing an RV’s plumbing system is an important step in preparing it for storage during the winter months. By properly draining all water or using antifreeze, RV owners can prevent costly damage to their plumbing system and ensure their RV is ready for use when spring arrives.