Complete Guide on How to Winterize an RV: Steps & Tips

Whether you’re already a proud RV owner or you’re just getting into RV camping and want to learn as much about it as possible, you probably already know that an RV can be expensive. So you probably want to keep it in tip-top shape, right? That’s tough when winter comes around, bringing with it freezing temperatures, salt on the roads, and more.

So in this article, I’m going to provide you with a complete breakdown of how to winterize an RV so you’re ready for when those temps drop. 

From inspecting your RV for potential issues to draining the water system and applying antifreeze, each step is important to keep it protected. Along with winterizing the plumbing and appliances, it’s also essential to seal your RV against pest entry and care for both the exterior and interior.

One fun fact about myself that I don’t mention many places on this site is that I spent seven years working in an automotive shop while I was in college for my engineering degrees. So on top of all my camping and RVing expertise, maintaining and taking care of a vehicle — including a recreational vehicle — comes easy, and I’m here to teach you. 

This is everything you need to know about winterizing your RV before the first snowfall of the season.

How to Winterize an RV: Essential Steps to Making it Through the Winter

Identifying the Essential Tools

Winterizing your RV is an important maintenance task that helps protect your investment from potential damage caused by freezing temperatures during the colder months. To properly winterize your RV, you’ll need a few essential tools and supplies.

First, you’ll need an air compressor. This tool is essential for blowing out water lines and ensuring there is no remaining water in your RV’s plumbing system. Make sure your air compressor has an adjustable pressure regulator to avoid over-pressurizing your RV’s piping infrastructure.

A screwdriver is necessary for removing access panels and various fittings. Depending on your RV model, you may need a cordless power drill with a #2 square tip driver bit, as well as a standard flat-head or Phillips head screwdriver.

Hand pumps are a convenient tool for pumping RV antifreeze through your water system. These pumps attach to your RV’s city water inlet or directly to your RV’s water lines to ensure the efficient distribution of antifreeze throughout the plumbing system.

For this process, you will also need:

• Various-sized socket wrenches for removing the water heater’s anode rod or plastic drain plug.
• Flashlights to help you see in dark and confined spaces.
• New anode rod or plastic plug (appropriate for your RV’s water heater) for replacing your current one after draining the water heater.
• 3-4 gallons of RV antifreeze, preferably non-toxic and specifically designed for RV winterizing.
• Two crescent wrenches or a set of open-end wrenches for disconnecting water lines and fittings.

Once you have gathered the necessary tools and supplies, it’s time to start the winterization process. Remember to work methodically, follow safety precautions, and consult your RV owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model. 

By taking the time to properly winterize your RV, you’ll greatly reduce the risk of cold-weather damage and ensure your home-on-wheels is ready for the next adventure!

Inspecting Your RV

Before you start winterizing your RV, it’s important to thoroughly inspect the entire vehicle to ensure it’s in good condition. A friendly, thoughtful approach to this process will take you a long way in keeping your RV, travel trailer, camper, or motorhome safe during the winter months.

First, take a walk around the exterior of your RV and look for any signs of damage, like cracks or leaks. Pay special attention to the roof and seals around windows, doors, and vents. If you find any damages, now is the time to repair them to avoid further issues when temperatures drop. 

Don’t forget to check the tires as well for signs of wear or damage, ensuring they’re properly inflated for storage.

Next, move to the interior of your RV. Look for any signs of water damage, mold, or mildew. These issues can worsen in colder temperatures, so addressing them now can save you headaches later. Clean and dry all surfaces and storage areas to keep your RV fresh and healthy throughout the winter months.

Now, it’s time to check your RV’s systems. Test the heating, cooling, and electrical systems to make sure everything is functioning correctly. If you discover any issues, schedule repairs before winter storage. 

You’ll also want to inspect the plumbing system, ensuring there are no leaks or damage. Draining and flushing the black and gray water tanks is crucial in the winterizing process, so you’ll want to make sure they’re in good working order as well.

Lastly, if your RV has any appliances, such as a fridge, stove, or water heater, give them a thorough inspection. Make sure they’re functioning correctly and safely. 

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to properly winterizing your RV or travel trailer, ensuring a smooth start to your adventures when spring arrives.

Draining the Water System

One important step in winterizing your RV is to drain the water system. By following these steps, you can ensure your water lines and various tanks are ready for the winter season.

First, disconnect any outside water sources. This includes detaching hoses connected to your city water inlet and removing or bypassing any inline water filters. Most water filters can be bypassed or disconnected, but if you’re unsure, consult your RV’s owner’s manual.

Next, open all the hot and cold faucets in your RV, as well as flush the toilet. This will help remove any remaining water from the plumbing system. Don’t forget to drain exterior sinks and hoses if your RV has them.

Now it’s time to focus on draining your freshwater holding tank. Locate the low-point drain lines and open them to let the water flow out. Once the fresh water tank is empty, close the drain valves, and proceed to drain the gray and black water tanks. If your RV doesn’t have a built-in flushing system, a wand can be used to clean the black tank.

After draining all the tanks, move on to the water heater. Remove the drain plug and let the water heater drain entirely. While the drain plug is out, check any anode rod attached for dissolution or corrosion and replace it if necessary. 

Don’t forget to open the pressure relief valve during this process. Once the water has been removed, reinstall the drain plug and snug it down.

Lastly, turn on your electric water pump and let it run for several seconds to push any remaining water out of the water lines. If your RV has a water pump conversion kit, you can use it to drain the remaining water more effectively.

By following these friendly tips, you’ve successfully drained your RV’s water system in preparation for the colder months. Remember, staying ahead of potential issues can save you time and money in the long run. Enjoy your winter and rest easy knowing your RV is well taken care of!

Bypassing the Water Heater

When winterizing your RV, it’s important to remember to bypass the water heater to prevent potential damage from freezing temperatures. In this section, you will learn how to properly bypass the water heater to ensure a smooth winterizing process.

First, locate the water heater bypass valve on your RV. This valve is typically found near the water heater’s inlet and outlet connections. If you are unsure where to find it, refer to your RV’s owner’s manual for guidance.

Once you’ve located the bypass valve, make sure to turn off the water heater to avoid any accidents. Next, open the water heater’s drain plug and allow any remaining water to drain out. This will help prevent any water left inside from freezing and causing damage to the water heater during the winter months.

If your RV is equipped with a water heater by-pass kit, you can easily bypass the water heater without having to create a temporary connection between the inlet and outlet pipes. Simply follow the instructions provided with the kit to install and use the bypass valve correctly.

However, if your RV doesn’t have a water heater by-pass kit, you can still bypass the water heater by creating a temporary connection between the inlet and outlet pipes using a short piece of tube or hose. Connect one end of the hose to the water heater inlet and the other end to the outlet. Make sure the connections are secure and leak-proof to avoid potential issues.

By following these steps, you have successfully bypassed the water heater, protecting it from potential damage during the winter season. Remember to reverse these steps when you’re ready to de-winterize your RV and use your water heater again. Have a great winter, knowing your RV’s water heater is safe and secure!

Applying Antifreeze to the Plumbing Systems

Winterizing your RV’s plumbing system is crucial to prevent damage caused by freezing temperatures. One effective way to do this is by using RV antifreeze. It’s essential to use RV antifreeze rather than automotive antifreeze, as the latter can be toxic and damage your RV.

First, you’ll need to drain and flush all the water tanks, including the fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks. This ensures that there’s no water left in the RV plumbing system that could freeze and cause damage. Be sure to also drain your water heater and follow any manufacturer-specific instructions for your RV model.

Once the tanks are empty, you can prepare your RV’s water pump for the antifreeze. If your RV doesn’t already have a built-in bypass, you’ll need to install a bypass hose on the suction side of the water pump. 

Some RVs may come equipped with a pump bypass, in which case you just need to locate the loose end of the bypass hose. Your RV dealer can provide you with the necessary hose and fittings if required.

Now it’s time to introduce the RV antifreeze into your plumbing system. Insert the bypass hose or the loose end of your RV’s existing bypass hose into the antifreeze container. Make sure there’s enough antifreeze to cover the entire plumbing system—typically one to two gallons should suffice.

Next, turn on your RV’s water pump, which will begin pumping the antifreeze through your plumbing system. Open each faucet, both hot and cold, one at a time until you see the pink antifreeze flowing out. Repeat this process for all faucets and fixtures in your RV, including the toilet, outdoor shower, and washing machine if applicable. 

Don’t forget to flush the toilet until you see antifreeze in the bowl as well.

Finally, pour a small amount of antifreeze down each drain to protect the P-traps from freezing. You can also use an RV antifreeze hand pump to pump antifreeze into the RV’s city water hookup, ensuring it reaches all corners of your plumbing system.

By following these steps, you’ll successfully apply RV antifreeze to your plumbing system and protect your RV from the harsh winter elements.

Winterizing Your RV Appliances

Preparing your RV for winter also involves taking proper care of the appliances inside, such as your washing machine, shower, outdoor shower, and ice maker. 

To protect these appliances from potential damage caused by freezing temperatures, follow these friendly tips:

For your washing machine, start by turning off the water supply and disconnecting the hoses from the back. Drain any remaining water from the hoses and the machine itself. If your washing machine has a filter, be sure to clean it out. Store the hoses in a safe place to prevent damage.

Moving on to your shower and outdoor shower, begin by removing any shower heads or hand-held shower devices. Bring them indoors to prevent freezing and potential damage. Make sure to release any remaining water from the shower pipe. Close all shower valves, including the outdoor shower valves, to minimize the risk of freezing.

Your ice maker also needs attention during winterization. Turn off the water supply to the ice maker and disconnect its water line. Using an air compressor, blow out any residual water from the line. Empty and clean the ice bin, ensuring that it is free of any ice buildup or water.

By taking these steps, you’ll be able to safeguard your washing machine, shower, outdoor shower, and ice maker from the harsh winter elements, ensuring that they continue to serve you well once the RV is in use again.

Sealing Your RV to Prevent Pest Entry

Winterizing your RV is crucial to protect your investment and ensure comfort during the colder months. One critical aspect of this process is sealing your RV to keep pests, like rodents and mice, from entering and causing damage. In this section, we’ll discuss some friendly tips on how to effectively seal your RV against unwanted critters.

Firstly, it’s essential to inspect your RV thoroughly for any gaps, holes, or cracks where pests can enter. A great method to do this is by placing a strong light source inside your RV and turning off other lights around. 

As you move the light around the interior, look for any light seeping through the underbelly and exterior of your RV. Be attentive to even the smallest strips of light as they can serve as entry points for pests.

After identifying any potential entry points, it’s time to seal them. Load up a caulking gun with a sealant compatible with your RV’s material and cover the areas that need sealing. It’s crucial to pay attention to trouble spots and ensure they are well-sealed.

To keep rodents like mice at bay, consider using a natural deterrent like peppermint oil. Rodents are known to dislike the scent of peppermint, and it also wards off spiders, ants, and other creepy crawlies. Place cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil around your RV, particularly near potential entry points.

Lastly, don’t forget to seal your RV’s pipes and drains. Pour 1-2 cups of antifreeze down each drain, including sinks, showers, and toilets, to protect them from freezing and becoming an entry point for pests. This step is vital to ensure that not just your water lines but also your drain pipes are safeguarded against the cold and uninvited guests.

By following these tips and taking the time to inspect, seal, and secure your RV, you can rest assured that your vehicle is protected against pest entry during the winter months. Happy RV-ing!

Caring for the RV’s Exterior

Winterizing your RV goes beyond taking care of the interior and pipes. You should also give special attention to your RV’s exterior to ensure it remains in good condition throughout the winter months. Here are some steps to care for the exterior of your RV to ensure it stays protected during winter.

First things first, give your RV a thorough wash and wax. This will help protect the paint and exterior surfaces against the harsh winter elements. Make sure you pay close attention to removing dirt, grime, and any build-up, especially around the engine and exhaust pipe areas.

Inspect the RV’s exterior for any cracks in the sealants or body. If you notice any gaps, fill them with a high-quality silicone sealant. This will prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage to the structure of your RV.

To maintain your engine, it’s a good idea to change the oil and filter before storing your RV for the winter. This process not only protects the engine but also ensures it is ready to go when the warmer months arrive. Additionally, top off the coolant and add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank. Don’t forget to run your engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilizer throughout the system.

Covering the exhaust pipe is a crucial task as it prevents small animals from entering and nesting inside. You can use a commercial exhaust pipe cover, or if you prefer, you can make your own with some aluminum foil and a rubber band.

Tires need special care during winterization too. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, and consider using tire covers to protect them from the sun, snow, and ice. If possible, also try to move the RV every few weeks to avoid flat spots on the tires.

As for leveling jacks, lubricate any exposed moving parts and fully retract them. This will protect them from rust and prolong their lifespan.

Following these simple steps will help keep your RV’s exterior in great shape throughout the winter months, ensuring you can hit the road again without any major issues once the warmer weather returns.

Paying Attention to Your RV’s Interior

Winterizing your RV involves taking care of both the exterior and the interior. In this section, we’ll focus on the important steps to follow while paying attention to your RV’s interior.

Firstly, you should remove any perishable items and clean out your refrigerator. Also, be sure to turn off your refrigerator and leave its doors open to avoid mold or unpleasant smells.

Next, add antifreeze to your plumbing system. Start by bypassing your RV’s hot water heater and draining any remaining water from it. Make sure that your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, and toilet are completely empty before proceeding. 

You can use a non-toxic RV antifreeze to prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting during cold temperatures. Pump the antifreeze through your RV’s plumbing by connecting it to the city water hookup or using the onboard water pump.

Incidentally, don’t forget to pay attention to your oil levels. Cold weather can thicken the oil in your RV’s engine, making it difficult to start and causing potential damage. Be sure to check and maintain appropriate oil levels, and consider switching to a lower-viscosity oil specifically designed for colder temperatures.

In your bathroom, close the drain on your shower and pour some antifreeze into the shower pan. This will help protect the drain and the pipes connected to it. Similarly, pour a small amount of antifreeze into both your bathroom and kitchen sinks to protect their pipes as well.

Finally, flush your toilet to ensure there’s no water left in the lines or the bowl. You can also add a small amount of antifreeze directly into the toilet bowl to prevent freezing.

By following these steps, you’ll protect your RV’s interior plumbing and appliances during winter months and ensure a smoother start to your next RVing adventure.

Heating Precautions and Considerations

Winterizing your RV involves taking proper precautions to ensure your heating system is working efficiently during the colder seasons. Maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your RV is essential for both your comfort and to prevent issues such as freezing pipes.

First, inspect your heating system to ensure everything is working correctly. Make sure to clean and replace your heating element if needed. Adjusting thermostat settings to maintain consistent temperatures will help your RV’s heating system work more effectively.

During winter months, it may be necessary to use additional heating sources, such as space heaters or heated blankets, to keep your RV cozy and warm. However, remember to use these appliances safely, and never leave them unattended while in use. Make sure your RV has proper ventilation, particularly if using propane-based heaters, to avoid condensation and potential health issues.

To prepare your RV’s water system for winter, drain the water heater and bypass it before adding anti-freeze. Insulate any exposed pipes, and consider using a heated water hose to prevent freezing. Also, don’t forget to check the exterior of your RV for any leaks or cracks, and address them promptly to help maintain the overall temperature inside your RV.

Remember that staying warm and preventing freezing temperatures inside your RV is crucial for both your comfort and the well-being of your vehicle during winter months. By taking these precautions and considering the heating strategies mentioned, you can winterize your RV and enjoy a cozy and worry-free winter season.

Dealing with Tanks and Valves

Before winter sets in, make sure your RV’s tanks and valves are prepared to handle the freezing temperatures. Follow these friendly tips to ensure a smooth winterization process.

First of all, start by emptying both your gray and black water tanks. You’ll want to ensure that these holding tanks are completely clean and dry before winter arrives. Use a tank cleaner or a hose to rinse out any remaining waste. Be sure to close the valves securely once you’ve finished.

Next, let’s move on to the city water inlet. Disconnect any outside water source that may be connected to your RV. If you have any inline water filters, disconnect them or bypass them if they have a bypass system in place. This helps prevent any freezing damage to the pipes and filter systems.

Now, focus on your RV’s low-point drains. These drains help release any remaining water from your freshwater tanks. Locate the low-point drain lines and open the valves to let the water escape. You may need to consult your RV owner’s manual for their exact location. Once the water has drained, close the valves.

When it comes to RV antifreeze, a crucial step in the winterization process is pumping antifreeze into your RV’s city water hookup. Using an RV antifreeze hand pump, pump antifreeze throughout your RV’s fresh water plumbing system until it reaches the faucets and fixtures.

Some additional tips to help you with the winterization process:

• Use a water heater bypass kit or valve to skip putting antifreeze into the water heater. Make sure to drain the water heater tank and replace the plug before bypassing it.
• Regularly check all valves and holding tanks throughout the winter for any signs of leakage or damage.
  

By following these steps, you’ll successfully deal with tanks and valves in your RV winterization process. Remember, maintaining your RV during winter is crucial for its longevity and a trouble-free camping experience once the warm weather returns.

Preventing Water Damage

Winterizing your RV is crucial to prevent water damage, expensive repairs, and mold growth that can result from cold temperatures, freezing, and moisture retention. By taking a few simple steps, you can protect your RV from these issues during the winter months.

First, drain as much water as possible from your RV’s plumbing system. Most RVs have three drainage locations: the water heater drain, the freshwater tank drain, and the hot and cold low-point drains. These drains are typically located underneath your camper. 

Draining these tanks prevents the buildup of bacteria from stagnant wastewater, as well as a frozen tank filled with standing liquid.

Next, flush out the sediment from your water system for 2-3 minutes by turning on the water pressure. If your anode rod is old, remove it and make a note to install a new one in the spring. This will help avoid any issues with accumulated sediment.

Before adding anti-freeze to your RV’s plumbing, make sure to bypass the water heater. This step ensures that the anti-freeze doesn’t mix with the water in the heater, protecting it from potential damage due to freezing.

It’s also important to clean the interior of your RV before storing it for the winter. This includes the main living area, kitchen, and dining areas. A thorough cleaning can help prevent any residual moisture from causing mold and other water-related damage.

Throughout the winter, periodically check your RV for leaks, especially after heavy snow or rain. Catching water intrusion early can save you a lot of headaches and costly repairs.

By following these steps and regularly monitoring your RV during the colder months, you can help prevent water damage and ensure that your RV remains in top shape for your next adventure.

Spring Setup and De-winterizing Steps

As spring approaches, it’s time to prepare your RV for the upcoming camping season. To help you get started, follow these friendly and straightforward steps to efficiently de-winterize and set up your RV for spring.

First things first, inspect the exterior of your RV after taking it out of storage. Look for any visible damage, cracks, or peeling paint that may have occurred during winter storage. Make necessary repairs to ensure the exterior is in good shape, particularly around windows and doors.

Next, check the tire pressure on your RV. Over the winter months, your tires typically lose about two to three psi of air pressure each month, potentially more if stored outdoors. Inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure levels to ensure a safe and smooth drive.

Now, let’s focus on your RV’s plumbing system. 

If you used antifreeze to winterize your freshwater system — and you should have! — make sure to drain and flush it thoroughly. Re-insert the low-point drain caps or plugs, and put the anode rod (for Suburban water heaters) or drain plug (for Atwood water heaters) back in place.

Once the plumbing system is cleared, it’s time to address the fuel stabilizer used in your RV during storage. If your RV has been stored with stabilized fuel, run the engine for a few minutes to make sure the fuel stabilizer has fully circulated throughout the engine system.

A crucial component to inspect is the pressure relief valve. Ensure that it’s functioning correctly by opening and closing it a few times. Also, check for any leakages and make necessary repairs or replacements.

Before hitting the road, visit a dump station to empty your gray and black water tanks. This step is essential to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of your RV, as well as prevent any unwanted smells.

Lastly, although de-winterizing your RV may have some associated costs, investing time and money in this process will ensure a safe and enjoyable spring camping experience. Properly maintaining your RV not only extends its lifespan but also saves you from potentially costly repairs due to neglect or procrastination.

Now, with these steps in mind, your RV is ready for an exciting spring camping season, which just so happens to be one of the best times of year to go camping!

Winterize Your RV Before it Gets Cold

Winterizing your RV is a crucial step to protect your investment from potential freezing damage and expensive repairs. By following a step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your RV is well-prepared for the cold months ahead.

First, drain all water tanks and lines, then use non-toxic antifreeze to prevent any remaining water from freezing. Make sure you bypass the water heater and water filters, as they can be damaged by the antifreeze. Finally, inspect your RV for any cracks or leaks and add insulation where necessary.

By taking the time to properly winterize your RV, you can rest easy knowing your vehicle and belongings are protected from harsh winter conditions. This is important whether it is going to be parked for the winter or you’re living in your RV full-time. This guide will help you know how to maintain your RV as well as you can.

So bundle up and embrace the cool season knowing that your cozy RV is ready to keep you warm and safe!