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RV Winterization Guide – How to Winterize an RV
October 19, 2024
-
By
Marcus Washington
Your house is able to handle extremely cold temperatures thanks to insulation and a heating system that helps it maintain warmth.
Your RV, however, is not as prepared. For example, the water in the plumbing system can freeze and expand when temperatures plummet. This can result in burst or cracked pipes, leading to leaks and water damage.
Not only that but your RV is likely to spend a fair bit of time in storage during the off-season. This downtime can take a toll on your RV, especially if it hasn’t been properly winterized.
Without proper winterization, you could be looking at:
- Frozen and burst water lines
- Water damage to the interior
- Damage to the plumbing system
- Potential leaks and bursts in the water system, including the freshwater holding tank
The Risk of Freezing
You might wonder, why worry about a little cold weather?
The truth is that freezing temperatures can cause significant damage to your RV’s water system. Remember, water expands when it freezes, and that’s bad news for your pipes and valves, as well as your water heater’s heating element.
If you’re thinking, “I’ll just fix it if it breaks,” you might want to reconsider. Repair costs can range from $100 to a whopping $8,400 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and the specific components that need repair or replacement.
Seasonal Storage Considerations
As the camping season concludes and it’s time to store your RV for winter, storage becomes crucial. However, many RV owners make mistakes when storing their vehicle for the winter. These include:
- Neglecting to empty all storage compartments
- Not researching for an appropriate RV storage space
- Overlooking the need to drain water lines and inline water filters
- Using low-quality antifreeze
- Failing to clean the RV properly before storage
- Underestimating the significance of insulation and heating systems
Proper indoor or outdoor storage is crucial as it will help protect your RV from the elements and minimize wear and tear, ultimately extending its lifespan.
You also want to consider the following:
- Parking the RV in a secure and sheltered location
- Assessing associated costs
- Draining the lines and tanks
- Removing car batteries and turning off all systems
- Protecting it from moisture
Gathering Your Winterization Toolkit
Before starting the winterization process, assemble the correct tools and supplies. Think of it as assembling your defenses against the impending winter chill.
This toolkit should include non-toxic RV antifreeze, a water pump converter kit, and a water heater bypass kit.
Take propylene glycol, for example, it’s an antifreeze that’s safe for use in potable water systems and marine engines, making it ideal for RVs. A water pump converter kit and water heater bypass kit are also crucial for getting the antifreeze into your RV’s water system without filling the water heater tank.
Essential Supplies
Let’s break down those essential supplies a bit more. The star of the show is undoubtedly the non-toxic RV antifreeze – that’s what’s going to keep your water lines from freezing and potentially bursting.
Brands like Splash RV/Marine Antifreeze and Prestone Waterline Antifreeze are highly recommended. You’ll typically need several gallons of antifreeze to protect all the plumbing lines during winterization.
Next up is the water pump converter kit. This handy tool will divert the water flow from the freshwater pump to a pick-up tube that draws antifreeze into the plumbing. Think of it as the delivery system for your antifreeze.
Handy Tools for the Job
In addition to those essential supplies, there are a few tools that can make your RV winterization process a bit easier. One of these is a tank cleaning wand. This tool is especially useful if your RV doesn’t have a built-in holding tank flush system.
Another helpful tool is an adjustable wrench. It’ll allow you to perform various tasks such as installing a Pump Converter Winterizing Kit or for removing a drain that has an anode rod attached.
Draining and Prepping the Water System
With your toolkit assembled, you can now begin the winterization process. The initial step involves draining and preparing the water system.
Remember, any water left in your RV’s plumbing system can freeze and expand, potentially causing damage to:
- Water lines
- Holding tanks
- Water heater
- Other plumbing systems
The draining and prepping process involves two key tasks: emptying the holding tanks and bypassing the water heater. Let’s delve into each of these in turn.
Emptying the Holding Tanks
Emptying the holding tanks is a crucial step in the winterization process. This includes the black water tank (for wastewater from the toilet), the gray water tanks (for wastewater from the sinks and shower), and the freshwater tank.
Step 1: Connect the Drainage Hose
Connect one side of your sewer drainage hose to the drain pipe on your RV.
Step 2: Clean the Tanks
Once the hose is securely attached, use a rinsing tool to clean the tanks.
Step 3: Empty the Tanks
Open each tank valve one at a time and allow the tanks to empty completely.
Supply:
- Sewer drainage hose
- Rinsing tool
We recommend waiting until the tanks are ~65% full before you empty them; that will ensure that all of the waste is flushed out effectively.
ACTIVE RV Holding Tank Treatment
Our holding tank treatment helps keep your waste system running smoothly when your RV is in use.
Bypassing the Water Heater
The second part of prepping your water system for winter is bypassing the water heater. This step is crucial because it prevents antifreeze from entering the water heater and allows any water in the heater to drain out.
Supplies:
- None
Step 1:
Open the bypass valve that connects the cold and hot water plumbing lines – that will redirect the water flow away from the water heater
Step 2:
Remove the white drain plug and let the heater drain.
Remember to turn off the water heater and let it cool before you start.
Protecting Your Pipes and Valves
After draining and preparing your water system, you want to safeguard your pipes and valves. This involves pumping antifreeze through the system and securing all water entry points.
Pump Antifreeze Through the System
Pumping antifreeze through your RV’s water system is a key step in the winterization process. It will replace the water in the plumbing lines, preventing it from freezing, expanding, and potentially causing the pipes to burst.
Supplies:
- RV Antifreeze
- Funnel (optional)
Step 1:
Pour the antifreeze into the freshwater tank, according to the product instructions. Use a long funnel, if necessary.
Step 2:
Turn on the water pump and open the faucets one at a time until the antifreeze flows out.
Step 3:
Flush the toilet until you can see the antifreeze coming out into the toilet bowl.
Secure All Water Entry Points
Once you’ve pumped antifreeze through your system, secure all the water entry points. This includes any openings for the water tank, the potable water fill port (if your RV has one), and every point where a cable or pipe goes through the floor.
For example, you can use specific covers or plugs for openings such as the potable water fill and city water inlet. And don’t forget to inspect any seals and seams and repair them if necessary.
Final Touches and Additional Measures
There are a few final steps you want to take to ensure that your RV is fully winterized and ready to face the freezing temperatures.
Pour Antifreeze in P-Traps and Toilet Bowl
One of these final steps is pouring antifreeze down your sink drains, P-traps, toilet bowl, and low-point drains. It will act as an extra layer of protection, preventing the P-traps from freezing and cracking, and safeguarding against leaks and subsequent damage.
You’ll typically need about one quart of RV antifreeze for each drain, P-trap, and toilet. It’s also a good idea to leave a bit of antifreeze in the toilet to maintain the air seal.
Air Circulation and Moisture Control
In addition to protecting your pipes and valves, it’s also important to ensure proper air circulation and moisture control within your RV. That will help prevent mold and mildew growth during storage, which can cause damage to wood surfaces and other materials inside your RV.
To ensure proper air circulation, open up the vents to allow for airflow and slightly open one window. For moisture control, you can use a dehumidifier or desiccants such as silica packets.
Special Considerations for Appliances and Extras
Certain appliances in your RV may require special attention. These include:
- Washing machines
- Ice makers
- Dishwashers
- Water heaters
Ice Maker Winterization
If your RV has an ice maker, you’ll also need to take special precautions to winterize it. Here’s how:
Supplies:
- RV Antifreeze
Step 1:
Shut off the RV water supply to the ice maker. Make sure the shutoff arm is in the ‘OFF’ position.
Step 2:
Pass RV antifreeze through the machine’s plumbing. That will ensure that the ice maker is protected without contaminating the machine itself.
Do not run antifreeze into the ice maker molds.
Washing Machine Precautions
If your RV has a washing machine, you’ll also need to take steps to prepare it for winter storage.
Supplies:
- RV Antifreeze
Step 1:
Disconnect the water inlet hoses and allow them to drain.
Step 2:
Pour a quart of RV antifreeze into the washing machine drum and run a spin cycle to distribute the product.
Step 3:
Once the cycle is finished, turn off and unplug the machine.
Knowing How to Winterize an RV
Winterizing your RV is a crucial task that can save you from costly repairs and a disappointing start to your camping season.
From understanding why you need to winterize your RV, to draining and prepping the water system, each step is crucial to ensuring that your RV is ready to face the winter.
Remember, while the process may seem daunting, taking the time to do it properly will be an investment in your future adventures. So, get your toolkit ready, follow these steps, and your RV will be all set to brave the cold.
Key Takeaways
- Winterizing an RV is essential to prevent freezing and burst pipes, water damage, and the costly repairs that can result from these issues. Draining water systems and using non-toxic antifreeze are key steps in this process
- An effective RV winterization toolkit includes a non-toxic RV antifreeze, water pump converter kit, water heater bypass kit, and useful tools like tank cleaning wands and an adjustable wrench
- RV appliances like ice makers and washing machines require extra precautions
- You can prevent mold and mildew growth with proper air circulation and moisture control
Knowing How to Winterize Your RV – FAQs
Should you leave faucets open after winterizing RV?
Yes, you should leave the faucets open after winterizing your RV. That will drain the water from the system, preventing damage to the unit.
At what temperature does an RV need to be winterized?
An RV needs to be winterized when the temperature falls below 30°F for more than 20 or 30 minutes to prevent the lines from freezing.
How many gallons does it take to winterize an RV?
You will need two to three gallons of antifreeze to winterize most RVs. Simply pour the antifreeze into the freshwater tank, then open each faucet until pink antifreeze comes out. Remember to flush the toilet a few times as well.
Can you put RV antifreeze in freshwater tank?
No, it’s not recommended to put RV antifreeze in the freshwater tank. It’s better to drain the tank and bypass it.
Why do I need to winterize my RV?
Winterizing your RV is crucial in preventing damage from freezing temperatures, including burst pipes and leaks.
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Marcus Washington
Marcus Washington is a well-rounded expert in RVs and campers. With a wealth of experience, Marcus shares his expertise through his valuable guides, helping enthusiasts and newcomers alike navigate the world of mobile living. His advice covers everything from maintenance to maximizing space, ensuring every road trip is smooth and enjoyable. You can trust Marcus to guide you in your RV and camper adventures.
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