As winter approaches, protecting your home-on-wheels becomes crucial. I’ve helped countless fellow RVers prepare their rigs for the cold season, and today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true winterization process. Trust me, a few hours of preparation now can save you thousands in repairs come spring.
Why Winterizing Your RV Matters
Here’s something that keeps me up at night: water expanding as it freezes. When this happens in your RV’s plumbing system, it can crack pipes and cause extensive damage. Even worse? Most insurance policies won’t cover freeze damage because it’s preventable. That’s why winterizing is so important.
Essential Supplies for Winterizing
Before you start, gather these items:
- RV-specific antifreeze (2-3 gallons typically, but check your model’s requirements)
- Water heater bypass kit
- Tank cleaning wand
- Water pump converter kit
- Basic hand tools
- A sturdy bucket
- Blowout plug
Step 1: Dealing with Water Filters
Let’s start simple: remove or bypass all water filters. Why? Antifreeze can damage them, and winter is the perfect time to check if they need replacement. Look for filters under the kitchen sink, in cabinets, or near the control panel – your owner’s manual will point you in the right direction.
Step 2: Tank Draining Time
Start with the fresh water tank – it’s usually centrally located under your RV, but not always. Then move on to the black and gray water tanks. Here’s my pro tip: always drain black water first, then use the gray water to help clean out your sewer hose. Remember to only dump at approved facilities – your campground neighbors won’t appreciate impromptu dumping!
Step 3: Tackling the Water Heater and Lines
Safety first! Turn off your water heater and let it cool completely. Nobody wants scalding water surprises. Once it’s cool:
- Release the pressure relief valve
- Drain the tank (use that bucket!)
- Check the drained water for rust or sediment
- Inspect the anode rod for corrosion
After the water heater’s empty, drain all water lines by opening every faucet and low-point drain in your RV. Don’t forget the outdoor shower!
Step 4: Bypass the Water Heater
This step saves antifreeze and makes spring de-winterizing easier. If your RV doesn’t have a bypass system installed, consider getting one – it’s worth the investment.
Step 5: Adding Antifreeze or Blowing out the lines
Now for the main event: adding antifreeze to protect your plumbing or using a blowout plug. Work systematically from the closest faucet to the furthest, making sure antifreeze flows through both hot and cold lines or using the blowout plug to remove the water from the lines completely. Don’t skip any drains or the toilet! No mater which option you choose you will need to poor antifreeze in the drains.
Step 6: Battery Care
Don’t forget about your RV’s battery! Store it in a warm, dry place for winter. I keep mine on a battery maintainer in my garage, on a piece of cardboard just in case of leaks.
Final Winter Prep Tips
Before you call it done, check your roof seals and make sure all openings are properly sealed. Winter isn’t just about freezing temps – it’s also about keeping snow and curious critters out of your RV.
In Conclusion
Winterizing might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s totally manageable as a DIY project. Take your time, follow these steps, and you’ll be ready for spring camping before you know it. Have you winterized your RV before? What tips would you add to this guide?
Remember, if you run into any issues during the process, it’s always better to consult a professional than risk damage to your RV’s systems. Happy camping, and stay warm this winter!
Let Bell’s RV Handle Your Winterization
Not everyone has the time, tools, or confidence to tackle RV winterization themselves – and that’s perfectly okay! While I’ve outlined the DIY process above, there are several compelling reasons to let the professionals at Bell’s RV handle your winterization:
- Peace of Mind:
We have winterized hundreds of RVs and know every make and model inside and out. We’ll catch potential issues you might miss and ensure everything’s protected for winter. - Save Time:
What might take you several hours (or a whole weekend if you’re new to it) can be completed efficiently by our experienced team. Drop off your RV in the morning and pick it up later that day. - Proper Equipment:
Bell’s RV has all the specialized tools and professional-grade equipment needed for thorough winterization. No need to buy tools you’ll only use once a year. - Multi-Point Inspection:
While winterizing your RV, their technicians can spot potential problems before they become major issues. Think of it as a winter prep check-up for your home-on-wheels. - Warranty Protection:
Some RV warranties require professional maintenance. Having Bell’s RV handle your winterization ensures you’re maintaining compliance with your warranty terms. - Complex Systems:
Modern RVs are getting more sophisticated each year. If yours has multiple slides, a washer/dryer, ice maker, or other complex systems, professional winterization might be your best bet.
To schedule your RV winterization with Bell’s RV, just give them a call at 903-824-3834. We will make sure your investment is protected all winter long, so you can focus on planning next spring’s adventures instead of worrying about frozen pipes.