How To Winterize An RV Travel Trailer: A Complete Checklist

Do you want to know how to protect your RV from freezing? Winterizing your RV travel trailer is the process of preparing it for cold weather to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. This blog post will guide you through the entire RV winterization checklist, covering everything from draining your water system to choosing the right RV antifreeze. We’ll also discuss RV winter storage options and even how to winterize your RV without antifreeze, along with an estimate of the RV winterization cost.

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Why Winterize Your RV Travel Trailer?

Freezing temperatures can cause serious and expensive damage to your RV’s plumbing system. Water expands when it freezes, which can crack pipes, damage the water heater, and even ruin your RV’s appliances. Winterizing your RV is a preventative measure that protects your investment and saves you money on repairs in the long run.

The Complete RV Winterization Checklist

This RV winterization checklist will help you get your travel trailer ready for the winter. We’ll break it down into easy-to-follow RV winterization steps.

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, gather all the necessary supplies. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and faster. Here’s a list of what you’ll likely need:

• RV antifreeze (non-toxic)
• Water heater bypass kit (if not already installed)
• Water pump converter kit (or tubing to connect to the pump)
• Wrench for removing drain plugs
• Screwdriver
• Air compressor with a blow-out adapter
• Plumbing tape (Teflon tape)
• Basin or bucket
• Gloves

2. Drain RV Water System

The first and most crucial step is to completely drain your RV’s water system.

• Drain the Fresh Water Tank: Locate the fresh water tank drain valve (usually underneath the tank) and open it. Let the tank drain completely.
• Drain the Water Heater:
  • Turn off the water heater (both gas and electric). Let it cool down completely before draining. Important: Never drain a hot water heater!
  • Remove the drain plug (usually a plastic or metal plug at the bottom of the water heater). Be prepared for water to gush out.
  • Open the pressure relief valve (usually a lever at the top of the water heater) to allow air in and speed up the draining process.
  • Replace the drain plug after the water heater is empty. Consider using plumbing tape on the threads to ensure a tight seal.
• Drain the Black and Gray Water Tanks:
  • If you haven’t already, drain and flush your black and gray water tanks thoroughly. This is important to prevent odors and potential freezing issues.
  • Close the drain valves after the tanks are empty.
• Drain the Water Lines: Open all faucets (hot and cold) and flush the toilet to relieve any pressure in the lines.

3. Bypass the Water Heater

Bypassing the water heater prevents RV antifreeze from filling it. This saves you gallons of antifreeze (and money), as water heaters can hold a significant amount of water (typically 6-10 gallons).

• Install a Bypass Kit (If Needed): If your RV doesn’t have a water heater bypass kit, you’ll need to install one. The kit usually consists of three valves that allow you to isolate the water heater from the rest of the plumbing system.
• Engage the Bypass Valves: Once installed, turn the valves to the bypass position. This will direct water (or antifreeze) around the water heater instead of through it.

4. Winterizing RV Plumbing with Antifreeze

There are two primary methods for introducing RV antifreeze into your plumbing system: using a water pump converter kit or using the water pump directly.

• Using a Water Pump Converter Kit: This is the preferred method.
  • Locate your water pump.
  • Install the converter kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The kit typically involves connecting a hose to the pump’s inlet side and placing the other end of the hose into a gallon of RV antifreeze.
• Using the Water Pump Directly (Without a Kit):
  • Disconnect the water pump’s inlet line from the fresh water tank.
  • Attach a piece of tubing to the pump’s inlet.
  • Place the other end of the tubing into a gallon of RV antifreeze.
• Pump Antifreeze Through the Lines:
  • Turn on the water pump.
  • Open each faucet (hot and cold) one at a time, starting with the faucet closest to the pump and working your way outwards.
  • Let the antifreeze flow until you see a steady stream of pink (or whatever color your antifreeze is) coming out of the faucet.
  • Close the faucet and repeat the process for all other faucets, including the shower and outdoor shower (if applicable).
  • Flush the toilet until you see antifreeze in the bowl.
• Pour Antifreeze into Drains: Pour a cup or two of RV antifreeze into each drain (shower, sinks) and the toilet to protect the P-traps from freezing.

5. Winterizing RV without Antifreeze (Using Compressed Air)

While using RV antifreeze is generally recommended, you can attempt to winterize your RV without it by using compressed air. However, this method is not foolproof and carries a higher risk of damage if not done correctly. Antifreeze offers the best protection.

• Connect the Air Compressor: Connect an air compressor to the RV’s city water inlet using a blow-out adapter.
• Set the Air Pressure: Important: Do not exceed 40 PSI (pounds per square inch) of air pressure. Higher pressure can damage your plumbing.
• Blow Out the Water Lines:
  • Open each faucet (hot and cold) one at a time, starting with the faucet closest to the water inlet and working your way outwards.
  • Allow the compressed air to blow out any remaining water in the lines.
  • Repeat the process for all other faucets, including the shower and outdoor shower.
  • Flush the toilet several times.
• Pour Antifreeze into Drains: Even if you use compressed air, it’s still a good idea to pour a cup or two of RV antifreeze into each drain and the toilet to protect the P-traps.

Important Considerations When Winterizing RV Without Antifreeze:

• This method is less reliable than using antifreeze, as it’s difficult to ensure that all water is completely removed from the system.
• Any water left in the lines can freeze and cause damage.
• This method requires careful attention to air pressure to avoid damaging the plumbing.

6. Protect Your RV’s Appliances

• Water Heater: As mentioned earlier, bypass the water heater and drain it completely.
• Toilet: Flush the toilet with RV antifreeze.
• Washing Machine (If Applicable): Consult your washing machine’s owner’s manual for specific winterization instructions. Usually, this involves running antifreeze through the washer’s water lines.
• Ice Maker (If Applicable): Turn off the ice maker and disconnect the water line. Consult your ice maker’s manual for specific winterization instructions.

7. Other Winterization Steps

• Batteries: Disconnect the RV batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. Consider using a battery maintainer to keep them charged over the winter.
• Tires: Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure and cover them to protect them from UV damage.
• Seal Openings: Seal any openings in the RV’s exterior, such as vents and gaps around windows and doors, to prevent drafts and rodent entry.
• Remove Food: Remove all perishable food items from the RV to prevent spoilage and attract pests.
• Clean the Interior: Clean the interior of the RV thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Propane Tanks: Turn off the propane tanks.

8. RV Winter Storage

• Choose a Location: Decide where you will store your RV for the winter. Options include:
  • Covered Storage: Offers the best protection from the elements.
  • Indoor Storage: Provides complete protection from weather, but can be more expensive.
  • Outdoor Storage: The most affordable option, but requires more preparation to protect the RV from the elements.
• Cover Your RV: If storing outdoors, invest in a high-quality RV cover to protect it from snow, rain, and UV damage.
• Consider a Dehumidifier: If storing in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier to prevent moisture buildup inside the RV.

RV Antifreeze Types

It’s crucial to use the right type of antifreeze in your RV’s plumbing system. Never use automotive antifreeze (ethylene glycol), as it is highly toxic and can contaminate your water system.

• RV Antifreeze (Propylene Glycol): This is the only type of antifreeze that should be used in RVs. It is non-toxic and safe for potable water systems. RV antifreeze typically comes in pink or blue colors. Be sure to check the label to confirm that it is safe for drinking water systems.

Estimating RV Winterization Cost

The RV winterization cost can vary depending on several factors, including:

• DIY vs. Professional Winterization: Hiring a professional RV technician to winterize your RV will be more expensive than doing it yourself.
• Size of RV: Larger RVs require more antifreeze and may take longer to winterize, increasing the cost.
• Materials: The cost of antifreeze, a water heater bypass kit (if needed), and other supplies will contribute to the overall cost.
• Climate: In colder climates, you may need to use more antifreeze or take additional precautions, which can increase the cost.

Here’s a rough estimate of the RV winterization cost:

• DIY Winterization: $50 – $150 (primarily for antifreeze and supplies)
• Professional Winterization: $150 – $400+ (depending on the RV size and location)

Fathoming Potential Problems

• Cracked Pipes: This is the most common problem caused by improper winterization. Water expands when it freezes, which can crack pipes and fittings.
• Damaged Water Heater: If the water heater is not drained properly, the remaining water can freeze and damage the tank.
• Appliance Damage: Freezing temperatures can damage appliances such as washing machines and ice makers.
• Mold and Mildew Growth: Moisture buildup inside the RV can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can be harmful to your health.
• Pest Infestation: Rodents and insects can enter the RV through unsealed openings and cause damage to the interior.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

• What is RV antifreeze? RV antifreeze is a non-toxic antifreeze (propylene glycol) specifically designed for use in RV potable water systems.
• Can I use automotive antifreeze in my RV? No! Automotive antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is highly toxic and should never be used in RV water systems.
• How much RV antifreeze do I need? This depends on the size of your RV and the length of your plumbing lines. A general estimate is 2-3 gallons for a small travel trailer and 3-6 gallons for a larger RV.
• How do I know if my RV is properly winterized? After winterizing, check all faucets and drains for any signs of leaks. Monitor the RV for any signs of freezing damage throughout the winter.
• How often should I winterize my RV? You should winterize your RV every year before freezing temperatures arrive.
• Who is qualified to winterize my RV? You can winterize your RV yourself if you are comfortable with basic plumbing tasks. Alternatively, you can hire a qualified RV technician to do it for you.
• What if I forget to winterize my RV? If you forget to winterize your RV and it freezes, you could experience significant damage to your plumbing system. Immediately thaw the RV and check for leaks. Contact an RV technician for an inspection and repairs.
• Is it ok to live in my RV during winter without winterizing? No. If you plan on living in your RV during the winter, you will need to take extra precautions to keep the plumbing from freezing such as skirting the RV and using heat tape on the pipes. Fully winterizing and continuing to live in the RV isn’t feasible, as it requires draining the entire water system and adding antifreeze.

By following this comprehensive RV winterization checklist, you can protect your travel trailer from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures and ensure that it’s ready for your next adventure. Don’t skip steps, be meticulous, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve taken the necessary precautions to safeguard your investment.