Winterizing your travel trailer is essential for preventing costly damage from freezing temperatures. Failing to properly prepare your RV for winter can lead to burst pipes, cracked fixtures, and ruined appliances, turning your dream vacation vehicle into a repair nightmare. This guide will walk you through a comprehensive process to ensure your travel trailer survives the winter unscathed.
Why Winterizing is Crucial
The primary reason to winterize your travel trailer is to protect it from freezing temperatures. Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can exert tremendous pressure on your RV’s plumbing system. This pressure can cause pipes to burst, faucets to crack, and even damage the water heater and toilet. Winterizing effectively removes water from these systems, preventing freezing and minimizing the risk of damage. Neglecting this crucial step can result in significant repair bills that can easily exceed the cost of a new water heater or even plumbing overhaul. Beyond plumbing, winterizing also helps prevent mold growth and pest infestations, ensuring your RV is ready for your next adventure when spring arrives.
Step-by-Step Winterizing Process
This process outlines the key steps to properly winterize your travel trailer. While some steps may vary slightly depending on your RV model and specific features, this guide provides a solid foundation for a thorough winterization.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. This will save you time and frustration in the long run. Here’s a list of essentials:
- RV Antifreeze (Non-toxic, potable water safe): Calculate the amount based on your RV’s system size (usually 2-3 gallons).
- Water Heater Bypass Kit (if not already installed): Simplifies the process and conserves antifreeze.
- Water Pump Converter Kit (or fitting): Allows you to pump antifreeze through the system.
- Wrench: For removing drain plugs.
- Screwdriver: For various tasks.
- Blow-Out Plug: To connect to the city water inlet for air purging.
- Air Compressor: To blow out water lines (optional, but highly recommended).
- Drain Pan: To catch water during draining.
- Plumbing Tape: For sealing connections if necessary.
- Zip Ties: For securing loose hoses.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
2. Drain All Water Systems
The first step is to completely drain all water from your RV. This includes the fresh water tank, water heater, and all plumbing lines.
- Fresh Water Tank: Locate and open the fresh water tank drain valve. Allow the tank to drain completely.
- Water Heater: Turn off the water heater (both gas and electric) and allow it to cool completely before draining. Remove the drain plug (usually located near the bottom of the tank). Be careful, as the water may still be hot. Using a water heater bypass kit (if installed) will save you from filling the entire water heater with antifreeze later.
- Hot and Cold Water Lines: Open all faucets (including the shower) to allow air to enter the system and facilitate draining. Don’t forget the outside shower (if applicable).
3. Bypass the Water Heater
If you have a water heater bypass kit, now is the time to activate it. This isolates the water heater from the rest of the plumbing system, preventing antifreeze from entering and wasting a significant amount of it. The bypass usually involves turning a set of valves to reroute the water flow. Consult your RV’s manual for specific instructions.
4. Blow Out the Water Lines (Recommended)
Using compressed air to blow out the water lines is a highly effective way to remove residual water.
- Connect the Blow-Out Plug: Attach the blow-out plug to the city water inlet.
- Connect the Air Compressor: Set the air compressor to around 30-40 PSI. Do not exceed 40 PSI to avoid damaging the plumbing.
- Open Faucets Individually: Starting with the faucet furthest from the city water inlet, open the faucet and allow air to push through the lines until only air comes out. Repeat this process for all faucets, including the shower and toilet.
- Flush the Toilet: Depress the toilet flush pedal to blow out any remaining water.
5. Introduce RV Antifreeze
Now it’s time to introduce RV antifreeze into the plumbing system.
- Install the Water Pump Converter Kit: Install the converter kit (or fitting) on the inlet side of the water pump. This will allow you to draw antifreeze from a container instead of the fresh water tank.
- Insert the Antifreeze Suction Hose: Place the suction hose into a container of RV antifreeze.
- Turn on the Water Pump: Turn on the water pump and allow it to prime, drawing antifreeze into the system.
- Open Faucets Individually: Starting with the faucet furthest from the water pump, open the faucet and allow it to run until you see a steady stream of antifreeze (usually pink in color). Repeat this process for all faucets, including the shower and toilet.
- Flush the Toilet: Depress the toilet flush pedal until you see antifreeze.
- Pour Antifreeze Down Drains: Pour a cup or two of antifreeze down each drain (including the shower and toilet) to protect the P-traps from freezing.
6. Protect Appliances and Fixtures
- Water Heater: If you didn’t bypass the water heater, you’ll need to fill it with antifreeze. Consult your RV’s manual for the proper procedure.
- Toilet: Add antifreeze to the toilet bowl to prevent the seal from drying out and cracking.
- Ice Maker/Water Dispenser (if applicable): Consult your RV’s manual for specific instructions on winterizing these systems. They may require special treatment.
7. Batteries
Disconnect the batteries to prevent them from draining during storage. Store them in a cool, dry place, and check their charge periodically throughout the winter. Consider using a battery maintainer to keep them at an optimal charge level.
8. Seal Openings
Seal any openings in your RV to prevent pests from entering. This includes gaps around pipes, vents, and other openings. Use caulk or expanding foam to seal these areas.
9. Cover the RV
Consider covering your RV with a breathable RV cover to protect it from the elements. This will help prevent damage from snow, rain, and UV rays.
10. Final Inspection
Before leaving your RV for the winter, do a final inspection. Make sure all drains are closed, the batteries are disconnected, and all openings are sealed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about winterizing travel trailers:
1. Can I use regular antifreeze instead of RV antifreeze?
Absolutely not! Regular automotive antifreeze is highly toxic and not safe for potable water systems. Always use RV antifreeze, which is non-toxic and specifically designed for this purpose.
2. How much RV antifreeze do I need?
The amount of RV antifreeze needed depends on the size of your RV and the complexity of its plumbing system. Typically, 2-3 gallons are sufficient for a smaller travel trailer. However, larger RVs may require more. Consult your RV’s manual or a qualified technician for specific recommendations.
3. Can I skip the air compressor step?
While not strictly mandatory, using an air compressor to blow out the water lines is highly recommended. It removes a significant amount of water, reducing the amount of antifreeze needed and further minimizing the risk of freezing.
4. What happens if I don’t winterize my travel trailer?
Failing to winterize your travel trailer can result in burst pipes, cracked fixtures, and damaged appliances. The cost of repairs can be substantial, far exceeding the cost of winterizing.
5. How do I winterize the black and gray water tanks?
After emptying the black and gray water tanks, add a few gallons of RV antifreeze to each tank. This will prevent any residual water from freezing and damaging the tank valves.
6. Where should I store my RV antifreeze after winterizing?
Store leftover RV antifreeze in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. Ensure the container is tightly sealed.
7. How do I de-winterize my travel trailer in the spring?
De-winterizing involves flushing the antifreeze from the water system. Follow these steps: Drain the antifreeze, sanitize the freshwater tank and lines with bleach solution, and flush with fresh water until the antifreeze taste and smell are gone. Consult your RV’s manual for detailed instructions.
8. Is it necessary to cover my travel trailer?
While not mandatory, covering your travel trailer with a breathable RV cover provides added protection from the elements, preventing damage from snow, rain, and UV rays.
9. How often should I check on my travel trailer during the winter?
Ideally, you should check on your travel trailer every few weeks to ensure everything is in order. Look for any signs of leaks, pest infestations, or other problems.
10. What if my RV has a washing machine?
Winterizing an RV with a washing machine requires special attention. Consult your RV’s manual or a qualified technician for specific instructions, as these systems are more complex.
11. Should I leave the RV’s holding tank valves open during the winter?
No, do not leave the holding tank valves open. This can allow pests and odors to enter the RV. Leave them closed after adding antifreeze to the tanks.
12. Can I hire someone to winterize my travel trailer?
Yes, if you’re not comfortable winterizing your travel trailer yourself, you can hire a qualified RV technician to do it for you. This is a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re unsure about the process.
By following these steps and addressing these frequently asked questions, you can effectively winterize your travel trailer and protect it from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures, ensuring it’s ready for your next adventure when spring arrives.