De-winterizing your RV trailer is the critical first step to reclaiming your freedom and hitting the open road after a long winter. Neglecting this crucial process can lead to costly damage and frustrating delays, so a thorough and methodical approach is essential for a safe and enjoyable RV season.
The Call of the Open Road: Why De-Winterizing Matters
The winterization process protects your RV’s plumbing system from freezing temperatures. De-winterizing reverses that process, preparing your water system, appliances, and other components for use. Simply put, de-winterizing is the essential preparation to safely and reliably use your RV trailer’s essential systems like water, heating, and sanitation following winter storage. Failing to do so could lead to burst pipes, contaminated water, and malfunctioning appliances.
A Step-by-Step Guide to De-Winterizing Your RV Trailer
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a complete and effective de-winterization:
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, assemble the necessary tools and materials. This includes:
- RV antifreeze (the type used for winterizing)
- Fresh water hose (specifically designated for potable water)
- Wrench for tightening fittings
- Screwdriver for removing access panels
- Water heater bypass valve tool (if applicable)
- Bucket for catching draining water
- Baking soda or bleach solution for sanitizing the water system
- Gloves to protect your hands
- Towels for cleaning up spills
2. Safety First: Initial Inspection and Preparation
- Inspect the RV exterior: Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or loose seals. Repair any damage before proceeding.
- Check tire pressure: Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the sidewall.
- Inspect the roof: Look for any signs of leaks or damage to the sealant.
- Open all windows and vents: This will help ventilate the RV during the de-winterizing process.
3. Re-Activating the Water System
This is the most critical part of de-winterizing.
- Bypass the water heater: If you bypassed your water heater during winterization, return the bypass valve to its normal operating position. This is crucial to avoid filling the water heater with antifreeze.
- Drain the water heater: Locate the drain plug on the water heater and remove it to drain any remaining water or antifreeze. Replace the drain plug once drained, using Teflon tape on the threads for a secure seal.
- Flush the water lines: Connect a fresh water hose to the city water connection. Turn on the water supply and open all faucets (hot and cold) and the toilet valve one at a time. Allow the water to run until it runs clear and free of antifreeze. Don’t forget the outside shower if your RV has one.
- Check for leaks: While flushing the lines, carefully inspect all plumbing connections for leaks. Tighten any loose fittings as needed.
4. Sanitizing the Water System
Sanitizing removes bacteria and contaminants from the water system.
- Prepare the sanitizing solution: Mix a solution of ΒΌ cup of household bleach per 15 gallons of water, or use a commercially available RV water tank sanitizer.
- Fill the fresh water tank: Pour the sanitizing solution into the fresh water tank. Then, fill the tank completely with fresh water.
- Run the solution through the system: Turn on the water pump and open all faucets (hot and cold) and the toilet valve, allowing the sanitizing solution to run through each until you smell the bleach or sanitizer.
- Let it sit: Allow the sanitizing solution to sit in the water system for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Drain and flush again: Drain the water tank completely. Then, fill the tank with fresh water and flush the system again until the bleach or sanitizer smell is gone. Repeat this process as needed.
5. Appliance Checks
- Water heater: Once the water system is sanitized, turn on the water heater and check for proper operation.
- Refrigerator: Clean the refrigerator and freezer thoroughly. Turn it on and check for proper cooling.
- Stove and oven: Clean the stove and oven. Check the burner flames for proper color (blue is ideal).
- Air conditioner: Clean the air conditioner filters. Turn it on and check for proper cooling.
- Furnace: Check the furnace vents for obstructions. Turn it on and check for proper heating.
6. Battery Check
- Check battery terminals: Clean any corrosion from the battery terminals.
- Charge the battery: Fully charge the battery before your first trip.
- Test the battery: Have the battery tested to ensure it is holding a charge.
7. LP Gas System
- Check LP gas connections: Inspect all LP gas connections for leaks using a soapy water solution.
- Light the pilot lights: Light the pilot lights for the water heater, furnace, and stove, if applicable.
- Test LP gas appliances: Test all LP gas appliances to ensure they are working properly.
8. Final Inspection and Cleanup
- Check all lights: Test all interior and exterior lights.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure the detectors are working properly and replace batteries if needed.
- Clean the interior: Give the interior of the RV a thorough cleaning.
- Restock supplies: Restock the RV with food, water, and other essential supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About De-Winterizing
FAQ 1: Can I skip the sanitizing process?
No. Skipping sanitizing is strongly discouraged. During winter storage, bacteria and other contaminants can build up in the water system. Sanitizing ensures the water is safe to drink and use. Sanitizing is a critical step for health and safety.
FAQ 2: What if I still smell antifreeze after flushing the water lines?
Continue flushing the water lines with fresh water until the antifreeze smell is completely gone. You can also add a small amount of baking soda to the water tank during the flushing process to help neutralize the antifreeze.
FAQ 3: How often should I de-winterize my RV?
You only need to de-winterize your RV once each spring or after any period where it has been winterized for storage.
FAQ 4: What happens if I forget to bypass the water heater before flushing the lines?
If you forget to bypass the water heater, the antifreeze will fill the water heater tank. This is not a major issue, but you will need to drain the water heater and flush it thoroughly to remove the antifreeze.
FAQ 5: Is there a specific type of antifreeze I should use for RVs?
Yes. You should only use RV antifreeze, which is specifically designed for potable water systems. Automotive antifreeze is toxic and should never be used in an RV water system.
FAQ 6: What if I can’t find the water heater bypass valve?
The location of the bypass valve varies depending on the RV model. Consult your RV owner’s manual for specific instructions. It’s usually located near the water heater.
FAQ 7: Can I de-winterize my RV myself, or should I take it to a professional?
De-winterizing is a task that most RV owners can handle themselves with proper instruction and care. However, if you are not comfortable performing the steps or if you encounter any problems, it is best to take your RV to a qualified RV technician. Professional de-winterizing offers peace of mind and ensures proper system functioning.
FAQ 8: How long does it typically take to de-winterize an RV?
The time required to de-winterize an RV varies depending on the size and complexity of the RV and your experience level. Generally, it takes between 2 and 4 hours.
FAQ 9: What should I do with the RV antifreeze after I drain it?
RV antifreeze is typically non-toxic, but it’s best to dispose of it properly. Check with your local waste disposal facilities for guidelines on how to dispose of antifreeze safely. Many RV dealerships will accept used antifreeze for recycling.
FAQ 10: What if I find a leak during the de-winterizing process?
If you find a leak, immediately turn off the water supply and identify the source of the leak. Tighten any loose fittings or replace damaged components. If you are unable to repair the leak yourself, consult a qualified RV technician. Addressing leaks promptly prevents further damage and water waste.
FAQ 11: Can I use compressed air instead of RV antifreeze for winterizing?
Using compressed air to blow out the water lines is an effective method for winterizing in some climates, but it’s crucial to ensure all water is removed. In very cold climates, using RV antifreeze is recommended for added protection. Complete water removal is critical when using compressed air.
FAQ 12: What if my water pump won’t prime after de-winterizing?
Check the strainer on the water pump to make sure it is clean and free of debris. Also, check for any air leaks in the suction line. Sometimes, tilting the RV slightly can help the pump prime.