The harsh realities of winter can wreak havoc on your Jayco travel trailer if you’re not prepared. Properly winterizing protects your plumbing system from freezing and bursting, safeguarding your investment and ensuring a hassle-free camping season next year.
Understanding the Urgency of Winterization
Winterizing your Jayco travel trailer is more than just a suggestion – it’s a necessity. Freezing temperatures can cause water inside your plumbing lines to expand, leading to cracked pipes, damaged fixtures, and potentially extensive water damage. This not only costs money to repair but also diminishes the resale value of your trailer. Ignoring this crucial task can turn your dream camping getaway into a nightmare of repairs and expenses.
Step-by-Step Winterization Process
This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to winterizing your Jayco travel trailer. We’ll cover everything from draining the water system to protecting your appliances. Remember to consult your Jayco owner’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations for your particular model.
Draining the Water System
This is the most critical step in preventing freeze damage.
- Drain the Freshwater Tank: Locate the drain valve for your freshwater tank, usually found underneath the trailer. Open the valve and allow the tank to drain completely.
- Drain the Water Heater: Always ensure the water heater is turned off and cooled down before draining. Remove the drain plug, usually located at the bottom of the tank. Open a hot water faucet to allow air to enter and facilitate drainage. Some models might require a specific wrench for the drain plug.
- Bypass the Water Heater: Locate the water heater bypass valve(s). Most RVs have a three-way valve system. Set the valves to the bypass position to prevent antifreeze from entering the water heater tank, saving you gallons of antifreeze.
- Drain the Water Lines: Open all faucets (hot and cold) and showerheads inside the trailer. Also, open the outside shower faucet, if equipped.
- Use the Water Pump to Clear Lines: Turn on your water pump briefly to push out any remaining water in the lines. Then, turn the pump off.
- Drain Low Point Drains: Locate the low point drain valves (usually two – one for hot and one for cold water lines). Open these valves and allow any remaining water to drain completely. These drains are typically located beneath the trailer.
- Drain the Toilet: Flush the toilet until the bowl is empty.
Adding RV Antifreeze
RV antifreeze is non-toxic and designed specifically for plumbing systems. Never use automotive antifreeze, as it is highly toxic and dangerous.
- Bypass the Water Heater (Again!): Double-check that you have bypassed the water heater.
- Locate the Water Pump: Find your water pump. It is usually located near the freshwater tank.
- Attach the Antifreeze Pickup Tube: Most RVs have a built-in siphon hose for drawing antifreeze. If yours doesn’t, you’ll need to install a water pump converter kit. Insert the siphon hose into a gallon of RV antifreeze.
- Turn on the Water Pump: Turn on the water pump.
- Run Antifreeze Through Fixtures: Starting with the faucet furthest from the water pump, open both the hot and cold sides of the faucet until you see pink antifreeze flowing steadily. Repeat this process for each faucet and showerhead, working your way closer to the water pump.
- Flush the Toilet with Antifreeze: Flush the toilet until you see antifreeze in the bowl.
- Pour Antifreeze into Drains: Pour a cup or two of antifreeze into each drain (including the shower and bathroom sink) and the toilet bowl. This protects the P-traps from freezing.
Other Essential Winterization Steps
- Empty and Clean the Holding Tanks (Black and Gray): Thoroughly flush both the black and gray water tanks. Use a tank cleaning wand if necessary.
- Protect the Valves: Pour a small amount of RV antifreeze down the drain leading to each holding tank to protect the valves.
- Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the battery and store it in a warm, dry place. Regularly check the battery’s charge and use a trickle charger if necessary.
- Remove Food and Perishables: Remove all food items, especially those that can attract pests.
- Prop Open Cabinets and Drawers: This allows air to circulate and prevents mold and mildew growth.
- Cover Air Conditioner: Cover your rooftop air conditioner with a specifically designed RV air conditioner cover.
- Seal Any Openings: Inspect for any gaps or openings where rodents or insects could enter and seal them with caulk or expanding foam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about winterizing a Jayco travel trailer:
FAQ 1: Can I use compressed air instead of antifreeze?
While blowing out the lines with compressed air can help, it’s not a substitute for antifreeze. Air pressure alone cannot remove all the water, especially from low points and traps. Residual water can still freeze and cause damage. Antifreeze provides an extra layer of protection.
FAQ 2: How much RV antifreeze do I need?
This depends on the size of your travel trailer. Typically, 2-3 gallons of RV antifreeze are sufficient for most Jayco travel trailers. It’s always better to have a little extra than not enough.
FAQ 3: What happens if I forget to bypass the water heater?
If you forget to bypass the water heater, you will waste a significant amount of antifreeze filling the tank. This isn’t harmful to the water heater itself, but it’s economically wasteful.
FAQ 4: Do I need to winterize if I live in a mild climate?
Even in mild climates, occasional freezes can occur. If temperatures are expected to drop below freezing for an extended period (e.g., several days), winterizing is still recommended. Consider a modified winterization that focuses primarily on draining the water system.
FAQ 5: How do I winterize my washing machine and ice maker (if equipped)?
Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your washing machine and ice maker. Typically, you’ll need to drain them and run antifreeze through their lines. For ice makers, you may need to disconnect the water line and blow it out with compressed air.
FAQ 6: Can I use regular plumbing antifreeze?
No! Only use RV antifreeze. Regular plumbing antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is highly toxic and can contaminate your water system. RV antifreeze (propylene glycol) is non-toxic and safe for potable water systems.
FAQ 7: How often should I check on my winterized travel trailer?
It’s a good idea to check on your winterized travel trailer every few weeks. Look for signs of leaks, pest intrusion, or any other potential problems.
FAQ 8: What if I want to use my travel trailer during the winter?
If you plan to use your travel trailer during the winter, you’ll need to take additional precautions, such as insulating the underbelly, using a heated water hose, and skirt the trailer. You may also need to use electric space heaters to prevent freezing.
FAQ 9: What should I do if I think my pipes have frozen?
If you suspect your pipes have frozen, do not try to thaw them with a direct flame. Use a hairdryer or space heater to gently warm the area. Check for leaks after thawing.
FAQ 10: What are the signs of improper winterization?
Signs of improper winterization include leaks, cracks in plumbing fixtures, and a musty odor (indicating mold or mildew).
FAQ 11: Where can I purchase RV antifreeze and other winterization supplies?
RV antifreeze and other winterization supplies can be purchased at most RV supply stores, camping supply stores, and online retailers.
FAQ 12: What is the average cost to have my Jayco travel trailer professionally winterized?
The cost of professional winterization varies depending on the size of your trailer and the services included. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for professional winterization. Doing it yourself is significantly cheaper.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment
By following these steps and answering these frequently asked questions, you can confidently winterize your Jayco travel trailer and protect it from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures. Taking the time to properly winterize your RV is an investment in its longevity and your future camping adventures. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your home away from home is safe and sound until the warmer weather returns!