Winterizing Your Keystone Passport Travel Trailer: A Comprehensive Guide

The key to successfully winterizing your Keystone Passport travel trailer lies in completely removing all water from the plumbing system and protecting components from freezing temperatures, preventing costly damage over the winter months. Failure to properly winterize can lead to burst pipes, cracked fixtures, and significant repairs.

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Why Winterization is Crucial for Your Keystone Passport

Winterizing your Keystone Passport travel trailer isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential for preserving its value and functionality. Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your trailer’s plumbing system, appliances, and even the structural components. Water expands when it freezes, putting immense pressure on pipes, fittings, and tanks. This pressure can cause these components to crack or burst, leading to water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. A properly winterized trailer will be ready to go next spring, saving you time, money, and headaches.

Step-by-Step Winterization Process

This process assumes you have a basic understanding of your RV’s plumbing system. Consult your owner’s manual for specific details regarding your Keystone Passport model. We’ll cover two primary methods: using compressed air and using RV antifreeze.

Method 1: Using Compressed Air

This method is environmentally friendly, but requires a reliable air compressor.

Drain the Water Heater: Turn off the water heater and allow it to cool completely. Open the drain plug (usually located near the bottom of the heater) to empty the tank. Remove the plug entirely and check for sediment buildup. Consider flushing the tank if necessary. Remember to bypass the water heater before proceeding (refer to your owner’s manual for bypass valve locations).
Drain the Fresh Water Tank: Locate the fresh water tank drain valve and open it to completely empty the tank.
Drain the Water Lines: Open all faucets (both hot and cold) in the trailer, including the shower and any outside shower. Flush the toilet.
Bypass the Water Heater: Make sure your water heater is bypassed so antifreeze doesn’t fill it. Most RVs have a bypass valve. Consult your owner’s manual.
Connect an Air Compressor: Attach a blow-out plug to the city water inlet. Connect your air compressor to the blow-out plug and set the pressure to 30-40 PSI. Do not exceed 40 PSI to avoid damaging your plumbing.
Blow Out the Water Lines: Starting with the faucet furthest from the city water inlet, blow out each water line until only air comes out. Repeat this process for all faucets, the shower, and the toilet.
Empty the Holding Tanks: Drain the black and gray water holding tanks at an approved dump station. Rinse the tanks thoroughly using a tank flushing system (if equipped).
Pour Antifreeze Down Drains: Pour RV antifreeze into each drain (shower, sinks) and the toilet to protect the P-traps.

Method 2: Using RV Antifreeze

This method provides added freeze protection, particularly in extremely cold climates.

Follow steps 1-5 from the Compressed Air Method: This includes draining the water heater, fresh water tank, and water lines, bypassing the water heater, and opening all faucets.
Install a Water Pump Converter Kit: This kit allows you to draw antifreeze directly from a jug. You can find these kits at most RV supply stores.
Connect Antifreeze: Place the siphon hose from the converter kit into a jug of RV antifreeze.
Run the Water Pump: Turn on the water pump. Starting with the faucet furthest from the pump, open each faucet (both hot and cold) until pink antifreeze flows steadily. Repeat this process for all faucets, the shower, and the toilet. Don’t forget the outside shower.
Flush the Toilet: Flush the toilet until pink antifreeze is visible.
Pour Antifreeze Down Drains: Pour RV antifreeze into each drain (shower, sinks) and the toilet to protect the P-traps.
Empty the Holding Tanks: Drain the black and gray water holding tanks at an approved dump station. Rinse the tanks thoroughly using a tank flushing system (if equipped).

Additional Winterization Steps

Beyond the plumbing system, other components need protection.

Battery Maintenance

Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the battery cables to prevent parasitic draws that can drain the battery over time.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Ideally, store the battery in a cool, dry place that doesn’t freeze.
Check Water Levels (if applicable): If you have a flooded lead-acid battery, check the water levels and add distilled water as needed.

Appliance Protection

Refrigerator: Clean out the refrigerator and freezer thoroughly. Prop the doors open to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Stove/Oven: Clean the stovetop and oven.
Water Heater (Again): Ensure the drain plug is removed and the tank is completely dry.

Exterior Care

Clean the Exterior: Wash the exterior of the trailer to remove dirt and grime.
Cover the Tires: Use tire covers to protect the tires from UV damage.
Seal Openings: Inspect and seal any openings around windows, doors, and vents to prevent drafts and pest intrusion.
Roof Inspection: Inspect the roof for any signs of damage and repair as needed.

FAQs: Winterizing Your Keystone Passport

FAQ 1: What type of antifreeze should I use?

Use only RV antifreeze, which is non-toxic and designed for potable water systems. Never use automotive antifreeze, as it is highly toxic and can contaminate your water system.

FAQ 2: Can I skip winterizing if I only live in a mild climate?

Even in mild climates, temperatures can occasionally dip below freezing. It’s best to err on the side of caution and winterize your trailer, as even a short period of freezing temperatures can cause damage.

FAQ 3: How much RV antifreeze do I need?

The amount of antifreeze required depends on the size of your trailer and the length of the plumbing system. A good rule of thumb is 2-3 gallons for a typical Keystone Passport.

FAQ 4: How do I know if I’ve bypassed my water heater correctly?

Consult your owner’s manual for the specific location and operation of your water heater bypass valve(s). When bypassed correctly, antifreeze should not enter the water heater tank.

FAQ 5: What do I do if I can’t find the low point drains?

Low point drains are usually located beneath the trailer, near the water lines. Consult your owner’s manual or contact a qualified RV technician for assistance in locating them. They are essential for completely draining the water lines.

FAQ 6: Can I use an air compressor to blow out the black and gray water tanks?

No. Only use air to clear water lines. Ensure you completely drain and rinse the black and grey water tanks.

FAQ 7: Do I need to remove the water filter?

Yes, remove the water filter cartridge and store it indoors to prevent freezing and cracking. You can also purchase a bypass plug to install in place of the filter cartridge.

FAQ 8: What should I do with the ice maker and washing machine (if equipped)?

Consult your owner’s manual for specific winterization instructions for these appliances. Generally, you’ll need to drain and add antifreeze to the ice maker water line and the washing machine.

FAQ 9: How do I protect the toilet from freezing?

Pour RV antifreeze into the toilet bowl and flush it to coat the seals and prevent them from drying out. This protects against freezing and cracking.

FAQ 10: What if I have a slide-out kitchen?

Remember to winterize the water lines and drain in your slide-out kitchen, if applicable. Don’t overlook this area.

FAQ 11: Should I cover my RV for the winter?

While covering your RV can provide added protection from the elements, make sure the cover is breathable to prevent moisture buildup. Consider a high-quality RV cover designed specifically for winter use.

FAQ 12: How can I be sure I’ve done everything correctly?

If you’re unsure about any part of the winterization process, it’s best to consult a qualified RV technician. They can inspect your work and ensure that your Keystone Passport is properly protected for the winter.

By following these steps and addressing common concerns, you can confidently winterize your Keystone Passport travel trailer and enjoy peace of mind knowing that it will be ready for your next adventure when spring arrives.