The process of de-winterizing your Jayco travel trailer is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable camping season. It involves systematically reversing the winterization steps, inspecting all systems, and preparing your RV for another year of adventures, preventing potential damage and costly repairs.
Why De-Winterize Your Travel Trailer?
De-winterizing is more than just filling the water tank; it’s a comprehensive process of reversing the steps taken to protect your Jayco during freezing temperatures. Neglecting this process can lead to serious consequences, including burst pipes, damaged appliances, and contaminated water systems. Proper de-winterization ensures all systems are functioning correctly and safely, allowing you to hit the road with confidence. Ignoring this step could be costly and inconvenient, potentially ruining your first trip of the season.
Step-by-Step De-Winterization Process
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of how to de-winterize your Jayco travel trailer, ensuring a smooth transition from winter storage to camping readiness.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies. This includes:
- RV Antifreeze Sanitizer: Essential for disinfecting the water system after removing the antifreeze.
- Water Hose (Drinking Water Safe): For flushing and filling the water tank.
- Basic Tools: Screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers may be needed for minor adjustments.
- Bucket or Drain: To catch any residual antifreeze.
- Water Heater Bypass Valve: Ensure you can access this.
2. Drain and Flush the Plumbing System
The first step is to remove the winterizing antifreeze from your plumbing system.
- Locate and Open Drain Valves: Open all low point drain valves (usually two: one for hot water and one for cold water).
- Open All Faucets and Shower: This allows air to enter the system and facilitate draining.
- Flush with Fresh Water: Once the antifreeze has drained, connect your water hose to the city water connection and flush the system. Close the drain valves and turn on each faucet (both hot and cold) individually until the water runs clear. Do the same for the shower.
- Bypass the Water Heater: Make sure your water heater bypass valve is still in the bypass position to prevent antifreeze from entering the water heater tank.
3. Sanitize the Water System
Sanitizing the water system is critical to eliminate any bacteria or contaminants that may have accumulated during storage.
- Prepare the Sanitizing Solution: Mix 1/4 cup of household bleach for every 15 gallons of water tank capacity.
- Pour Solution into Fresh Water Tank: Pour the bleach solution into your fresh water tank.
- Fill the Water Tank: Fill the remainder of the water tank with fresh water.
- Run Water Through All Faucets: Turn on each faucet (hot and cold) and shower until you smell the bleach. Allow the solution to run for a few minutes to ensure it reaches all parts of the plumbing system.
- Let the Solution Sit: Allow the solution to sit in the plumbing system for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Drain and Flush Again: After the sanitizing period, drain the water tank and flush the system with fresh water until the bleach smell is gone. This may require several flushes.
4. Inspect and Activate the Water Heater
Now it’s time to prepare your water heater for use.
- Inspect the Water Heater: Check for any signs of damage or corrosion. Clean the burner compartment if necessary.
- Close the Bypass Valve: Set the water heater bypass valve to the normal operating position, allowing water to flow into the water heater tank.
- Fill the Water Heater: Open the hot water faucet and allow the water heater to fill completely, purging any air from the system.
- Test the Water Heater: Turn on the water heater and test its functionality.
5. Check Plumbing Connections for Leaks
Carefully inspect all plumbing connections for leaks.
- Inspect Under Sinks: Check the connections under the kitchen and bathroom sinks.
- Inspect Water Pump: Check the connections around the water pump.
- Tighten Connections: If you find any leaks, tighten the connections with a wrench. If the leak persists, you may need to replace the fitting or add sealant.
6. Inspect and Test Appliances
Ensure all appliances are functioning correctly.
- Refrigerator: Clean the refrigerator and freezer. Test the cooling function.
- Stove and Oven: Check the burner flames for proper color (blue is ideal). Ensure the oven ignites correctly.
- Air Conditioner: Clean or replace the air conditioner filter. Test the cooling function.
- Furnace: Inspect the furnace exhaust and intake. Test the heating function.
- Water Pump: Turn on the water pump and listen for any unusual noises. Check the water pressure at all faucets.
7. Check the Battery
Your battery is crucial for operating many RV systems.
- Clean the Battery Terminals: Clean any corrosion from the battery terminals.
- Check the Battery Water Level: If your battery is not a maintenance-free type, check the water level and add distilled water as needed.
- Test the Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. A fully charged 12-volt battery should read around 12.6 volts.
- Charge the Battery: Charge the battery if necessary.
8. Inspect Tires and Brakes
Tire and brake safety are paramount.
- Check Tire Pressure: Inflate tires to the recommended pressure (found on the tire sidewall).
- Inspect Tires for Wear and Damage: Look for any signs of wear, cracks, or bulges.
- Check Brake Function: If possible, perform a visual inspection of the brake pads and rotors. Test the brakes on a short test drive.
9. Check Exterior Lights and Connections
Confirm all exterior lights are working.
- Test Running Lights: Turn on the running lights and check that all lights are functioning.
- Test Brake Lights: Have someone assist you in checking the brake lights.
- Test Turn Signals: Check the turn signals and hazard lights.
- Inspect Electrical Connections: Check the condition of the 7-way connector and other electrical connections.
10. Inspect Roof and Seals
Prevent water damage by checking the roof and seals.
- Inspect Roof for Cracks or Damage: Look for any cracks, punctures, or other damage to the roof membrane.
- Check Seals Around Vents and Windows: Inspect the seals around vents, windows, and other roof penetrations for cracks or deterioration.
- Re-seal as Needed: If you find any damaged seals, re-seal them with RV-specific sealant.
11. Inspect Propane System
Safety first! Inspect your propane system.
- Check Propane Tank Levels: Make sure your propane tanks are full or adequately filled.
- Sniff for Leaks: Sniff around the propane tank connections and appliances for any propane odor. If you smell propane, immediately shut off the propane tank and contact a qualified RV technician.
- Test Propane Appliances: Test the propane appliances (stove, oven, furnace, water heater) to ensure they are functioning correctly.
12. Final Walk-Through and Cleaning
Do a final inspection and cleaning.
- Open Windows and Ventilate: Open all windows and ventilate the RV to remove any remaining odors.
- Clean Interior Surfaces: Clean all interior surfaces with RV-friendly cleaners.
- Inspect for Pests: Look for any signs of pests, such as droppings or nests.
- Restock Supplies: Restock your RV with necessary supplies, such as food, water, and toiletries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about de-winterizing a Jayco travel trailer.
FAQ 1: How do I know if my travel trailer was properly winterized?
Look for signs of RV antifreeze in the plumbing system (pinkish color). Also, check if the water heater was bypassed and drained. If uncertain, consult your winterization records or contact a professional RV technician.
FAQ 2: What happens if I don’t de-winterize my travel trailer properly?
Failure to properly de-winterize can lead to burst pipes, damaged appliances, a contaminated water system, and costly repairs. It’s a crucial step for ensuring your RV’s longevity.
FAQ 3: Can I use regular antifreeze instead of RV antifreeze?
Never use regular automotive antifreeze in your RV’s plumbing system. It is toxic and can contaminate your water supply. Always use RV-specific antifreeze, which is non-toxic.
FAQ 4: How often should I sanitize my water system?
You should sanitize your water system at least once a year, typically during the de-winterization process. You should also sanitize after any period of disuse or if you suspect contamination.
FAQ 5: What if I can’t find the low point drain valves?
Consult your Jayco owner’s manual or contact a Jayco dealer for the location of the low point drain valves. They are typically located near the plumbing lines under the RV.
FAQ 6: How do I dispose of the RV antifreeze?
RV antifreeze is generally considered non-toxic, but it’s still best to dispose of it responsibly. Check with your local waste management facility for proper disposal guidelines. Do not pour it down storm drains.
FAQ 7: How long does it take to de-winterize a travel trailer?
The de-winterization process can take 2-4 hours, depending on the complexity of your RV’s systems and your experience level.
FAQ 8: What tools do I need to de-winterize my RV?
You’ll need basic tools such as screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, a water hose, RV antifreeze sanitizer, and a bucket or drain. A multimeter can be helpful for checking the battery.
FAQ 9: My water heater is leaking after de-winterizing. What should I do?
Immediately turn off the water supply to the water heater. Inspect the drain plug and pressure relief valve for leaks. Tighten the connections or replace the faulty components if necessary. If the leak persists, contact a qualified RV technician.
FAQ 10: What should I do if I find pests in my travel trailer?
Clean the affected areas thoroughly with appropriate cleaners. Set traps or use pest control products to eliminate the pests. Seal any entry points to prevent future infestations. Consider contacting a professional pest control service if the infestation is severe.
FAQ 11: Can I de-winterize my RV myself, or should I hire a professional?
Many RV owners can successfully de-winterize their RVs themselves by following a detailed guide like this. However, if you are uncomfortable with any part of the process or suspect more complex issues, it’s best to hire a qualified RV technician.
FAQ 12: What is a water heater bypass valve, and why is it important?
A water heater bypass valve allows you to bypass the water heater tank during winterization and de-winterization. This prevents RV antifreeze from entering the water heater tank, which can be difficult to flush out and waste antifreeze. It also speeds up the water heating process after de-winterization.
By following these steps and addressing these frequently asked questions, you can confidently de-winterize your Jayco travel trailer and prepare for a memorable camping season. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional if you have any doubts or concerns. Happy camping!