De-winterizing your Jayco travel trailer is essential to prepare it for safe and enjoyable travel after the cold winter months. This process involves carefully reversing the winterization steps, ensuring all systems are functioning correctly and free from damage caused by freezing temperatures.
Preparing for the Thaw: Why De-Winterizing Matters
As the weather warms up, the allure of the open road and the promise of new adventures become irresistible. However, before you hitch up your Jayco travel trailer and head out, it’s crucial to de-winterize it thoroughly. Neglecting this step can lead to costly repairs, inconvenient breakdowns, and even safety hazards. The winterization process protects your trailer’s plumbing system from freezing and cracking. De-winterizing reverses this process, restoring the trailer to its fully operational state. This not only prevents immediate problems but also helps extend the lifespan of your trailer’s vital components. Proper de-winterization is not just a maintenance task; it’s an investment in your trailer’s longevity and your peace of mind.
Step-by-Step De-Winterizing Guide
Here’s a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to de-winterizing your Jayco travel trailer, ensuring a smooth transition from winter storage to summer adventures:
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, assemble all the necessary supplies. This will save you time and prevent interruptions during the process. You’ll need:
- Fresh water hose (drinking water safe)
- Non-toxic RV antifreeze (for flushing)
- Water heater bypass valves (check location)
- Water heater drain plug
- Basic tools (screwdriver, wrench)
- Bucket
- Cleaning supplies (bleach solution for sanitizing)
2. Inspect and Connect Water Lines
Carefully inspect all water lines and fittings for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or loose connections. Tighten any loose connections with a wrench. Ensure all drain valves are closed. Begin connecting your fresh water hose to the city water inlet on your trailer.
3. Drain the Antifreeze
Locate the low-point drains on your trailer (usually under the trailer near the axles). Open these drains to allow the RV antifreeze to drain out. Have a bucket ready to catch the antifreeze. Dispose of the antifreeze properly according to local regulations. Do not pour it down storm drains.
4. Flush the Water System
Once the antifreeze is drained, close the low-point drains. Turn on your water pump and begin flushing each faucet (both hot and cold), shower, and toilet with fresh water. Allow the water to run for several minutes at each fixture until the water runs clear and free of any pink or red color (antifreeze residue).
5. Sanitize the Water System
Sanitizing your water system is crucial to eliminate any bacteria or contaminants that may have accumulated during winter storage. Mix a solution of ΒΌ cup of household bleach per 15 gallons of water in your fresh water tank. Run all faucets and showers until you smell bleach. Let the solution sit in the system for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. After the sanitizing period, drain the system completely and flush with fresh water until the bleach odor is gone.
6. Prepare the Water Heater
Inspect your water heater. If you bypassed it during winterization, ensure the bypass valves are set to allow water to flow through the tank. Remove the drain plug from the water heater and allow any remaining water to drain out. Inspect the plug for corrosion and replace it if necessary. Reinstall the drain plug securely.
7. Check the Toilet
Inspect the toilet for any leaks or damage. Flush the toilet several times to ensure it is functioning properly and that the bowl fills and empties correctly.
8. Inspect and Test Appliances
Check all appliances, including the refrigerator, stove, oven, and air conditioner. Ensure they are clean and free of debris. Test each appliance to ensure it is functioning correctly.
9. Battery Check and Connection
If you disconnected your battery for storage, reconnect it now. Clean the battery terminals and apply a corrosion inhibitor. Check the battery’s charge level and charge it if necessary.
10. Tire Inspection
Inspect your tires for proper inflation and any signs of damage, such as cracks or bulges. Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure (check the sidewall of the tire or the sticker on your trailer).
11. Exterior Inspection
Walk around your trailer and inspect the exterior for any damage, such as cracks in the sealant, loose panels, or damaged lights. Repair any damage as needed.
12. Final Check and Enjoy!
Before hitting the road, do a final check of all systems and components. Ensure all lights are working, brakes are functioning properly, and the trailer is securely hitched. Now, you’re ready to enjoy your camping season!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about de-winterizing a Jayco travel trailer, providing further clarity and addressing common concerns:
1. Can I skip the sanitizing step?
While you can skip it, it’s highly not recommended. Sanitizing removes bacteria and algae that may have grown in the water system during storage, ensuring your water is safe to drink and use.
2. How do I know if I have a water heater bypass?
Most Jayco travel trailers are equipped with a water heater bypass. Look for valves near the water heater that allow you to redirect the water flow, bypassing the tank. Consult your owner’s manual for specific location and operation.
3. What type of antifreeze should I use?
Always use non-toxic RV antifreeze. Regular automotive antifreeze is poisonous and can contaminate your water system.
4. Where can I dispose of the RV antifreeze?
Check with your local waste management facility or RV dealership for proper disposal methods. Many facilities accept RV antifreeze for recycling or disposal.
5. How long should I flush the water lines?
Flush each faucet and shower for at least several minutes, or until the water runs clear and free of any antifreeze residue.
6. What if I still smell antifreeze after flushing?
Continue flushing the water lines until the smell is completely gone. You may need to flush the system several times. Consider using a baking soda solution to neutralize the smell.
7. How often should I de-winterize my travel trailer?
You only need to de-winterize your travel trailer once per year, after the last threat of freezing temperatures has passed.
8. What if I find a leak during de-winterization?
If you find a leak, immediately shut off the water supply and identify the source of the leak. Repair or replace the damaged component as needed.
9. My water pump isn’t working. What should I do?
Check the fuse for the water pump and replace it if necessary. Also, ensure the water pump is properly primed. Consult your owner’s manual for priming instructions.
10. Can I use compressed air to blow out the water lines instead of antifreeze?
While compressed air can be used, it is riskier. If water remains in the lines and freezes, it can still cause damage. Antifreeze provides better protection against freezing.
11. Do I need to lubricate anything during de-winterization?
Yes, it’s a good idea to lubricate hinges, locks, and other moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant. This will help prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
12. What if my hot water heater won’t fill up?
Ensure that the water heater bypass valves are set correctly to allow water to flow into the tank. Also, check that the pressure relief valve is closed and not leaking.
Conclusion: Ready for the Road
De-winterizing your Jayco travel trailer is a critical step in preparing for the camping season. By following this comprehensive guide and addressing any potential issues, you can ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable travel experience. Remember to consult your Jayco owner’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations for your model. Happy camping!