Winterizing your 2016 Jayco travel trailer is essential to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures, protecting your investment for years to come. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions and expert tips to ensure your RV is properly prepared for winter storage.
Why Winterizing Matters
Failing to winterize your 2016 Jayco travel trailer can result in catastrophic damage to the plumbing system. Freezing water expands, potentially bursting pipes, cracking fixtures, and damaging water pumps. Repairing these issues can be expensive and time-consuming, detracting from your future camping adventures. Proactive winterization safeguards your RV, minimizing the risk of cold-weather-related problems. This guide outlines the key steps for a thorough and effective winterizing process.
Getting Started: Essential Supplies
Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and ensure you don’t have to stop mid-way to run to the store. Here’s a checklist of essential items:
- Non-toxic RV antifreeze: Enough to fill all the water lines. The amount will vary depending on the size of your trailer, but 2-3 gallons is usually sufficient.
- Water heater bypass kit (if not already installed): This is crucial for preventing antifreeze from filling your water heater.
- Water pump converter kit (or tubing): This allows you to pump antifreeze directly into the water lines.
- Screwdrivers and wrenches: For accessing and draining various components.
- Air compressor (optional): To blow out water lines after draining.
- Water heater drain plug wrench: To remove the drain plug.
- Bags and tape: To cover vents and prevent pests from entering.
- Bucket: To catch water during draining.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Paper towels: For cleaning up spills.
Step-by-Step Winterization Process
Follow these steps carefully to properly winterize your 2016 Jayco travel trailer:
1. Drain the Water System
- Drain the fresh water tank: Locate the fresh water tank drain valve and open it to completely empty the tank.
- Drain the water heater: Turn off the water heater (both electric and gas). Allow the water to cool completely before removing the drain plug. Use the drain plug wrench to carefully remove the plug and drain the tank. Consider flushing the tank with a tank rinsing wand to remove sediment. Once drained, replace the drain plug, but do not tighten it fully.
- Drain the water lines: Open all faucets (hot and cold) inside the trailer, including the shower and outside shower (if equipped). Flush the toilet. Locate and open the low-point drain valves (usually located under the trailer). This will allow the water to drain from the lowest points in the plumbing system.
- Bypass the water heater: If your trailer has a water heater bypass kit, activate it. This prevents antifreeze from entering and filling the water heater, saving you antifreeze and preventing potential damage to the heating element. If your unit doesn’t have a bypass, you’ll need to install one or manually drain and isolate the water heater.
2. Blow Out the Water Lines (Optional but Recommended)
- Connect an air compressor: Connect an air compressor to the city water inlet. Set the compressor to a low pressure (around 30-40 PSI).
- Blow out the lines: Open each faucet (one at a time, both hot and cold) until only air comes out. Repeat the process for the shower and toilet. This helps remove any remaining water from the lines.
3. Pump Antifreeze Through the Water Lines
- Install a water pump converter kit: Disconnect the fresh water tank hose from the water pump and connect the water pump converter kit. Alternatively, you can disconnect the inlet hose and place it directly into a jug of RV antifreeze.
- Turn on the water pump: Turn on the water pump and begin pumping antifreeze through the water lines.
- Open each faucet: Starting with the faucet furthest from the water pump, open the cold side first until pink antifreeze flows steadily. Then, switch to the hot side until pink antifreeze flows steadily. Repeat this process for all faucets, including the shower and outside shower.
- Flush the toilet: Flush the toilet until pink antifreeze flows into the bowl.
- Pour antifreeze into drains: Pour a cup or two of antifreeze into each drain (sink, shower, and toilet) to protect the P-traps.
4. Winterize Other Appliances
- Ice maker and washing machine (if equipped): Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for winterizing these appliances. This typically involves draining and adding antifreeze.
- Black and gray water tanks: Drain and flush these tanks thoroughly. Some people add a small amount of antifreeze to the black water tank to prevent freezing.
5. Final Preparations
- Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the battery terminals to prevent the battery from draining during storage. Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Consider using a battery tender to keep it charged.
- Cover vents and openings: Cover all vents and openings to prevent pests from entering the trailer. Use bags and tape to seal them securely.
- Remove perishables: Remove all food and other perishable items from the refrigerator and pantry.
- Prop refrigerator door open: Prop the refrigerator door open to prevent mold and mildew from growing inside.
- Clean the interior: Give the interior of your trailer a thorough cleaning to prevent pests and unpleasant odors.
- Check for leaks: Inspect the roof and seals for any potential leaks. Repair any damage to prevent water intrusion.
FAQs: Winterizing Your 2016 Jayco Travel Trailer
FAQ 1: What kind of antifreeze should I use?
Only use non-toxic RV antifreeze. Automotive antifreeze is poisonous and should never be used in your RV’s plumbing system. RV antifreeze is designed to be safe for drinking water systems.
FAQ 2: How much antifreeze do I need?
The amount of antifreeze you need depends on the size of your trailer and the length of its plumbing system. A good rule of thumb is to purchase 2-3 gallons for a standard travel trailer. It’s always better to have a little extra than to run out mid-winterization.
FAQ 3: Can I skip blowing out the water lines and just use antifreeze?
While it’s possible to skip blowing out the water lines, it’s highly recommended to do so. Blowing out the lines removes a significant amount of water, reducing the amount of antifreeze needed and minimizing the risk of diluted antifreeze freezing in the lines.
FAQ 4: Do I need to drain the black and gray water tanks completely?
Yes, it’s crucial to drain both the black and gray water tanks completely before winterizing. Residual waste can freeze and cause damage to the tanks and plumbing.
FAQ 5: What if I don’t have a water heater bypass kit?
If your 2016 Jayco travel trailer doesn’t have a water heater bypass kit, you’ll need to manually drain the water heater and install one (recommended for future use) or take extra precautions to prevent antifreeze from entering the tank. This involves very careful draining and potentially inserting a siphon tube to remove as much water as possible. Without a bypass, you’ll also need significantly more antifreeze.
FAQ 6: Can I leave the water heater drain plug out during the winter?
While some people recommend leaving the drain plug out, it’s generally advisable to replace it loosely. This will prevent insects from entering the water heater and building nests inside. Just don’t tighten it fully to avoid cracking the threads if any residual water freezes.
FAQ 7: How do I winterize the toilet?
To winterize the toilet, flush it until pink antifreeze flows into the bowl. You can also pour a cup or two of antifreeze directly into the bowl. This will protect the toilet valve and plumbing from freezing.
FAQ 8: What if I find a leak during the winterization process?
Address any leaks immediately. Repair the leak before continuing with the winterization process. Ignoring a leak can lead to more significant damage later. Use RV sealant or appropriate plumbing repair techniques.
FAQ 9: Do I need to cover my RV for the winter?
Covering your RV is optional, but it can provide added protection from the elements. Use a breathable RV cover specifically designed for winter storage. This will help prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.
FAQ 10: Where should I store my RV during the winter?
Ideally, store your RV in a covered or enclosed storage facility. If that’s not possible, choose a location that is level, well-drained, and protected from strong winds.
FAQ 11: How often should I check on my RV during the winter?
It’s a good idea to check on your RV periodically throughout the winter, especially after heavy snowfall or extreme temperature fluctuations. Look for any signs of damage or leaks.
FAQ 12: What should I do if I have any doubts about winterizing my RV myself?
If you’re uncomfortable with any part of the winterization process, consult a qualified RV technician. They can provide expert advice and perform the winterization for you. A professional winterization will give you peace of mind knowing your RV is properly protected.