Winterizing a Casita travel trailer involves a multi-step process to protect its plumbing system from freezing temperatures, preventing costly damage like burst pipes and cracked fixtures. Properly preparing your Casita ensures it’s ready for storage and protects your investment, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your next camping season.
Understanding the Importance of Winterization
As someone who’s spent over two decades exploring the backcountry in various RVs, including the Casita, I’ve learned the hard way what happens when you skip winterization. Freezing temperatures can be incredibly unforgiving. Water expands when it freezes, and that expansion creates tremendous pressure within pipes and tanks. Without proper winterization, that pressure can rupture lines, split fittings, and even crack the delicate shell of your water pump. Repairing such damage can be expensive and time-consuming, ultimately cutting into your precious travel time.
Casitas, known for their durable fiberglass construction, are surprisingly vulnerable to water damage caused by freezing. The tight spaces within the trailer mean that even small leaks can cause significant issues. Proper winterization isn’t just about avoiding immediate damage; it’s about preserving the longevity and value of your Casita.
Step-by-Step Guide to Winterizing Your Casita
This detailed guide will walk you through the process of winterizing your Casita travel trailer, ensuring it’s ready to withstand freezing temperatures.
1. Gathering Your Supplies
Before you begin, assemble all the necessary supplies. This will save you time and prevent frustrating interruptions mid-process. Essential items include:
- RV Antifreeze (Non-toxic, potable water safe): Calculate the amount needed based on the size of your fresh water tank and plumbing lines. A couple of gallons are typically sufficient for a Casita.
- Water Heater Bypass Kit (if installed): If your Casita is equipped with one, make sure it’s functional.
- Water Pump Converter Kit (or bypass hose): This allows you to pump antifreeze through the plumbing.
- Screwdriver: For accessing and removing drain plugs.
- Wrench: For tightening connections and potentially removing anode rods.
- Air Compressor (optional): Can be used to blow out water lines.
- Basin or Bucket: To catch water and antifreeze.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Towel: For cleaning up spills.
2. Draining the Water System
The first crucial step is to eliminate all water from the plumbing system. This includes:
- Draining the Fresh Water Tank: Locate the drain valve, usually near the bottom of the tank, and open it completely. Allow all the water to drain.
- Draining the Water Heater: Turn off the water heater (both gas and electric) and allow it to cool completely. Remove the drain plug (or anode rod if equipped) and let the water drain. Inspect the anode rod for corrosion and replace it if necessary. Important: Only remove the anode rod if the water heater is completely cool and depressurized. Hot water can cause severe burns.
- Draining the Water Lines: Open all faucets (both hot and cold) inside the Casita, including the shower. Flush the toilet. This helps to release any residual water pressure.
- Draining the Low Point Drains: Locate the low point drain valves (usually two – one for hot water and one for cold water) and open them. Allow all the water to drain.
3. By-Passing the Water Heater
If your Casita has a water heater bypass kit, use it now. This prevents antifreeze from filling the water heater tank, saving you antifreeze and time. Close the inlet and outlet valves to the water heater and open the bypass valve.
4. Introducing RV Antifreeze
This is where you introduce the RV antifreeze into your water lines.
- Install the Water Pump Converter Kit (or Bypass Hose): This allows you to draw antifreeze directly from the antifreeze jug into the plumbing system.
- Pour RV Antifreeze into the Supply Hose: Insert the supply hose into a jug of RV antifreeze.
- Turn on the Water Pump: Turn on the water pump. This will draw the antifreeze into the plumbing system.
- Open Each Faucet (Hot and Cold) Individually: Start with the faucet furthest from the water pump and open it until you see pink (the color of RV antifreeze) flowing freely. Close the faucet and repeat the process for each faucet, showerhead, and toilet. Remember to flush the toilet until you see pink antifreeze.
5. Protecting the Drains
Pour a cup or two of RV antifreeze down each drain (shower, sink, toilet) and into the toilet bowl. This protects the P-traps from freezing and cracking.
6. Winterizing the Exterior
- Outdoor Shower (if equipped): Don’t forget to run antifreeze through the outdoor shower faucet.
- Exterior Faucets/Connections: Disconnect any hoses and ensure any exterior faucets are properly drained and protected with antifreeze.
7. Final Touches
- Turn off the Water Pump: Once you’ve completed the winterization process, turn off the water pump.
- Remove the Batteries: Disconnect and remove the batteries from your Casita. Store them in a cool, dry place, and check their charge periodically throughout the winter. This prevents them from freezing and potentially damaging them.
- Propane Tanks: Turn off and disconnect the propane tanks. Store them in a safe, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.
- Tires: Cover your tires to protect them from UV damage. Consider using tire covers or parking the Casita on planks to prevent direct contact with the ground.
- Cover the Casita (optional): While Casitas are made of fiberglass, a cover can protect them from the elements, including snow, ice, and UV rays. Ensure the cover is breathable to prevent moisture buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Do I really need to winterize my Casita if I live in a mild climate?
Even in mild climates, there’s a risk of freezing temperatures. One hard freeze can cause significant damage. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially since the cost of winterizing is minimal compared to potential repairs. Always winterize if temperatures are expected to drop below freezing for extended periods.
FAQ 2: Can I use regular automotive antifreeze instead of RV antifreeze?
Absolutely not! Automotive antifreeze is highly toxic and can contaminate your potable water system, making it unsafe for drinking. Only use RV antifreeze, which is specifically formulated to be non-toxic and safe for use in drinking water systems after proper flushing in the spring.
FAQ 3: How much RV antifreeze do I need for my Casita?
Generally, 2-3 gallons of RV antifreeze are sufficient for a Casita. The exact amount will depend on the size of your fresh water tank and the length of your plumbing lines.
FAQ 4: What if I forget to bypass the water heater?
If you forget to bypass the water heater, you’ll end up filling it with RV antifreeze, wasting a significant amount. It won’t cause any permanent damage, but you’ll need to flush the water heater thoroughly in the spring to remove all traces of antifreeze.
FAQ 5: Can I use an air compressor to blow out the water lines instead of antifreeze?
Yes, you can use an air compressor, but it’s essential to do it correctly. Set the pressure to around 30-40 PSI and use a regulator to prevent over-pressurizing the system. Blow out each line individually until no more water comes out. However, even with an air compressor, it’s still recommended to add a small amount of antifreeze to the P-traps to protect them.
FAQ 6: How do I know if I’ve used enough antifreeze?
The easiest way to tell is by observing the color of the liquid coming out of the faucets and toilet. It should be a distinct pink color, indicating that the antifreeze has reached those points.
FAQ 7: What do I do if I accidentally spill antifreeze?
Clean up any spills immediately with soap and water. RV antifreeze is non-toxic, but it’s still important to avoid prolonged contact with skin.
FAQ 8: Is it okay to leave the drain plugs out of the fresh water tank and water heater during the winter?
It’s generally recommended to leave the drain plugs out to allow for ventilation and prevent any residual water from freezing. Just be sure to store them in a safe place so you don’t lose them.
FAQ 9: What about the toilet? How do I winterize it properly?
Flush the toilet until you see pink antifreeze. Then, pour a cup or two of antifreeze into the bowl to protect the seal and prevent it from drying out or cracking.
FAQ 10: How do I de-winterize my Casita in the spring?
Flush the entire plumbing system thoroughly with fresh water until all traces of antifreeze are gone. Sanitize the fresh water tank by adding a solution of bleach and water, letting it sit for several hours, and then flushing again.
FAQ 11: Can I reuse the RV antifreeze next year?
No, you should never reuse RV antifreeze. It may become contaminated or diluted, reducing its effectiveness. Always use fresh RV antifreeze each year for optimal protection.
FAQ 12: Should I leave the cabinet doors open during the winter?
Leaving cabinet doors open helps to circulate air and prevent moisture buildup inside the Casita. This can help prevent mold and mildew growth during the winter months.
By following these steps and understanding the importance of winterization, you can protect your Casita travel trailer from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures and ensure it’s ready for your next adventure.