Winterizing your Cherokee travel trailer is essential to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. By thoroughly draining your water system, adding antifreeze, and taking protective measures for sensitive components, you can ensure your Cherokee is ready to withstand the winter months, allowing for a smooth and trouble-free start to your next camping season.
The Imperative of Winterization
Few things are more disheartening than discovering burst pipes, cracked fixtures, or a ruined water heater after a long winter of inactivity. Water expands when it freezes, and this simple fact can lead to significant damage within your Cherokee travel trailer if it’s not properly prepared for sub-freezing temperatures. Ignoring this crucial maintenance step can result in repairs costing hundreds, even thousands, of dollars. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to winterizing your Cherokee, ensuring its longevity and your peace of mind.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Cherokee Winterization
This process involves multiple key areas to prevent damage from freezing. Remember to consult your Cherokee’s owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model.
1. Draining the Water System
This is the most crucial step in the winterization process. You need to remove all water from your pipes, tanks, and fixtures.
- Drain Fresh Water Tank: Locate the fresh water tank drain valve (usually underneath the trailer or near the tank itself) and open it to completely drain the tank. Once drained, close the valve.
- Drain Water Heater: CAUTION: Ensure the water heater is cool before proceeding. Locate the drain plug on the water heater (usually at the bottom). Remove the plug, allowing the tank to drain completely. You can use a water heater tank rinsing wand to remove any sediment buildup. Replace the drain plug, using Teflon tape on the threads for a secure seal.
- Bypass Water Heater: Before adding antifreeze, bypass the water heater. Most Cherokees have a three-valve bypass system located near the water heater. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct valve positions to bypass the water heater. This prevents filling the entire water heater with antifreeze, saving you money.
- Drain Water Lines: Open all faucets (hot and cold) inside the trailer, including the shower, kitchen sink, and bathroom sink. Flush the toilet.
- Open Low Point Drains: These drains are located on the water lines, typically underneath the trailer. Opening these drains allows any remaining water in the lines to escape.
- Use Compressed Air: After draining, use an air compressor to blow out the remaining water from the lines. Connect an air compressor (set to around 30-40 PSI) to the city water inlet. Open each faucet individually, allowing air to push out any remaining water. Repeat this process for the toilet.
2. Adding RV Antifreeze
Once the water system is drained, you’ll need to add RV antifreeze to protect against any residual water that may be trapped in the lines. CAUTION: Use only RV antifreeze. Automotive antifreeze is toxic and should never be used in your RV’s water system.
- Bypass Water Pump: Locate the water pump and find the siphon hose connection. This connection allows you to draw antifreeze directly from a container. Disconnect the water pump inlet hose and attach the siphon hose.
- Siphon Antifreeze: Place the other end of the siphon hose into a container of RV antifreeze. Turn on the water pump.
- Run Antifreeze Through Fixtures: Open each faucet (hot and cold) individually until antifreeze runs through it. Do the same for the shower. Flush the toilet until you see antifreeze in the bowl.
- Pour Antifreeze into Drains: Pour a cup of antifreeze into each drain (kitchen, bathroom, and shower) and into the toilet bowl. This will protect the P-traps from freezing.
3. Protecting Other Components
Beyond the water system, other components of your Cherokee need protection from the winter elements.
- Batteries: Disconnect the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. Periodically check and charge them throughout the winter to maintain their lifespan.
- Tires: Cover the tires to protect them from UV damage and prevent dry rot. Consider placing the trailer on blocks to take the weight off the tires.
- Exterior: Wash and wax the exterior of the trailer to protect the paint from the elements.
- Interior: Remove any food items that might attract pests. Open cabinet doors and drawers to allow air circulation and prevent mildew. Use moisture absorbers to reduce humidity.
- Sealants: Inspect all sealants around windows, doors, and vents. Repair any cracks or gaps to prevent water intrusion.
- LP Gas System: If storing your RV with propane, turn off the propane tank(s). If not storing your RV with propane, remove the tank(s) and store them upright in a well-ventilated area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about winterizing a Cherokee travel trailer:
FAQ 1: Can I skip winterizing if I only live where it gets slightly cold?
Even if temperatures rarely dip below freezing, it’s best to winterize your Cherokee. A single hard freeze can cause significant damage. The cost of winterizing is far less than the potential cost of repairs.
FAQ 2: How much RV antifreeze do I need?
Typically, 2-3 gallons of RV antifreeze are sufficient for a Cherokee travel trailer. However, this can vary depending on the size and plumbing configuration.
FAQ 3: Can I use automotive antifreeze instead of RV antifreeze?
Absolutely not! Automotive antifreeze is highly toxic and not designed for use in potable water systems. Using it can contaminate your entire water system and pose a serious health risk.
FAQ 4: How do I know if my water heater has a bypass?
Most newer Cherokees come equipped with a water heater bypass system. Look for a set of three valves near the water heater. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual.
FAQ 5: What if I have a water filter?
Remove the water filter cartridge and bypass the filter housing or replace with a winterizing bypass cartridge. This prevents the cartridge from freezing and cracking.
FAQ 6: How do I deal with the ice maker and washing machine if my Cherokee has them?
These appliances require special attention. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific winterization instructions. They may require additional steps, such as draining specific lines or adding antifreeze to certain components.
FAQ 7: How do I protect the black and gray water tanks?
After emptying them thoroughly, pour a small amount of RV antifreeze into each tank to protect the valves from freezing.
FAQ 8: Can I just use compressed air to winterize and skip the antifreeze?
While compressed air can remove a significant amount of water, it’s difficult to guarantee that all water is removed. Using RV antifreeze provides an extra layer of protection against freezing.
FAQ 9: What should I do with my water pump after winterizing?
Leave the water pump switched off to prevent it from accidentally running dry.
FAQ 10: How do I de-winterize my Cherokee in the spring?
Flush the entire water system with fresh water to remove the antifreeze. Sanitize the fresh water tank and lines with a bleach solution. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific sanitization procedures.
FAQ 11: Should I cover my Cherokee travel trailer during the winter?
A cover can protect your Cherokee from the elements, but make sure it’s a breathable RV cover to prevent moisture buildup. Ensure the cover fits snugly but not too tightly, allowing for air circulation.
FAQ 12: How often should I check on my Cherokee during the winter?
Ideally, check on your Cherokee every few weeks to ensure everything is in order. Look for any signs of leaks, damage, or pest infestations.
By following these steps and frequently asked questions, you can confidently winterize your Cherokee travel trailer and protect your investment for years to come. Enjoy your next adventure knowing your Cherokee is safe and sound!