Successfully winterizing your Mallard travel trailer is crucial to preventing costly damage from freezing temperatures. This process involves draining all water systems, adding antifreeze, and protecting vulnerable components, ensuring your trailer remains in prime condition for your next adventure. Neglecting this critical step can lead to burst pipes, cracked fixtures, and significant repair bills.
Understanding the Importance of Winterization
The primary reason to winterize any RV, including a Mallard travel trailer, is to protect its plumbing system from freezing. When water freezes, it expands, exerting immense pressure on pipes, fittings, and holding tanks. This expansion can cause these components to crack or burst, leading to water damage, mold growth, and potentially rendering your trailer unusable. Effectively winterizing your Mallard prevents this damage and preserves the value of your investment.
Step-by-Step Winterization Process
Winterizing your Mallard travel trailer isn’t overly complicated, but it does require attention to detail. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a thorough job.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need:
- RV antifreeze (non-toxic) – Use enough to fill all water lines and drain traps.
- Water heater bypass kit (if not already installed) – This simplifies the antifreeze process and saves antifreeze.
- Water pump converter kit (or siphon hose) – This allows you to pump antifreeze through the water lines.
- Wrench for removing the water heater drain plug.
- Screwdriver.
- Air compressor with a blow-out adapter (optional) – This helps remove water from the lines.
- Basin or bucket.
- Plumbing tape (Teflon tape).
2. Drain the Water Systems
This is the most important part of the process. Thoroughly draining the water systems is essential.
- Drain the fresh water tank: Locate the drain valve and open it to empty the tank completely.
- Drain the water heater: Turn off the water heater (both propane and electric) hours before draining. Let it cool completely. Then, remove the drain plug (typically located at the bottom of the water heater) and allow the water to drain. Check the plug for corrosion and replace it with a new one and Teflon tape if needed. Many modern RVs include a bypass valve, allowing you to isolate the water heater entirely from the rest of the plumbing system. Make sure it’s in the bypass position.
- Drain the black and gray water holding tanks: Dump these tanks at a designated dumping station. Rinse them thoroughly.
- Drain the water lines: Open all faucets (hot and cold), including the shower and outside shower (if applicable). Flush the toilet. If you have an air compressor, connect it to the city water inlet using a blow-out adapter and blow out any remaining water from the lines. Start with the faucet closest to the water pump and work your way to the furthest. This helps dislodge any remaining water trapped in the pipes.
- Bypass the water heater: If you have a bypass kit, ensure it’s engaged. This prevents antifreeze from filling the water heater tank (which is unnecessary and wastes antifreeze).
3. Add RV Antifreeze
Now that the water systems are drained, it’s time to add RV antifreeze. Never use automotive antifreeze, as it is toxic and can contaminate your water system.
- Bypass the water heater: Double-check that your water heater bypass is engaged.
- Install the water pump converter kit (or siphon hose): This allows you to draw antifreeze directly from the jug into the water lines.
- Pour RV antifreeze into the water pump: Turn on the water pump and allow it to draw antifreeze into the lines. Start with the faucet closest to the pump and open it until you see pink antifreeze flowing steadily. Repeat this process for all faucets, including the shower and toilet. Flush the toilet until you see pink antifreeze in the bowl.
- Pour antifreeze into each drain: Pour a cup or two of antifreeze into each drain (kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower drain) to protect the P-traps from freezing.
4. Protect Other Components
Besides the plumbing system, other components need protection from freezing.
- Batteries: Disconnect the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. Consider using a battery maintainer to keep them charged during the winter.
- Tires: Cover the tires to protect them from UV damage. Consider jacking up the trailer slightly to take some weight off the tires.
- Exterior: Clean the exterior of the trailer and apply a coat of wax. Cover the trailer with a breathable RV cover to protect it from the elements.
- Interior: Remove all food and perishables. Clean the refrigerator and freezer and leave the doors ajar to prevent mold growth. Open cabinets and drawers to allow air circulation.
- Seal openings: Seal any openings where rodents or insects could enter, such as around pipes or vents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about winterizing a Mallard travel trailer:
FAQ 1: How much RV antifreeze do I need?
The amount of RV antifreeze you’ll need depends on the size and complexity of your trailer’s plumbing system. A general rule of thumb is to purchase enough to fill all water lines and drain traps. Two to three gallons are usually sufficient for a smaller travel trailer. It’s always better to have a little extra than to run out.
FAQ 2: Can I use compressed air alone to winterize my RV?
While using compressed air can help remove a significant amount of water from the lines, it’s not a foolproof method. Pockets of water can remain in low spots or bends in the pipes, and these pockets can still freeze and cause damage. It’s recommended to use RV antifreeze in addition to compressed air for complete protection.
FAQ 3: What if I skip winterizing my RV for a mild winter?
Even if the winter is predicted to be mild, there’s still a risk of freezing temperatures, especially overnight. Skipping winterization is a gamble that could result in costly repairs. The cost of antifreeze and your time is far less than the cost of repairing burst pipes. It’s best to be safe than sorry.
FAQ 4: How do I know if I’ve used enough antifreeze?
You’ll know you’ve used enough antifreeze when you see a steady stream of pink (or the color of your RV antifreeze) flowing from each faucet and drain. This indicates that the antifreeze has completely displaced the water in the lines.
FAQ 5: Is it safe to dump RV antifreeze on the ground?
No, RV antifreeze should not be dumped directly onto the ground. It contains chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Dispose of any excess antifreeze properly, either by taking it to a hazardous waste disposal facility or by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
FAQ 6: What if I accidentally get automotive antifreeze in my water system?
Do not use your RV if you suspect automotive antifreeze has contaminated the water system. Automotive antifreeze is highly toxic. Contact a qualified RV technician immediately to have the system professionally cleaned and decontaminated. It’s often necessary to replace significant plumbing components.
FAQ 7: How do I winterize the toilet?
After draining the toilet bowl, flush the toilet until you see RV antifreeze in the bowl. This protects the toilet’s water valve and prevents it from freezing.
FAQ 8: What about the ice maker and washing machine (if equipped)?
If your Mallard has an ice maker or washing machine, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for winterizing these appliances. They typically require special procedures to ensure all water is removed. Consult your appliance manuals for specific instructions.
FAQ 9: Can I winterize my RV myself, or do I need a professional?
You can winterize your RV yourself if you’re comfortable following instructions and have some basic mechanical skills. However, if you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s always best to consult a qualified RV technician. They can ensure the job is done correctly and prevent any potential damage.
FAQ 10: How long does it take to winterize a Mallard travel trailer?
The amount of time it takes to winterize a Mallard travel trailer depends on the size and complexity of the trailer, as well as your experience level. On average, it takes between one and three hours.
FAQ 11: What is the best time to winterize my RV?
The best time to winterize your RV is before the first hard freeze of the season. Pay attention to the weather forecast and winterize your trailer before temperatures drop below freezing for an extended period.
FAQ 12: What do I need to do to de-winterize my RV in the spring?
In the spring, you’ll need to flush the RV antifreeze out of the water system by running fresh water through all faucets and appliances until the water runs clear. Sanitize the fresh water tank and lines with a bleach solution. Replace any water filters and inspect all plumbing connections for leaks. Consult your RV’s owner’s manual for specific de-winterization instructions.
By following these steps and addressing these frequently asked questions, you can ensure that your Mallard travel trailer is properly winterized and protected from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures. This will prolong the life of your trailer and ensure that it’s ready for your next adventure when spring arrives.