Winterizing your mobile trailer is crucial to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures, including burst pipes, water damage, and compromised appliances. By taking proactive steps, you can safeguard your investment and ensure your trailer is ready for use come springtime.
Understanding the Importance of Winterizing
Mobile trailers, unlike traditionally constructed homes, are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather. Their construction often involves lighter materials and less insulation, making them susceptible to rapid temperature fluctuations. Ignoring winterization can lead to significant structural and mechanical issues.
Potential Winter Damage Scenarios
- Burst Pipes: Water expands as it freezes, putting immense pressure on pipes, potentially causing them to crack or burst. This can lead to extensive water damage and costly repairs.
- Appliance Damage: Water lines within appliances like water heaters, refrigerators, and washing machines can also freeze and damage internal components.
- Roof Leaks: Snow and ice accumulation can weaken seals and cause leaks, leading to water damage inside the trailer.
- Rodent Infestation: During colder months, rodents seek shelter and warmth. A poorly sealed trailer can become an attractive nesting site.
Step-by-Step Winterization Process
Follow these steps to properly winterize your mobile trailer and protect it from the harsh elements.
1. Drain the Water System
This is arguably the most critical step.
- Shut off the water supply: Turn off the main water supply to the trailer, usually located at the water meter or well.
- Drain the hot water heater: Turn off the power to the water heater (both gas and electric). Allow the water to cool, then open the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
- Open all faucets and fixtures: Open all faucets (hot and cold) in the trailer, including the shower, sinks, and toilet. This allows air to enter the system and facilitates drainage.
- Drain the toilet: Flush the toilet until the tank is empty. Pour RV antifreeze into the bowl to prevent freezing.
- Drain the low-point drains: Locate and open the low-point drains, which are typically found beneath the trailer. These are designed to drain any remaining water in the plumbing system.
2. Bypass the Water Heater
- Locate the bypass valves: Most mobile trailers have a bypass system for the water heater. The location of these valves will vary depending on the model.
- Activate the bypass: Turn the valves to bypass the water heater. This prevents RV antifreeze from filling the tank, which would require a large amount of antifreeze and is unnecessary.
3. Add RV Antifreeze
- Bypass Water Heater (Again): Ensure the water heater is bypassed before proceeding.
- Use RV Antifreeze: Only use RV antifreeze, which is non-toxic and designed for potable water systems. Do not use automotive antifreeze, as it is highly toxic.
- Introduce Antifreeze: There are two common methods for introducing RV antifreeze:
- Using a water pump converter kit: This kit allows you to connect a hose to the inlet side of your water pump and draw antifreeze directly from a bottle. Turn on the water pump and open each faucet (hot and cold) until antifreeze flows out. Repeat for the shower and toilet.
- Pouring antifreeze into the fresh water tank: This method involves draining the fresh water tank and pouring RV antifreeze directly into it. Then, turn on the water pump and open each faucet until antifreeze flows out. This method requires more antifreeze.
- Pour antifreeze into drains: Pour antifreeze down each drain (sink, shower, and toilet) to protect the P-traps from freezing.
4. Prepare Appliances
- Refrigerator: Empty the refrigerator and freezer. Turn off the power and prop the doors open to prevent mildew.
- Washing Machine: If your trailer has a washing machine, consult the owner’s manual for specific winterization instructions. Typically, this involves draining the washer and adding RV antifreeze.
- Dishwasher (if applicable): Run a short cycle with RV antifreeze in the detergent dispenser.
- Ice Maker: Disconnect the water line to the ice maker and empty the ice tray.
5. Seal and Protect the Exterior
- Seal any openings: Seal any cracks or holes in the exterior of the trailer with caulk or sealant to prevent drafts and rodent entry. Pay close attention to areas around pipes, wires, and windows.
- Cover vents and openings: Cover vents and openings with appropriate vent covers to prevent snow, rain, and pests from entering.
- Inspect and repair the roof: Inspect the roof for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. Repair any damage before winter arrives.
- Protect the 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.
6. Additional Precautions
- Remove valuables: Remove any valuables from the trailer to prevent theft or damage.
- Propane tanks: If you are not using the trailer during the winter, turn off the propane tanks and disconnect them. Store them in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have fresh batteries.
- Inspect skirting: If your trailer has skirting, ensure that it is properly installed and in good repair to prevent drafts and rodent entry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about winterizing a mobile trailer:
FAQ 1: How much RV antifreeze do I need?
The amount of RV antifreeze needed depends on the size of your trailer and the method you use to introduce it into the plumbing system. Generally, 2-3 gallons should be sufficient for a small trailer. If you are pouring antifreeze directly into the fresh water tank, you will likely need more.
FAQ 2: Can I use air pressure to blow out the water lines instead of using antifreeze?
While blowing out the water lines with air pressure can help remove water, it is not a substitute for using RV antifreeze. Air pressure alone may not remove all the water, and any remaining water can still freeze and cause damage. Antifreeze provides a layer of protection that air pressure cannot.
FAQ 3: What happens if I forget to bypass the water heater before adding antifreeze?
If you forget to bypass the water heater, you will fill the tank with antifreeze. This is not ideal, as it wastes a significant amount of antifreeze and is unnecessary. However, it is not necessarily damaging. You will need to drain the antifreeze from the water heater in the spring before using it.
FAQ 4: How do I know if I have successfully winterized my mobile trailer?
The best way to ensure successful winterization is to follow all the steps carefully and thoroughly. After adding antifreeze, check all faucets and fixtures to ensure that antifreeze is flowing through them. Inspect the trailer periodically throughout the winter for any signs of leaks or damage.
FAQ 5: Can I skip winterizing if I live in a mild climate?
Even in mild climates, temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing. It is always best to winterize your mobile trailer to protect it from potential damage. The cost of winterizing is minimal compared to the cost of repairing frozen pipes or appliances.
FAQ 6: What should I do if my pipes freeze despite winterizing?
If you suspect that your pipes have frozen, do not attempt to thaw them with an open flame. Use a hairdryer or heat tape to gently warm the pipes. Turn off the water supply to prevent further damage. Contact a qualified plumber if you are unable to thaw the pipes yourself.
FAQ 7: How do I de-winterize my mobile trailer in the spring?
To de-winterize your mobile trailer, drain the RV antifreeze from the water system. Flush the system with fresh water until all traces of antifreeze are gone. Sanitize the fresh water tank and water lines. Inspect all appliances and fixtures to ensure they are working properly.
FAQ 8: What are low-point drains and where are they located?
Low-point drains are valves or plugs located at the lowest points in the plumbing system. They allow you to drain any remaining water from the pipes. They are typically found beneath the trailer, near the plumbing lines. Refer to your trailer’s owner’s manual for specific location information.
FAQ 9: Should I leave the cabinet doors open during the winter?
Yes, leaving cabinet doors open, especially under sinks and in bathrooms, allows warmer air to circulate and helps prevent pipes from freezing.
FAQ 10: What type of caulk or sealant should I use to seal the exterior?
Use a high-quality, flexible caulk or sealant specifically designed for RVs or mobile homes. Look for products that are UV-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures. Silicone-based sealants are often a good choice.
FAQ 11: Is it necessary to cover the roof of my mobile trailer during the winter?
While not always necessary, covering the roof with a waterproof tarp can provide an extra layer of protection against snow and ice accumulation, reducing the risk of leaks and damage. Ensure the tarp is properly secured to prevent it from blowing away.
FAQ 12: Where can I find specific winterization instructions for my particular mobile trailer model?
The best source of information is your trailer’s owner’s manual. The manual will provide specific instructions and recommendations for your model, including the location of drains and valves. You can also consult with a qualified RV technician or mobile home service professional.
By following these steps and addressing these frequently asked questions, you can effectively winterize your mobile trailer and protect it from the damaging effects of cold weather. Investing the time and effort in winterization will save you money and headaches in the long run.