Successfully winterizing a Scamp trailer is about safeguarding its delicate plumbing and sensitive components from the destructive force of freezing temperatures, preventing costly repairs and ensuring a smooth start to your next camping season. This crucial process involves draining all water systems, adding RV antifreeze, and taking protective measures against moisture, pests, and potential damage from weather conditions.
Understanding the Importance of Winterization
Winter’s icy grip can wreak havoc on an unprepared Scamp trailer. Water expands as it freezes, exerting immense pressure that can crack pipes, burst water heaters, and damage pumps. Beyond the plumbing, moisture accumulation can lead to mold and mildew growth, while pests may seek refuge in the trailer’s cozy interior. Proper winterization is, therefore, not merely recommended but essential for maintaining the value and longevity of your Scamp. Neglecting this process can result in extensive and expensive repairs that could easily be avoided. This guide will provide you with the steps necessary to protect your Scamp throughout the winter months.
Step-by-Step Winterization Process
The following is a detailed guide to winterizing your Scamp trailer, encompassing all critical components and protective measures.
1. Draining the Water System
This is the foundational step. The goal is to remove all water from the trailer’s plumbing.
- Drain the Fresh Water Tank: Locate the drain valve for your fresh water tank (usually underneath the trailer) and open it. Allow the tank to completely drain.
- Drain the Water Heater: Turn off the water heater, both gas and electric, and let it cool down completely. Locate the drain plug (usually at the bottom of the tank) and remove it. Allow the water to drain completely. Important: Replace the drain plug with a nylon plug or leave it out altogether for the winter to prevent pressure buildup if any residual water freezes. Check your water heater manual for specific instructions related to your model.
- Bypass the Water Heater: Most Scamp trailers have a bypass valve system for the water heater. Ensure this valve is engaged to prevent RV antifreeze from entering the water heater tank, as it’s often difficult to completely flush out and can affect water taste later.
- Drain the Water Lines: Open all faucets (both hot and cold), including the shower or outdoor shower if equipped. Turn on the water pump briefly to help push any remaining water out of the lines.
- Drain Low-Point Drains: Locate and open the low-point drain valves (usually located near the floor), typically blue for cold water and red for hot water. This will drain the lowest points of your plumbing system.
2. Adding RV Antifreeze
Once the water system is drained, it’s time to introduce RV antifreeze. Never use automotive antifreeze, as it is toxic and can contaminate your water system.
- Bypass the Water Heater: Reiterate the importance of bypassing the water heater before introducing antifreeze.
- Use the Water Pump: Pour RV antifreeze into the fresh water tank. Turn on the water pump and open each faucet (hot and cold) one at a time until you see pink antifreeze flowing through. This indicates that the antifreeze has reached that point in the plumbing. Close each faucet after the antifreeze appears. Don’t forget the showerhead and any outside shower connections.
- Alternative Method (Antifreeze Pump Kit): Consider installing an antifreeze pump kit that connects directly to the water pump. This allows you to draw antifreeze directly from the bottle, bypassing the fresh water tank. This is often a faster and more efficient method.
3. Protecting the Plumbing Fixtures
Don’t forget about these often-overlooked areas.
- Toilet: Flush the toilet to remove any remaining water. Pour a cup or two of RV antifreeze into the bowl and flush again briefly to coat the bowl and trap.
- Shower Drain and Sink Drains: Pour a cup of RV antifreeze down each drain to protect the P-traps from freezing.
4. Additional Protective Measures
Beyond the plumbing, several other steps will ensure your Scamp is ready for winter.
- Batteries: Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Charge it periodically throughout the winter to maintain its charge.
- Tires: Cover the tires to protect them from UV damage and cracking. Consider placing the trailer on blocks to take some of the weight off the tires.
- Exterior: Wash and wax the exterior of the trailer to protect the finish. Cover the trailer with a breathable RV cover to shield it from the elements.
- Interior: Remove all food items to prevent attracting pests. Clean the refrigerator and freezer thoroughly and prop the doors open to prevent mold growth. Consider using moisture absorbers inside the trailer to reduce humidity.
- Propane Tanks: Close the propane tank valves tightly.
Essential Tools and Materials
- RV Antifreeze (non-toxic)
- Water heater drain plug (nylon)
- Wrench (for removing the water heater drain plug)
- Screwdriver (for accessing low-point drains)
- Pump for adding antifreeze (optional, but recommended)
- Bucket (for catching drained water)
- RV cover (breathable)
- Moisture absorbers
FAQs About Winterizing Your Scamp
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further clarification and address common concerns.
1. How much RV antifreeze do I need?
Typically, 2-3 gallons of RV antifreeze are sufficient for a Scamp trailer. However, it’s always best to have a little extra on hand.
2. Can I use compressed air to blow out the water lines instead of RV antifreeze?
While using compressed air can help remove water, it’s not as reliable as RV antifreeze. There’s always a risk of trapped water freezing and causing damage. RV antifreeze provides a higher level of protection. We strongly recommend using RV antifreeze.
3. How do I winterize the black and gray water tanks?
After emptying the tanks, pour a few gallons of RV antifreeze into each tank. This will protect the valves and prevent any remaining water from freezing.
4. What if I have a water filter?
Remove the water filter cartridge and bypass the filter housing before adding RV antifreeze. If you don’t bypass it, antifreeze can ruin the filter cartridge. You can also add a small amount of antifreeze to the filter housing after bypassing.
5. Do I need to lubricate the door and window seals?
Yes, applying a lubricant like silicone spray to the door and window seals can help prevent them from drying out and cracking during the winter.
6. How do I prevent rodents from getting into my Scamp?
Seal any potential entry points, such as gaps around pipes or vents, with steel wool or expanding foam. Place rodent repellent packets inside the trailer. Regularly check the trailer for any signs of infestation.
7. Can I store my Scamp with the wheels on the ground?
Yes, but covering the tires is crucial to protect them from UV damage. Consider using tire covers and periodically rotating the tires to prevent flat spots. As previously mentioned, using blocks is preferable.
8. How often should I check on my Scamp during the winter?
Ideally, check on your Scamp every few weeks to ensure everything is in order. Look for any signs of leaks, damage, or pest infestation.
9. What should I do if I see signs of mold or mildew?
Clean the affected areas with a mold and mildew cleaner. Improve ventilation by opening windows (weather permitting) and using a dehumidifier (if electricity is available).
10. Is it necessary to cover my Scamp?
While not strictly necessary, a breathable RV cover provides excellent protection from the elements, including UV rays, rain, snow, and dirt. It can help extend the life of your Scamp’s exterior.
11. What if I plan to use my Scamp during the winter?
If you plan to use your Scamp in freezing temperatures, you’ll need to take additional steps to prevent freezing, such as using a heated hose and skirting the trailer. It’s also important to regularly monitor the temperature and ensure that the plumbing remains warm enough to prevent freezing. Consider a small electric heater inside the trailer.
12. What do I need to do when de-winterizing my Scamp in the spring?
Flush the water system thoroughly with fresh water to remove any residual RV antifreeze. Sanitize the water system using a bleach solution (follow the manufacturer’s instructions for concentration and flushing). Reinstall the water filter cartridge. Check all connections and components for leaks.
By following these steps and addressing these common questions, you can ensure that your Scamp trailer is properly winterized and protected from the harsh winter elements, ensuring many more years of comfortable camping adventures.