Successfully winterizing your Coleman travel trailer is essential to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures and ensure a smooth start to your next camping season. By carefully draining water systems, adding antifreeze, and taking preventative measures, you can protect your investment and avoid unpleasant surprises come spring.
Understanding the Importance of Winterization
Failing to properly winterize your Coleman travel trailer can lead to cracked pipes, damaged water pumps, and even structural damage. The expansion of water as it freezes creates immense pressure, which can easily overwhelm the components of your RV’s plumbing system. Investing time and effort in winterization is far more cost-effective than dealing with repairs later on. It also protects your warranty from being voided due to damage caused by improper storage.
Step-by-Step Winterization Process
Winterizing your Coleman travel trailer involves a systematic approach to ensure all water is removed and replaced with RV antifreeze. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
1. Drain the Water System
- Empty all holding tanks: Start by draining your fresh water tank, gray water tank, and black water tank completely. Use the drain valves located beneath your trailer.
- Drain the water heater: Turn off the water heater and allow it to cool completely before removing the drain plug. Be sure to relieve pressure by opening the pressure relief valve first.
- Bypass the water heater: Most Coleman travel trailers have a bypass valve system for the water heater. Make sure it’s in the bypass position. This prevents antifreeze from entering the water heater tank, saving you money.
- Drain water lines: Open all faucets (hot and cold) and showerhead, allowing water to drain from the lines. Flush the toilet.
- Use the water pump to purge lines: Turn on your water pump briefly to help force any remaining water out of the lines. Be sure to turn it off quickly after the water stops flowing to prevent damage.
2. Introduce RV Antifreeze
There are two common methods for introducing RV antifreeze into your water lines:
- Using the Water Pump: This method involves installing a bypass kit or modifying your existing water pump plumbing to draw antifreeze directly from a bottle.
- Disconnect the water pump’s inlet hose from the fresh water tank.
- Attach a length of hose to the pump’s inlet and insert the other end into a gallon of RV antifreeze.
- Turn on the water pump and run it until antifreeze flows from all faucets (hot and cold) and the showerhead. Remember to flush the toilet until antifreeze appears.
- Using a Hand Pump: This method involves using a hand pump connected to a bottle of RV antifreeze to pressurize the water lines.
- Disconnect the city water inlet hose.
- Attach the hand pump to the city water inlet.
- Pump antifreeze into the system until it flows from all faucets (hot and cold) and the showerhead. Remember to flush the toilet until antifreeze appears.
3. Other Essential Winterization Tasks
- Pour antifreeze into drain traps: Pour a cup of RV antifreeze into each sink drain and shower drain to protect the P-traps from freezing.
- Treat the toilet: Pour a cup of RV antifreeze into the toilet bowl and flush to coat the bowl and protect the valve.
- Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the battery terminals to prevent parasitic draws and extend battery life. Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Consider using a battery maintainer.
- Lubricate door and window seals: Apply a silicone lubricant to all door and window seals to prevent them from sticking or cracking in cold weather.
- Remove perishable items: Remove all food items, toiletries, and other perishable items from your trailer to prevent spoilage and odors.
- Cover the trailer: Consider using a properly fitted RV cover to protect your trailer from the elements. Make sure it is breathable to prevent moisture buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 common questions regarding winterizing your Coleman Travel Trailer:
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What type of antifreeze should I use?
Always use RV antifreeze, specifically designed for plumbing systems. It’s non-toxic and safe for potable water systems. Never use automotive antifreeze, as it’s highly toxic and can contaminate your water lines.
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How much RV antifreeze do I need?
The amount of antifreeze needed depends on the size of your travel trailer and the length of its water lines. Typically, 2-3 gallons is sufficient for a smaller Coleman travel trailer. Larger models may require more.
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Do I need to drain the black and gray water tanks completely?
Yes, it’s crucial to drain both tanks completely before winterizing. Even small amounts of water can freeze and cause damage to the tank valves and plumbing.
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Can I skip winterizing if I live in a mild climate?
Even in mild climates, temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing. It’s always best to winterize your travel trailer to be safe. It’s cheaper than replacing a burst pipe.
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Do I need to remove the water filter?
Yes, remove the water filter cartridge before winterizing. The filter can freeze and crack, rendering it useless. Store it indoors in a sealed bag to prevent it from drying out.
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How do I bypass the water heater?
Most Coleman travel trailers have a bypass valve system located near the water heater. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to bypass your particular model. The bypass usually consists of turning 2 or 3 valves.
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What if I can’t locate the water heater bypass valves?
If you can’t find the bypass valves, consult your owner’s manual. If you still can’t find them, you might need to install a bypass kit. This is a relatively simple DIY project.
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Is it necessary to cover my travel trailer during the winter?
While not strictly necessary, covering your travel trailer is highly recommended. It protects it from UV damage, snow, rain, and other elements, extending its lifespan and preventing fading.
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How often should I check on my travel trailer during the winter?
It’s a good idea to check on your travel trailer every few weeks during the winter. Look for any signs of leaks, damage, or pest infestations.
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Can I use compressed air to blow out the water lines instead of antifreeze?
While you can use compressed air, it’s not recommended as the sole method. It’s difficult to remove all the water completely, and even a small amount can freeze and cause damage. Using antifreeze provides added protection. If using air, ensure you keep the pressure low to avoid damaging pipes (40 PSI or less).
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What should I do if I find evidence of mice or other pests in my travel trailer?
If you find evidence of pests, take immediate action. Set traps, use repellents, and seal any potential entry points. Prompt action is crucial to prevent further damage.
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Can I winterize my travel trailer myself, or should I hire a professional?
Winterizing a Coleman travel trailer is a manageable DIY project for most people. However, if you’re uncomfortable with any of the steps or lack the necessary tools, it’s best to hire a professional RV technician. It might be a good idea to watch someone winterize it once to learn the process.
Conclusion
Winterizing your Coleman travel trailer may seem like a daunting task, but following these steps will ensure its longevity and protect your investment. Remember to be thorough, use the correct materials, and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model. A little preventative maintenance now will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run, allowing you to enjoy countless adventures in your Coleman travel trailer for years to come.