Successfully winterizing your Forest River travel trailer is crucial to protect it from freezing temperatures and prevent costly damage to your plumbing system, appliances, and interior. The process involves draining all water systems, adding RV antifreeze, and taking preventative measures to safeguard against the harsh realities of winter.
Understanding the Importance of Winterization
Winterization is not just a suggestion; it’s a necessity for RV owners living in regions where temperatures drop below freezing. Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can cause pipes to burst, tanks to crack, and water heaters to fail. The repair costs associated with freeze damage can be significant, easily exceeding the cost of professional winterization services. Taking the time to properly winterize your Forest River travel trailer is an investment in its longevity and your peace of mind.
Step-by-Step Winterization Process
This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough to winterize your Forest River travel trailer yourself. While professional winterization is an option, following these steps can save you money and ensure the job is done thoroughly.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, assemble all the necessary supplies. This will streamline the process and prevent unnecessary delays. You’ll need:
- RV Antifreeze: The amount will depend on the size of your trailer. Consult your owner’s manual or a professional for recommendations, but a good rule of thumb is 2-3 gallons for a smaller trailer and more for larger ones. Never use automotive antifreeze; it’s toxic.
- Water Heater Bypass Kit (if applicable): This kit simplifies bypassing the water heater and prevents filling it with antifreeze.
- Water Pump Converter Kit (if applicable): Allows you to easily pump antifreeze into the water lines.
- Screwdrivers and Wrenches: For removing drain plugs.
- Tank Wand or Hose: For rinsing out the black tank.
- Air Compressor (optional): For blowing out water lines.
- Plumbing Tape (Teflon Tape): For resealing drain plugs.
- Bucket: For collecting water.
2. Drain All Water Systems
This is the most crucial step. Removing all water from your trailer’s plumbing system is the primary defense against freezing.
- Drain the Fresh Water Tank: Locate the drain valve for the fresh water tank and open it. Allow all the water to drain completely.
- Drain the Water Heater: Turn off the water heater (both gas and electric) and allow it to cool completely. Remove the drain plug, being careful as residual water may be hot. Remember to bypass the water heater if you have a bypass kit installed.
- Drain the Gray and Black Water Tanks: Empty these tanks at a designated dump station. Thoroughly rinse the black tank using a tank wand or hose to remove any lingering debris.
- Drain the Water Lines: Open all faucets (both hot and cold) inside the trailer, including the shower and any outdoor shower. Flush the toilet. Locate the low-point drain valves (usually located under the trailer) and open them to drain the water lines.
3. Bypass the Water Heater
If your Forest River travel trailer has a water heater bypass kit, engage it. This allows you to avoid filling the entire water heater tank with antifreeze, saving you money and time. Bypassing the water heater is essential; filling it unnecessarily wastes valuable antifreeze.
4. Install a Water Pump Converter Kit (if applicable)
A water pump converter kit makes the process of introducing antifreeze into the water lines much easier. If your trailer is equipped with one, install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If not, you can still winterize by disconnecting the water pump inlet line and attaching a hose to draw antifreeze from a container.
5. Pump RV Antifreeze Through the Water Lines
This step protects your pipes from freezing.
- Pour Antifreeze into the Container: Ensure you have enough RV antifreeze available.
- Turn on the Water Pump: Allow the pump to draw antifreeze into the water lines.
- Open Each Faucet: Starting with the faucet furthest from the pump, open both the hot and cold sides until you see a steady stream of pink antifreeze. Repeat this process for all faucets, including the shower and outdoor shower.
- Flush the Toilet: Flush the toilet until you see pink antifreeze in the bowl.
- Pour Antifreeze into Sink and Shower Drains: This will protect the P-traps from freezing.
6. Protect Appliances
Several appliances need specific attention during winterization.
- Ice Maker and Washing Machine (if applicable): Consult your appliance manuals for specific winterization instructions. This may involve disconnecting water lines and draining them.
- Shower Head and Faucet Aerators: Remove the shower head and faucet aerators and store them in a safe place to prevent mineral buildup during the winter.
7. Final Steps
These finishing touches ensure comprehensive protection.
- Pour Antifreeze into Holding Tanks: Pour a small amount of RV antifreeze into the gray and black water tanks to protect the drain valves and seals.
- Close Faucets and Low-Point Drains: Once the system is winterized, close all faucets and low-point drain valves.
- Disconnect and Store the Battery: Remove the battery from the trailer and store it in a cool, dry place. Consider using a battery tender to maintain the charge during the winter months.
- Cover and Protect the Exterior: Cover the trailer with a breathable RV cover to protect it from the elements. Inspect the roof for any damage and make necessary repairs.
- Seal Openings: Seal any openings where pests could enter, such as gaps around pipes or vents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions RV owners have about winterizing their Forest River travel trailer:
FAQ 1: How much RV antifreeze do I need?
The amount of antifreeze required depends on the size and layout of your RV. A general rule of thumb is 2-3 gallons for smaller travel trailers and more for larger ones. Consult your owner’s manual or a professional for a more accurate estimate. Always overestimate slightly rather than running out.
FAQ 2: Can I use automotive antifreeze instead of RV antifreeze?
No, absolutely not. Automotive antifreeze is highly toxic and should never be used in your RV’s potable water system. RV antifreeze is specifically formulated to be non-toxic and safe for use in drinking water systems.
FAQ 3: What if I don’t have a water heater bypass kit?
If you don’t have a water heater bypass kit, you’ll need to fill the entire water heater tank with RV antifreeze. This will require significantly more antifreeze. Consider installing a bypass kit for future winterizations.
FAQ 4: Do I need to drain the black and gray water tanks completely?
Yes, it is crucial to drain both tanks completely to prevent freezing and potential damage. Rinsing the black tank thoroughly is also essential to remove any remaining solids.
FAQ 5: How do I know if I’ve gotten antifreeze into all the water lines?
You’ll know when you see a steady stream of pink antifreeze coming out of each faucet and the toilet. Make sure to run both the hot and cold sides of each faucet.
FAQ 6: Can I just blow out the water lines with compressed air instead of using antifreeze?
While blowing out the water lines with compressed air can remove a significant amount of water, it’s not a foolproof method. Pockets of water can still remain in the system and freeze. Using RV antifreeze provides an added layer of protection. If you choose to blow out the lines, still add antifreeze to the P-traps and holding tanks.
FAQ 7: What should I do with the water filter?
Remove the water filter and dispose of it. Do not try to winterize the filter. Replace it with a new filter in the spring.
FAQ 8: Should I leave the faucets open or closed after winterizing?
Close all faucets after winterizing. Leaving them open can allow drafts and moisture to enter the plumbing system.
FAQ 9: How do I protect the RV’s roof during the winter?
Inspect the roof for any cracks or damage before winterizing. Seal any leaks with RV-approved sealant. Consider using a breathable RV cover to protect the roof from snow and ice.
FAQ 10: What about the tires? Should I cover them?
Covering the tires with tire covers can help protect them from UV damage and cracking. Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure and check them periodically throughout the winter.
FAQ 11: Is it necessary to winterize even if I live in a mild climate?
Even in mild climates, temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing. It’s best to err on the side of caution and winterize your RV if there’s any chance of freezing temperatures.
FAQ 12: How do I de-winterize my Forest River travel trailer in the spring?
In the spring, flush the entire water system with fresh water to remove the RV antifreeze. Sanitize the fresh water tank and plumbing lines. Reinstall the water filter and check all connections for leaks.
By following these steps and addressing these FAQs, you can confidently winterize your Forest River travel trailer and protect it from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures, ensuring many more years of comfortable and worry-free adventures.