Winterizing your motorhome is crucial to preventing costly damage and ensuring its longevity. Neglecting this process can lead to burst pipes, mold growth, and other unpleasant surprises when you're ready to hit the road again. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to properly prepare your RV for winter storage, regardless of whether you're storing it indoors or outdoors.
What are the Risks of Improper Winterization?
Before diving into the specifics, let's understand the potential problems you're trying to avoid. Freezing temperatures pose the biggest threat. Water expands when it freezes, putting immense pressure on pipes, tanks, and other components. This can lead to:
- Burst pipes: This is the most common and potentially expensive problem. Repairing or replacing burst pipes can cost hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.
- Damaged water heater: The water heater is particularly vulnerable, and freezing can lead to cracks or complete failure.
- Mold and mildew: Standing water provides the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health issues.
- Sewer system damage: Freezing can damage the sewer system components, leading to leaks and backups.
How to Winterize Your Motorhome: A Step-by-Step Guide
This process involves several key steps, each critical to protecting your investment.
1. Cleaning and Preparation:
- Thoroughly clean the interior: Remove all food, trash, and personal belongings. A clean RV is less likely to attract pests and develop mold.
- Empty and clean all tanks: Empty the gray and black water tanks completely. Flush the system with water and then use a tank treatment to prevent buildup.
- Protect the interior from moisture: Open cabinets and drawers to improve air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Consider using desiccant packs to absorb moisture.
2. Protecting Plumbing Systems:
This is arguably the most critical part of the winterization process.
- Drain all water lines: Begin by turning off the water pump and draining all water from the plumbing system. Open all faucets and low-point drains to ensure complete drainage.
- Use RV antifreeze: Pour RV antifreeze into all faucets, drains, and low-point drains until antifreeze runs out. This protects pipes from freezing. Never use automotive antifreeze; it's toxic.
- Winterize your water heater: Drain your water heater completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Add RV antifreeze to protect the tank from freezing.
3. Protecting Appliances:
- Refrigerator: Clean the refrigerator thoroughly and leave the door slightly ajar to prevent mold and mildew.
- Air conditioner: Turn off and disconnect the air conditioner. Protect the exterior unit from the elements if possible.
4. Protecting the Exterior:
- Seal windows and doors: Apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps or cracks to prevent drafts and moisture intrusion.
- Cover the exterior: Use an RV cover to protect the exterior from snow, ice, and UV damage. Choose a breathable cover to prevent moisture buildup.
- Protect the tires: If storing on the ground, consider using tire covers or placing the motorhome on jack stands to prevent flat spotting.
- Disconnect and store batteries: Disconnect the house batteries to prevent draining and potential damage.
5. Consider Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage:
Indoor storage: While ideal, indoor storage isn't always feasible. Even in an indoor environment, you should still follow the steps outlined above for plumbing and appliances.
Outdoor storage: Outdoor storage requires extra attention to protecting your RV from the elements. A high-quality RV cover is essential, along with proper leveling and support to prevent damage.
What is the Best RV Antifreeze to Use?
Only use RV antifreeze specifically designed for potable water systems. This is non-toxic and safe for use in your RV plumbing. Automotive antifreeze is poisonous and should never be used.
How Often Should I Check on My Motorhome During Winter Storage?
Check your motorhome periodically, particularly if storing it outdoors, to ensure the cover is intact and there's no evidence of leaks or damage.
Conclusion:
Proper winterization is key to protecting your investment. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and ensure your motorhome is ready for adventures when spring arrives. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions relevant to your RV model.
