However, before the onset of the winter season, it is essential to prepare your travel trailer for the freezing weather. If you neglect to winterize, you risk getting cracked pipes, burst water lines, and water seepage, so it’s critical to make the time. Here is a step-by-step guide to winterizing a travel trailer:Here is a step-by-step guide to winterizing a travel trailer:
1. Level The Trailer
Start by making sure that the travel trailer is on a level ground. This will enable the water to drain well from the plumbing system while blowing out the line. You need to utilize the stabilizer jacks and blocks on the wheel base and put your RV in the most level from front to back and side to side as possible.
2. Drain The Freshwater System
The next thing that should be done is to drain the freshwater system. The first step that you need to take is to shut off the power supply to your water heater. Turn on all the taps and showerheads each and allow them to run until they are empty. Finally, use the toilet several times, until there is no water that fills up the bowl again. Turn on the low point drains on the hot and cold supply lines as well as the water heater to drain out any water that might be stagnant in the system. Do not close the low point drains.
3. Pump out the Gray and Black Water Tanks
To thoroughly discharge, use the release valves on your RV for both the gray and black water holding tanks. Ensure you are able to drain this waste water in the right container or sewerage system, do not allow it to spill on the ground. Please leave the release valves open to the drain position.
4. Rinse the system with RV antifreeze
Before you continue it’s now time to circulate antifreeze through the plumbing lines and fixtures. Special RV/plumbing system antifreeze should be bought and not the regular automotive antifreeze. After that, turn on the inlet valve and attach a short hose to it where one would normally connect city water. Hold the other end of the hose into another container which contains antifreeze. Switch on the water pump to circulate the antifreeze.
5. No Two Faucets At A Time
Enter the trailer and turn on one faucet at a time. Start the water pump and pour approximately one cup of antifreeze through the faucet, then turn it off and repeat it for each faucet. Do the same for all sinks, shower, toilet, washing machine, water dispenser in the refrigerator, etc. Flush the toilet a couple of times more. The antifreeze should enter into the drains, traps, and tanks fully.
6. Winterize The Water Heater
If necessary, drain the water heater again but ensure that this is done safely to avoid causing any harm. Ensure that the antifreeze is drawn through the water heater inlet line to properly winterize the heat exchanger. Pull the safety valve with the help of air pressure. Also, avoid using or simply exclude the water filter during the cold season up until spring.
7. Reinstall Drain Plugs
If you opened the low point drains, close them after using antifreeze to circulate through all fixtures and replace the drain plugs. For the first step, flush 1/2 cup of antifreeze down each drain.
8. Purge The Water Pump
Turn on the water pump for a few minutes until you get only pure antifreeze coming out of the taps. This drains excess water from the pump housing. Disconnect the hose and attach your city water inlet back onto the system.
9. Prepare The Exterior
It is also necessary to make preparations for wintering with regards to other outside items. Seal all exterior vents where mice or insects may try to enter. Look at the roof and seal any cracks that might have developed on the roof to avoid water seepage. Enclose your AC unit with a weatherproof cover that will protect it from the harsh elements. Any exterior hoses or tanks should be disconnected, drained and stored away.
10. Charge The Batteries
Ensure that the RV batteries are fully charged. Batteries always degrade with time, and the cold season slows them down even further. Take them out for indoor storage and if you can put them on a trickle charger.
11. Inspect The Trailer
Start with a walkthrough inspection of the whole trailer, both inside and outside. Check for any signs of wear or possible leaks that may be an issue during winter time when freezing is a possibility. Tend to these matters before the onset of cooler temperatures.
When spring comes, by simply changing the antifreeze and performing some maintenance checks you will be set for the new road trip. Preventing the catastrophe of frozen pipes and tanks makes the process of winterizing worthwhile.
Read More:
Can You Travel with An Expired Passport?
Do You Need a Passport for Domestic Travel?
What are some remote jobs that allow me to travel?
Many digital nomads work in fields like writing, editing, programming, web design, and virtual assistance. These roles can often be done remotely, allowing you to work from anywhere in the world.
How can I become a travel blogger or influencer?
Building a following on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube and creating engaging content about your travels can attract sponsorships and brand deals.
What are some ways to teach English abroad?
Teaching English abroad is a popular way to travel while earning an income. Programs like TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) can help you get certified and find teaching jobs in various countries.
How can I find work as a freelance writer or photographer while traveling?
Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Shutterstock can connect you with clients who need your skills. You can also pitch your services directly to travel publications or websites.
What are some volunteer programs that offer stipends or allowances?
Many volunteer organizations offer stipends or allowances to help cover living expenses while you work on projects in different countries. Websites like GoAbroad and Idealist can help you find these opportunities.