How to Winterize an RV

The leaves are turning. The weather is cooling down. It’s just about time to winterize your RV as you prepare for the cold months ahead. If you have typed “how to winterize an RV” into your search bar, you’ve come to the right place! Our Airstream of Scarborough team has you covered with a checklist to help you get your RV prepped for winter.

Learn more about winterizing your RV near Scarborough, Saco, and Portland, Maine!

Winterize Your RV in a Couple Quick Steps

When you are ready for RV winterizing, you can quickly do so with the steps we’ve outlined below!

Water System Draining: Start by draining all the water from your RV's freshwater tank, hot water heater, and holding tanks. Make sure to open all faucets and valves to allow the water to drain out fully.
Water Heater Bypass: Locate the water heater bypass valve and switch it to the bypass position. This prevents antifreeze from entering the water heater and saves on antifreeze costs.
Blow Out the Lines: Use an air compressor with an adapter to blow out any remaining water from the water lines. Start with the highest faucet and work your way down, including toilets, showers, and outdoor showers, if applicable. This step ensures that no water is left to freeze and potentially damage the pipes.
Add Antifreeze: Once the lines are blown out, it's time to add RV antifreeze. Pour antifreeze into the freshwater tank (make sure it's a non-toxic, RV-specific antifreeze) and use the water pump to pump it through the system. Run each faucet until you see the antifreeze coming out. Don't forget to flush the toilet until antifreeze appears in the bowl.
Protect Exterior Components: Don't overlook the exterior components of your RV. Drain and flush the black and gray water tanks, then add antifreeze to prevent any residual water from freezing. Also, consider covering exterior vents and openings to prevent critters from making a cozy home in your RV during the winter months.
Battery Maintenance: Remove the batteries from your RV and store them in a cool, dry place. Make sure they are fully charged before storing to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
Interior Precautions: Before closing up for the winter, take some time to clean and organize the interior of your RV. Remove any perishable items, open cabinets, and drawers to allow for air circulation, and consider using moisture absorbers to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Cover Up: Invest in a quality RV cover to protect your rig from the elements during the winter months. A good cover will shield your RV from snow, ice, and UV rays, prolonging its lifespan and reducing the need for extensive cleaning come springtime.

Just like that, your RV will be prepped for winter and ready for storage! Have questions? Contact our service team today!

Learn More About RV Care Today

If you had found yourself typing “how to winterize an RV” into your search bar, we hope you found this guide helpful. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully prepare your RV for the winter months ahead.

Have questions? Contact our team here at Airstream of Scarborough. We’re proud to serve Scarborough, Saco, and Portland, ME, and we hope to assist you soon!