When fall is on its way out and the distinct chill of the incoming season starts to manifest, most RV owners take it as a hint for that annual ritual they have to carry out called winterization. This is a must-do RV preventative maintenance that serves as a critical insurance against expensive damage to one’s recreational vehicle. Here is our Eightfold Path that ensures your home-on-wheels comes out from its deep sleep ready for spring.
1. Inspect and Clean the Exterior
Winterizing your RV begins with a thorough exterior inspection. A comprehensive cleaning removes dirt and debris that can trap moisture and cause damage. Ensuring the exterior is spotless is a crucial first step in protecting your vehicle from the harsh winter ahead.
2. Check the Roof and Seals for Leaks
An assessment of all seals on the roof for potential leaks is critical. Examine the seams and projections on top for gaps or damage. Carefully inspect the rubber seals around windows, vents, and doors to look for any sign of cracks. Seal any openings to prevent water damage from snow or ice.
3. Drain and Flush the Water System
Start by emptying the freshwater tank and water heater. Then, flush the pipes with a non-toxic antifreeze. Make sure the cleansing process runs through every faucet, including the toilet and outdoor shower. This protects the plumbing from damage that may happen during freezing temperatures.
4. Sanitize Gray and Black Water Tanks
What is a typical maintenance task for RV? Here’s one of them: empty and clean the recreational vehicle’s containers for wastewater. Begin by draining them completely at a designated dump station. Next, flush the tanks with fresh water to remove all residue. This prevents unpleasant odors and blockages.
5. Disconnect and Store the Battery
The RV battery must be removed from its compartment and stored in a dry place indoors. Clean the terminals off any corrosion and connect the battery to a maintenance charger. This procedure keeps it fully charged and prevents it from freezing or losing its ability to hold a charge.
6. Clean and Protect the Interior
A thorough interior cleaning is vital for winterizing a recreational vehicle. Sweep out crumbs and take out used linens. Deep clean the refrigerator and all cabinets. Place moisture-absorbing products indoors, like silica gel or activated clay to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
7. Protect Against Pests
Defend the RV from pests seeking safe shelter from the year’s harshest season. Inspect the exterior and seal any cracks or openings around pipes and vents. Inside, remove all foodstuffs that will attract insects and rats. Put peppermint oil or mouse traps in the engine bay and indoors to ensure the RV remains pest-free.
8. Cover and Store the RV Properly
The final act of winterizing your RV is to have it properly wrapped and kept. Ideally, the vehicle ought to be stored in a shaded and dry location. Otherwise, a well-fitting cover must be used to protect the exterior from the sun, ice, and debris. Consider using moisture absorbers inside.
Parked and Protected
By investing time in the must-do RV preventative maintenance we just mentioned, you can rest easy that your home-on-wheels will be fine all winter long. Moreover, when the snow melts and the robins fly back, your RV will be ready for whatever spring adventures you might have in store for the family. If you need us to do the job for you, call Century Mobile Homes and RV Service Center at
707-445-8411.
