Complete Guide to Winterizing Your RV
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Winterizing Your RV: Step-by-Step Guide
- Accessing the Storage Bay
- Draining the Low Point Drains
- Closing the Low Point Drains
- Connecting to the Water Main
- Bypassing the Hot Water Heater
- Draining the City Water Connection
- Adding Antifreeze
- Removing the Water Filter
- Draining the RV Water Hose
- Removing the Hot Water Heater Plug
- Finishing Up Inside the RV
- Turning on the Water Pump
- Running Water through the Kitchen Sink and Refrigerator
- Running Water through the Bathroom
- Dumping Antifreeze Down the Drains
- Conclusion
Winterizing Your RV: Step-by-Step Guide
Winterizing your RV is an essential part of RV ownership, especially if you live in an area with harsh winters. By properly winterizing your RV, you can protect it from freezing temperatures and prevent costly damage. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of winterizing your RV, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the winter months ahead.
Accessing the Storage Bay
The first step in winterizing your RV is to access the storage bay. This is where you will find the valves and drains that need to be opened and closed during the winterization process. Locate the access panel inside the bay, which is typically labeled for easy identification.
Draining the Low Point Drains
Once you have accessed the storage bay, locate the low point drains. These are small valves that need to be opened to drain out any remaining water in the system. Lift up on the valves to open them and allow the water to drain out completely. Once all the water has been drained, push the valves back down to close them.
Closing the Low Point Drains
After draining the low point drains, it's important to close them to prevent any antifreeze from leaking out. This will ensure that the antifreeze circulates through the system properly. Simply push the valves back down to their closed position.
Connecting to the Water Main
Next, locate the water manifold in the storage bay. This is where you will find a series of valves that control the flow of water in your RV. Look for the diagram labeled "Winterize" and double-check that the valve positions match the instructions. Open the valves as indicated to bypass the hot water heater.
Bypassing the Hot Water Heater
To bypass the hot water heater, ensure that the appropriate valves are set according to the diagram on the water manifold. This will prevent antifreeze from entering the hot water heater and save you from using unnecessary antifreeze. Once you have set the valves correctly, proceed to the next step.
Draining the City Water Connection
Before adding antifreeze to your RV's plumbing system, it's important to drain the city water connection. This will ensure that all water is removed from the system and prevent dilution of the antifreeze. Simply crack open the city water connection and allow any remaining water to drain out onto the ground.
Adding Antifreeze
Now it's time to add antifreeze to your RV's plumbing system. If your RV has a water filter, remove it and discard it for the season. Connect the RV water hose to the city water connection, making sure it is secure. If your RV has not been winterized, you will need to use a five-gallon bucket to add three gallons of antifreeze.
Removing the Water Filter
To prevent freezing and damage to the water filter, it's important to remove it for the winter season. If your RV came with a bypass kit, use it to bypass the water filter. If you don't have a bypass kit, contact your RV's parts department for assistance. It is crucial to remove the water filter, as freezing temperatures can cause it to crack and leak.
Draining the RV Water Hose
After adding antifreeze to your RV's plumbing system, it's important to drain the RV water hose. Disconnect the hose from the city water connection and drain any remaining water from it. This will prevent the hose from freezing and bursting during the winter months.
Removing the Hot Water Heater Plug
To prevent any water from remaining in the hot water heater, remove the hot water heater plug. Use a 1516 socket to unscrew the plug and allow any remaining water to drain out. Be prepared for water to gush out once the plug is removed, so be sure to step back to avoid getting wet.
Finishing Up Inside the RV
Once you have completed the winterization steps outside, it's time to finish up inside the RV. Turn on the water pump, ensuring that it is switched on at the main panel. Then, run the cold water and hot water faucets on both sides of the sink until you see pink antifreeze coming through. Do the same for the refrigerator's water valve, ensuring that all ice cubes are pushed out and replaced with pink slush.
Next, move to the bathroom and run the shower, as well as the hot and cold water faucets on the sink. Run plenty of water through the toilet to ensure that all water is replaced with antifreeze. Finally, pour a little extra antifreeze down all the drains in the RV, including the shower, sink, and kitchen sink, to prevent the P-traps from freezing.
Conclusion
Winterizing your RV is a crucial step in protecting your investment and preventing costly damage. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your RV is properly prepared for the winter months. Remember to double-check the valve positions on your specific RV, as they may vary. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to your RV dealer or service center.
Highlights
- Winterizing your RV is essential to protect it from freezing temperatures.
- Access the storage bay to locate the valves and drains needed for winterization.
- Drain the low point drains and close them to prevent any leaks.
- Connect to the water main and bypass the hot water heater to save antifreeze.
- Drain the city water connection and add antifreeze to the system.
- Remove the water filter and drain the RV water hose.
- Remove the hot water heater plug to drain any remaining water.
- Finish up inside the RV by running water through the faucets, shower, and toilet.
- Pour extra antifreeze down the drains to prevent freezing.
- Winterizing your RV will help prevent costly damage and protect your investment.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to winterize my RV if I live in a mild climate?
A: While winterizing is typically necessary in areas with freezing temperatures, it's still a good idea to take preventive measures even in mild climates to protect your RV from any unexpected cold spells.
Q: Can I use regular antifreeze for winterizing my RV?
A: No, regular automotive antifreeze is not suitable for RV plumbing systems. It's essential to use RV-specific antifreeze that is safe for drinking water systems.
Q: How often should I winterize my RV?
A: You should winterize your RV once a year before the winter season begins. However, if you plan to use your RV during the winter or experience extended periods of freezing temperatures, you may need to winterize more frequently.
Q: Can I skip any steps in the winterization process?
A: It's crucial to follow each step in the winterization process to ensure that your RV's plumbing system is properly protected. Skipping steps may result in damage or costly repairs.
Q: Can I DIY the winterization process, or should I hire a professional?
A: While winterizing your RV can be done as a DIY project, it's always a good idea to consult your RV dealer or service center for guidance. They can provide specific instructions for your RV make and model and ensure that the winterization process is done correctly.
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