Preparing Your RV for a Freeze
Brr! Temperatures have dropped into the 30s here in the Coastal Bend, and for RV owners that means it’s time to winterize. Whether you’re storing your RV for the winter or you’re in it for the long haul, there are a few adjustments you will want to make.
Keep your fresh water line from freezing.
A simple way to do this to wrap some pipe insulation around the hose. If you’re dealing with a particularly harsh winter climate, you may want to consider a heated hose. As an added precaution, it never hurts to keep a faucet dripping through a freeze.
Prevent sewage tanks from freezing.
If you’re storing your RV for the winter, you will need to drain your gray and black water tanks and add some antifreeze to keep your tanks from freezing. If you are planning to use your RV through the winter, however, you have some options. Experts recommend closing holding tanks unless dumping and adding non-toxic anti-freeze every time the tanks are dumped. Another, more long-term solution is to install holding tank heater blankets. We encourage you to do your own research before deciding what the best option is for your RV and climate.
Bonus tip: Don't empty your sewage tanks like Cousin Eddie.
Insulation is your best friend.
RV skirting will help keep your pipes warm as well as the inside of your RV. Buy a custom-fitted skirt for your RV or save some money by making one yourself with foam insulation board or billboard tarp vinyl. Windows are a major source of heat loss in RVs. If you want to stay warm in the winter without feeling like you’re living in a dungeon, consider using something like clear bubble wrap. If you notice a drop in temperature when you enter the slide-out portions of your RV, consider insulating them by taping foam boards to the bottoms.
A warm engine is a happy engine.
If you have a motorhome, remember that diesel can freeze if temperatures drop low enough. Switch out your regular diesel for winterized diesel or purchase an additive that will prevent your diesel from freezing. In temperatures 32 degrees and lower, be sure to turn on the engine block heater a few hours before starting the engine.
Condensation is your enemy.
Condensation is not your friend. Think wet cabinets and closets, black mildew, and cold, damp air. Your best solution for this is to purchase a de-humidifier. Not only will it suck the moisture out of the air and keep the interior of your RV dry, but it will also keep your RV nice and warm. For enclosed spaces like closets, de-humidifying pellets are great for added protection against condensation. Just remember to change them out regularly.
Stay warm!
Make sure your propane tanks are full, but keep an electric space heater or two on hand just in case you run out of propane. In below freezing temperatures, your propane may stop flowing. Consider purchasing a propane tank blanket to prevent your propane tank from getting too cold.
Need some more tips? Stop by the dealership just outside Corpus Christi and serving McAllen, Laredo, San Antonio, and Rockport. We'll be more than happy to answer your questions! And if you’re still searching for the fifth wheel or travel trailer of your dreams, we can help you with that, too!