How to winterize your RV

How much does it cost to winterize an RV?

On average, it costs $130 to $170 for a basic winterizing package at an RV dealer, depending on the size and class of your RV. If you pay a similar amount to de-winterize in the spring, those costs can add up over the years, which is why many RV owners choose to do it themselves.

RV winterization tips: what you’ll need

Before you begin, check your owner’s manual. Some RVs are equipped with built-in winterizing valves or controls, so your model’s requirements may vary.

Commonly needed supplies, which you can get online or from your RV dealer, include:

• Nontoxic RV/marine antifreeze (propylene glycol)—often two to three gallons
• Tubing for the black water holding tank and a cleaning wand
• A water pump converter kit or hosing that connects to the pump inlet or an external hand pump
• A water heater bypass kit
• Hand tools to install and remove drain plugs
• Ant and roach traps
• Anti-rodent foam and peppermint granules or packets
• Moisture-absorbing dry packs

Step 1: Flush your RV’s plumbing system

Follow these steps to remove water from the system:

• Remove any water line filters.
• Drain and flush all freshwater tanks, systems, and lines.
• Drain, flush, and clean the gray and black holding tanks at an RV-approved dump station.
• Turn off the water pump.
• Let water cool, then drain the water heater tank by opening the pressure relief valve.
• Turn all sink, shower, and outside faucets to the open position.
• Flush the toilet.
• Open the hot and cold low-point water drains by removing the plugs.
• Turn on the water pump briefly to help push remaining water out—then turn it off right away to avoid pump damage.

Step 2: Add antifreeze to water lines

If your manufacturer recommends it, add antifreeze designed specifically for RVs and campers. Never use automotive antifreeze. Many newer RVs include a water heater bypass kit, which helps prevent wasting gallons of antifreeze to fill the water heater tank. If you don’t have one, ask your RV dealer about installing it.

To get antifreeze into the water lines:

• Close all open faucets and water valves.
• Bypass the water heater.
• Install the water pump converter kit, or connect to the pump inlet, so the system can pull in the antifreeze.
• Turn on the water pump to circulate the antifreeze.
• Starting with the fixture closest to the water pump, slowly open each faucet/valve until antifreeze begins to flow, then close it.
• Repeat for each fixture, working from closest to farthest from the water pump, both inside and out.
• Replace the antifreeze container feeding the converter kit with a full one as needed.
• Don’t forget washing machines, ice makers, and other appliances if your RV has them.
• Flush the toilet until antifreeze flows.
• Pour about a cup of antifreeze down each drain to protect P-traps.
• Pour the rest of your antifreeze into the freshwater tank.
• Turn off your water heater’s heating element.
• Double-check that all faucets are closed.

Step 3: Keep pests from moving in

Rodents and insects can squeeze into surprisingly small openings in your RV, and storage season gives them time to get comfortable. A little prevention now can save you a lot of cleanup later.

To help keep pests out of your RV:

• Remove all food, including pantry items.
• Seal cracks and crevices inside and out with anti-rodent foam.
• Place peppermint granules or packets in storage areas and nearby entry points.
• Set ant and roach traps around the interior.

Step 4: Prepare the engine, batteries, and electrical system

If you’re storing a motorhome, take time to protect the drivetrain and power systems:

• Top off engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and winter-rated windshield fluid as needed.
• Add fuel stabilizer, fill the tank, and run the engine for about five minutes.
• Check battery fluid levels, if applicable, per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Fully charge all batteries.
• In freezing climates, disconnect and store batteries safely in a warm, dry location, or disconnect at the terminals—negative side first—for warmer climates.
• Turn off the main breaker and disconnect from shore power.
• Remove batteries from small devices, like clocks, remotes, sensors, and detectors.
• Remove electronics, such as TVs, tablets, and laptops.
• Follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions for onboard generators.