Winterizing Your Travel Trailer: A Guide To Safe Storage

March 06, 2023 Post a Comment

HOW TO DEWINTERIZE YOUR RV OR CAMPER. 2020 Sunset Trail Rv 289QB from www.youtube.com

Winter is coming, and for many travelers, that means putting their beloved travel trailers into storage until the warmer months return. But before you tuck your trailer away, there are some important steps you need to take to ensure that it stays safe and protected during the colder months. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of winterizing your travel trailer, so you can rest easy knowing that your home on wheels is in good hands.

First and foremost, it's important to understand why winterizing your travel trailer is necessary. When temperatures drop below freezing, any water left in your trailer's pipes, tanks, and faucets can expand and cause serious damage. Freezing water can crack pipes, rupture tanks, and even cause appliances to break down. To prevent these costly and dangerous problems, you'll need to take steps to drain and protect your trailer's water systems before the cold weather sets in. Here's how:

Step 1: Drain Your Water System

The first step in winterizing your travel trailer is to completely drain your water system. Start by turning off your water heater and letting it cool down. Then, open all of your faucets and drain your fresh water tank, gray water tank, and black water tank. You'll also need to flush out your toilet and dump the remaining water from your holding tank. Once everything is drained, leave your faucets and valves open to allow any remaining water to evaporate.

Step 2: Add Antifreeze to Your Water Lines

Once your water system is drained, it's time to add antifreeze to your water lines. This will protect your pipes and faucets from freezing and prevent any residual water from causing damage. To do this, you'll need to purchase RV antifreeze, which is specially formulated for use in travel trailers. Pour the antifreeze into your fresh water tank and turn on your water pump. Then, open each faucet one at a time until you see the pink antifreeze flowing out. This will ensure that all of your water lines are protected.

Step 3: Protect Your Trailer's Exterior

In addition to protecting your water systems, you'll also need to take steps to safeguard your trailer's exterior from the harsh winter weather. Start by thoroughly cleaning and drying your trailer, paying special attention to any areas that are prone to rust or corrosion. Then, cover your trailer with a breathable RV cover to protect it from snow, ice, and other debris. Finally, be sure to remove any batteries and store them in a dry, temperature-controlled location.

Step 4: Store Your Trailer in a Safe Location

Once your trailer is winterized and protected, the final step is to store it in a safe location. Look for a secure, dry, and well-ventilated storage facility that is protected from the elements. If you're storing your trailer outside, make sure it's parked on a level surface and that the tires are properly inflated. You may also want to consider placing blocks under the tires to prevent them from freezing to the ground.

Winterizing your travel trailer may seem like a daunting task, but with a little bit of preparation and know-how, you can ensure that your home away from home stays safe and protected during the colder months. By following these steps and taking the time to properly winterize your trailer, you'll be able to hit the road again come springtime with peace of mind and confidence.