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How to Winterize a Camping Trailer

Winterizing a camping trailer or recreational vehicle protects your investment from damage during the winter months. While in storage, cold weather can affect a trailer in many different ways, including busted pipes and fittings. Taking proper winterizing steps saves money and time as there are fewer repairs when warm weather returns.

Things You'll Need

  • Cleaning supplies
  • RV antifreeze
  • Moisture absorbing product, such as Damp-Rid
  • Spray lubricant
  • Spray foam insulation
  • Shelter, if available
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the trailer thoroughly from top to bottom, both inside and out. Remove all trash, paper products and food from the storage areas. Lines should be removed and cleaned. Scrub sinks, toilets and showers Clean the refrigerator, microwave and stove.

    • 2

      Add a small box of baking soda to the refrigerator and prop the door open.

    • 3

      Open the drains on all tanks, the water heater and any other valves. Open all faucets to drain water from the system.

    • 4

      Turn on the water pump to drain the pipes and storage tanks of as much water as possible. A small amount of water may remain in the fresh water holding tank; this is acceptable. Close all taps, drains and valves. Turn off faucets.

    • 5

      Following manufacturer directions, add the prescribed amount of antifreeze to the pipes and storage tanks on the trailer. Use the water pump to circulate the antifreeze through the system.

    • 6

      Check to make sure antifreeze is throughout the entire system by opening each faucet and checking for colored antifreeze. Close all faucets.

    • 7

      Turn off the pump and turn on a faucet to release pressure. Leave the faucet open.

    • 8

      Pour antifreeze down each drain and in the toilet.

    • 9

      Open all cabinet doors and add a moisture absorbent product as directed by the product packaging.

    • 10

      Make sure all windows, vents and doors are closed securely.

    • 11

      Use a lubricant, such as WD-40, to lubricate the rubber body mount bushings and unit suspension bushings to protect against dry-rot.

    • 12

      Inspect the underside of the trailer for any small openings through which a mouse can find entrance to the trailer. Fill the holes with spray foam insulation.

    • 13

      Remove the propane tanks, capping the line on the outside.

    • 14

      Park the trailer under a shelter or in a secure storage area, if available.

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