Simple Steps to Safely Winterize Your RV

Winters in the Northeast can be hard on recreational vehicles left outside, so be sure you take the necessary steps to ensure your RV is protected and ready to roll come Spring!

A little prep work before you park your RV for the year will go a long way to extending the life of your vehicle and will make getting it ready to roll when the good weather comes that much easier.

Follow these simple steps and then sit back and watch the snow fly, knowing your RV is safe and protected:

1) DRAIN ALL WATER

In areas of the country like the Northeast, where below-freezing temperatures during Winter are common, it is essential to drain all the water out of your RV. Empty the holding tanks - fresh water, gray water, and black water.

Open all faucets and low points to ensure complete drainage. Switch your water heater to bypass or drain.

Use an air-compressor to flush out any remaining water or add anti-freeze into the tanks and lines to prevent freezing.

Be extra careful and remove any standing water inside the RV as well - in the toilet, sink, dishwasher or other appliances.

2) STORE YOUR BATTERY

It is a good idea to remove your RV battery and store it in an area that is more temperature-controlled than outside, like your basement or even garage. Wide temperature swings can be hard on an RV battery and significantly reduce its starting performance and useful life - the last thing you want when you're on the road!

3) CLEAN THE INSIDE AND ADD DESICCANTS

It is always a good idea to totally clean out your RV before you consider it "stored" for the winter. Double check there isn't any overlooked food, garbage, water or anything that can spoil and turn into a nasty surprise come Spring.

Vacuum, wipe surfaces with a disinfectant and add desiccants (to absorb moisture) throughout.

4) CONSIDER RV BLOCKS, TIRE COVERS, AN RV COVER OR SKIRTING.

Start by inspecting and repairing any exterior seals or caulking to prevent water leaks. Cover air vents and openings to prevent pests, dirt and water from entering.

Consider using RV blocks to relieve stress on your tires or at least be sure to inflate tires to the recommended pressure. Consider using tire covers to protect against cold temperatures and UV exposure.

If you are like most RV owners and are parking your RV outside, consider an RV cover or skirting. A cover provides the best protection possible against the elements and skirting will protect the underside of the vehicle from the weather as well as animals and pests.

Throughout the winter it's a good idea to regularly check on your RV, inside and out.

Make sure there aren't any leaks or water stains inside, and that covers and skirts are tight, sealed and secure.

Check for rodent or pest infestation and change desiccants as needed.

Taking these simple steps to ensure your RV is properly stored will help get you back on the road safely and easily come Spring and give you peace-of-mind throughout the long Northeast Winters.