The Ultimate Guide to Preparing your RV for Winter
Published on Aug 11, 2025
As the season winds down, it’s time to protect your RV from winter damage. Proper winterization ensures that pipes don’t freeze, seals stay intact, and your battery and appliances stay in top shape so that you can hit the road next season without costly repairs.
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step winterization guide to help you do it right.
1️⃣ Drain & Winterize the Water System
Water left in your pipes, tanks, or water heater can freeze and cause serious damage. Here’s how to properly drain and winterize your system.
- Drain the fresh water tank
- Drain the hot water heater – the water heater drain plug (usually a 1-1/16” plug)
- Drain the grey and black water tanks – Empty your holding tanks at an approved dump station and clean them thoroughly. Use tank cleaning treatments to prevent odors during storage.
- Remove any water filter cartridges.
- Bypass the water heater – Locate the bypass valve (usually near the water heater access panel) to prevent antifreeze from entering the tank.
- Pump RV antifreeze through the water lines – Connect a siphon hose to your water pump, place it in a bottle of RV-specific, non-toxic antifreeze, and turn on the pump. You will need 2 jugs of antifreeze for a standard unit. Units with additional accessories like washing machines or ice makers may require additional antifreeze.
- Open all faucets, showers, and toilets one at a time – Run water until antifreeze comes out. Don’t forget exterior showers, ice makers, and washing machines if equipped.
- Flush the toilet until pink antifreeze flows through – This ensures that your toilet seal stays lubricated and won’t dry out over winter.
- Open the low-point drains – Let any remaining water escape to prevent freezing and cracking.
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2️⃣ Protect the Exterior
Winter can be harsh on seals, tires, and your RV’s roof.
- Inspect and reseal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, vents, and slide-outs using RV-grade sealant.
- Clean and protect the roof – Wash the roof, check for damage, and apply a UV-protectant sealant if needed.
- Cover your RV – Use a breathable, weather-resistant RV cover to shield it from snow, ice, and UV rays.
- Protect tires – Inflate to recommended pressure, place tire covers, and consider parking on boards to prevent flat spots.
- Lubricate slide-outs and hinges to prevent rust buildup.
- Cover your RV properly – Use a breathable RV cover to prevent mold buildup. If storing outside, avoid using a standard tarp—it traps moisture and can cause damage.
3️⃣ Interior Prep: Keep It Dry & Pest-Free
Moisture and rodents are two of the biggest threats to an RV in storage.
- Remove ALL food – Even non-perishable items can attract pests.
- Leave cabinet and fridge doors open – This improves airflow and prevents mold.
- Use moisture absorbers like DampRid or Dri-Z-Air to prevent condensation buildup.
- Seal potential rodent entry points – Close any gaps around plumbing and wiring. Place pest deterrents such as peppermint oil, dryer sheets, or ultrasonic repellents to discourage nesting.
- Remove bedding and linens – Store them in sealed containers to avoid mildew and pest damage.
- Disconnect and store electronics – Remove batteries and unplug devices to prevent corrosion or phantom power drain.
- Lubricate jacks and stabilizers to keep them from seizing.
- Use tire covers – Protect tires from UV damage and weathering with breathable covers.
- Park on boards or leveling blocks – Avoid direct contact with cold concrete or wet ground to prevent tire rot and flat spots.
- Apply rust inhibitor to the chassis – Spray exposed metal parts with a rust-preventive coating to protect the undercarriage.
6️⃣ Final Touches Before Locking Up
- Close and lock all windows and doors – Double-check seals and latches.
- Cover vents with screens – Prevent insects and rodents from entering through roof or side vents.
- Leave a note or checklist inside – Include reminders for spring startup (e.g., remove moisture absorbers, reconnect batteries).
- Check periodically – If possible, inspect your RV monthly to catch any issues early.
✅ With these steps, your RV will be safe, dry, and ready to roll when the snow melts.
