Winterizing your Rig

Tony · Grill Joined: Nov 26, 2007 Posts: 19

Join us live Thursday Nov 20th at blogtalkradio.com for tips on winterizing your rig. After the show Ill post the tips here as well.
Blog Talk Radio

Tony · Grill Joined: Nov 26, 2007 Posts: 19

1. Turn off any pilot lights and then turn off the propane at the source.

2. Drain the water from the rig. That is from; hot water tank, fresh water tank and all lines both hot and cold.

Now here is a note worthy idea.

If your rig dosent have bypass valves in it already now is a great time to install them.

For a few dollars you can buy and install a small three way valve that goes in the fresh water line, between the fresh water tank and the pump.

This will make pumping antifreeze throughout he system simple, insert the tube attached to the valve into a gallon of antifreeze, turn the valve to the open position open your faucet to start the pump after you see the red antifreeze coming out of the fucet repeat on all other faucets Simply turn the valve back to its original position and you are done.

Pour a few cups of antifreeze in each drain and toilet.
The reason for this is that water will stay in the peatrap and if it freezes it will bust the pea traps then you will have to replace them.

Make sure to use only RV antifreeze (NEVER-NEVER-NEVER USE AUTOMOTIVE ANTIFREEZE!!!!!!!).

While your getting your 3 way valve pickup a water heater by-pass. This is a simple device, one or two valves that isolates the tank from the rest of the water system.

This is One of the most important accessories you can add to your RV. This is something that I plan to add this spring so next time I winterize it will be a snap.

3. Turn the refrigerator off. Defrost and wipe dry, leave the doors propped open just a bit. This will allow some air circulation and keep down mildew. You might put an open box of baking soda in the fridge to help keep odors at bay.

4. Seal all outside openings to prevent invasions of unwanted critters from invading your rig.
6. When you park your rig keep the tires off the ground. Use wood pads or Teflon pads.

7. Disconnect the batteries. disconnect both terminals and if the weather is going to be extreme take the battery out and store it in a moderate climate.

8. Be sure the air conditioner is clean and cover it. You can use a heavy plastic bag or covers are sold at most RV dealers.

9. Wash and wax your vehicle this will help prevent dirt build up on your paint job.

10. If you can cover your vehicles do so they make covers that will fit most RV’s or perhaps you can store it in the barn or under cover at the RV storage place.