Updated February 12, 2023
De-winterizing your RV is an important task to ensure that it is ready for use after being stored or inactive during the winter months. It involves a number of steps to ensure that all systems are functioning properly and to prevent any damage or costly repairs. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to de-winterize your RV:
Begin by conducting a thorough visual inspection of the exterior of your RV. Look for any damage that may have occurred over the winter, such as broken windows, dents, or cracks. Make a list of any repairs that need to be made and set aside time to address these issues.
Next, check the roof of your RV for any damage. Look for any cracks, holes, or wear and tear. If you notice any issues, repair them as soon as possible to prevent leaks or further damage.
Once the exterior of your RV has been checked, it’s time to move on to the interior. Start by checking the plumbing system. If your RV has been winterized, you will need to remove the antifreeze that was added to the pipes. To do this, turn on the water pump and open all of the faucets, including the shower and toilet. This will allow the antifreeze to flush out of the system.
After the antifreeze has been removed, it’s a good idea to run some water through the system to ensure that there are no leaks. If you notice any leaks, make a note of them and repair them as soon as possible.
Once the plumbing system has been checked, it’s time to move on to the electrical system. Begin by checking the battery to ensure that it is fully charged and in good working order. If the battery is low, charge it up before proceeding.
Next, check all of the lights and appliances to ensure that they are functioning properly. If you notice any issues, make a note of them and have them repaired as needed.
The next step is to check the heating and cooling system. If your RV has a furnace, turn it on and make sure that it is working properly. If it is not, have it repaired before your next trip.
After the heating and cooling system has been checked, it’s time to move on to the propane system. Begin by checking the propane tanks to ensure that they are full and in good working order. If they are not, have them refilled before your next trip.
Next, check all of the appliances that run on propane, such as the stove, oven, and refrigerator, to ensure that they are working properly. If you notice any issues, have them repaired as needed.
The final step in de-winterizing your RV is to clean it thoroughly. Begin by wiping down all surfaces and vacuuming the floors. Then, check the air filters and replace them if necessary. Finally, wash the exterior of your RV to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated over the winter.
If you have an RV with a water heater, it’s important to check and maintain it before using it for the first time in the season. Begin by checking the anode rod, which is a sacrificial rod that helps protect the tank from corrosion. If the rod is more than half consumed, it should be replaced. You can do this by draining the tank and removing the old rod. Install a new rod by screwing it into place, then refill the tank and turn on the water heater to ensure that it is working properly.
Another important aspect of de-winterizing your RV is checking and maintaining the tires. Begin by inspecting the tires for any damage, such as cracks or bulges. If you notice any issues, have the tires repaired or replaced before your next trip. It’s also a good idea to check the tire pressure and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure, which can be found in the owner’s manual or on the sidewall of the tire.
If your RV has a slide-out, it’s important to check it before using it for the first time in the season. Begin by inspecting the seals and lubricating them if necessary. Then, manually extend and retract the slide-out a few times to ensure that it is functioning properly. If you notice any issues, have them repaired as soon as possible.
Another important step in de-winterizing your RV is checking the sealant on the roof. Over time, the sealant can become brittle and crack, which can lead to leaks. To check the sealant, walk around the RV and look for any cracks or gaps. If you notice any issues, repair them by applying a new layer of sealant.
Finally, it’s a good idea to check the fire extinguisher and smoke detectors to ensure that they are in good working order. Test the fire extinguisher by pulling the pin and spraying a short burst. If the extinguisher does not function properly, have it replaced. Additionally, test the smoke detectors by pressing the test button and listening for the alarm. If the smoke detectors do not function properly, replace the batteries or have them replaced.
FAQ
Do I need to de-winterize my RV if I live in a warm climate?
Even if you live in a warm climate, it’s a good idea to de-winterize your RV before using it for the first time after it has been inactive for an extended period of time. This helps ensure that all systems are functioning properly and prevents any damage or costly repairs.
Can I de-winterize my RV myself, or do I need to take it to a mechanic?
Many of the steps involved in de-winterizing an RV can be done by the owner, such as conducting a visual inspection, checking the tires and battery, and cleaning the interior and exterior. However, if you are not confident in your ability to perform these tasks, or if you notice any issues that you are not able to fix yourself, it’s a good idea to take your RV to a mechanic for further inspection and repair.
How often should I de-winterize my RV?
It’s a good idea to de-winterize your RV before using it for the first time after it has been inactive for an extended period of time, such as over the winter. You may also want to perform a thorough inspection and maintenance of your RV before each trip to ensure that it is in good working order.
What should I do if I notice a problem while de-winterizing my RV?
If you notice a problem while de-winterizing your RV, make a note of it and have it repaired as soon as possible. Ignoring a problem can lead to further damage and costly repairs down the road. If you are not confident in your ability to fix the problem yourself, take your RV to a mechanic for further inspection and repair.