How to Winterize Campers and Trailers

Unless you live in a warmer climate like the southernmost United States, it is necessary to winterize your camper or trailer each year when the temperatures start dropping. Freezing weather can crack or break camper pipes, causing unseen damage that will have to be repaired when springtime rolls around. Prevent unnecessary harm to your recreational vehicle and save yourself a repair bill with a few simple maintenance steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Air compressor
  • RV antifreeze
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Drain all of the water from your camper. Empty every holding tank, including the fresh, black and gray water tanks. Open every faucet to allow air flow through the lines. Turn on the electric water pump to pump out any remaining water. Turn off the pump when only air is coming out. Disconnect your camper battery.

    • 2

      Take out the drain plug from the water heater and drain the water. Replace the plug.

    • 3

      Blow air through the water lines with an air compressor hose until only air is coming out of the lines. Turn off the air compressor.

    • 4

      Pour approximately one cup of RV-grade antifreeze into each drain in your camper as well as the toilet.

    • 5

      Empty the waste tanks of any water that has accumulated in them.