Prepare for Cold-Weather Camping or Winter Storage

Preparing your RV for winter starts with deciding whether you’ll keep camping or put it into storage. A stored RV needs its plumbing winterized, while an occupied RV needs dependable heat, adequate power, and protection for vulnerable water lines. In either case, exterior inspections and moisture control help prevent seasonal damage.

How do you protect RV plumbing during winter storage?

Water left in tanks, lines, pumps, or appliances can freeze and cause damage. Follow the winterization procedure for your specific RV and installed equipment.

Key tasks include:

• Drain the system: Empty the fresh water tank and plumbing lines, and empty wastewater tanks at an approved disposal location. Draining alone may leave water trapped in components.
• Prepare the water heater: Turn off gas and electric heating modes. Allow a tank-style heater to cool and relieve pressure before draining it. Set its bypass valves as directed before introducing antifreeze.
• Use the specified winterization method: If using antifreeze, choose a non-toxic product labeled for RV potable-water systems. Never use automotive antifreeze.
• Protect every applicable fixture: Include showers, toilets, drains, P-traps, and equipment such as ice makers or washer connections according to their instructions.

Tankless water heaters require their own winterization procedures. Do not assume a tank-style heater’s instructions apply.

What exterior maintenance should you complete before winter?

Inspect the RV before cold weather makes repairs more difficult:

• Check seals and weather stripping: Look around windows, doors, roof seams, and exterior attachments for cracks, gaps, or separation. Use compatible repair materials.
• Clean exterior surfaces: Follow the care instructions for your RV’s finish, graphics, and roof membrane. Apply protective products only where approved.
• Choose an appropriate cover: If using a cover, select one designed for your RV and follow its installation instructions. A cover does not replace roof maintenance or snow checks.

Do not seal over designed vents, drainage openings, or appliance exhausts.

How should you prepare for cold-weather camping?

Winter camping requires preparation beyond packing warm clothing. Your RV’s insulation, heating equipment, plumbing layout, and available utilities all affect its suitability for the expected conditions.

Before leaving:

• Check furnace operation: Confirm it works properly and keep heating outlets, return-air openings, and exterior exhausts unobstructed.
• Plan propane and battery use: The furnace needs fuel and electrical power. Monitor both throughout your stay.
• Reduce drafts safely: Use suitable window insulation without blocking emergency exits or required ventilation.
• Understand tank protection: If equipped, operate tank heaters and heated water hoses according to their instructions. These protect specific components, not necessarily every exposed fitting or drain.
• Monitor the forecast: Have a plan to drain or winterize the plumbing if you cannot maintain protection against freezing.

Where the furnace supplies heat to an enclosed underbelly, warming only the living area may leave plumbing vulnerable. Confirm how your RV’s heating arrangement works before relying on another heat source.

What else should you do before winter storage?

Once the plumbing is protected, prepare the remaining systems:

• Remove food and beverages: Empty the refrigerator, pantry, and other storage areas. Clean and dry the refrigerator, then use its approved storage-door position.
• Prepare batteries: Follow the battery manufacturer’s charging, disconnection, temperature, and storage instructions. Lead-acid and lithium batteries can have different requirements.
• Check tires: Set cold inflation pressure according to the applicable guidance. Suitable covers can reduce sunlight exposure.
• Check for pest entry points: Repair unintended openings without blocking required ventilation or drainage.

Do not operate the water heater while the plumbing system is winterized.

What should you monitor throughout winter?

Check the RV periodically, whether it is occupied or stored:

• Look for leaks, damaged seals, or cover movement after storms.
• Assess snow accumulation using safe access methods. Avoid walking on icy roofs or using tools that could damage the membrane.
• Watch for condensation and damp surfaces. Use ventilation and, where appropriate, a dehumidifier.
• Check battery condition according to its storage instructions.

Cold-weather preparation needs to match your equipment and conditions. For additional resources, visit KeystoneRV.com.

Review your RV’s winter requirements before the first freeze, and contact your dealer if you need help preparing it.