As temperatures drop, winterizing your RV becomes essential to prevent freezing, cracking, and expensive damage to your water system. Learning how to winterize your RV the right way protects your plumbing, appliances, and overall condition until you’re ready to hit the road again.
Drain All Water Systems Completely
The first step in winterizing is removing all water from your RV. This includes:
- Fresh water tank
- Gray and black holding tanks
- Water heater (be sure to turn it off and let it cool before draining)
Open low-point drains and faucets to let water escape. Flush toilets and shower heads too. Leaving any water behind can result in cracked pipes when it freezes.
Need a full-service winterization done? Daisy RV provides complete winter prep for all RV types.
Bypass the Water Heater Before Adding Antifreeze
Most RVs are equipped with a water heater bypass valve. Engaging this valve prevents antifreeze from filling the water heater, saving several gallons of product.
If your RV doesn’t have a bypass installed, consider having one added—it makes future winterizing faster and more efficient. Daisy RV can install custom bypass kits quickly and affordably.
Pump RV Antifreeze Into the Plumbing System
Use only non-toxic, RV-safe antifreeze (typically pink). To distribute it through the plumbing:
- Connect a siphon hose to the water pump inlet
- Place the hose in the jug of antifreeze
- Turn on the pump and open each faucet (one at a time) until pink antifreeze flows through
- Don’t forget the toilet, shower, and outdoor spigots
Flush each line until you see solid pink flow, indicating the pipes are fully protected.
Pour Antifreeze Into All Drains and Traps
After pumping antifreeze through the water lines:
- Pour a small amount into each sink, shower, and toilet drain
- This protects the P-traps from freezing and cracking
- Flush a little extra down the black tank to protect its valve
This is a crucial part of how to winterize your RV the right way and prevents odors and costly pipe damage.
Prep Additional Systems and Interior
Before final storage:
- Turn off the propane and disconnect the battery (or use a maintainer)
- Remove food and clean out the fridge (prop it open to prevent mold)
- Close all windows and vents tightly
- Use moisture absorbers to fight condensation
- Cover tires and vents, and consider an RV cover for full protection
Winter storage prep goes beyond plumbing—it protects every corner of your rig. Daisy RV can help with custom winter storage plans and accessories.
Knowing how to winterize your RV the right way saves you thousands in potential repairs and ensures your RV is ready to roll when warmer weather returns.
