Are you RVing this winter but unsure of how to winterize your rig? Fear not! Our team at La Mesa RV has you covered. Follow this step-by-step guide to winterizing your RV heater and be sure to check out our recent posts How to Winterize Your RV Part I and II, as they are excellent resources for you to prepare your motorhome for an ultimate winter adventure!
Photography: @jscottish
You want to winterize your RV water system to keep it from freezing. Always refer to your owners manual for unit specific guidelines.
STEP 1: Remove and by-pass any inline water filters you have before you begin.
STEP 2: Drain your fresh water holding tank. Drain and flush your gray and black holding tanks.
STEP 3: Lubricate the termination valves with WD-40.
STEP 4: Drain the water heater and remove the drain plug. Open the pressure relief valve. NEVER drain the water heater when it is under pressure or if it is hot.
STEP 5: Open all faucets both internal and external on your RV.
STEP 6: Open all low point drain lines (there is one for hot and cold water lines).
STEP 7: By-pass the water heater.
STEP 8: Disconnect the inlet side of the water pump, then connect a piece of clear tubing and add one gallon of non-toxic RV antifreeze. If you you have a water pump converter kit you can use that instead.
STEP 9: Turn the water pump on and pressurize your system. First open the hot faucet, then the cold until you see the antifreeze.
STEP 10: Pour a cup of antifreeze down each drain. Don’t forget the toilet.
That’s it! Let us know where you’ll be headed this winter in your RV in the comment section below.
