Winterise Your Motorhome: Essential Steps to Prepare for the Cold Season

Before the freezing temperatures arrive, it’s essential to drain down your motorhome’s water systems. Water left in pipes, tanks and fixtures can freeze and cause damage – often at great expense. Here’s how to do it:

Drain the freshwater tank

First, empty the freshwater tank – either by using the onboard pump to remove the water or by opening the drain valve.

Drain the water heater

Next, make sure to drain the water heater. This is essential, given that it can be one of the most expensive motorhome parts to replace. Turn off the heater and allow it to cool before opening the drain plug.

If you have a Carver Boiler, the drain tap will be located on the outside of the flue cowl; with a Truma Ultrastore boiler, this will be a yellow lever in the boiler compartment; with a Truma Combi boiler, look out for the automatic drain valve in the boiler/nearby compartment – this will usually drain on its own at temperatures of 5°C or below.

Open all faucets

Open all faucets and fixtures (including the shower, sink, and toilet) to allow any remaining water to drain from the pipes.

Use compressed air

After draining, use compressed air to blow out any residual water from the lines. This additional step will help prevent any water from freezing in the system.

To protect your plumbing system from freezing, it’s crucial to use motorhome antifreeze. Unlike automotive antifreeze, motorhome/RV antifreeze is non-toxic and safe for potable water systems.

Bypass the water pump

Disconnect the intake hose of the water pump and connect a hose to the antifreeze container.

Pump antifreeze

Turn on the water pump and use it to pump antifreeze through the plumbing system. Run each faucet until the colour of the antifreeze flows out, indicating that the entire system is protected.

Pour antifreeze in the drains

Pour antifreeze down the sink and shower drains to protect the P-traps.

Efficiently cleaning and maintaining your motorhome’s utilities before winter sets in not only prevents damp and mould, but also prevents the build-up of dirt which can become even more difficult to remove if neglected for longer periods.

· Clean the water tanks

Use a tank cleaner to remove any residue or bacteria from your freshwater and wastewater tanks. This will prevent odours from developing and ensure clean water for the next season.

Check the propane system

Make sure the propane system is in good working order. Check for leaks and make sure that the regulator and lines are free from damage.

Clean the refrigerator and freezer

Clean the interior of your refrigerator and freezer and defrost if necessary. Leave the doors slightly ajar to prevent mould and odours.

Drain the black and gray tanks

Empty the black and gray water tanks completely and add a small amount of antifreeze to prevent any remaining liquids from freezing. Flushing the gray tank after the black tank helps you to flush any solids stuck in the sewer hose.

Don’t forget to take care of the exterior of your motorhome to keep it looking as good as new:

Cover or store indoors

If possible, store your motorhome indoors. If not, invest in a quality motorhome cover to protect it from snow and ice. Opt for a purpose-made cover that’s breathable and has a soft underside – this will help to prevent condensation when the temperature drops and stop the bodywork from becoming scratched.

Inspect seals and roof

Check for any gaps or damaged seals on windows, doors, and roof vents that may arise with age. It’s a good idea to repair or replace them to prevent water infiltration.

Maintain tires

Ensure your tires are properly inflated and, if storing the motorhome, use tire covers to protect them from the elements.

If your motorhome is going to be out of action for the season, batteries can become discharged entirely, which has the potential to cause permanent damage. You may want to consider disconnecting and taking the leisure battery to a garage where professionals can monitor its state of charge and perform charging as needed. However, it’s best to consult your owner’s manual before proceeding.

Alternatively, you may choose to still take your motorhome for a run out regularly to recharge both batteries, which not only benefits the overall health of your motorhome but also helps maintain the charge levels of both the vehicle and leisure batteries. You could also install a solar roof panel with a minimum output of 40W can be a practical solution to keep both batteries topped up while in storage, even during the less sunny winter months. However, make sure to verify that your control system permits the solar panel to charge both the vehicle and leisure batteries.

Though you may of course, wish to use your motorhome all year round, the steps outlines above can be a life saver when it comes to motorhome maintenance. If you wish to take a break over winter, you’ll want to think about storing your vehicle safely. You may wish simply to store your motorhome at home if you have adequate space on the driveway – it’s not a good idea to park your motorhome on the roadside for extended periods. Alternatively, many of our Auto-Trail stockists have their own storage facilities on site. Simply look for your nearest dealership and get in touch to book a spot.

By following these steps, you can protect your investment and be ready to hit the road when the weather warms up. Start your winterization process early to avoid any last-minute issues. Thorough preparation now will help you enjoy your motorhome for years to come!