Along with motorhome security, the weather is a significant risk to your motorhome. With winter approaching, it is crucial to prepare your motorhome for the cold months ahead. Effective winterisation ensures that your beloved motorhome remains in top condition, ready for the adventures that await when the warmer days return. Whether you plan to use your motorhome during the winter or store it away, taking the right steps can prevent costly damage while ensuring your comfort and safety.
Drain Down Your Motorhome
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 fresh water tank
First, empty the fresh water 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 because 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.
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.
Use Adequate Antifreeze
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 into the drains
Pour antifreeze down the sink and shower drains to protect the P-traps.
Clean All Utilities
Efficiently cleaning and maintaining your motorhome’s utilities before winter sets in not only prevents dampness 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 grey tanks
Empty the black and grey water tanks and add a small amount of antifreeze to prevent any remaining liquids from freezing. Flushing the grey tank after the black tank helps you flush any solids stuck in the sewer hose.
Protecting the Exterior
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. Consider 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 tyres
Ensure your tyres are properly inflated and, if storing the motorhome, use tyre covers to protect them from the elements.
Maintaining Battery Power
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.
How to store your motorhome for winter
Though you may, of course, wish to use your motorhome all year round, the steps outlined above can be a lifesaver 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, look for a local facility that provides storage on-site.
By following these steps, you can protect your investment and be ready to hit the road when the weather warms up. Start your winterisation process early to avoid any last-minute issues. Thorough preparation now will help you enjoy your motorhome for years to come!q
