Owning a camper provides the freedom to travel and enjoy the outdoors year-round. However, when colder months roll in and temperatures drop below freezing, it becomes essential to protect your investment. Knowing how to winterize a camper ensures it stays in excellent condition through the winter and is ready to go when warmer weather returns.
Failing to properly prepare your camper for winter can lead to costly damage, particularly to the water system, seals, and battery. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process of winterizing your camper to prevent problems and extend its lifespan.
Why Winterizing Your Camper Matters
Winterizing your camper is about more than just preparing it for storage—it’s a vital part of maintenance. When temperatures dip below freezing, water left in pipes or tanks can freeze and expand, leading to cracks, leaks, and system failures.
By learning how to winterize a camper, you help prevent:
-
Burst water lines and damaged fittings
-
Mold and mildew from trapped moisture
-
Dead batteries and corrosion
-
Tire degradation and flat spots
-
Insect and rodent infestations
Even if you plan to use your camper occasionally during winter, taking precautionary steps is still wise. It’s better to be prepared than face costly repairs come spring.
Step 1: Drain the Water System
One of the most important steps when figuring out how to winterize a camper is removing all water from the system. Start by draining the fresh water tank, water heater, and both the gray and black holding tanks.
Steps:
-
Turn off the water heater and allow it to cool.
-
Open all faucets inside the camper, including kitchen and bathroom taps.
-
Drain the fresh water tank using the low point drain valve.
-
Open the water heater drain plug and pressure relief valve to empty it fully.
-
Flush and empty the gray and black tanks at a proper disposal station.
-
Consider using a wand to clean the black tank for extra cleanliness.
This step prevents frozen water from damaging the plumbing during freezing temperatures.
Step 2: Bypass the Water Heater
Before adding antifreeze to your system, it’s important to bypass the water heater. This avoids filling the tank with unnecessary antifreeze, saving you several gallons.
How to do it:
-
Locate the bypass valve near your water heater.
-
Turn the valve so that water (or antifreeze) flows around the heater instead of into it.
-
If your camper doesn't have a built-in bypass system, you may need to install a manual one.
Skipping this step can waste antifreeze and make flushing the system in spring more difficult.
Step 3: Add RV Antifreeze
Using non-toxic RV antifreeze protects your camper’s water lines and components from freezing. Do not use automotive antifreeze, as it’s toxic and unsafe for your plumbing.
Steps:
-
Connect a water pump converter kit or place the antifreeze intake tube into a container of RV antifreeze.
-
Turn on the water pump to pressurize the system.
-
Open each faucet (hot and cold) one at a time until you see pink antifreeze flowing through.
-
Flush the toilet until pink liquid appears.
-
Don’t forget the shower, outside faucet, and low point drains.
When finished, pour antifreeze into each drain and into the toilet bowl to protect the P-traps and seals.
Step 4: Protect the Battery
Your camper battery can lose charge or become damaged if left unused in cold conditions. Learning how to winterize a camper also includes battery care.
Battery tips:
-
Disconnect and remove the battery from the camper.
-
Store it in a dry, cool place—preferably indoors.
-
Use a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep it charged over winter.
-
Clean the terminals and apply anti-corrosion gel before storage.
A well-maintained battery ensures your camper is ready to hit the road in the spring.
Step 5: Seal and Secure All Openings
Moisture and critters are two common enemies during winter storage. Carefully sealing your camper can prevent unwanted surprises.
Inspection tips:
-
Check door seals, window gaskets, and roof vents.
-
Use silicone sealant or weatherproof tape to seal any cracks or gaps.
-
Close all windows, vents, and skylights tightly.
-
Use vent covers to maintain airflow while keeping moisture out.
-
Place screens over exhaust vents to deter rodents.
A little attention now helps prevent long-term damage and expensive repairs.
Step 6: Prepare the Interior
Your camper’s interior can suffer if left unattended in freezing or damp conditions. Preparing it properly is another key part of how to winterize a camper.
What to do:
-
Remove all food, perishable items, and toiletries.
-
Defrost and clean the refrigerator and leave the door propped open.
-
Wipe down all surfaces and vacuum the floors.
-
Remove bedding and linens to prevent mold and mildew.
-
Place moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers inside to reduce condensation.
-
Open all cabinet doors to allow airflow and avoid musty odors.
These actions help maintain a clean, fresh-smelling camper during the off-season.
Step 7: Protect the Exterior
The exterior of your camper is exposed to harsh elements. Taking care of it now helps preserve paint, seals, and mechanical components.
Exterior tasks:
-
Wash and wax the camper to protect the finish.
-
Lubricate all locks, hinges, and slide-outs.
-
Cover tires to prevent cracking and sun damage.
-
Inflate tires to recommended pressure to prevent flat spots.
-
Store on level ground with stabilizer jacks if possible.
-
Use a breathable, water-resistant RV cover if storing outdoors.
This helps shield your camper from snow, ice, and UV rays.
Final checklist:
-
All water tanks and lines drained
-
Water heater bypassed
-
Antifreeze run through system
-
Drains and traps protected
-
Battery disconnected and stored
-
Food and perishables removed
-
Moisture control in place
-
All seals and gaps checked
-
Pest deterrents applied
-
Exterior cleaned and covered
Taking five minutes to double-check each item gives peace of mind.
Winter Storage Options
Depending on your living situation, you may need to decide between indoor and outdoor storage. Each has its pros and cons.
Indoor Storage:
Comments
0 comment