9 Step Checklist to De-Winterizing Your RV
O'Connor RV
If your RV has been in storage for several months, it is important to de-winterize and reverse the steps that you went through in the fall. Here are 9 steps to get your RV back in working order.
1) Exterior
Give your RV a thorough washing to remove dust, debris, and other gunk that collected during winter storage. You should use a gentle car soap to clean the exterior. Be sure to clean your awning and remove any mildew and stains that may have developed.
You should also inspect the RV's exterior for water leaks. Then, check all the caulking for any cracks or damage. If you find any cracks remove the old sealant and replace it.
The final check on the outside of the RV is to make sure that your lights and signals are in working order.
2) Batteries
Before you check your batteries:
- Make sure to wear safety glasses and latex gloves
- Disconnect the shore power
- Turn off all RV power and make sure the main cut off is in the OFF position
Once you are ready, the first thing you should do is to make sure all the battery connections are clean. If the terminals are corroded, you can use hot water and baking soda to clean them up. (If a battery is cracked it will need to be replaced.)
The next step is to charge the batteries, then check the battery fluid levels and add distilled water as needed. Water should only be added to lead-acid batteries after they are fully charged.
3) Tires
Check each tire on your RV—including the spare—for cracks along the sidewall and treads. Then make sure to inflate them to the proper tire pressure.
This is one of the most important steps in de-winterizing your RV.
4) Interior
Give the interior a thorough cleaning. Look for evidence of rodents. Air out the RV and look closely for signs of damage.
5) RV Fresh Water System
Check your motorhome’s freshwater system for leaks. Move the water heater's bypass valve into the "Normal" position, then turn on the hot and cold water and check all the faucets and pipes for leaks.
If you used non-toxic RV antifreeze to winterize your freshwater system, you’ll need to drain and flush it from the system. To clean out the system:
- For every 15 gallons of tank capacity, add 1/4 cup of liquid household bleach to one gallon of water. Add the bleach water to the freshwater tank.
- Then, pump the water through all the water lines and fixtures, and let it sit for 4 hours.
- Once this is completed, you should then drain the system and flush it out until the water tastes and smells bleach-free.
6) Propane System
Check your propane system to be sure seals and hoses haven’t dried out and cracked.
- Turn off all LP items before you begin
- Don’t smoke!
- No flames or sparks
- Turn on the leak detector inside your RV
Open the valve on the tank all the way. Smell for leaks. Apply a soapy water solution on the valve and regulator and watch closely for bubbling or spurting. Check for evidence of rodent damage on wires and hoses.
Clean your LP gas appliances, then test them by lighting them and letting them run for a while.
If you suspect a leak, turn off the propane immediately and have a certified RV service technician inspect and repair the leak.
7) Appliances
Test all your appliances in electric mode. Check the outside access covers for your water heater and refrigerator.
8) Dump Hoses
Check your sewage dump hose for holes and leaks.
9) Waste Tank Valves
Finally, check the seals on your waste tank valves, making sure the waste tank is empty first.
Check the valve seal by carefully moving the handle in small increments to make sure it's working correctly.
Follow this checklist to de-winterize your RV and you’ll avoid all kinds of unwelcome surprises on your camping adventures. Remember O’Connor RV parts store and Service Dept. have knowledgeable staff to help you.