How to Winterize Your RV: Step-by-Step

Why Winterizing Matters

When temperatures drop, any water left in your RV’s pipes, tanks, or fittings can freeze, expand, and cause costly damage. Cracked water lines, busted faucets, and broken pumps can turn into hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars in repairs. Spending a little time now to winterize saves you money and stress later.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather a few essentials:

• RV antifreeze (non-toxic, pink kind, NOT automotive antifreeze) Link: https://amzn.to/4pnQ9Uz

• Water heater bypass kit (if your RV doesn’t already have one) Link: https://amzn.to/4mlfwn7

• Basic tools (screwdriver, wrench, pliers, bucket)

• Water pump converter kit or a short piece of tubing Link: https://amzn.to/3Idy62M

• Gloves and a flashlight (makes things easier!) Link: https://amzn.to/47KEMzJ

• Your RVs User Manual

Step 1: Remove or Bypass Water Filters

Remove or bypass any water filters in your RV. RV antifreeze can damage water filters.

Step 2: Drain the Water System

1. Turn off the water pump and disconnect from city water.

2. Open all faucets, showers (inside & outside), and low-point drains.

3. Empty the fresh water tank.

4. Drain and flush the water heater (but make sure it has cooled down first).

5. Drain and clean The Black Water Tank. If your RV does not have a tank flushing system, use a wand to clean the Black Water Tank.

6. Drain the Gray Water Tanks after the Black Water tank. This clears the Sewer hose of most waste.

7. You can also use a Reverse Flush Valve to help clean the tanks. Link: https://amzn.to/4gtUOjQ

Tip: Open the pressure relief valve on the water heater to help it drain faster.

Step 3: Bypass the Water Heater

If you don’t already have a bypass installed, add one. This prevents gallons of antifreeze from filling your water heater (wasteful and expensive). It also helps make De-Winterizing easier for your next RV season.

Step 4: Add Antifreeze

1. Install a water pump converter kit (or use tubing). The Kit will have instructions to use it properly.

2. Insert the tubing into the RV antifreeze bottle.

3. Turn on the water pump to pull antifreeze into the system.

4. Open each faucet (hot and cold) one at a time until pink liquid flows out.

5. Don’t forget the toilet, outside shower, and washer/dishwasher hookups (if equipped).

*Some people like to use compressed air to clear water lines. If you do this do not go over 50 PSI. If you choose compressed air make sure you still bypass water filters and the hot water heater.

Step 5: Finish Up

• Pour a little antifreeze down each drain and into the P-traps.

• Pour about a cup into the toilet bowl and flush it into the holding tank.

• Make sure all faucets are closed.

Bonus Steps for Extra Protection

• Battery: Disconnect and store in a cool, dry place.

• Propane: Shut off the tanks.

• Prepare for Snow: Check your RV roof, doors, windows and seals that could allow water intrusion.

• Look for rodent entry points: To keep rodents out during storage.

• Interior: Remove food, clean thoroughly, and leave moisture absorbers to prevent mold.

• Tires: Inflate to proper pressure; consider tire covers if storing outside. Link: https://amzn.to/3K2sVTW

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting the outside shower a common freeze point!

• Using the wrong antifreeze (automotive = toxic).

• Skipping the water heater bypass wastes gallons of antifreeze.

Wrapping Up

Winterizing your RV doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little preparation and the right supplies, you can do it yourself in an afternoon and rest easy all winter. When spring arrives, you’ll be ready to de-winterize, load up, and hit the road without costly surprises.

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Ready to learn more? Check out my RV maintenance guides, checklists, and resources at enlightenedrvlife.com.com