42
WINTERIZATION AND STORAGE
OPERATING IN FREEZING CONDITIONS
If water freezes inside the system, it can damage
piping and equipment. Keeping the interior
warm will aid in preventing water in the storage
tank, pump and piping from freezing. Open
inside cabinets and allow warm air to circulate
over the water system components. Add non-
toxic anti-freeze to the holding tank(s). Refer to
instructions that came with the anti-freeze.
Install a winter cover on the air conditioner.
Propane for the appliances will work down to
44 degrees below zero (-44°). The sliding
windows have weep holes, which drain water
from the window tracks. In heavy rain and
wind, water could be blown into the RV through
these holes. Put a piece of sponge in the track
over the hole to prevent this from occurring.
STORAGE
The following checklists will help you perform
the steps necessary to prepare your RV for
storage. Use the checklist that applies to the
storage conditions you anticipate. These
checklists do not include every detail required,
and you may want to expand them to suit your
needs.
SHORT-TERM STORAGE(Less than 45 days -
Above Freezing)
1. Wash the exterior.
2. Park the trailer as level as possible side to side.
Front should be raised higher than the rear to
encourage water to run off and not pool around
rear roof seal and or skylights.
3. Before disconnecting the battery cables, check
the charge in the battery. Recharge as necessary.
Clean terminals, top and sides of battery and
battery box. Leave the battery disconnected.
4. Drain the holding tanks, toilet, and fresh water
tank. Turn off the water pump and water heater.
5. Turn off the propane at tank valve.
6. Turn off the refrigerator, furnace, all range and
oven burner valves and pilot.
7. Remove all perishables from refrigerator and
galley cabinets. Leave the refrigerator door
open to reduce odor buildup. An open box or
tray of baking soda in the refrigerator will help
absorb odors.
8. Slightly open (1/4") a roof vent.
9. Close and lock all windows. Be sure the vent
fan and range hood fan switches are off.
10. Cap and close the holding tank drain, city
water inlet and fresh water fill spout.
11. Turn off all radios, TV’s, interior and exterior
lights.
12. Close the mini blinds and day/night shades
13. Check the RV weekly
LONG-TERM STORAGE - Above Freezing
1. Perform all the preceding short-term
storage steps.
2. Operate air conditioner periodically to
lubricate compressor seals.
3. Remove and place the battery in a cool, dry
area. Check the battery charge every 30
days. Recharge as necessary.
4. Check the sealants around all roof seams,
body seams and windows. Reseal if
necessary.
5. Remove the smoke detector’s battery.
Leave the cover open as a reminder to
replace the battery.
6. Cover exterior vents; water heater, furnace,
air conditioner shroud, range hood, refer, to
prevent insects and small animals from
getting in the camper. Be sure to remove all
covering materials before using appliances
and vents.
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