Park It Right: How to Put Your RV to Bed for Winter

RV winterization is less about special tools and more about doing routine tasks in the right order. The aim is simple: prevent freeze damage, slow aging, and ensure you don’t inherit a must‑fix list when warmer weather calls.

Plumbing: Bypass the water heater, drain tanks and lines fully, then pump RV‑safe antifreeze until pink appears at every fixture (including outside showers and low‑point drains). Don’t forget traps and the toilet valve. Label faucets “winterized” to avoid accidental water additions.

Batteries and power: Fully charge house and chassis batteries, clean terminals, and either disconnect or maintain with a smart charger. Phantom loads can kill a healthy pack over a single cold month.

Fuel and engine: Top off fuel with the appropriate stabilizer; run the engine and generator long enough to pull treated fuel into lines and injectors. Change oil if it’s near due—acids and moisture sitting all winter are harder on bearings than fresh oil is on your wallet.

Tires and weight: Inflate to spec, move a few feet monthly to rotate contact patches if possible, and consider pads under tires to reduce moisture wicking from cold ground.

Seals, seams, and pests: Inspect roof and window seals, touch up suspect areas, and close all weep holes with mesh to keep critters out. Remove food and soft goods that attract rodents.

Spring‑ready notes: Leave a laminated card with de‑winterization steps (sanitizing tanks, battery reconnection, tire pressure targets). Your future self will be grateful.

Store it right and your first spring trip will feel like a reward—not a repair list.