Nobody wants to read about winterization. I don't want to write about it. But every year I see people on RV forums asking the same questions and every year people blow it and end up with burst pipes. So here we go.
This is how I winterize my Airstream. Your rig might be slightly different but the principles are the same.
Drain everything. Water heater first — open the drain plug AND the pressure relief valve. Then open all faucets hot and cold. Flush the toilet. Open the low point drains. Let it all gravity drain for at least 15 minutes. Don't rush this part.
Bypass the water heater. Most rigs have a bypass valve behind the water heater panel. Switch it so antifreeze doesnt fill the water heater tank. Thats 6-10 gallons of antifreeze you don't need to waste.
Pump RV antifreeze. I use a hand pump connected directly to a jug of RV-rated antifreeze. Run it through the system — turn on each faucet until you see pink coming out. Hot side then cold side. Toilet too. Don't forget the outdoor shower if you have one. I did once. Learned that lesson.
Pour some down the drains. About a cup in each drain and in the toilet bowl. This protects the P-traps.
Don't forget the washer. If you have an RV washer, run a small cycle with antifreeze.
Total time: about 45 minutes. Total cost: maybe $15 in antifreeze. Total savings when you dont have to replace burst plumbing in the spring: priceless.
I know its tedious. But future you will be grateful. Trust me on this one.
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After years on the road I can confirm — this is solid advice.
Our family of 5 does this differently but the core advice is solid.
BBQ tips are always welcome at our site. We cook for half the campground usually.
The tech angle here is interesting. We use a similar setup for remote work.