How To Winterize An RV: A Guide For First-Time Owners

Your first winter with an RV can feel intimidating – especially when you start hearing horror stories about frozen pipes, cracked tanks, and expensive repairs. The good news is that winterizing an RV isn’t complicated once you understand the process, and doing it correctly can save you thousands of dollars in damage.

This guide walks through how to winterize an RV or motorhome step by step, using plain language and practical tips designed for beginners. Whether you have a travel trailer, fifth wheel, or Class A, B, or C motorhome, the fundamentals are the same.

Why Winterizing Your RV Matters

Water expands when it freezes. Any water left inside your RV’s plumbing system can crack pipes, damage fittings, ruin valves, and destroy your water heater. Even a single missed line can cause problems that don’t show up until spring.

Proper winterization helps you:

• Prevent frozen and burst pipes
  
• Protect your water pump and water heater
  
• Extend the life of seals, fittings, and appliances
  
• Avoid costly spring repairs
  
• Store your RV with confidence during cold months
  

If temperatures drop below freezing where you live (even briefly) winterizing is not optional.

When Should You Winterize Your RV?

You should winterize your RV before overnight temperatures consistently fall below 32°F. Many RV owners aim to winterize in early to mid-fall rather than waiting for the first hard freeze.

If you plan to continue winter camping, you may use a different “cold-weather camping” setup. This guide is specifically for RV storage or non-use during winter.

Supplies You’ll Need Before You Start

Gather everything first so you’re not scrambling mid-process.

You’ll typically need:

• RV-safe antifreeze (non-toxic, pink RV antifreeze)
• Water heater bypass kit (if not already installed)
• Basic hand tools
• Drain pan or bucket
• Air compressor (optional method)
• Owner’s manual for your RV

Do not use automotive antifreeze. It is toxic and unsafe for RV plumbing systems.

Step 1: Drain The Fresh Water System Completely

Start by removing as much water as possible from the system.

• Turn off the water heater and allow it to cool
• Disconnect the city water hose
• Open all faucets (hot and cold)
• Flush the toilet to release water
• Open low-point drains for hot and cold lines
• Drain the fresh water tank completely

Let gravity do most of the work. The more water you remove now, the less antifreeze you’ll need later.

Step 2: Drain And Bypass The Water Heater

Your water heater holds several gallons of water and must be addressed separately.

• Remove the drain plug or anode rod
• Allow the tank to empty fully
• Install or engage the water heater bypass valve

Bypassing the water heater prevents you from filling it with antifreeze, saving money and making spring startup easier.

Step 3: Protect The Plumbing Lines With Antifreeze Or Air

There are two common methods. Beginners usually choose antifreeze because it’s more forgiving.

Antifreeze Method (Most Common)

• Close all drains
• Insert the siphon hose into the antifreeze jug
• Turn on the water pump
• Open each faucet (hot and cold) one at a time until pink fluid appears
• Flush the toilet until antifreeze flows
• Run the shower and outdoor shower if equipped

Work from the closest fixture to the farthest.

Air Compressor Method (Optional)

This method uses compressed air to blow water out of the lines. It requires precision and proper pressure control and is best for experienced RV owners.

Some people use both methods: air first, antifreeze second.

Step 4: Don’t Forget Traps, Drains, And The Toilet

Even small amounts of water can freeze.

• Pour antifreeze into every sink drain
• Add antifreeze to the shower drain
• Pour antifreeze into the toilet bowl
• Flush once more to protect the valve

These traps are easy to overlook and commonly damaged by freezing.

Step 5: Winterize Appliances And Exterior Connections

Pay attention to anything that connects to water.

• Disconnect and drain hoses
• Drain washing machines or ice makers if equipped
• Empty and protect exterior shower lines
• Remove inline water filters

If your RV has a black tank flush inlet, protect it with antifreeze as well.

Step 6: Care For Tanks And Holding Systems

Your holding tanks should be empty before storage.

• Dump black and gray tanks at a proper station
• Rinse thoroughly
• Add a small amount of antifreeze to protect dump valves

Leaving tanks full or partially full increases odor issues and valve damage risk.

Step 7: Prepare The Exterior For Winter Storage

Winterizing isn’t only about plumbing.

• Wash and dry the exterior to remove grime and road salt
• Clean the roof and inspect seals
• Lubricate slide-out seals and hinges
• Cover vents if recommended by your manufacturer
• Inflate tires properly and consider tire covers

Moisture, salt, and UV exposure cause just as much damage as freezing temperatures.

Step 8: Interior Winter Prep Checklist

Before closing the door for the season:

• Remove food and liquids
• Clean and dry refrigerator (leave door slightly open)
• Remove bedding and fabrics if possible
• Use moisture absorbers to prevent mold
• Disconnect batteries or place them on a maintainer

A clean, dry interior prevents mildew, odors, and pest problems.

Common Winterizing Mistakes First-Time RV Owners Make

Avoid these costly errors:

• Forgetting the outdoor shower
• Leaving water in the toilet valve
• Skipping the water heater bypass
• Using the wrong antifreeze
• Assuming “it won’t get that cold”

Most winter damage happens because of one missed step.

How Long Does It Take To Winterize An RV?

For beginners, plan on 1–2 hours. Once you’ve done it a few times, many owners finish in under an hour.

The time investment is small compared to spring repair bills.

Final Thoughts: Winterizing Is A Skill Worth Learning

Winterizing your RV is one of the most important maintenance tasks you’ll ever do as an owner. The process may feel overwhelming the first time, but once you understand the steps, it becomes a straightforward annual routine.

Doing it yourself gives you confidence, saves money, and ensures your RV is protected all winter long, so when spring arrives, you’re ready to hit the road without surprises.

Always be sure to follow the owner's manual on your unique RV and equipment.

Winterizing other vehicles? See our related blog on How to Winterize Your Boat