Winter is beginning to fade, the days are getting longer, and we’re no longer just dreaming of getting back on the road; we’re getting road-ready. That starts with properly dewinterizing your RV and ensuring everything is running not only smoothly but safely as well.
From checking for winter damage (and making needed repairs) to flushing out the antifreeze to cleaning out the cobwebs, here’s how to bring your RV out of hibernation.
Shake Off the Sleep: Must-Do Steps to Dewinterize Your RV
Starting from the outside in, let’s ensure your rig is safe, functional, and comfortable for travel.
Step 1: Take a Morning Stretch—Inspect the Exterior
Winter weather can be harsh on RVs. Cold, dry weather can cause cracks, leaks, or damage to seals, windows, and even the roof. So, give yourself some time to walk around your RV and check for any cracks, leaks, and especially any signs of water damage. Don’t forget to inspect the roof and look at all the seams, windows, and even storage compartments. Make sure there are no gaps.
You’ll also want to inspect your tires. Do you see any cracks? How does the tread look? If your RV has been parked for a while, check for any dry rot. Is it time to replace the tires? Or can you just inflate them to the proper PSI and safely hit the road?
Step 2: Jumpstart the Heart—Check and Recharge the Batteries
Colder temperatures can drain batteries. If combined with improper storage, their lifespan may also be reduced.
If you removed the batteries at the end of last season to store them, you’ll need to reinstall them. Check the voltage levels and ensure they’re fully charged. And if you have lead-acid batteries, top them off with distilled water. Finally, clean the battery terminals and ensure the connections are secure.
Step 3: Out with the Old—Flush and Sanitize the Water System
Antifreeze is essential for winter storage. However, your water system needs a fresh start for the new season. Start by draining and flushing out the antifreeze by running fresh water through ALL your faucets. Ensure the water heater bypass valve is open as well.
You’ll also want to sanitize the system. Add a diluted bleach solution (1/4 cup bleach per gallon of water). Let this solution sit in the system for several hours. Then, flush the system again.
Step 4: Watch Out for Winter’s Leftovers—Check the Plumbing for Leaks
As you’re flushing out your system, it’s a good time to check for any leaks. Freezing temperatures can cause sneaky cracks in pipes and connections. The last thing you want to deal with on the road is a wet surprise from a building leak or potential burst and the water damage that leads to.
So, as you’re flushing the system, inspect pipes, faucets, and the water heater for any signs (no matter how small) of leaks. Don’t forget to look under the sinks and in storage areas.
Step 5: Fuel Up for Your Adventures—Refill Propane and Test Appliances
No one wants a cold shower or a non-working stove or fridge, especially when they’re miles from anywhere. In many RV models, essential RV functions—including cooking, heating, and refrigeration—rely on propane.
Slowly open the propane valve and, using soapy water, check for leaks. If all looks good, light the stove burners to ensure the propane is flowing correctly. Next, test the fridge, furnace, and water heater to ensure they’re all functioning properly.
Step 6: Power Up—Test the Electrical System
Cold storage can also cause issues with wiring, connections, and fuses. Before you hit the road, make sure your RV’s at full power.
If you have a generator, check the oil and ensure it starts smoothly. Plug the RV in and/or turn on the generator or solar panels and run through the outlets, lights, and appliances to ensure all are working. You’re not done yet, though. Carefully inspect the circuit breaker panel and replace any blown fuses.
Step 7: Wake the Beast—Check Your Engine (motorized RVs only)
Engines (as well as generators) need to be checked for proper lubrication and function long before you hit the road. This is especially true if they’ve been sitting unused through a long, cold winter.
To get the engine humming, take some time to check fluid levels for oil, the transmission, coolant, breaks, and windshield washer fluid, and top it off as needed. Take a look at the belts, hoses, and filters for any obvious signs of cracks or wear.
Then start the engine. Does it purr along? Or are there any unusual noises or smells that may indicate the need for a closer look?
Step 8: Sound the Alarm—Test Safety Equipment
Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are critical for safety. Get in the habit of regularly checking (and replacing when necessary) batteries in smoke and CO detectors.
Ensure your fire extinguishers are fully charged and accessible. And restock your first-aid kit and emergency supplies that may have been depleted the previous season.
Step 9: Check for Uninvited Guests—Inspect the Interior for Pests and Damage
Rodents and insects love to make themselves at home in RVs wherever they’re stored—winter or summer. But during the winter, RVs can be even more enticing as they’re looking for a nice, warm place to shelter.
As you’re inspecting the RV, make sure they didn’t move in. Watch for any signs of pests, such as droppings, chewed wires, or nests. Look inside cabinets, under sinks, and around bedding areas. If you’ve left any bedding in the RV, pull it out to ensure you don’t have any stowaways.
Next, throw open the doors, windows, and vents to get some fresh air in.
Step 10: RV Refresh—Deep Clean Your RV
RVs can get surprisingly grubby when parked. So, you’ll want to grab your cleaning supplies and get to business to remove dust, grime, and any unfortunate (e.g., musty) odors. Wipe down the surfaces, vacuum the floors and cushions, and clean the floors.
If You Have Time… Advanced Morning Routine
While the above steps are essential before you hit the road, these steps are good additions if you have the time and inclination, as they can help extend your RV’s lifespan and make your travels more pleasant:
- Check your hitch and tow equipment: Ensure everything’s lubricated and check for any rust or signs of excess wear.
- Wash and wax the exterior: To protect your RV’s paint and provide extra protection from the sun.
- Lubricate slide-outs and hinges to prevent squeaking and sticking.
- Inspect the awning for any tears, weather damage, or mold, and repair as needed.
- Test the A/C and fans to ensure they’re up and running before the summer heat hits.
- Stock up on essentials, such as pantry items, toiletries, and other staples.
- Check your documents and ensure they’re up to date. This is essential if you’ll be traveling to other parts of the world.
For a smooth, stress-free start to the RV season, tackling these steps now will help you avoid unexpected issues later. Once your RV has been revived for the season, all you need to do is plan your first trip of the season.
Sidebar: RV Checklist
- □ Inspect exterior for cracks, leaks, and tire condition
- □ Check and recharge batteries
- □ Flush and sanitize the water system
- □ Check plumbing for leaks
- □ Refill propane or plugin and test appliances
- □ Test electrical system, lights, and outlets
- □ Check engine, generator, and fluid levels (if your RV is motorized)
- □ Inspect the interior for moisture, pests, and damage
- □ Test smoke detectors, CO detectors, and extinguishers
- □ Air out and deep clean your RV
- □ Enjoy the Adventure!
