How to Winterize Your RV the Right Way: Step-by-Step Guide for Long-Term Protection
Properly winterizing your RV will protect it for many camping seasons to come. Follow this guide to ensure your RV stays safe during the colder months.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Air compressor
- Blowout plug adaptor
- RV/Marine-grade antifreeze (not automotive antifreeze)
- Screwdriver or screw gun
Step-by-Step Winterizing Process:
- Drain the Water Heater
Locate the access valve for the water heater on the outside of your RV (typically near the kitchen), and drain the water. - Open Low-Point Drains
Find the low-point drains underneath your vehicle, usually near the water heater, and open them to allow water to drain from the system. - Open All Faucets
Turn on all hot and cold faucets inside and outside the RV to drain any remaining water. - Drain the Fresh Water Tank
Open the fresh water drain valve or cap located on your RV’s undercarriage and allow it to empty completely. - Close All Faucets
Once the water has drained, turn off all the faucets you opened in Step 3. - Connect Air Compressor
Find your city water connection (usually near the fresh water fill access). Attach the blowout plug adaptor to the air compressor and connect it to the city water connection. - Blow Out the Water Lines
One faucet at a time, turn on each faucet until no water runs out. Once the water is gone, move to the next faucet. Repeat for every faucet, including outdoor showers. - Disconnect Air Compressor
Remove the air compressor from the city water connection after clearing the water lines. - Turn On the Water Heater Bypass Valve
Switch the water heater bypass valve to the "on" or "winterize" position. This valve may be located in the convenience center, connected to the water pump, or near the water heater. To find the water pump, turn it on and listen for its location; remove the access panel if necessary. - Introduce Antifreeze
Attach RV/Marine-grade antifreeze to the water pump using the provided pick-up tube or one that you’ve purchased. Open each faucet and flush the toilets until pink antifreeze flows through the lines.
That's It!
Your RV is now fully winterized and ready to withstand the winter months. You can relax knowing your Keystone RV will be protected and ready to hit the road again come spring.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is deemed to be true and accurate at the time of publication. However, due to the evolving nature of our products and services, there may be changes or updates that occur after this article was published. We encourage users to verify the contents and consult with their dealer or Keystone RV for the most current information. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or reach out to Keystone RV directly.
