As the vibrant colors of autumn begin to fade and a crisp chill fills the air in Coldwater, Michigan, RV enthusiasts know that the end of another wonderful camping season is upon us. Here in Branch County, we're no strangers to the highly variable weather of the Upper Midwest. Our humid continental climate gifts us with beautiful, hot summers, but it also brings cold, harsh winters with temperatures often dipping into the low 10s°F. This means that for those of us who own an RV, winterization isn't just a suggestion—it's a crucial part of responsible ownership. Properly preparing your RV for the winter months will protect your investment and ensure that it's ready for new adventures when spring returns.
Before we dive into the checklist, let's talk about why winterizing is so important, especially in a place like Coldwater. The biggest threat to your RV during the winter is water. Any water left in your RV's plumbing system can freeze, expand, and cause pipes to burst, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. Beyond the plumbing, the constant freezing and thawing, along with snow and ice, can take a toll on your RV's exterior, seals, and tires. A thorough winterization process addresses all these potential issues, giving you peace of mind throughout the off-season.
Here is a step-by-step guide to get your RV ready for the cold months ahead:
1. The Water System: Your Top Priority
Drain All Tanks: This is the most critical step. Completely empty your fresh water, gray water, and black water holding tanks. Many RVs have a built-in system for this, but you may need a wand to flush out the black tank thoroughly.
Drain Water Lines and Heater: Open all faucets, including the shower, and flush the toilet to remove any remaining water. Don't forget the outdoor shower! Next, drain the water heater. It's best to bypass the water heater before adding antifreeze to save on the amount you'll need.
Blow Out the Lines: Use an air compressor with a blowout plug to force any remaining water out of the plumbing lines.
Add Antifreeze: Once the lines are clear, it's time to add non-toxic RV antifreeze. Use your RV's water pump to circulate the antifreeze through the entire plumbing system. Open each faucet, one at a time, until you see the pink antifreeze flowing. Pour a small amount of antifreeze down each drain and into the toilet.
2. Exterior Protection
Thorough Cleaning: Wash and wax your RV to protect the exterior from the elements. Pay close attention to the roof and check for any cracks or damage to the seals.
Inspect and Cover Tires: Clean the tires and wheels to remove brake dust and grime. Inflate them to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots. To protect them from UV damage and dry rot, invest in a good set of tire covers.
Seal Up Entry Points: Cover all vents and openings to prevent pests from making a winter home in your RV. Use screen covers for vents and steel wool for any small gaps or holes.
3. Interior Preparations
Clean and Empty Everything: Remove all food, drinks, and anything else that might attract pests. Clean the refrigerator and leave the doors propped open to prevent mildew.
Protect from Moisture: Place moisture absorbers, like DampRid or silica gel packs, throughout the RV to keep the interior dry and fresh.
Battery Care: Fully charge your RV's batteries, then disconnect them. If you're storing your RV in a very cold location, it's best to remove the batteries and store them in a warmer, dry place.
Once your RV is fully winterized, the next step is to find a safe and secure place to store it. For those in the Coldwater area, Armor Storage at 411 N Willowbrook Rd, Coldwater, MI 49036 offers a variety of storage solutions, including Boat Storage, RV Storage, Vehicle Storage & Self-Storage Options. A dedicated storage facility provides an extra layer of protection from the harsh Michigan winter and gives you one less thing to worry about.
With your RV safely tucked away for the winter, you can now enjoy all that our charming town has to offer. Take in a show at the historic Tibbits Opera House, a beautiful venue that has been entertaining our community since 1882. Immerse yourself in local history at the Wing House Museum, a stunning example of Second Empire architecture. Or, spend a leisurely afternoon browsing for treasures at the Coldwater Antique Mall.
Winterizing your RV is a small price to pay for a lifetime of memories on the open road. By following this checklist, you can rest assured that your home-on-wheels will be safe, sound, and ready for your next adventure come springtime. Happy winterizing!