[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_color=”#EF4035″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Skipping \u201csmall\u201d winter tasks with your RV can turn into big, expensive repairs when spring rolls around. Cracked seals, dead batteries, and hidden moisture damage often start with details that seemed easy to ignore. These RV winterizing tips focus on those often-forgotten steps so you can protect your RV now instead of paying for surprises later.<\/span><\/p>\n Before you get into the more technical parts of your RV winterizing checklist, take the time to give the exterior of your RV a thorough wash and dry. This is not just about having a shiny RV for storage<\/a>. Cleaning the outside removes the film of dirt, bugs, and road grime that can hide early signs of damage. As you work your way around with a soft brush and mild soap, you\u2019ll have a close-up view of areas you might normally overlook. That is when you\u2019ll spot small details like light rust forming around trim, hairline cracks in fiberglass or siding, or small tears that could easily spread once freezing temperatures arrive.<\/span><\/p>\n Once the RV is clean and dry, do a slow walk-around and a roof check with inspection in mind. Look closely at the seals around windows, doors, roof vents, antennas, and any place where something passes through the exterior. Dried or crumbling caulk, gaps, or soft spots in the roof coating are all signs that water might already be trying to find a way in. If you catch those issues now and reseal them before winter sets in, it\u2019ll reduce the chances of leaks, saturated insulation, and hidden rot showing up next season. A clean exterior is the first step in any effective RV winterizing routine. One of the most important RV winterizing tips is to wash your RV thoroughly before you begin because it helps you spot any maintenance needs before cold weather puts your rig to the test.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.rvusa.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Cleaning-an-RV.jpg” alt=”RV Service Worker Pressure Washing an RV” title_text=”Cleaning an RV” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_color=”#EF4035″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n When your RV is going to sit for weeks or months, untreated fuel can start to break down, thicken, and create buildup inside the fuel system. That breakdown can lead to clogged lines, rough starting, and poor performance when you fire up the engine again in spring. A fuel stabilizer slows that chemical process, keeping the gasoline fresh and protecting the components that depend on it. For gas-powered RVs, this simple step prevents many of the issues that show up after long periods of storage.<\/span><\/p>\n Before you park the RV for the season, take a few minutes to prep the fuel system so it\u2019s ready to start smoothly when you need it again.<\/span><\/p>\n Fill your RV\u2019s fuel tank most of the way and add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer according to the product instructions. A fuller tank leaves less room for condensation to form, and the stabilizer slows the natural breakdown of gasoline so it stays usable during long-term storage.<\/span><\/p>\n Start the engine and let it run for several minutes, then do the same with the generator. This allows the treated fuel to move through the fuel lines, injectors or carburetor, and other components. .It ensures that every part of the system is protected instead of leaving pockets of old, untreated fuel behind. Tires quietly take a beating during storage, even when your RV is not moving. Before you park it for the season, check the tire pressure and inflate each tire to the manufacturer\u2019s recommended pressure. Underinflated tires sitting in one position for months can also create flat spots and sidewall damage, leading to vibrations or even failure once you are back on the road. If you can access the RV during winter, plan to check the pressure a few times and top it off as needed. Cold temperatures naturally lower tire pressure, so a quick check every month or so can keep your RV rolling smoothly when spring comes around. Including tire checks on your rv winterizing checklist is also an easy way to protect one of the most important safety components on your rig.<\/span><\/p>\n Once pressure is set, focus on protecting the tires from the elements and from uneven stress during storage. Tire covers are a simple but powerful tool. They shield the rubber from UV rays and harsh weather, which can dry out the sidewalls and speed up <\/span>tire cracking<\/span>. Slip them on after your final pressure check so the tires are clean, dry, and ready for the months ahead.<\/span><\/p>\n Next, make sure the RV is parked on stable, level ground and use quality wheel chocks to hold it securely in place. If the site is slightly uneven, adjust your leveling blocks or jacks so weight is distributed as evenly as possible instead of loading one tire or side more than the others. Reducing long-term strain on any single tire helps prevent distortion, flat spots, and premature wear. A little attention now keeps your tires lasting longer.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Cold temperatures are tough on batteries, especially when they sit unused for long periods. As the temperature drops, the chemical reaction inside the battery slows down, which reduces its available power. At the same time, small parasitic draws from onboard electronics can slowly drain the charge until the battery is low or even ruined. That is why so many RV owners discover dead or damaged batteries when they try to start their engines in spring. Building battery care<\/a> into your rv winterizing tips keeps your electrical system healthy and saves you from having to buy new batteries before your next trip.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”\/browse-all-rvs” button_text=”Browse Our RVs” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” button_bg_color=”#EF4035″ button_font=”|||on|||||” button_use_icon=”off” custom_padding=”7px|50px|7px|50px|true|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.rvusa.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Rv-batteries.jpg” alt=”rv electrical power socket connection” title_text=”Rv batteries” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”633.8px” custom_margin=”-25px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A few simple habits before and during storage can make the difference between reliable power and a dead battery bank in spring.<\/span><\/p>\n If you are storing the RV and not using it regularly, disconnect the batteries once they are fully charged. This helps protect them from phantom draws coming from clocks, detectors, and other small electronics that quietly pull power even when everything seems \u201coff.\u201d<\/p>\n For longer storage, consider putting your RV batteries on a quality trickle charger or maintenance charger. These devices keep the charge level topped off without overcharging, which is especially helpful in cold weather when self-discharge and parasitic loads can quickly drain a sitting battery.<\/p>\n If your RV uses flooded lead-acid batteries, check the water levels before storage and top them off with distilled water if needed. Proper fluid levels help the battery handle charging and discharging more effectively, which reduces the risk of damage during winter and supports a longer overall lifespan.<\/p>\n As temperatures drop, rodents like mice start looking for warm and sheltered places to hide, and an RV sitting in storage is the perfect target. Once inside, they can chew wiring, tear insulation, ruin bedding, and create nests in hidden corners. Even a tiny opening is enough for a mouse to squeeze through, which makes critter-proofing<\/a> an essential part of winter preparation. A little prevention keeps your RV clean, protected, and ready for spring without any surprises waiting inside.<\/p>\n Before you close up the RV for the season, spend time looking for the small gaps and openings that allow rodents to sneak in. Plug these entry points with non-rusting materials such as copper mesh or steel-wool alternatives, which block access without deteriorating over time. Look closely around plumbing lines, wiring paths, slide-out corners, and any gaps you can see underneath the RV. These tucked-away spots are the most common places where mice find their way inside.<\/p>\n Remove anything that might attract them once temperatures drop. Store all food, spices, pet treats, and scented products in sealed containers, or remove them entirely if the RV will be unused. Even crumbs or leftover packaging can draw pests in. With these simple steps added to your RV winterizing checklist, you make the RV far less appealing to any critters searching for a winter home.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.rvusa.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Rv-cover.jpg” alt=”an rv covered in a tarp and snow” title_text=”Rv cover” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A good RV cover is more than a giant tarp tossed over your rig. A quality cover is made to fit your RV\u2019s size and shape, with built-in ventilation so moisture does not get trapped underneath. That proper fit helps prevent wind from whipping the fabric against your paint and trim, and it keeps the cover from flapping or tearing in bad weather. Investing in an RV cover protects the exterior you just cleaned and inspected. It also helps preserve the roof, decals, and seals that can otherwise degrade faster when they are exposed all winter.<\/span><\/p>\n Once your RV is parked and prepped, putting on a well-fitted cover shields it from UV rays, snow, ice, and falling debris. Sun can fade paint and dry out rubber components even during cold months, while snow and ice add weight and moisture to the roof. A breathable RV cover acts like a protective shell, reducing direct exposure to the elements so your rig looks better and lasts longer.<\/span><\/p>\n Moisture control inside the RV is just as important as protecting the outside. Products like DampRid or other desiccant options can help pull excess moisture out of the air while your RV is closed up. Place containers in key areas such as storage bays, the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom so they can quietly work while the RV sits. If you plan to check on the RV during winter, make it a habit to look at those moisture absorbers and replace or empty them as needed. Keeping both the exterior and interior guarded against moisture gives you a fresher, cleaner RV when you open the door again in spring.<\/span><\/p>\n Creating your own RV winterizing checklist makes each travel season easier and more enjoyable. Once you write down the tasks that apply to your rig, you can follow the same steps every year instead of trying to remember. Group your tasks into simple sections such as exterior care, mechanical prep, tire checks, battery maintenance, critter prevention, and moisture control. This helps you move through <\/span>RV winterization<\/span><\/a> in a clear order without missing the smaller details that often lead to problems later. A personalized checklist also lets you adjust over time as you learn what works best for your RV and your storage conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n Using RV winterizing tips that focus on the often-overlooked details helps protect your RV from freezing temperatures, moisture, pests, and long periods of sitting still. With a clear approach and a personalized checklist, you set yourself up for a smoother spring and fewer repairs. If you do not want to winterize your RV yourself, find a <\/span>RV service<\/span><\/a> location that offers professional winterization so you can still protect your rig without taking on the work alone. These simple choices go a long way in keeping your RV clean, safe, and ready for the spring adventures.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” disabled_on=”off|off|off” admin_label=”Browse All RVs CTA” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”85%” width_tablet=”80%” width_phone=”95%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”7px|auto|30px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”20px||20px||true|false” border_width_all=”10px” border_color_all=”#CECECE” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_enable_image=”off” custom_padding_tablet=”|20px||20px|false|true” custom_padding_phone=”|12px||12px|false|true” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_enable_color_tablet=”off” background_enable_color_phone=”off” background_enable_image_tablet=”off” background_enable_image_phone=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.rvusa.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Rv-Getawat-CTA.jpg” alt=”An RVUSA travel trailer at sunset” title_text=”RV Getaway CTA” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”10px||10px|20px|true|false” custom_padding_tablet=”10px|0px|10px|0px|true|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” module_alignment_tablet=”center” module_alignment_phone=”” module_alignment_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” background_enable_image=”off” background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_enable_color_tablet=”off” background_enable_color_phone=”off” background_enable_image_tablet=”off” background_enable_image_phone=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_cta title=”Need the perfect RV for a Winter getaway?” button_url=”\/browse-all-rvs” button_text=”Browse all RVS” content_tablet=”<\/p>\n Check out other seasonal pillow covers in our RV holiday store!<\/p>\n ” content_phone=”” content_last_edited=”on|tablet” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|600|||||||” header_text_align=”left” header_text_color=”#000000″ header_font_size=”30px” body_text_color=”#000000″ body_font_size=”16px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16px” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” button_bg_color=”#000000″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|||on|||||” button_use_icon=”off” button_alignment=”left” button_custom_padding_tablet=”10px|35px|10px|35px|true|true” button_custom_padding_phone=”” button_custom_padding_last_edited=”on|tablet” background_layout=”light” width=”100%” width_tablet=”95%” width_phone=”100%” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”20px||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”26px||||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” header_text_align_tablet=”center” header_text_align_phone=”” header_text_align_last_edited=”on|tablet” body_text_align_tablet=”center” body_text_align_phone=”” body_text_align_last_edited=”on|tablet” button_alignment_tablet=”center” button_alignment_phone=”” button_alignment_last_edited=”on|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_cta][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Skipping \u201csmall\u201d winter tasks with your RV can turn into big, expensive repairs when spring rolls around. Cracked seals, dead batteries, and hidden moisture damage often start with details that seemed easy to ignore. These RV winterizing tips focus on those often-forgotten steps so you can protect your RV now instead of paying for surprises […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":54,"featured_media":25781,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"When the rich hues of autumn give way to the bluster of winter, RVers either pack up and head for sunny sites in the south or southwest or pack it in until warmer days return. If the option is packing it in for the winter and heading for storage, RVers have one last adventure for the season: winterizing your RV.\r\n\r\nWhile taking care of the water and waste systems is No. 1 on every winterization list, follow additional basic steps so your RV is safe through the cold months and ready to roll at the first thaw.\r\n1. Clean the Exterior of your RV<\/span><\/h2>\n
2. Add Fuel Stabilizer<\/span><\/h2>\n
Steps to Protect Your Fuel System During Storage<\/span><\/h3>\n
Top Off and Treat the Tank<\/h4>\n
Circulate the Treated Fuel<\/h4>\n
<\/span><\/p>\n3. Prepare Your Tires for Long Periods of Sitting<\/span><\/h2>\n
Keep Your Tires Safe and Ready to Roll<\/span><\/h3>\n
4. Prep Your Batteries to Prevent Spring Surprises<\/span><\/h2>\n
Don\u2019t Let Your Batteries Die in the Cold<\/span><\/h3>\n
Disconnect House and Chassis Batteries<\/h4>\n
Use a Trickle or Maintenance Charger<\/h4>\n
Check Water Levels in Flooded Batteries<\/h4>\n
5. Make Your RV Critter-Proof<\/span><\/h2>\n
Keep Mice and Other Pests Out All Winter<\/span><\/h3>\n
6. Cover the RV and Place Moisture Control<\/span><\/h2>\n
Protect the Exterior and Fight Hidden Moisture<\/span><\/h3>\n
Build Your Personalized RV Winterizing Checklist<\/span><\/h2>\n
Put These RV Winterizing Tips Into Action Before The Freeze<\/span><\/h2>\n
Plumbing and drainage systems<\/h2>\r\nProtect your RVs plumbing system from the ravages of winter. How to winterize will depend on your RV -- some will come with built- in systems to simplifying the process.\u00a0 Motorized RVs will require additional steps, while towables, from big fifth wheels to tiny pop-ups, will all need help before heading to storage. Start at with the owners\u2019 manual for unit-specific steps for winterizing your RV.\r\n\r\nNo matter, the RV, winterizing starts with the plumbing system. For some this means using a RV-specific antifreeze for others, completely draining the plumbing system. Some RV owners opt for a combination of the two. Draining water from the RV and adding RV and Marine anti-freeze. For those who prefer to store their RV dry, draining the plumbing system begins with bypassing the hot water heater. Some RVs are equipped with a bypass valves, for others inexpensive bypass kits are available. Open all faucets and valves from kitchen to bathrooms and drain all the water from the pipes. Some owners finish off the job by blowing compressed air \u2013 at no more than 45 psi -- through the plumbing. When everything is drained, depressurize and drain the hot water heater. Some RV owners will opt to go the extra mile and add pink, non-toxic antifreeze to the water systems.\r\n
Winterizing Your RV<\/h2>\r\n
Refrigerator<\/h3>\r\nBefore closing up your RV, remove all foods from your refrigerator and clean thoroughly. Even though ice makers are supposed to freeze, it\u2019s not supposed to happen in storage so if your RV refrigerator includes an ice maker, be prepared to take some extra winterization steps. Protect the solenoid valve that sends water to your icemaker before heading to storage.\u00a0 The valve is located behind the refrigerator and is usually accessed from an outside panel. Check your owners\u2019 manual for specifics about protecting your RV refrigerator\u2019s ice maker.\r\n
Seal openings<\/h3>\r\nDon\u2019t let your RV become a warm, safe haven for insects and rodents over the winter. Pests desperate for shelter from the cold will squeeze themselves into the tiniest openings, so look for any opening, no matter small \u2013 from water lines to wall seams \u2013 and close them off.\u00a0 Block as many openings as you can with screens, foil or steel wool.\u00a0 Check seals and caulk as necessary before heading into storage. Before sealing your RV for the winter, roll-up the welcome mat and roll out the mice and bug traps in case pests manage to find their way in.\r\n
Interior<\/h3>\r\nCarefully clean your interior and wipe down all surfaces. Clean out all closets and drawers and leave drawers slightly open and doors ajar. Cleaning and wiping down the surfaces in your RV is an opportunity to look for places where pests might squeeze their way in and find hidden spills and stains that will worsen while in storage. Before closing up for the winter, make sure all the surfaces, rugs and upholstery are completely dry to avoid mold and mildew.\r\n
Tires and Batteries<\/h3>\r\nIf possible, disconnect, remove and store your RVs batteries separately as part of your winterizing activities. Do not allow your batteries to freeze; store them in a heated environment above ground.\u00a0 Also, even though everything is dark for the winter, the batteries will leach power. Throughout the trailer remove batteries from clocks, smoke alarms and appliances.\u00a0 Inflate your RV\u2019s tires to the maximum recommended pressure before storing your RV. If your RV will be exposed to the elements throughout the winter, park atop wood blanks to stay off asphalt and cover tires to prevent sun damage.\r\n\r\nWith careful preparation at the start of winter your RV will be clean, safe and ready to roll for next spring\u2019s first adventure. If winterizing your RV leaves you cold, use the seasonal change to visit your trusted RV service center where your RV can be professionally prepared for winter.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n
Don\u2019t forget to stay up to date with all of our exciting RV and camping content on\u00a0Facebook<\/strong><\/a>,\u00a0Twitter<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0Instagram<\/strong><\/a>!<\/h5>","_et_gb_content_width":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[1894,224,185,1792],"class_list":["post-9360","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-rv-tips-and-tricks","tag-5-tips-for-winterizing-your-rv","tag-tips","tag-winter","tag-winterizing-your-rv"],"yoast_head":"\n