How to Winterize
Tips from Ocean View Resort
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We can winterize for you for an additional fee. Please give us a call at 609-624-1675 for more information.
Here’s a thorough to-do list for winterizing the inside of your trailer, including how to handle food and other often-overlooked tasks:
1. Food Storage and Removal
- Remove All Food: Any perishable or non-perishable food should be removed. Even canned goods can freeze and burst in cold temperatures.
- Empty Pantry & Refrigerator: Clear out everything, including spices, canned goods, and dry items like pasta. Critters can sniff out food, and freezing can damage containers.
- Clean Refrigerator/Freezer: Thoroughly clean the fridge and freezer with a solution of baking soda and water to remove food residue. Leave the door propped open to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
- Store Food in Sealed Containers: If you're leaving any non-perishables, make sure they are sealed in airtight containers to prevent pests from getting in.
- Use Rodent Deterrents: Place natural deterrents like peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls, mothballs, or commercial rodent repellents inside cabinets and near entry points to keep rodents away from your food areas.
2. Interior Water System
- Drain Fresh Water Tank: Completely drain your freshwater tank and pump RV antifreeze through the system, especially the faucets, toilet, and shower.
- Open All Faucets: Open all faucets, including hot and cold, after draining the water lines to release any trapped water.
- Flush Toilet with RV Antifreeze: Pour a few cups of RV antifreeze into the toilet bowl and flush it to ensure the antifreeze circulates through the pipes and prevents freezing.
- Drain Water Heater: Turn off the water heater and open the drain plug to let it drain completely. Bypass the water heater if your RV has a bypass valve to save on antifreeze usage.
3. Electrical and Battery Systems
- Unplug and Turn Off Appliances: Disconnect and unplug all small appliances like coffee makers, toasters, and microwaves to prevent electrical issues or phantom power drainage.
- Remove Batteries from Devices: Take out batteries from smoke detectors, clocks, or remote controls to prevent them from corroding during the off-season.
- Turn Off the Main Power: Make sure to turn off the main electrical supply to the trailer to avoid any power surges or short circuits over the winter.
- Store Trailer Batteries: Remove trailer batteries if possible and store them in a warm, dry place. Fully charge them beforehand and check on them periodically over the winter.
4. Cleaning and Organizing
- Thorough Cleaning: Do a full deep clean of the trailer, including the kitchen, bathroom, and living areas. Wipe down all surfaces, vacuum carpets, and mop floors.
- Defrost and Clean Freezer: If you haven’t already done this, defrost your freezer, clean it out completely, and leave the doors propped open.
- Remove Linens and Fabrics: Take out all linens, pillows, blankets, and towels. Store them in sealed containers or at home to prevent them from absorbing moisture and developing mold or mildew.
- Wipe Down All Surfaces: Use disinfectant to wipe down counters, cabinets, and tables to remove any lingering food particles or sticky spots.
- Clean Windows and Vents: Clean all the windows and vents thoroughly to remove dust and grime, and make sure they’re properly sealed for the winter.
5. Preventing Moisture and Mold
- Leave Moisture Absorbers: Place moisture absorbers (like DampRid or silica gel packs) throughout the trailer to prevent mold, mildew, and moisture buildup.
- Crack a Vent or Window: Leave a roof vent slightly cracked (if possible) or a window ajar to allow airflow and prevent moisture buildup inside the trailer.
- Cover Upholstery: Use breathable covers for your furniture to protect it from dust and moisture during winter.
6. Security and Safety
- Lock All Windows and Doors: Double-check that all windows and doors are securely locked to prevent any break-ins or animals from getting inside.
- Disable Propane: Turn off your propane supply entirely and disconnect any lines leading to appliances like stoves or heaters. Propane can leak over time, creating a safety hazard.
- Store Fire Extinguisher: Ensure the fire extinguisher is in good working order and accessible, just in case.
7. Protecting Interior Components
- Cover Vents and Skylights: Install insulated vent covers on roof vents and skylights to help keep the interior warm and prevent drafts or leaks.
- Close Blinds and Curtains: Keep blinds, curtains, or shades closed to block sunlight, which can cause fabric to fade and upholstery to crack over time.
- Protect Floors: Consider laying down a rug or carpet protector to prevent cold drafts from seeping through the floor and reduce wear and tear.
8. Miscellaneous Tips
- Check for Hidden Compartments: Don’t forget to clean out any hidden compartments, storage bins, or under-seat storage areas, as these can be easy to overlook.
- Disconnect Water Pump: If your RV has a water pump, disconnect it and store it safely if possible to avoid any damage from freezing temperatures.
- Ventilate for Long-Term Storage: If you won’t be using your trailer for an extended period, ensure proper ventilation to avoid mold growth while it’s closed up for months.
Travel Trailers
1. Gather Supplies: Before you begin, gather all the supplies you'll need. This typically includes RV antifreeze, a water heater bypass kit (if your trailer doesn't have one built-in), a water pump converter kit, a socket wrench, and basic hand tools.
2. Drain the Water System: Start by draining all water from the plumbing system. This includes draining the fresh water tank, hot water heater, and all water lines. Open all faucets, including hot and cold taps, and flush the toilet to remove as much water as possible.
3. Bypass the Water Heater: If your travel trailer is equipped with a water heater bypass valve, use it to bypass the water heater. If not, you'll need to drain the water heater separately.
4. Blow Out the Water Lines: Use an air compressor with a fitting that matches your trailer's water system to blow out any remaining water from the lines. Start with the lowest faucet and work your way up, including sinks, showers, and toilets. Be sure to use low pressure to avoid damaging the plumbing.
5. Add Antifreeze: Once the water lines are drained, it's time to add RV antifreeze to the system to protect it from freezing. Pour antifreeze into the fresh water tank (if applicable) and use a water pump converter kit to pump it through the plumbing system. Run each faucet until you see the antifreeze coming out, including both hot and cold taps, as well as the shower and toilet.
6. Flush the Toilet: Make sure to pour some antifreeze into the toilet bowl and flush it to fill the valve and trap with antifreeze.
7. Check Exterior Components: Don't forget to check and protect exterior components such as the sewer valves, shower heads, and any outdoor faucets. Apply RV antifreeze or insulating covers as needed.
8. Inspect Seals and Roof: While you're winterizing, take the opportunity to inspect the seals around windows, doors, and roof vents. Replace any damaged or worn seals to prevent leaks during the winter months.
9. Cover: Finally, cover your travel trailer with a breathable RV cover to protect it from the elements.
By following these steps to properly winterize your travel trailer, you can ensure that it stays in good condition and is ready to use when the warmer weather returns.
Park Models
Winterizing a park model trailer is similar to winterizing a traditional travel trailer, but there may be some differences due to the larger size and potentially different plumbing systems. Here's a guide tailored specifically for winterizing a park model trailer:
1. Gather Supplies: As with any RV winterization process, start by gathering all the supplies you'll need. This typically includes RV antifreeze, a water heater bypass kit (if your trailer doesn't have one built-in), a water pump converter kit, a socket wrench, and basic hand tools.
2. Drain the Plumbing System: Begin by draining all water from the plumbing system. This includes draining the fresh water tank, hot water heater, and all water lines. Open all faucets, including hot and cold taps, and flush the toilet to remove as much water as possible.
3. Bypass the Water Heater: If your park model trailer is equipped with a water heater bypass valve, use it to bypass the water heater. If not, you'll need to drain the water heater separately.
4. Blow Out the Water Lines: Use an air compressor with a fitting that matches your trailer's water system to blow out any remaining water from the lines. Start with the lowest faucet and work your way up, including sinks, showers, and toilets. Be sure to use low pressure to avoid damaging the plumbing.
5. Add Antifreeze: Once the water lines are drained, add RV antifreeze to the plumbing system to protect it from freezing. Pour antifreeze into the fresh water tank (if applicable) and use a water pump converter kit to pump it through the plumbing system. Run each faucet until you see the antifreeze coming out, including both hot and cold taps, as well as the shower and toilet.
6. Flush the Toilet: Make sure to pour some antifreeze into the toilet bowl and flush it to fill the valve and trap with antifreeze.
7. Check Exterior Components: Inspect and protect exterior components such as the sewer valves, shower heads, and any outdoor faucets. Apply RV antifreeze or insulating covers as needed.
8. Inspect Seals and Roof: While you're winterizing, take the opportunity to inspect the seals around windows, doors, and roof vents. Replace any damaged or worn seals to prevent leaks during the winter months.
9. Cover: Cover your park model trailer with a breathable RV cover to protect it from the elements.
By following these steps, you can effectively winterize your park model trailer and protect it from damage during the cold winter months.
Cottages
Winterizing a cottage involves preparing the property to withstand the colder temperatures and harsh conditions of winter while ensuring it remains in good condition for the following season. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to winterize a cottage:
1. Plumbing and Water Systems:
- Turn off the main water supply to the cottage.
- Drain all water lines, including pipes, faucets, and toilets. Use compressed air to blow out any remaining water from the lines.
- Add non-toxic RV antifreeze to the drains and toilet bowls to prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing damage.
- If applicable, drain and winterize the hot water heater according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Consider insulating exposed pipes or installing heat tape to prevent freezing.
2. Power:
- Turn off the power to the trailer.
3. Exterior Maintenance:
- Clean and inspect the roof, gutters, and downspouts. Remove any debris that could cause water buildup or damage during winter storms.
- Seal any gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and siding to prevent drafts and heat loss.
- Trim back any overhanging tree branches or bushes that could potentially damage the cottage during heavy snow or ice storms.
- Shut off and drain any outdoor water fixtures, such as faucets and hoses.
4. Interior Preparations:
- Remove or store any valuables, perishables, or items that could be damaged by cold temperatures or pests.
- Clean and vacuum the interior to remove any food crumbs or debris that could attract pests.
- Consider placing mothballs or cedar blocks in closets and drawers to deter pests like mice and insects.
- Close and lock all windows and doors securely to prevent drafts and unauthorized entry.
5. Pest Control:
- Inspect the exterior of the cottage for any potential entry points for pests. Seal any gaps or cracks with caulk or weatherstripping.
By following these steps, you can effectively winterize your cottage and protect it from the elements, pests, and other potential hazards during the colder months.
RVs
Winterizing your RV is essential to protect it from the freezing temperatures and harsh conditions of winter. Here's a step-by-step guide to winterizing your RV:
1. Gather Supplies: Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. You'll need RV antifreeze, a water heater bypass kit (if your RV doesn't have one built-in), a water pump converter kit, a socket wrench, and basic hand tools.
2. Drain the Water System: Start by draining all water from the plumbing system. This includes draining the fresh water tank, hot water heater, and all water lines. Open all faucets, including hot and cold taps, and flush the toilet to remove as much water as possible.
3. Bypass the Water Heater: If your RV is equipped with a water heater bypass valve, use it to bypass the water heater. If not, you'll need to drain the water heater separately.
4. Blow Out the Water Lines: Use an air compressor with a fitting that matches your RV's water system to blow out any remaining water from the lines. Start with the lowest faucet and work your way up, including sinks, showers, and toilets. Be sure to use low pressure to avoid damaging the plumbing.
5. Add Antifreeze: Once the water lines are drained, it's time to add RV antifreeze to the system to protect it from freezing. Pour antifreeze into the fresh water tank (if applicable) and use a water pump converter kit to pump it through the plumbing system. Run each faucet until you see the antifreeze coming out, including both hot and cold taps, as well as the shower and toilet.
6. Flush the Toilet: Make sure to pour some antifreeze into the toilet bowl and flush it to fill the valve and trap with antifreeze.
7. Check Exterior Components: Inspect and protect exterior components such as the sewer valves, shower heads, and any outdoor faucets. Apply RV antifreeze or insulating covers as needed.
8. Inspect Seals and Roof: While you're winterizing, take the opportunity to inspect the seals around windows, doors, and roof vents. Replace any damaged or worn seals to prevent leaks during the winter months.
9. Cover or Store Indoors: Cover your RV with a breathable RV cover to protect it from the elements if you're storing it outdoors. If possible, store it indoors to provide additional protection.
10. Remove Batteries: If your RV has a battery, remove it and store it in a cool, dry place. Consider using a battery maintainer to keep it charged during the winter months.
By following these steps, you can effectively winterize your RV and protect it from damage during the cold winter months.