The short answer
Water that freezes inside pipes, pumps, and fixtures expands and breaks them. Winterizing means getting the water out and protecting what remains, then protecting the batteries, propane system, and interior from cold, damp, and pests.
Always check your manual first. Systems vary by make and year, and manufacturers give specific steps and pressure limits. Use this guide as a general routine, not a replacement.
When to do it
Do it before the first hard freeze where the RV will sit. In much of Canada that is September or October. A cold snap in early fall can catch owners who wait for snow. If you plan to use the RV in winter, see the section on winter camping below.
What you will need
- RV antifreeze (propylene glycol, made for RV plumbing), enough for the whole system
- Air compressor with a regulator and a blow-out adapter (optional, if you blow out the lines)
- Water heater bypass kit if your RV does not have one built in
- Tank wand or other tank rinse tool, and a wrench or socket for the drain plug
- Battery charger or maintainer, and basic tools
- Moisture absorbers, mouse deterrents, and a breathable cover
Step by step
1. Drain the holding tanks
Dump the black and grey tanks at a dump station and rinse them. Finish with the valves closed and a little antifreeze in the drains if your manual recommends it.
2. Drain the fresh water tank and water heater
Open the low-point drains and let the fresh water tank empty. Let the water heater cool completely and relieve pressure before you open its drain. Never drain a hot or pressurized tank.
3. Bypass the water heater
Use the bypass so antifreeze goes through the lines but not into the water heater tank. Without a bypass you will use many gallons of antifreeze to fill the tank for nothing.
4. Blow out the lines (optional but common)
Connect the compressor to the city water inlet with a regulator set low, as your manual specifies. A commonly cited ceiling is about 40 psi, since higher pressure can damage plumbing. Open each faucet, hot and cold, one at a time, until only air comes out. Do not forget the toilet valve, the outdoor shower, and any washer or ice maker lines.
5. Add RV antifreeze
Switch the water pump to draw from an antifreeze jug, or pour antifreeze through the pump inlet. Open each hot and cold faucet until pink antifreeze appears, then do the toilet, outdoor shower, and every other outlet. Pour some into each drain trap, so water sitting in the traps cannot freeze.
6. Close everything up
Close the low-point drains, close the faucets, and turn off the pump. Re-check the water heater bypass position and note it somewhere, so you remember to reverse it in spring.
7. Look after the batteries
Fully charge them and either remove them and store them somewhere cool and dry, or leave them in the RV on a maintainer. A dead or frozen battery is a common winter surprise. Turn off the battery disconnect if you have one.
8. Shut down propane
Close cylinder valves. If you store the RV with cylinders aboard, keep them secured and upright. For cylinder dates and handling, see our propane guide.
9. Prepare the interior
- Empty and clean the fridge, prop the doors open, and leave a little airflow.
- Remove food, drinks, toiletries, and anything that can freeze, burst, or attract pests.
- Open cabinets and drawers, and use moisture absorbers to keep mildew down.
- Take out bedding, cushions, and anything that holds damp if you can.
10. Seal the exterior
- Inspect roof seams, windows, and slide-out seals. Reseal where needed. Water that gets in and freezes does real damage.
- Close vents, cover exterior vents and the fridge vent to keep out rodents, and use screens where they are designed for it.
- Wash the RV and let it dry before you cover it.
11. Take care of tires and the chassis
Inflate tires to the recommended pressure, take weight off them with leveling blocks or jacks if you store for months, and cover them from sun. Stabilize the fuel in a motorhome and follow the engine manufacturer's storage advice.
Pests
Mice find RVs quickly. Seal gaps where lines enter the floor, remove all food, and use deterrents such as peppermint-based products or steel wool in small gaps. Check traps or bait stations over the winter if the RV sits near fields or woods.
Storage options
- Indoor storage costs the most but protects from snow load, sun, and temperature swings.
- Covered storage is a middle option with a roof and open sides.
- Outdoor storage is cheapest. Use a breathable cover rather than a plastic tarp, and brush off heavy snow from the roof.
- On your property may be limited by local bylaws or your insurance, so check both.
Book early, because indoor space in particular fills before the first freeze. You can find an RV storage facility near you in the RV Storage Canada directory.
If you camp in winter
Winter camping is a different job. Look for an RV rated for four-season use, use heated hoses and insulated tanks, carry extra propane, and expect to fight condensation. Many campgrounds close their water in cold months, so call ahead.
Spring start-up
- Reverse the water heater bypass
- Flush the antifreeze out with fresh water until it runs clear
- Sanitize the fresh water system if your manual recommends it
- Check for leaks before you leave home
- Reconnect batteries and test every appliance
- Check tires, brakes, lights, and propane connections
Frequently asked questions
When should I winterize my RV?
Before the first hard freeze where you store it. In much of Canada that can be as early as September or October, so do not wait for the first snowfall.
Can I use regular car antifreeze?
No. Use antifreeze made and labelled for RV plumbing systems, which is non-toxic, and follow the product's instructions. Never put automotive antifreeze in the water system.
Do I have to blow out the lines and use antifreeze?
Many owners do both, since compressed air clears most water and antifreeze protects what remains. Follow your manual. Some owners skip the air and use antifreeze only.
What about the water heater?
Drain it only when it is cool and depressurized, and bypass it if your RV has a bypass so you do not fill the tank with antifreeze.
Can I winterize it myself?
Yes, if you are comfortable with the steps. Otherwise an RV dealer or service shop can do it, often for a modest flat fee, and is worth booking early in the fall.
Official sources
Rules, fees, and services change. Check these directly before you travel.