Winterizing Your RV Like a Pro: Must-Have Tips & Tricks!

As the chill of winter sets in, it’s time to prep your RV for the cold months ahead! ❄️ Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a weekend warrior, winterizing your RV is an essential step to keep it in tip-top shape. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-do steps to protect your home on wheels from winter’s harsh conditions.

Step 1: Adding RV Antifreeze

One of the most important tasks before winter hits is ensuring your RV’s plumbing system doesn’t freeze. Here’s how to do it right:

✅ Blow Out the Water Lines – Use an air compressor (set to 50-60 PSI) to clear out any remaining water in the pipes. Avoid cranking up the pressure too high—120 PSI can damage your system!

✅ Use RV-Safe Antifreeze – Pick up a jug of RV antifreeze from any hardware store, auto parts shop, or online retailer.

✅ Locate the T-Valve – Find the valve near your water pump. Turn it, place the intake hose into the antifreeze jug, and switch on the pump.

✅ Check Each Faucet – Turn on faucets one by one until you see pink antifreeze running through. This ensures all lines are fully protected from freezing temperatures.

💡 Pro Tip: You may only need one gallon of antifreeze for the job, so no need to overbuy!

🛒 RV/Marine Antifreeze – 1 gal – Buy Here

Step 2: Controlling Moisture with a Dehumidifier

Excess moisture inside your RV during winter storage can lead to mold and mildew. A compact dehumidifier can help keep things dry and fresh!

✅ Choose a Portable Dehumidifier – We love the Midea Cube 20 Pint Dehumidifier because it’s compact, easy to store, and keeps moisture at bay all season long.

✅ Set It & Forget It – Place it inside your RV, set it to around 40%, and let it do its job. If you’re storing your RV in a place without electricity, Dry-Z moisture absorbers are a great alternative!

💡 Pro Tip: Moving air is key to preventing dampness. A dehumidifier not only pulls moisture out but also improves airflow!

🛒 Midea Cube 20 Pint Dehumidifier, Fits Up to 1,500 Sq. Ft – Buy Here

🛒 Moisture Absorbers – 6 Pack – Buy Here

Step 3: Battery Maintenance

To extend your battery’s life, be sure to remove it before storing your RV for the winter.

✅ Take Out the Batteries – Store them in your garage or another temperature-controlled space.

✅ Use a Trickle Charger – Hook up your batteries to a trickle charger to keep them in good shape over the winter months.

💡 Pro Tip: Snap a quick photo before disconnecting wires. This makes reinstallation a breeze when it’s time to hit the road again!

🛒 NOCO GENIUS2, Smart Car Battery Charger, 6V and 12V Lithium and Deep Cycle Batteries – Buy Here

Step 4: Give Your RV a Wash & Wax

Before tucking your RV away for the winter, give it a good wash and wax to protect the exterior from dirt, grime, and winter weather.

✅ Choose a High-Quality Wash & Wax – We recommend:

Armor All Ultra Shine Car Wash & Wax (Available at Costco!)
Turtle Wax Fresh & Foamy Wash & Wax (Pineapple Coconut scent – smells amazing!)

✅ Use a Scrub Brush – Mix the wash with water in a 5-gallon bucket, scrub, and rinse.

✅ Step Back & Admire – You’ll be amazed at the shine, even on a 10-year-old RV!

💡 Pro Tip: A good wax coat makes springtime cleaning so much easier!

🛒 Armor All Ultra Shine Car Wash and Car Wax by Armor All – Buy Here

🛒 Turtle Wax Fresh & Foamy Wash and Wax, Pineapple Coconut Scent – 128 OZ – Buy Here

Final Thoughts

Winterizing your RV may seem like a chore, but with the right tools and know-how, it’s quick and easy! Taking these steps now will save you time, money, and stress when the snow melts and camping season returns.

👉 Have any winter RV prep tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below! And don’t forget to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE to The Buildy Bunch for more awesome RV maintenance tips. 🚐💨

Must-Have Products for Winterizing Your RV

Looking for the right tools and products to winterize your RV? Check out these highly-rated picks: