Winterizing and de-winterizing
Freeze damage is expensive and preventable. Do it the same way every time.
The short version
- Drain the tanks, low point drains and water heater. Bypass the water heater before adding antifreeze.
- Pump RV antifreeze until it comes out pink at every faucet, shower, toilet and outside shower.
- Don't forget the ice maker, washer and any extra fixtures. Follow their manufacturers' steps.
- De-winterizing: flush the antifreeze, take the water heater off bypass, fill it before turning on any heat source, and check for leaks.
- Use only RV antifreeze made for drinking water systems. Never put automotive antifreeze in the fresh water lines.
Shop tip
Leave a tag on the faucet or panel saying the unit is winterized. It saves somebody's water heater.