Winterizing an RV involves preparing it for cold weather through various steps. These include draining the freshwater system, adding antifreeze to the water lines, and using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture. Other tasks may include removing and storing water hoses and checking the roof, windows, and doors for potential leaks. Read on to learn about winterizing RVs with air compressors.
Why Is It Essential To Winterize An RV?
Winterizing an RV aims to protect it from any damage caused by cold weather. Doing so can minimize the risk of water lines freezing and bursting and other potential damage due to extreme temperatures. This helps preserve the RV’s life and its components, such as the plumbing, and prevents costly repairs in the future.
Winterizing also protects the RV from mold and mildew, which can form in warm, moist environments. By keeping the RV dry, you can help prevent mold and mildew growth, keeping the interior of your RV in better condition. Moreover, winterizing helps to reduce heating costs, as the RV will be better insulated and more efficient.
Types Of Winterization Kits
Several types of winterization kits are available for RVs, each designed to protect the RV’s plumbing and appliances from freezing temperatures. Some of the most common types include:
- Basic Winterization Kit: This kit typically includes a non-toxic RV antifreeze, a hose adapter, and instructions on winterizing the RV’s plumbing and appliances.
- Air Compressor Winterization Kit: This kit includes an air compressor and the necessary attachments to blow out the water lines in the RV. It also includes a non-toxic RV antifreeze and instructions on winterizing the RV.
- Electric Water Pump Winterization Kit: This kit includes an electric water pump, a non-toxic RV antifreeze, and instructions on winterizing the RV. The electric water pump is used to push the antifreeze through the RV’s water lines.
- Complete Winterization Kit: This kit includes everything you need to winterize your RV, including an air compressor, electric water pump, non-toxic RV antifreeze, and all necessary attachments and instructions.
- Battery-operated Winterization Kit: This kit is designed for RVs that don’t have an electrical power source. It uses a battery-operated water pump and antifreeze to winterize the RV.
How To Winterize An RV With An Air Compressor?
A recreational vehicle can be winterized with an air compressor by following these easy steps:
- Start by draining all the fresh water and wastewater tanks by opening the valves and allowing all the water to run out.
- Once the tanks are empty, disconnect all the water lines leading to the RV. This includes the lines running to the sink, shower, and toilet.
- Next, turn off the water heater and disconnect the water line leading to it. Then, open the drain valve at the bottom of the heater and allow the water to drain out.
- Attach an air compressor hose to the RV’s water connection.
- Turn the air compressor on and adjust it to the lowest pressure setting. Slowly increase the pressure until all the water lines are completely dry.
- Once all the lines are dry, turn off the air compressor and disconnect the hose.
- Finally, turn off all the valves and faucets inside the RV. This will ensure that no water can enter the RV while it is in storage.
Let us delve a little deeper to accurately know the procedure of winterizing an RV:
Step One: Prep the RV for Winterization
- Drain the fresh water tank: Locate the valve controlling the flow of water in and out of the tank, and turn it to the “drain” position. Allow the tank to empty completely.
- Drain the water heater: Locate the drain valve on the bottom of the water heater and open it to allow the water to flow. Once the water has drained, close the valve.
- Drain the water lines: Locate the low point drain valves on the water lines, typically found near the bottom of the RV, and open them to allow any remaining water to drain out.
- Add RV antifreeze: Fill the fresh water tank with a non-toxic RV antifreeze and turn on the water pump. Run the water through the faucets, showers, and toilets until you see a pink or purple antifreeze.
- Winterize the plumbing fixtures: Add RV antifreeze to the toilet bowls and holding tanks, and flush the toilets. This will prevent them from freezing.
- Seal windows and doors: Check all windows and doors for leaks and seal any gaps or cracks. This will prevent cold air from entering the RV.
- Protect appliances: Disconnect devices sensitive to cold temperatures and store them in a warm place, such as a garage or shed.
- Cover the RV: Cover the RV with a protective cover or tarp to protect it from snow and ice.
Remember to turn off the propane and unplug all the electrical appliances before leaving the RV for winterization.
Step Two: Pick The Right Air Compressor For Your RV
When picking the right air compressor for RV winterization, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Power and Capacity: The power and capacity of the air compressor will determine how quickly and efficiently it can blow out the water lines. Look for a compressor that can provide at least 3-4 cubic feet per minute (CFM) at 90 PSI. This will ensure that the water is blown out of the lines quickly and effectively.
- Portability: Since you’ll be using the air compressor to blow out the water lines in your RV, it’s important to choose one that is portable and easy to move around. Look for a lightweight one with wheels or a handle for easy transport.
- Hose Length: The length of the hose that comes with the air compressor will also play a role in its effectiveness. A longer hose will give you more flexibility and reach when blowing out the water lines.
- Noise level: Consider the noise level of the air compressor. Some compressors can be quite loud, which can be a problem if you plan to use them in a residential area or at night. Look for compressors that have a low noise level, typically measured in decibels (dB).
- Price: The price of an air compressor can vary widely, so consider how much you’re willing to spend. Look for a compressor that meets your needs and fits within your budget.
- Accessories: Some air compressors come with accessories such as adapters, nozzles, and fittings, which can make winterizing your RV even easier.
Step Three: Start The Process Of Winterization
- Starting with the faucets closest to the water pump, open each and blow out the water lines. Be sure to blow out the hot and cold lines separately.
- Move on to the shower and toilet and repeat the process of blowing out the water lines. Be sure to flush the toilet and hold the flush pedal down while blowing out the water lines.
- Once you have blown out all the water lines, turn off the air compressor and drain the remaining water from the faucets, shower, and toilet.
- Add a non-toxic RV antifreeze to the freshwater tank and turn on the water pump. Run the water through the faucets, showers, and toilets until you see the antifreeze coming out.
- Winterize the plumbing fixtures by adding RV antifreeze to the toilet bowls and holding tanks, and flush the toilets. This will prevent them from freezing.
- Disconnect devices sensitive to cold temperatures and store them in a warm place, such as a garage or shed.
- Finally, cover the RV with a protective cover or tarp to protect it from snow and ice.
Preventive Measures To Take When Winterizing An RV
There are several precautions to take when winterizing an RV with an air compressor:
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses and earplugs, to protect yourself from flying debris and loud noise.
- Be sure to use a non-toxic RV antifreeze, as other types of antifreeze can be harmful to humans and animals.
- Make sure that the air compressor is properly grounded to avoid electrical shock.
- Slowly increase the pressure on the air compressor to avoid damaging the water lines or fixtures.
- Be sure to blow out all the water lines, including the hot and cold lines, as well as the shower and toilet.
- Never leave the air compressor unattended, and turn it off when you are finished using it.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the air compressor and other equipment.
- Don’t forget to disconnect the propane and unplug all the electrical appliances before leaving the RV for winterization.
- Never use your RV while the antifreeze is still in the system. It is toxic and can cause health problems if ingested.
- Check the RV’s water lines, faucets, and other fixtures in the spring to ensure that they haven’t been damaged by freezing temperatures, and flush out any remaining antifreeze before using the RV again.
Conclusion
Winterizing an RV is an important step in protecting it from damage caused by freezing temperatures. The process involves draining all of the water out of the system, adding a non-toxic RV antifreeze to protect it from freezing temperatures, and ensuring that all windows and doors are sealed properly and that any appliances or systems sensitive to cold temperatures are protected.
One of the most effective ways of winterizing an RV is by using an air compressor to blow out the water lines. This can be done by connecting the air compressor to the RV’s water lines using the appropriate hose adapter and slowly increasing the pressure to around 60-70 PSI. It’s important to use a non-toxic RV antifreeze, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any equipment.
Learn more about: 5 Best Small Truck Campers in (2022)
I love crispy fried chicken, jogging, brisk walk, and I do sleep tight at night.