Storage and Winterization

Suspension

When storing for prolonged periods, it is a good practice to block up the trailer and relieve stress on the suspension. To do this jack up the trailer slightly and slide blocks or jack stands under the frame directly behind the axle. The idea is not to lift the trailer completely off the ground but to take the majority of weight off the axle torsion arms. When finished, lower the rear stabilizers to keep the trailer steady. Use blocks under the stabilizer pads if needed.

Moisture Levels

Humidity can be an important factor depending on your climate. Left unchecked, humid air inside the trailer can condense resulting in water damage and mold. In humid areas, the use of either an absorbent or powered dehumidifier is recommended.

Battery Storage

The trailer battery should not be left outside in freezing weather for a prolonged period. Doing so may freeze the electrolyte and destroy the battery. Store the battery in a heated space or use a battery maintainer/trickle charger to keep the battery charged and prevent freezing.

Winterizing the Water System

To prepare for freezing conditions you will need to drain all water from the trailer and run antifreeze through the water system.

Empty all Tanks

1. First you will need to go to the RV dump station and empty the black water and gray water tanks. Rinse the tanks with clean water.
2. Lift the access cover on your rear dinette passenger-side bench. The fresh water tank has a small white petcock valve on the side. Turn the valve to let water drain from the tank (this water will drain out the bottom of the trailer).
3. Open your hot water faucet taps (leave the pump off). If you have a tankless water heater, skip step 3. Lift the access cover on your rear dinette driver side bench. At the back of the water heater, locate the bypass valves, turn valve to the bypass configuration with all handles aligned vertically. 
4. Outside the trailer: open the water heater maintenance panel and remove the anode plug to let any water drain from the heater tank.
5. Close hot water taps.

Run Anti-freeze Through the Cold Water Lines and Fixtures

1. Add RV anti-freeze to the fresh water holding tank. Most trailer layouts use 2-3 gallons.
2. Turn on your fresh water pump switch.
3. Go to each fixture and run the cold water side until you see only antifreeze (the anti-freeze is typically colored pink or red)
   • Kitchen sink
   • Bathroom sink
   • Bath shower head
   • Toilet
   • Outside shower head
4. Turn off the fresh water pump
5. Go to the city water connection fitting and gently remove the mesh screen. Push the small button-like protrusion to let water flow out the fitting until you see anti-freeze. NOTE: If there is pressure in the line, water and anti-freeze may spray out with force.

Add Anti-freeze to the Drains

Pump or directly pour anti-freeze down the sink and shower drains.

1. Turn on the shower drain pump.
2. Look under the trailer to visually verify that the anti-freeze has passed the pump and is traveling down the clear line leading back to the gray water tank.
3. Turn off the shower drain pump.
4. Open the dump valves and drain any excess water and antifreeze.

Re-install water heater anode.

Close all covers and caps.