Winterizing Your Trailer

Camping is one of life’s greatest joys. It allows people the experience of seeing the beauty of the great outdoors, while having the luxury and comfort of the necessities of home provided through their trailer or RV. However, it is very important to take the time necessary to winterize your trailer once the camping season begins to wind down and the temperatures cool off. Some trailers are better equipped then others to endure the cold winter months, after all some prefer to camp during the winter, but even these trailers need a degree of winterization to ensure that they can safely meet the demands being placed on them. So whether you are storing your trailer for the winter months, or needing information to enable your trailer to endure the cold climate, winterizing is crucial to the safety and well being of your trailer.

The first line of knowledge that you have regarding your own trailer is with the manufacturer’s manual. Whether you are going to be taking your trailer out during the winter months or storing it, your manual will provide you with the best information regarding storage tips as well as how to prepare for cold weather if you take your trailer on the road.

If you are going to be spending time camping during the winter months, you will want to ensure that you have adequate heating and insulation working in the trailer. You can find a number of creative methods to improve heat circulation by filling any gaps, cracks, or vents as well. The most important issue to consider when using your trailer during winter months is whether or not your pipes will freeze. The best method for ensuring that your pipes are in working order and properly insulated is to follow your trailer’s manufacturer’s recommendations. You’ll also need to prepare for any emergencies with an emergency kit, as well as ensure that your windshield wipers, batteries, charging system, and tires are all in perfect condition. If they need any maintenance, have that performed before the winter season begins.

If you are going to store your trailer during the winter months, you may choose that paying for commercial storage space is the best option, and leave the winterizing process to professionals. However, many people choose to winterize their trailers themselves and for those who do, it is vitally important to follow your trailer’s manufacturer’s recommendations. The most important part of winterizing your trailer for storage will be to flush out the plumbing system. You will need to flush out the system and put in non-toxic anti freeze. Again, it is very important that you follow your trailer’s manufacturer’s instructions since you must by pass the water heater and need to drain the fresh water system according to procedures to prevent damage. You will also need to check and change the oil, ensure that the battery is clean and in good working order, then disconnect it, replenish all fluid levels, fill the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer, and you may decide to remove the tires from the trailer and store them in a cool dry place. If you have any questions regarding winterizing your trailer, it is recommended that you ask your RV technician.