Written By: Pleasure-Way
De-Winterizing Your RV: A Step-by-Step Guide for Spring Prep
De-winterizing your RV is a critical step to ensure that your Pleasure Way Motorhome, is ready for the warmer months, especially after it’s been stored away for the winter.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
1. Inspect the Exterior
- Check for Damage: Look over the exterior for any cracks, leaks, or wear. Check windows, seals, doors, and vents.
- Clean the Exterior: Wash off any dirt, grime, or leftover salt from the winter months.
- Check Roof and Tires: Inspect the roof for any damage, and make sure the tires are inflated properly.
2. Check the Battery
- Reinstall or Charge the Battery: If you removed the RV battery for storage, reinstall it. If you didn’t remove it, make sure it’s fully charged.
- Test the Battery: Ensure that all the electrical systems work properly when the battery is connected.
3. Inspect the Plumbing System
- Inspect Hoses & Pipes: Check for cracks or damage in hoses, pipes, and fittings from the freezing winter temperatures.
- Flush the Water System: Turn on the water pump and run water through the system to flush out any antifreeze and make sure the water system is working properly.
- Check Water Heater: Inspect the water heater for leaks or issues and ensure that it’s functioning properly.
- Check for Leaks: Look under sinks, in the bathroom, and around any other water fixtures for signs of leaks or cracks.
4. Test the Propane System
- Inspect Propane Tanks: Ensure the tanks are secure and have no damage. Check for leaks by spraying soapy water on the connections and looking for bubbles.
- Turn On the Propane: Check if your stove, furnace, and water heater are all working properly by turning on each appliance one by one.
5. Inspect the HVAC System
- Test the Air Conditioner: Run the AC to make sure it’s working and no debris has collected inside.
- Check the Furnace: Test the furnace to ensure it’s running correctly and safely. You might want to replace the furnace filter at this point as well.
6. Inspect the Tires and Brakes
- Check Tire Pressure: Tires can lose pressure during storage, so check each tire’s pressure and inflate them to the recommended PSI.
- Look for Cracks: Check for any cracks or dry rot in the tires, and inspect the brakes to make sure everything is in working order.
7. Clean the Interior
- Deep Clean: Clean all surfaces, including countertops, floors, and upholstery. You might also want to vacuum and wipe down your cabinets and closets.
- Air It Out: Open windows and doors to let the RV air out. Consider using an air freshener or odor neutralizer if necessary.
8. Check the Electrical System
- Test Lights and Outlets: Turn on all lights and test electrical outlets to ensure they work. Check fuses and circuit breakers if something isn’t working.
- Check the Converter: Ensure the converter is working so your RV battery stays charged when plugged into shore power.
9. Check for Pests
- Inspect for Rodents or Insects: Look in cabinets, storage areas, and the underside of the RV for any signs of pests. You might also want to set traps or use repellents.
10. Start Your Generator (If Applicable)
- Run the Generator: If your RV has a generator, start it up and let it run for a while to ensure it’s functioning properly.
11. Restock Your RV
- Top Off Supplies: Make sure you have essential supplies such as water, propane, cleaning supplies, first aid kits, and any personal items you need for your trips.
12. Check and Adjust the Awning
- Inspect the Awning: Check the awning for any damage or mold. Clean it if necessary, and make sure it operates smoothly.
13. Check the Brakes and Lights on Towed Vehicle (If Applicable)
- Test Towing System: If you’re towing a vehicle behind your RV, test the brakes, lights, and wiring to make sure everything works.
By following these steps, you should have your Pleasure Way Motorhome, in prime condition and ready for your next adventure.
Still need a few more tips? Watch our video below for How To De-Winterize Your Pleasure-Way Motorhome.