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Winterizing Your RV in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide

Oct. 11 2023 Maintenance By Open Road Outlet

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The great Canadian outdoors offers endless travel opportunities, but with winter's approach, it's time to think about safeguarding your recreational vehicle (RV) from the country's harsh cold. If you've decided to store your RV during Canada's winter months, proper winterization is crucial. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to winterize your RV for a Canadian winter.

1. Choose the Right Storage Location

  • Outdoor Storage: If you're storing your RV outdoors, ensure it's on a solid and level surface. Use RV covers to protect against snow, ice, and UV damage.

  • Indoor Storage: A climate-controlled indoor facility is ideal. It offers the best protection against freezing temperatures and winter elements.

2. Drain All Water Systems Canadian winters are notorious for freezing pipes, and a burst water line can be an expensive repair.

  • Drain fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks.

  • Open all faucets, including the shower and toilet, until they're empty.

  • Use an air compressor to blow out any residual water from the pipes.

  • Don't forget to drain the water heater.

3. Antifreeze is Your Friend

  • Bypass your water heater to prevent antifreeze from filling it.

  • Use a non-toxic RV antifreeze. Pour it into the fresh water tank or use an external hand pump to get it into the system.

  • Turn on all faucets until you see pink (or the colour of your antifreeze) flowing through. This includes the toilet and outdoor shower if you have one.

4. Safeguard Your Batteries Cold can sap the life from batteries.

  • If possible, remove the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. Make sure to charge them fully beforehand.

  • If you're leaving them in the RV, disconnect the terminals and ensure they're fully charged.

5. Protect the Interior

  • Clean and vacuum the inside of your RV. Food remnants or spills can attract pests.

  • Use moisture absorbers to prevent mold and mildew.

  • Prop open fridge and freezer doors to allow airflow and prevent mold.

  • Consider using rodent repellents or traps. Canadian winters drive critters to seek shelter!

6. Check Seals and Vents

  • Inspect the exterior for any cracks in the seals around windows, doors, and roof vents.

  • Reseal any problem areas to prevent moisture or critters from getting inside.

7. Take Care of Tires

  • Inflate tires to the recommended PSI. Under-inflated tires can develop flat spots when stationary for long periods.

  • If possible, lift the RV off the ground using jacks to reduce pressure on the tires.

8. Prepare the Engine (For Motorhomes)

  • Change the oil and filter to ensure no contaminants sit in the engine during winter.

  • Fill the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from deteriorating.

  • Run the engine and generator long enough for the stabilizer to work through the system.

9. Final Touches

  • Close all blinds to prevent UV damage to the interior.

  • Ensure all vents and windows are securely closed.

  • Make a checklist of everything you've done and keep it in the RV, so you're organized when spring arrives.

In Conclusion

Canada's winters are beautiful but can be harsh on vehicles left unprepared. Winterrizing your RV isn't just about ensuring it survives the cold months but also ensuring that when the snow melts, you're ready to hit the road without facing a litany of repairs. Take the time now to winterize, and you'll thank yourself in the spring! Safe travels, eh?