Protect your RV from costly damage before the temperature drops
Even in California, RV owners should think ahead when it comes to colder weather, especially if you’re storing your rig for the season or heading to higher elevations. Winterizing your RV protects your plumbing, seals, and systems from the kind of damage that can sneak up during temperature swings.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly winterize your RV, and why mobile winterization service might save you both time and costly repairs down the line.
1. Drain the Water System
Water expands when it freezes, and even one missed line can crack a pipe
Start by turning off your water heater and water pump. Then:
- Open all faucets (hot & cold)
- Drain your freshwater tank
- Open the low-point drains
- Bypass and drain the water heater (do NOT fill it with antifreeze)
- Use compressed air or RV-safe antifreeze to flush remaining water
If this sounds complicated — or if you miss a step — you could end up with a broken fitting or cracked line come spring. A mobile RV technician can take care of this for you on-site.
2. Add RV Antifreeze to the Plumbing System
Not all antifreeze is created equal
Use non-toxic, RV/marine antifreeze, not the stuff for cars. After draining the lines:
- Connect the antifreeze to your water pump inlet
- Open each faucet one at a time until pink antifreeze flows out
- Don’t forget outside showers, toilets, and low-point drains
- Flush the toilet until you see pink in the bowl
Make sure antifreeze reaches all fixtures — otherwise, trapped water could freeze and crack components.
3. Seal Off Gaps and Vents
Pests love a warm, quiet RV in the off-season
As your RV sits, mice and insects can find their way in through even the smallest gaps. Use:
- Screen covers on exterior vents
- Expanding foam for obvious holes (in storage bays or undercarriage)
- Steel wool in entry points (temporarily)
- Dryer sheets or natural repellents in drawers and cupboards
This step prevents chewed wires, insulation damage, and the unwanted surprise of a nest next spring.
4. Disconnect Batteries or Use a Maintainer
Dead batteries are one of the most common winter headaches
Either:
- Disconnect and store your batteries in a cool, dry place
- Or keep them connected to a battery maintainer that trickle-charges them safely
Make sure both chassis and house batteries are protected — a dead battery in storage is an unnecessary expense.
5. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof and Seals
Cold weather can make old sealant brittle
Before winter hits, check:
- Roof sealant around vents, skylights, and seams
- Window and door seals
- Slide-out seals (clean and condition rubber)
Reseal anything that looks cracked, loose, or deteriorating. Moisture intrusion during winter storage is the silent killer of RV interiors.
6. Cover or Store Properly
Keep the elements off — but let moisture escape
If your RV will be outside:
- Use a breathable, RV-specific cover (never trap moisture)
- Avoid tarps that can rub and damage paint or seals
- Inflate tires to the proper PSI and cover them from sun exposure
- Use leveling blocks and chalk wheels to protect the suspension
Let Murphy Mobile RV Repair Winterize Your RV On-Site
Winterizing your RV doesn’t have to be a hassle — or require hauling your rig across town. We’ll come to your location, fully equipped to handle your entire winterization process properly and quickly.
Whether you’re storing your RV in Orange County or prepping for a mountain trip, we’ve got you covered.
Call (714) 450-5086 or schedule your winterization today.