Just as it is important to winterize your RV at the end of the camping season, it is also important to de–winterize and prepare your RV for the upcoming season every spring!
Before you de-winterize your unit, do a full walk-around of the exterior and interior to make sure your RV has no visible damage.
Exterior inspection
- Check propane bottles
- Must be within 10-year life span. Check the amount of propane left and consider topping up.
- Inspect the roof
- Check for cracks and damage to the roof, vent covers, and air conditioning housing.
- Connect your unit to shore power to test gauges and systems.
- Look over cords for fraying or exposed metal wires
- Check the 12V Batteries, lift into place, and reconnect them.
- Check tank hoses for any leaking.
- Inspect leveling jacks
- Extend your awning
- Check the condition of the fabric.
- Look for any holes or tears.
- Ensure it functions properly.
- Check the tires
- Ensure they are properly inflated.
- Check the condition of the tread.
- Look for cracks or damage to the sidewall.
- Inspect the interior and exterior latches and locks, lube if necessary.
- Test exterior lights, and replace any burnt bulbs.
- Connect your tow vehicle to test all connections and lights.
Interior Inspection
- Inspect for water damage
- Check pipe systems
- Look underneath sink and edge of the toilet for leaking.
- Power up your fridge
- Make sure it functions properly in each power source mode.
- Wipe it to ensure there is no mildew.
- Turn on and test lights
- Replace blown out fuses
- Check circuit breakers
- Test GFCI
- Check expiry dates or replace batteries on detectors.
- Liquid propane
- Gas
- Carbon monoxide
- Smoke detectors
- Ensure emergency exits function properly.
- Clean your stove
- Check the operation of RV slides
- Check fire extinguishers for damage, expiry date, and pressure.
- Flush out antifreeze
- Close your tank drains and run water through the lines.
- Replace the drain plug in the water heater
- Adjust the valves from “bypass” to “normal” so the tank will refill. You may need to keep the hot water tap open to allow air to escape the tank as it fills.
- Allow propane gas to refill the lines
- Light the pilot light on your stove and once you have propane in the line fire up your furnace and other appliances.
Cleaning
Remove pillows and cushions from your RV and shake them out. Allowing them to sit outside in fresh air if possible is a good idea too!
Use a microfibre cloth to wipe down all surfaces, including behind and around electronics and vents covers. Use a warm cloth to wipe out cabinets and drawers, and wash the windows!
Check your air conditioning filters to make sure they are clean and in proper working order.
Mop and vacuum the floor of your RV with warm soapy water, and scrub your kitchen appliances and bathroom to remove all dirt and grime.
Click HERE to see our blog on getting your RV squeaky clean!
