Spring is finally here, and with it comes the irresistible urge to pack up and head for the open road. But hold on, before you hitch up your RV, there's a crucial step you need to take: de-winterization.
It might sound intimidating, but fear not! De-winterizing your RV is a simple DIY project that can be completed in a few hours, or even spread out over a few days, depending on your pace. Follow along as we guide you through the process that gets our trusty Airstream ready to roll. **Note: Because each Airstream model is different you should consult your Owners Manual for specific steps for your Airstream.
When Should You De-Winterize?
There are three main situations that might prompt you to de-winterize your RV:
No More Freezing Temps: When the threat of frost and freezing nights has completely vanished, it's the perfect time for a full de-winterization.
Scheduled Maintenance: Sometimes, a partial de-winterization might be necessary to perform Scheduled Airstream Maintenance, like servicing your Airstream's air conditioner or replacing parts.
Upcoming Camping Trip: If you have a specific camping trip on the horizon, even if the weather is still chilly, de-winterizing your RV beforehand ensures it's fully prepared for your adventure.
What Do You Need to De-Winterize?
Gathering the Essentials: Preparation is key! Before diving in, gather the necessary tools and supplies. Here is a basic list to get you started. For more details on the tools we carry checkout our Essential Tools Video.
Ladder: Reaching the roof safely is crucial, so grab your sturdy ladder.
Toolset: A basic set with screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers will come in handy for minor adjustments and maintenance.
Sealant and Lubricants: Address any leaks or ensure smooth operation with appropriate products.
Flashlight: Illuminate those darker areas for thorough inspections.
Hose: You'll need it for flushing and filling the water system.
Bucket: A trusty bucket will be helpful for various tasks throughout the process.
Bleach: Distilled bleach is used to sanitize the water system (ensure it's regular, unscented household bleach).
Optional: An air compressor can be helpful for blowing out water lines and other areas.
How Do We De-Winterize?
1. Exterior Inspection: Well it all starts with a thorough inspection of the Airstream. With our tools gathered, it's time to begin. We like to start from the top and work our way down
Roof: Climb up safely and check the seals for cracks or damage. Promptly address any leaks to prevent future problems.
Exterior Body: Look for dents, loose parts, or any cosmetic issues that require attention.
Suspension: Check the system for any damage, cracks, or holes. A creeper comes in real handy for this step. While you’re down there go ahead and inspect the stabilizer jacks.
Tires: Thoroughly inspect your tires for proper tread depth, correct air pressure, and secure torque on the lug nuts. Don't forget to check the spare tire!
2. Powering Up and Moving On: Once you complete the exterior inspection it is time to check the various systems of your RV.
Propane System: This crucial step involves testing for leaks using a specific propane leak detector. Look for damaged hoses or loose fittings and address them immediately. Consider installing an LPG sensor for added safety and peace of mind. We installed the Mopeka LPG sensor. It’s a great product that makes tracking the amount of LPG on hand super easy.
Battery: Inspect the battery for overall condition and that it is fully charged. If your battery is a flooded lead acid battery, make sure to add distilled water if needed. Ensure the cables on the terminals are secure and free of corrosion.
Lubrication: Moving parts benefit greatly from proper lubrication. Use appropriate lubricants on hinges, stabilizer jacks, steps, awnings, and any other components that require it. We use several different lubricants such as Boshield T9, Corrosion X, 3-in-One Rubber Seal conditioner to name a few. You can check out our Amazon store for other products that we use to maintain or Airstream
3. Windows, Seals, and Beyond: This step may not seem necessary but I have found that it is just as important as the others when it comes to preparing the RV for the camping season.
Windows: Check that the window seals are properly conditioned and haven't dried out. Use a product like the Equalizer "bone tool" to help free any stuck windows, and finally, give them a thorough cleaning.
Spare Parts Bin: As you de-winterize, take a moment to review the contents of your spare parts bin. Replenish or replace any missing or damaged items as needed. Here is a list of the most Critical Airstream Spare Parts that we carry when we travel.
4. The Crucial Step - Dewinterizing the Plumbing: Now comes the critical aspect of bringing your RV's plumbing back to life. This is the step most people associate with de-winterizing your RV.
Drain the RV Antifreeze: First and foremost, completely drain the RV antifreeze used during winterization. Remember, antifreeze is not meant for human consumption, so ensure proper disposal according to local regulations.
Sanitize the Water Lines: Once the antifreeze is gone, it's essential to sanitize the water lines. We use a diluted bleach solution (¼ cup of bleach per 15 gallons of water) to thoroughly flush and sanitize the fresh water tank and the water lines.
5. Interior Checks: The final step of our de-winterization is to complete our interior checks and inspections. For us this includes test all the safety equipment, appliances and ending with a thorough cleaning.
HVAC Systems: Test the air conditioning and heating systems to ensure they function properly. Clean the AC filters for optimal performance.
RV Appliances: Test all your RV appliances (water heater, stove/oven, microwave, etc) to ensure proper functionality.
Safety Equipment: Inspect/test your fire extinguisher, smoke alarms, and CO2 detectors for proper functionality.
Good Cleaning: The last step is to ensure a good deep clean of the interior. While your RV sat in winter storage it likely gathered some dirt and dust. Now is a great time to wipe everything down.
Conclusion:
By following these steps, you can de-winterize your Airstream with confidence and ensure it is ready for your next camping adventure. We hope this post is helpful! Please let us know if you have any questions.
Happy Camping and Safe Travels
Rick & Lisa
The Wright Life
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