Although Texas doesn’t experience the harsh winters of northern states, Winterizing RV is still an essential task to ensure it remains in excellent condition year-round. While some regions in Texas might enjoy mild winters, others can face sudden temperature drops, freezing rain, or even snowstorms. If you’re planning to store your RV or won’t be using it during the colder months, taking time to winterize it properly can help prevent costly damage and maintain its long-term value.
Why You Should Winterize an RV in a Mild Climate
It’s a common misconception that RVs in warmer states like Texas don’t need winterizing. While it’s true that areas like Houston and Austin may not see frequent below-freezing temperatures, other parts of Texas—such as the Panhandle, North Texas, and Hill Country—can face unexpected cold snaps that can wreak havoc on an unprotected RV.
Failing to winterize your RV can lead to frozen plumbing lines, cracked water tanks, and damaged seals. Even if you live in a typically warm region, it’s better to be prepared for the unexpected.
Step 1: Drain and Clean the Water System
The most critical step in the process to winterize an RV is draining all water from the system to prevent freezing.
- Turn off the water heater and allow it to cool.
- Open all faucets, including indoor and outdoor ones.
- Drain the freshwater holding tank, gray water tank, and black water tank.
- Use the low-point drains to clear the water lines.
- Finally, flush the water heater and water lines to remove any remaining water.
Many RV owners in Texas opt to blow out the water lines with compressed air, especially if they don’t want to use RV antifreeze. However, using non-toxic RV antifreeze is a more foolproof method and recommended if you’re storing your RV during winter.
Step 2: Add RV Antifreeze
After draining the system, you’ll want to add RV antifreeze to protect your plumbing:
- Bypass the water heater using a bypass kit if it’s not already installed.
- Connect a hand pump or winterizing kit to your water inlet.
- Pump antifreeze through the system until you see it coming out of each faucet and toilet.
- Don’t forget the shower, outdoor shower (if applicable), and toilet valve.
This step is especially important if you’re in a colder part of Texas where winter temperatures can dip below freezing unexpectedly.
Step 3: Protect Your Battery and Electrical System
If you’re storing your RV during winter:
- Disconnect the house battery and store it in a cool, dry place to prevent discharge.
- Check and clean battery terminals to avoid corrosion.
- Unplug all electronics and consider using a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep the battery healthy during storage.
Step 4: Seal and Inspect All Openings
Inspect windows, doors, vents, and roof seals to prevent water intrusion and pest entry:
- Check for any cracks in the caulking and reseal where necessary.
- Use vent covers to allow ventilation while keeping moisture and debris out.
- Place mesh screens over appliance vents to keep rodents out.
Even in mild Texas winters, critters can find your RV a cozy place to hide. Proper sealing also helps regulate moisture inside the RV.
Step 5: Protect the Exterior
Clean your RV thoroughly before putting it into storage:
- Wash and wax the exterior to protect against dirt, rain, and UV rays.
- Cover tires with UV-resistant covers to prevent cracking.
- Use an RV cover if you’re storing it outdoors—this shields it from the elements, especially in open areas like West Texas.
Step 6: Interior Preparation
Inside the RV:
- Clean out the refrigerator and leave the doors slightly open to prevent mold.
- Remove all food and perishables to avoid attracting pests.
- Open cabinets and drawers to circulate air and prevent mildew.
- Place moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers inside to maintain dry air.
Conclusion
Even though Texas winters are relatively mild, it’s still smart to winterize your RV to avoid surprise repairs and extend its lifespan. Whether you’re parking it in your driveway or a storage facility, a few preventative measures can save you time, money, and hassle when spring rolls around. Take the time to properly prepare your RV so it’s road-ready when the weather warms up again.
