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RV winterizing checklist

Tick boxes on screen or print a clean copy.

A tick-box version of our full winterizing guide. Check your owner's manual for model-specific steps (washer, dishwasher, ice maker, tankless water heater).

Supplies

RV & marine antifreeze (potable, propylene glycol), enough jugs for your rig
Water heater bypass in place or kit
Pump siphon / winterizing kit
Air compressor + blow-out plug
Socket for water heater plug/anode
Bucket, rags, gloves, eye protection, headlamp

Tanks

Black tank dumped and flushed
Grey tank dumped
Fresh tank drained
Tank valves closed (or per manufacturer)

Drain the system

Water pump off; city water disconnected
All faucets open (hot and cold), shower and outdoor shower
Low-point drains open
Toilet flushed to drain valve
Water heater off and cool; pressure relieved; drain plug/anode removed (store it where you'll find it)
Water filter cartridges removed; housings drained
Ice maker, washer, dishwasher: follow manual

Blow out (recommended in Alberta)

Low-point drains and faucets closed
Blow-out plug in city water inlet; compressor at modest pressure per manual
Each faucet opened hot then cold until only air
Shower, outdoor shower, toilet valve, low-point drains blown out

RV antifreeze

Water heater in bypass
Pump set to draw from antifreeze jug
Each faucet run cold then hot until pink, nearest pump first
Shower and outdoor shower until pink
Toilet flushed until pink
Low-point drains opened briefly until pink
City water inlet check valve pushed until pink
Pump off
Antifreeze poured into every P-trap and the toilet bowl

Power

Batteries fully charged
Batteries removed to above-freezing storage on maintainer, OR left connected to a maintainer
Battery disconnect off if not on a maintainer
Generator serviced/stored per manual (motorhomes)

Propane & appliances

Propane off at tanks; regulator covered
Fridge emptied, cleaned, doors propped open
Vent covers fitted (remove before using appliances!)

Interior

All food and freezable liquids removed
Cleaned thoroughly (crumbs attract mice)
Moisture absorbers placed
Cabinets and drawers left slightly open
Blinds closed

Exterior & rodent-proofing

Roof inspected and resealed as needed
Slide and door seals conditioned
Slides in; awning in and secured
Gaps at plumbing/wiring penetrations plugged (steel wool/copper mesh)
Tires inflated; covered; RV on boards/pads
Wheels chocked; coupler lock fitted
Cover fitted and fastened (breathable cover only)

Notes

Date winterized: ______________
Jugs of antifreeze used: ______________
Where the water heater plug/anode is stored: ______________