Winterization / Seasonal Storage

Switch off water pump

Disconnect any external water supply

Open all taps to central/mid position

Both hot and cold lines drain simultaneously

Open all low-point drain valves Safety-critical

Locate valves under the caravan; turn lever to vertical

Drain the water heater via its drain valve Safety-critical

Leave drain valve open throughout winter

Drain fresh water tank completely Safety-critical

Remove shower head and shake out residual water

Place shower head in tray to drain the feed pipe

Flush repeatedly to clear flush water tank

Run pump for 2-3 seconds to expel remaining water

Then switch off immediately

Leave all taps open for winter

Allows expansion if residual moisture freezes

Drain Aquaroll/Wastemaster and store open

Store upside down or with caps off to dry thoroughly

Pour propylene glycol into sink drain traps

Use only non-toxic propylene glycol, never automotive type

Pour small amount of anti-freeze into toilet bowl

Protects the blade seal from freezing

Pour anti-freeze into shower drain trap

Close all gas cylinder valves Safety-critical

Disconnect clip-on gas regulators if fitted

Cap open gas pipework ends

Prevents insect ingestion and moisture entry

Check gas regulator expiry date

Truma: 10 years; Cavagna/single-stage: 5 years

Fully charge the leisure battery

Switch off all 12V circuits via master switch

Disconnect parasitic loads (aerial booster, etc.)

Clean battery terminals and apply petroleum jelly

Prevents corrosion during storage

Arrange battery maintenance plan

Solar panel, trickle charger, or recharge every 4-6 weeks

Remove all food and perishables

Wipe down all surfaces and countertops

Vacuum floors and upholstery

Stand seat cushions upright away from walls

Cover with breathable cotton sheets

Leave all locker doors, wardrobes, and drawers open

Improves air circulation to prevent mould

Clean and defrost fridge; prop door ajar

Place baking soda inside to absorb odours

Place moisture absorbers inside

Replace tabs every 1-3 months

Ensure permanent ventilators are clear and open

Do not block floor or high-level vents

Empty, rinse, and clean toilet cassette

Drain toilet flush water tank

Clean valve blade seal with approved cleaner

Do not use domestic cleaners; use Thetford or similar

Lubricate valve blade seal with silicone lubricant

Never use WD-40; it causes rubber to swell

Leave valve blade partially open

Prevents seal sticking shut over winter

Wash exterior with caravan-specific cleaner

Do not use pressure washers; they force water under seals

Inspect all window, door, and rooflight seals

Look for cracks, splits, peeling; repair before winter

Apply protective wax or overwintering protector

Clean 13-pin plug contacts and apply protectant

Clear gutters and awning rail channels of debris

Oil door and locker hinges

Dust rubber door/window seals with talcum powder

Prevents seals sticking shut

Inflate tyres to maximum rated pressure

Reduces flat-spot risk; deflate to normal before road use

Check tyre age via DOT code on sidewall

Replace if over 5 years; do not use if over 7 years

Release handbrake to prevent brake shoes sticking

Use wheel chocks on both sides instead

Place wheel chocks on both sides Safety-critical

Lower all corner steadies for stability

Grease steadies, jockey wheel, and spare carrier

Wash chassis to remove road salt residue

Fit hitch lock

Often required by insurance when unhitched

Fit wheel clamp

Use insurance-approved Sold Secure rated products

Lock all doors, windows, and external lockers

Verify insurance security requirements are met

Leave note of all temporary changes made

Helps when de-winterizing; note open valves, removed items