Winterization / Seasonal Storage

Switch off water pump

Disconnect any external water supply or hose

Open all taps to central/mid position

Both hot and cold lines drain simultaneously

Open all low-point drain valves Safety-critical

Check for additional cab-area heating loop drains

Drain the water heater via its drain valve Safety-critical

Leave drain valve open throughout winter

Drain fresh water tank via dedicated valve Safety-critical

Check for underslung tank with separate drain valve

Remove shower head and shake out residual water

Flush repeatedly to clear flush water tank

Open waste tank drain valves

Fit mesh covers to prevent vermin entry

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

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

Fully charge the engine/starter 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 for both systems

Solar panel (40W+ recommended) or trickle charger

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

Change engine oil if due within next service interval

Fresh oil contains fewer corrosive combustion byproducts

Check coolant antifreeze concentration Safety-critical

50/50 mix indoors; up to 70/30 for outdoor storage

Fill fuel tank to full to prevent condensation

Add fuel stabiliser and run engine briefly to circulate

Top up windscreen washer fluid with winter mix

Release handbrake to prevent brake pad seizure

Leave in gear (manual) or Park (automatic); use chocks

Place wheel chocks on both sides of wheels Safety-critical

Wash exterior with appropriate cleaner

Do not use pressure washers; they force water under seals

Inspect all window, door, and rooflight seals

Repair any gaps before winter

Apply protective wax or overwintering protector

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

Empty, rinse, and clean toilet cassette

Drain toilet flush water tank

Clean valve blade seal with approved cleaner

Do not use domestic cleaners

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

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

Wash undercarriage to remove road salt residue

Grease steadies and other moving chassis parts

Lock all doors, windows, and external lockers

Fit wheel clamp if required by insurance

Use insurance-approved Sold Secure rated products

Verify insurance security requirements are met

Leave note of all temporary changes made

Note open valves, removed items, handbrake status