Service Seminar: Winterization
On September 23rd, 2020 we hosted our first virtual Service Seminar on Winterization! The event was hosted by our very own Operations Manager, Sean. Sean is a Master Certified Technician with 28 years of experience and has been with BCS since 2012.
In case you missed it, we have a provided the video, step-by-step instructions (specifically for the 2017 Allegro Open Road,) and a link to download our DIY Winterization Checklist. The step-by-step guide is the process our technicians follow for Winterization of units. If at any point this information becomes overwhelming, remember this is an intensive process, normally completed by trained technicians, and amateur mistakes are costly. Save yourself from the anxiety and schedule your winterization with our service center today.
*Please note, Beaver Coach Sales & Service LLC assumes no liability for individuals following our checklist and is done at your own risk. If questions arise, contact your dealer or the manufacturer. You may also contact Sean for emergencies directly at 855.395.5385.
Join us for our next virtual Service Seminar on October 28th, 2020.
RV Winterization: Step-by-step
Dump black and gray tanks; flush thoroughly
Do this by opening all low point drains
This can be valves in the water bay or a pipe protruding through the floor with a plug installed
Drain fresh water tank
This is typically done via a 1.5 inch knife valve, electric switch, or a ball valve
Hook up an air hose to the system with a regulator set to 40 PSI
Our technicians do this to test the integrity of the water system and make sure there are no damaged components or leaks
Once the integrity of the system is confirmed, shut off the air pressure (you may leave the regulator attached)
Drain the water heater
First remove the plug or Anode rod
Bleed off the Line Pressure via the Over-Pressure Valve on the water heater, or open a faucet
Reinstall the plug or Anode rod
Place the water heater into bypass by moving the appropriate valves into the bypass position
*Some on demand systems have very specific winterization instructions, consult the manual and follow their directions
Cycle the Water Pump up to ~30 seconds to clear any residual water
This should look like a diaphragm-style pump
Running the Water Pump for this timeframe will not damage the pump
If you are unsure if residual water remains...
Remove the Intake Fitting
Take a length of Pex Pipe at a 90° to a ½ female pipe with a Pex fitting
Use the Coach Pump to push RV antifreeze through the system
Unplug and drain the InstaHot (if applicable)
Disconnect the ice maker feed line and blow out the line, with compressed air
Do this by disconnecting the ice maker's Solenoid Supply Line
Then turn the compressed air and city water back on (this will purge the line)
Then shut off the compressed air and city water
Disconnect the ice maker filter and turn the supply valve off
Remove any “Whole House” water filters
Reinstall the housings
Turn the compressed air back on
Open and close all interior and exterior faucets and fixtures
Make sure you aren't getting large quantities of water through any of the faucets
Close the low point drains
Hit the water dispenser on the refrigerator until air is coming out of the dispenser
Add ¼ gallon RV Antifreeze to Washer/Dryer
Add the RV antifreeze to the Drum and Soap Tray
Run the W/D through a cycle (this will pull antifreeze through the pump and drain)
Pour the RV antifreeze down the Washer Drain (if accessible)
Fill the P-Trap and displace the water in the trap
Add ¼ gallon RV Antifreeze to Dishwasher
Add the RV antifreeze to the Drain
Run the dishwasher through its cycle
Pump RV Antifreeze though Hydrohot (if applicable)
Utilize the Coach Pump or an external pump & hose, leveraging the city water fitting
Failure to do this will result in damage to the unit that may cost up to $12,000 to repair
Close the Holding Tank Valves
Pour 1 gallon of RV Antifreeze down the toilet
Leave a small amount covering the ball valve
Pour ½ gallon of RV Antifreeze down the kitchen sink (this protects the knife valves from freezing)
Add 2 gallons of RV Antifreeze to the Black Tank (if unit is equipped with a Macerator)
Extend the hose
Pull the 3 inch Dump Valve handle
QUICKLY reset the Black Tank
If you see pink antifreeze leaking from the drain hose, the macerator should be full
Clean excess RV Antifreeze from all sinks and drains (otherwise, it will stain)
Non-plumbing Related Winterization Items
Check Wiper Fluid
Add winter fluid and top off
Check Wiper condition
Check condition of Engine Antifreeze (note its freezing-point)
Check Generator Coolant (note its freezing-point)
Check Battery Gravity
A fully charged battery, in good condition, will not freeze. A dead battery will freeze, and it will destroy things
Add Fuel Stabilizer/Anti-gelling Agent to Tank
Run the Engine and Generator for ~30 mins. (this pulls treated fuel through the fuel systems)
Turn off Battery Switches for long term storage
Close LP supply line (unless planning to use the furnace)
Advice From Sean
If you're storing the RV in a Storage Lot...
Remove all valuables
Lock all cargo doors & windows
Dump the chassis air system and deflate air bags
This will purge moisture from the tanks and valves that may freeze and damage brakes and/or ride components
Close the shades
Even the winter sun can be hard on interior finishes and coverings
Inspect the roof for possible leaks or voids in the sealant
Remove all food from refrigerator and cabinets, to avoid pests.