With winter approaching, it is important to start preparations for winterizing your caravan so that it remains in full working order until the following season. Much of this relates to draining the water systems to prevent possible damages from icing, setting-up the internal and external fabric for long-term storage, and ensuring maximum ventilation around the caravan. Damp and air pollution are also other climate factors to consider besides the cold. Therefore, to ensure a trouble-free caravanning next season, ensure your caravan is well prepared for winter by considering the following.
Storage
Where are you planning to store your caravan over winter -- in a storage compound or at your home? If you'll be storing it in your home, try to avoid risks such as areas with high water tables or beneath trees where the branches could easily fall on it. Moreover, you can try additional security measures such as security lighting, locked gates or a drivepost. For a storage compound, evaluate the security measures in place and check that they meet your caravan's insurer requirements.
Water Systems
Draining down your caravan's water systems is the best approach to protect it against frost damage. When doing this, it is important to empty the system fully because even small amounts of water trapped in your tap heads can result in costly damages. Open the main drain plug as well as all the taps. This may take some time, but here is a trick for draining the water system; if you're on your last trip before storing the caravan for winter, let your system drain while on your journey home! To prevent pressure build-up of pressure, leave your inside taps open.
Bodywork, Windows and Vents
Use good quality caravan cleaners to wash as well as polish the exterior of your caravan. Once your caravan is dry, you can apply a coat of overwintering fluid to protect against pollutants and inhibit growth of algae. Open all your windows and lubricate the window seals to prevent them from sticking and the window seals from tearing when you open them after winter. After the lubrication, close all your windows and vents to leave no openings for bugs gaining easy entry. However, air circulation is vital, and as such, don't block up the vents otherwise the air inside will become stale.
Covering
Use weatherproof hitch covers for your hitch and breathable covers for your caravan. Breathable covers are weatherproof but not completely watertight seals, which allow moisture to escape, preventing damp forming and condensation while in storage.
For further assistance, contact local professionals, such as those from Fix-It Caravan & RV Repairs.
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