Avoid Costly Damage—Winterize Your RV at Kunes

When the temperatures start to dip and the travel season slows down, RV owners face one of the most important maintenance tasks of the year—winterization. Properly winterizing your RV is more than just a seasonal checklist; it’s a safeguard for your plumbing, appliances, and overall investment. Skipping or rushing this step can lead to costly damage, stressful repairs, and a delayed start to your next camping adventure.

At Kunes RV, we understand how much your RV means to you—whether it’s a weekend getaway camper, a luxurious motorhome, or a fifth wheel that feels like a second home. That’s why our service team specializes in making the winterization process simple, thorough, and stress-free.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through why winterization matters, what the process involves, common mistakes to avoid, and why choosing Kunes RV is the best way to protect your home-on-wheels.

RVs are built for adventure, but they’re also filled with delicate systems that are vulnerable to freezing weather. Here’s why skipping winterization is a risk you don’t want to take:

• Frozen pipes and fittings – Even a small amount of water left in your plumbing can freeze, expand, and burst pipes or fittings. Repairs often cost hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.
• Damaged appliances – Water heaters, pumps, and refrigerators with water lines can crack internally if not properly drained or treated with antifreeze.
• Roof and seal leaks – Winter weather brings snow, ice, and freezing rain. Without inspection and sealing, small leaks can become major water damage.
• Battery drain – Cold weather shortens battery life. Without proper maintenance, you may find your RV powerless when spring arrives.
• Tire and exterior wear – Long-term storage on unprotected tires can lead to flat spots, cracking, and premature wear.

In short, winterization isn’t optional—it’s essential maintenance that keeps your RV road-ready and saves you from surprise expenses down the line.

The winterization process covers multiple areas of your RV. While the plumbing system is the most critical, a full winterization plan ensures that every part of your RV is protected. Here are the major steps:

• Drain the water heater and bypass it so antifreeze doesn’t enter.
• Flush the freshwater and holding tanks completely.
• Blow out or flush the water lines and run RV-safe antifreeze through the system.
• Protect all faucets, toilets, and outdoor showers from freezing damage.

• Drain water from the refrigerator’s ice maker (if equipped).
• Clean and prep the furnace, air conditioner, and vents.
• Remove or protect small appliances to prevent damage.

• Disconnect and properly store the battery or use a trickle charger.
• Inspect electrical systems for corrosion or loose connections.

• Inspect and seal any cracks or openings in the roof and windows.
• Clean and cover tires to prevent UV and cold-weather cracking.
• Wash and wax the RV to create a protective layer for storage.

• Remove food and perishable items to prevent pests.
• Clean and vacuum to discourage rodents and insects.
• Prop open fridge and freezer doors to prevent mold.

Some RV owners choose to winterize themselves, while others prefer the peace of mind that comes with professional service. Both have benefits and drawbacks:

Pros: Lower cost, hands-on learning experience, flexible timing.

Cons: Easy to miss critical steps, requires specialized tools, mistakes can lead to expensive damage.

Pros: Done by certified RV technicians, thorough multi-point checklist, additional inspections included, saves time and stress.

Cons: Slightly higher upfront cost, but typically much cheaper than repairs from mistakes.

For many owners—especially those with newer, larger, or more complex RVs—professional winterization is the safest route.

Even seasoned RVers can make mistakes when winterizing. Here are some of the most common errors we see:

• Forgetting to bypass the water heater before adding antifreeze.
• Not using RV-specific antifreeze (automotive antifreeze is toxic and dangerous).
• Leaving water in low points or outdoor showers.
• Neglecting roof and window seals.
• Skipping battery maintenance.
• Storing the RV without tire protection.

These oversights can cause major headaches in the spring. The good news? When you bring your RV to Kunes RV, you don’t have to worry about missing a step.

At Kunes RV, our goal is to make ownership enjoyable and stress-free. Here’s why so many RVers trust us with winterization year after year:

• Certified RV Technicians – Our service team is factory-trained and experienced in handling every type of RV, from pop-ups to Class A motorhomes.
• Comprehensive Service – We don’t just run antifreeze; we check seals, inspect roofs, test batteries, and make sure your RV is fully protected.
• Convenience – Scheduling is easy, and we get you in and out quickly so you can move on with peace of mind.
• Preventive Care – Our technicians can spot early signs of wear and tear during winterization, saving you from costly repairs later.
• Trusted Reputation – As part of the Kunes Auto & RV Group, we’re known for our customer-first approach and commitment to service.

Beyond winterization, here are a few pro tips to make sure your RV stays in top condition during the off-season:

• Cover your RV with a breathable RV cover (avoid plastic tarps that trap moisture).
• Store indoors if possible, or in a covered storage lot.
• Check in periodically throughout the winter to make sure everything is holding up.
• Keep pests out by sealing openings and using safe repellents.

Don’t wait until the first frost catches you off guard. Protect your RV today with professional winterization from Kunes RV. Our certified team will make sure your RV is safeguarded against the cold, so when spring arrives, you’ll be ready to hit the road without a hitch.

👉 Contact Kunes RV today to schedule your winterization appointment.