For RV owners in the Midwest, winter isn’t just a season—it’s a challenge. With freezing temperatures, snow, and long stretches of storage, properly winterizing your RV is essential to protect your investment. If you’re preparing your RV for the off-season, this checklist will help you safeguard it against costly damage and ensure it’s road-ready when spring arrives.

RV systems—especially plumbing and water lines—are vulnerable to freezing temperatures. When water expands as it freezes, it can crack pipes, damage tanks, and ruin appliances. Beyond plumbing, unprotected batteries, seals, and interiors can also deteriorate in the Midwest’s harsh winter climate. By taking a little time now, you’ll save money, prevent headaches, and extend the life of your RV.

One of the most critical parts of winterizing is protecting your RV’s plumbing system.

• Drain All Water: Empty fresh water tanks, gray water tanks, and the black water tank. Flush thoroughly to prevent lingering waste or buildup.
• Bypass the Water Heater: If your RV has a water heater bypass kit, engage it to avoid filling the tank with antifreeze unnecessarily.
• Blow Out the Lines (Optional): Some RVers prefer to use an air compressor to blow out water lines.
• Add RV Antifreeze: Pump non-toxic RV antifreeze through the water lines until it runs pink from each faucet, showerhead, and toilet. Don’t forget the outside shower if you have one.

Batteries can lose charge quickly in freezing weather.

• Remove the Battery: If storing for months, disconnect and remove the battery.
• Store Indoors: Keep it in a cool, dry place, ideally on a trickle charger or battery maintainer.
• Check Levels: For lead-acid batteries, top off water levels before storage.

Midwest winters are tough on RV exteriors. Ice, snow, and road salt can accelerate wear.

• Inspect Seals and Caulking: Repair any cracks around windows, doors, and roof seams.
• Wash & Wax: A protective wax coat helps guard against moisture and road grime.
• Cover the RV: Use a breathable, weather-resistant RV cover—not a plastic tarp that traps moisture.

Even inside your RV, winter can cause damage if not prepared properly.

• Clean Thoroughly: Remove food, trash, and crumbs to prevent pests.
• Defend Against Rodents: Seal entry points and place deterrents like dryer sheets, mothballs, or peppermint oil.
• Ventilation: Use vent covers or moisture absorbers to prevent mold and mildew.

If your RV is motorized, don’t forget about the chassis.

• Fuel System: Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent condensation and gumming.
• Change Oil: Fresh oil reduces the risk of corrosion in storage.
• Tire Protection: Inflate to proper PSI and use tire covers to protect from UV and temperature swings.

Owners in Wisconsin, Illinois, and other Midwest states face long winters. Here are a few regional tips:

• Snow Load: Brush snow off your RV roof to prevent structural stress.
• Rodent Check: Barns and storage facilities in rural areas are notorious for critters—inspect monthly if possible.
• Humidity Fluctuations: Use moisture absorbers inside to combat condensation during temperature swings.

✅ Water lines drained and filled with antifreeze

✅ Batteries removed and stored indoors

✅ Tires inflated and covered

✅ Roof, seals, and exterior inspected

✅ Interior cleaned and pest-proofed

✅ Fuel stabilized and oil changed

If you’re not comfortable winterizing your RV on your own, or if you simply want the peace of mind that it’s done right, Kunes RV service centers across the Midwest can handle it for you. Our expert technicians will protect your RV so it’s ready for your next adventure as soon as the snow melts.

👉 Schedule your RV winterization service with Kunes RV today and head into winter worry-free.