Winnebago Motor Homes - Winterization and Spring Start-Up Checklist for Milwaukee, WI RV Owners
Winter can be hard on RV systems, but the right routine protects plumbing, power, and comfort for years to come. This guide condenses owner-tested best practices into a step-by-step winterization and spring start-up plan tailored to cold-weather swings and the quick warmups that follow. If you prefer to have a certified team complete these tasks, we are always ready to help and can stage parts ahead of your appointment. If you like to do the work yourself, the checklists below show the right order of operations and highlight where many owners miss a critical detail.
Complete these winterization tasks before sustained freezing temperatures. The sequence keeps water moving the right direction, avoids cross-contamination, and reduces the chance of cracked fittings. Use products labeled for RV systems and follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for model-specific steps.
- Drain freshwater and water heater: Open low-point drains, relieve water heater pressure, and flush residual water before bypassing the tank.
- Bypass the water heater: Engage the bypass valves to avoid filling the tank with antifreeze and to speed the process.
- Purge the plumbing lines: Use compressed air at safe pressure with proper adapters, starting farthest from the pump and working forward.
- Add RV antifreeze: Switch the pump to draw antifreeze, run each faucet hot and cold until pink appears, and include outside showers.
- Treat drains and traps: Pour a small amount of antifreeze into all sink and shower traps and the toilet to protect seals.
- Protect holding tanks: Add antifreeze to gray and black tanks and cycle valves to move seals and keep them lubricated.
- Secure the LP system: Verify no leaks, shut cylinders if storing long term, and protect regulators and lines from ice and debris.
- Care for batteries: Fully charge, clean terminals, and maintain on an appropriate charger—lithium requires brand-specific procedures.
- Ventilation and moisture control: Use desiccants, crack roof vents with covers, and reduce soft goods that trap moisture.
- Inspect roof and seals: Address any cracks or loose sealant before storage to prevent winter water intrusion.
When spring returns, reverse the process carefully and verify that every system is healthy before the first trip. A structured start-up catches minor issues while parts availability is high and your itinerary is still flexible.
- De-winterize and flush: Remove bypass, fill the freshwater tank, then flush lines until clear and odor-free water runs from all fixtures.
- Sanitize the freshwater system: Use an appropriate sanitizing solution, circulate, soak as directed, and flush thoroughly.
- Check for leaks: Pressurize the system and inspect fittings, faucets, water heater ports, and pump connections for drips.
- Test gas appliances: Perform an LP leak test, then ignite water heater and furnace, confirming proper flame and exhaust.
- Verify A/C and ventilation: Run roof A/C on shore power, clean filters, and confirm strong airflow at vents.
- Inspect roof and seams: Re-check seals after winter; reseal as needed to prevent early-season leaks.
- Service the generator: Check oil level and run under load; stale fuel or light use can create varnish without regular exercise.
- Charge and test batteries: Confirm resting voltage under load and verify inverter/charger settings match your battery type.
- Tires and chassis: Inspect sidewalls and tread, set pressures to load, and torque lug nuts per spec; schedule alignment if needed.
- Safety systems pass: Test CO/smoke alarms, LP detectors, and cameras; replace expired sensors before departure.
If you prefer expert help, our team can perform winterization, de-winterization, and full pre-trip inspections, aligning the service scope to your coach and travel plans. We can also coordinate upgrades—like solar charging, better batteries, suspension enhancements, or tow bars—so your RV is not only ready for spring but also more comfortable and capable for the miles ahead. One visit can transform readiness, comfort, and power confidence for the entire season.
When you want professional support and reliable parts, Winnebago Motor Homes is your trusted partner, serving Chicago, Madison, and Milwaukee across the Midwest with skilled technicians and a knowledgeable parts staff. Schedule ahead to secure your ideal dates—or request parts with your make and model so we can verify fitment and staging. With the right checklist and an attentive service team, your RV will be ready for the first warm weekend and every adventure that follows.