What is the logic behind winterizing my trailer? 

Please take a moment to watch the video below for step-by-step guidance, or follow the step-by-step written directions.

If you need additional help, our After Sales team at Escape Trailer will be happy to assist you. You can submit a support ticket using this form. 

1. Understand the goal

• Winterization protects plumbing from freezing and bursting.

• Water expands when it freezes, which can crack pipes, fittings, tanks, or a water heater.

2. Know the two methods (overview)

• Blow-out method: uses compressed air to push water out of lines.

• Antifreeze method: replaces or mixes water with RV antifreeze.

• The video recommends using RV antifreeze.

3. RV Antifreeze Method (main process)

• Drain all holding tanks

• Drain all water holding tanks

• Drain the water heater

  • Ensure the water is not hot.

  • Open the pressure release valve.

  • Remove the anode rod.

  • Let the tank fully drain.

  • Flush the tank using a tank flush wand

• Bypass the water heater

  • Turn the diverter valve so the water heater does not fill again.

• Prepare the water pump

• • Locate the bypass hoses on the inlet side of the water pump.

  • Place them into a gallon of RV antifreeze.

• Run antifreeze through the system

• • Use the pump to push antifreeze through the system.

  • Go to each tap one at a time.

  • Make sure antifreeze runs out of each spout.

• Winterize remaining fixtures

• • Do not forget the toilet.

  • Run antifreeze through the shower head.

  • Winterize the exterior shower end.

  • Pour a cup of antifreeze into each trap.

Key idea

• Winterization prevents damage by either removing water completely or replacing it with antifreeze so nothing can freeze and expand.