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swbouton
11-09-2012, 11:40 AM
I've got a Keystone Springdale 5th Wheeler. I live in southeastern North Carolina close to the ocean where it infrequently below freezing. I want to use the camper during the winter to go to places further south (warmer).

What should I do regarding winterizing? Should I just drain everything and hope for the best between trips or should I go with antifreeze after every trip?

I'm also confused about the hot water heater. How do I prepare that for cold weather?

TIA,

Steve
JRTJH
11-09-2012, 12:02 PM
Steve, when we lived in Louisiana which is slighlty warmer than NC, we used to just open the under trailer drains, drain the HWH. blow out the lines, and add a cup of pink antifreeze to each trap.

You should be OK with doing the same as long as you watch the weather for any really cold freezes. There are people on here who live further north than you and use this method for winterizing every year with good results.

If I were you, I'd make sure all the holding tanks and the fresh water tank are empty and if possible, I'd leave the dump valves open so you don't get any possible freezing between the tank and the dump valve.
SteveC7010
11-09-2012, 12:02 PM
What should I do regarding winterizing? Should I just drain everything and hope for the best between trips or should I go with antifreeze after every trip?

There are a number of posts already here on winterizing that describe in detail the compressed air method of winterizing. It should be adequate for your needs. Drain the fresh water tank and make sure your holding tanks are empty.

I'm also confused about the hot water heater. How do I prepare that for cold weather?

Switch the bypass, pull the plug and drain it. Then blow out the rest of the system.
jje1960
11-09-2012, 02:34 PM
We have done both methods over the years with different units here in WV. Best for us, has been emptying fresh tank (turn on pump for few seconds after empty), black and grey, as well as water heater and low point plugs. Plug in our compressor with plastic adapter to city in port, let blow for 15mins with faucets open. Pour anti-freeze in the traps, done.