Winter Can Be a Wonderland in Your RV
Many full timers gravitate toward the warmer climates to enjoy the winter months in their RVs. But what about the RV enthusiasts in colder climates who have limited time, or even the weekend warriors who need to fit RVing into busy personal and work schedules?
There is no need to limit use of your RV to the more temperature-friendly months of the year. In fact, there are many reasons to use your RV year round, including:
- Experiencing the winter wonderland up close and personal
- Vacationing in your comfortable RV, instead of a motel room
- Getting away; the reason so many people enjoy the RV Lifestyle
There are extra steps and precautions when using your RV in cold weather. You need to not only protect your RV, but take measures to protect those camping in it in the event of an unexpected emergency. Here are some considerations:
- Potential of water supply lines and holding tanks freezing. Make sure you have enough warm air flow around the plumbing to prevent this. If possible, protect the water connection coming into the RV with heat tape, pipe insulation and wind barriers.
- Becoming snowbound. Be prepared with enough bedding and winter clothing to keep everyone safe and warm if you get stranded. Extra gallons of water are a good idea, too!
- Make sure someone knows where you’re going.
- Carry a shovel and tire chains.
- Use caution on slippery roads.
- The better insulation and windows your RV has, the easier it is to keep warm.
- Dehumidifiers can reduce the condensation that builds up inside your RV during the winter months.
- Skirt the bottom of your trailer to prevent freezing of your holding tanks.
- If you’ll be parked for several months in a cold environment, try planks below your tires so your RV doesn’t sink into a thawing ground as the weather warms.
Most of today’s RVs can handle winter use. They also provide a great place to relax and rest after a day of winter hiking, skiing or exploring. Year round RVing can be fun and safe if the right precautions are taken.
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For tips on RV Care and Maintenance from RV Expert Mark Polk, click here.
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