How to winterize an RV water system, step by step

Last verified: October 28, 2026

Disclosure: Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our disclosure. We are not affiliated with Airstream, Jayco or Winnebago. Valve names and locations differ by model, so follow your own owner's manual first; the steps below are what these manufacturers publish.

First freeze warnings are out, and "how do I winterize my camper?" is everywhere on RV forums and X right now. Jayco says to winterize at the end of the season or whenever your RV will see temperatures at or below 32°F (0°C), because water left in the supply lines and water heater can freeze. [1] Jayco also notes that freeze damage isn't covered by its towable limited warranty. [1]

Step 1: Dump and flush the holding tanks first

Airstream calls this "very important": open the waste tank dump valves, drain and flush the tanks thoroughly, because frozen sewage can seriously damage the tanks. Plan to do it at a dump station. [2] Winnebago's guide also starts by emptying the black tank, then the gray and fresh water tanks. [3] Need a place? See dump stations in winter (many close for the season) and how to use a dump station.

Step 2: Turn off and drain the water heater

Turn the water heater off. Winnebago suggests doing it the night before so the water isn't hot when you pull the drain plug. [3] Jayco says to make sure the water heater's 12-volt and 120-volt switches are off. [1]
With city water disconnected and the pump off, open the water heater's pressure relief valve so there's no pressure in the system, then remove the drain plug and let the tank empty. Close the relief valve afterward. [3]
Winnebago notes some heaters have a metal plug with an anode rod, and suggests inspecting it while it's out. [3]

Step 3: Drain the fresh water system

Airstream's sequence for its travel trailers: [2]

Level the trailer side to side and front to rear, and open all faucets.
Run the water pump to empty the fresh tank, then turn it off once the tank is empty.
Open all drain valves, including the water heater drain and the exterior water service valve. Flush the toilet and drain the shower hoses.
Airstream also raises and lowers the front with the jack to let trapped water run out.

Winnebago recommends opening all low point drains when you drain the fresh tank, then closing them before you add antifreeze. [3]

Step 4, option A: Blow out the lines with air

Jayco's air method: tanks empty and drain valves open, run the pump dry (about 15 to 20 seconds), open all faucets, drains and the toilet, then blow air through the city water connection with an adapter. Jayco says remaining water blows out in five to ten minutes. [1] Airstream specifies 50 lb of air pressure at the city water inlet, with the toilet valve, drain valves and faucets open. [2] Both then pour a cup of non-toxic RV antifreeze into each drain P-trap. [1][2]

Step 4, option B: Pump RV antifreeze through the lines

Close the drains. Fresh tank drain and low point drains must be closed. [1][3]
Bypass the water heater so antifreeze doesn't fill it. [1][2][3] Winnebago says you may have one valve or up to three; with three, the inlet and outlet valves close and the middle valve opens. Your manual shows the location and direction. [3] Jayco also says to swap the water filter cartridge for the bypass hose if your RV has one. [1]
Feed antifreeze to the pump. Use the winterizing tube on the pump inlet if your RV has one, or a length of hose from the pump inlet into the jug. [2][3] For the amount, Airstream says to follow the antifreeze label, and Winnebago says check your manual. [2][3]
Run the pump and open each faucet, hot side first, until pink antifreeze flows steadily, then the cold side. Do every faucet, the shower, outside shower, and the toilet. [1][3]
Finish up. Turn off the pump, close faucets, and return the winterizing valve to normal. [2] Wipe antifreeze out of sinks, tub and toilet so it doesn't stain the finish. [1][2]

Never use these in your fresh water system

Use only non-toxic RV antifreeze approved for drinking water systems. [2] Jayco warns that automotive antifreeze (ethylene glycol) and windshield washer antifreeze (methanol) are poisonous and must never go in the fresh water system. [1]

Before you store it

Airstream also says to remove the batteries and store them somewhere cool and dry where they won't freeze, keep them charged, and take out food and anything that could freeze or break. [2] In spring, the antifreeze has to come back out: see where you can dump RV antifreeze.

We don't list winterizing service prices; they vary by dealer and area. If you're unsure about your valves, your RV dealer can do it. [1]

Sources

General guidance only, not specific to any single RV. Sourced from the manufacturer pages linked above. Last verified October 28, 2026.