A motorhome is likely to be used heavily during the summer months and then left standing idle for long periods of time, especially during the winter months. Like any vehicle, if you’ve invested in a new or second hand motorhome there are some steps you should take to protect what will be your transport and accommodation from the harshest of weather to ensure it gets you to where you want to go come the summer! And if you intend to use your motorhome for that trip to the ski resort in freezing temperatures, then these tips are even more essential.
If you have bought a brand new European or UK made motorhome there is a good probability that it is already winterised to some degree. It’s likely to have a double floor with insulated pipework, interior waste and fresh water tanks as well as insulated walls. Even so, some of the tips will still apply and owners of older vehicles should certainly try to follow these simple guidelines.
Close all Cab Ventilation Grilles
Draughts through the ventilation grilles in the cab are a major source of cold and condensation. You should close all of them but do not close the fixed vent grilles at low level within the accommodation part of the motorhome. These are safety devices in case of gas leaks or to prevent carbon monoxide build up. Obviously you should also check vehicle door seals and replace the rubbers if required.
Park on a Slope
If you do this, then the water won’t sit in the internal waste pipe work, freeze up and need antifreeze or salt to clear the U bends. It’s also a good idea to leave the vehicle in gear, chock the wheels and leave handbrake off if possible. This prevents the rear drums freezing on.
Insulate Windows
Make some extra insulation for the windows from the polystyrene/tinfoil stuff you can buy to put down the back of radiators.
Check Batteries and Gas Supply
Make sure you’ve got a good healthy leisure battery or consider fitting another in tandem to boost your amperage. You should also double check that you use Propane rather than Butane as Propane freezes at much lower temperatures and will assure that you keep a reliable gas supply to your appliances in even the harshest of weather.
The author, Rory Bruce, is a freelance travel writer and has worked with a company that helps clients with motorhome rental and assists those customers who may have motorhomes for sale.
Image used under Creative Commons license: Flickr.com/Nellie Windmill
Freelance writer and veteran of ad agencies, PR companies and trade magazines
