RV De-Winterizing Checklist (Free & Printable)

Waking an RV up right takes more than flushing the pink stuff. This checklist covers the water system, batteries, propane appliances, safety devices, and running gear so opening weekend goes smoothly.

Flush out the antifreeze

• Reinstall the water heater drain plug/anode rod (new anode if the old one was worn)
• Take the water heater OUT of bypass mode
• Fill the fresh tank (or connect city water) and run every faucet — hot and cold — until the pink is goneDon't forget the toilet, outside shower, outside kitchen, and low-point drains.
• Run a few gallons through the water heater before turning it onNEVER power the water heater electric element with an empty tank — it will burn out in seconds.

Sanitize the fresh water system

• Mix 1/4 cup plain household bleach per 15 gallons of fresh tank capacity, diluted in a gallon of water, and add to the tankExample: a 60-gallon tank gets 1 cup of bleach.
• Fill the tank, run each faucet until you smell bleach, then top the tank off
• Let it sit at least 4 hours — overnight is better
• Drain, refill with fresh water, and flush until the bleach smell is gone
• Install a fresh water filter cartridge
• Pressurize the system and check every fitting, faucet, and the toilet for leaksTurn the pump on, then off — if it cycles back on by itself, something is leaking.

Batteries & electrical

• Reinstall the batteries, check charge, and check water levels on flooded batteriesTop off flooded cells with distilled water only.
• Test the 12V system: lights, water pump, fans, slide-outs, jacks
• Plug into shore power and confirm the converter/charger is charging
• Verify the breakaway switch battery is charged and the switch works (towables)
• Test GFCI outlets with the test button

Propane & appliances

• Open the propane valve slowly and leak-test connections with soapy waterBubbles = leak. Never test with a flame.
• Light the stove burners to purge air from the lines
• Test the water heater on propane AND electric (tank full first!)
• Test the furnace — let it cycle fully
• Test the fridge on propane and on electric; give it several hours to cool
• Run the air conditioner and check for cold air

Safety equipment

• Test the smoke, carbon monoxide, and LP leak detectors; replace their batteriesDetectors expire — check the date stamp. CO and LP detectors typically last 5–7 years.
• Check the fire extinguisher charge gauge (replace if expired)
• Restock the first aid kit

Tires, chassis & running gear

• Inflate all tires to placard pressure — they lose 2–3 psi per month in storageCheck the DOT date code too: most RV tires age out at 5–7 years regardless of tread.
• Inspect sidewalls for cracking and torque the lug nuts to spec
• Inspect wheel bearings and trailer brakes; repack bearings if due (typically every 12 months/12,000 miles) (towables)
• Inspect the hitch, coupler, safety chains, and weight distribution hardware (towables)
• Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, belts, and hoses; start the engine and let it run (motorhomes)
• Exercise the generator under load for 30+ minutes; check its oil (motorhomes, Toy Hauler)
• Confirm registration, insurance, and inspection are current

Exterior & interior once-over

• Wash the roof and inspect all seams and sealant — reseal anything that cracked over winter
• Open windows and air the rig out; check for any musty/water smell
• Look for water stains, soft spots, and any signs of rodents
• Inspect the canvas for mildew or tears; treat with canvas cleaner/waterproofing if needed (Pop-Up Camper)
• Lubricate slide-out mechanisms and seals, steps, and hinges
• Test the awning: extend fully, check fabric and arms
• Restock kitchen, bath, and tanks treatment supplies

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