15 Tips for Winter Living in an RV
During the winter season, some campers pack their RV’s and decide to go south to enjoy the snow. However, a dedicated camper will not be limited to camping with an RV by a season. They might take the experience as an option to break from the summer season and relax outdoors in the snow. It can also be a cheap way to enjoy skiing away from home as well as venture into other snow recreation practices. Therefore, it can prove to be one of the best RV experiences in your life.
However, you should not let the cold condition get in your way if you decide to go RVing in the winter. You should take keen measures to keep yourself safe and warm during the experience. Here are 15 TIPS FOR WINTER LIVING IN AN RV.
1. Ensure that the windows and doors are sealed
Before you set sail, check the seals and caulking in the RV windows. If you find any areas that are weak or missing, replace them. Also, replace the stripping around the doors (especially the exterior ones) so that cold air won’t leak in
2. Install adequate window coverings as well
In this step, you can choose to use reflective foil. That is an affordable insulating option. This will be helpful to reflect the heat back into the RV.
3. Insulate the floors
This is to ensure that maximum heat is retained in the RV. You can opt for foam board flooring to insulate the floor. As an alternative, you can use heavy rugs and carpets and block the air that might come up into the RV.
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4. Use heat tapes on the pipes as well as hoses
When you wrap your freshwater hose with the heat tapes, the lines will keep warm, and the water won’t freeze. For extra protection, you can add foam insulation.
5. Use internal freshwater tanks
This is an option that will help you avoid connecting the RV to water sources from outside. From there, you can safely disconnect and store the hose.
6. Take care of the engine
You to take maximum care of the engine to help it withstand the low temperatures. Check for damages and corrosions. Check for the anti-freeze and refill it. You can also use engine block heaters to warm the engine starting it.
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7. Prepare the RV furnace
Ensure that the furnace is in working condition before heating the road. You can clean it using compressed air.
8. Cover the ac unit
Since it is the winter and the temperatures are low, and you won’t need air conditioning service, you can use an AC cover that is well insulated. This will prevent cold drafts.
9. Install vent covers
They will allow keeping the air vents open while no snow or rain gets in despite the weather. It will also reduce the risk that is posed by carbon monoxide poisoning if you have a heater on board.
10. Replace all batteries in the safety devices
If you are running space heaters in your RV, it is advisable that you also bring carbon monoxide detectors and fire alarms on board. You should replace the batteries before starting the journey.
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11. Pack the necessities
You will need several things while on the road. Since winter weather can get unpredictable, you have prepared for even the most extreme and even colder conditions. Some of the things you can pack include breathable base layers, warm socks and hats, waterproof gloves, snow boots, warm sleeping bags, lanterns, and headlamps, blow dryers, and shovels.
12. Check for the black ice while hitting the road
Be on the lookout for black ice. It mostly occurs near bridges or in shaded areas.
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13. Ensure the gas tank is full
Keep your gas tank as full as possible at all times. In the most extreme conditions, let it be at least half full. By doing this, you will ensure that engine performance is at its best as well as prevent ice from forming in the empty spaces.
14. Allow for flexibility of your plans
This will help you make the most out of the trip. You can have back up plans if the weather conditions restrict you from doing what you had planned to do.
15. No matter what, have fun
You are out on an RV trip to have fun. Ensure that that is done to the maximum. There is also no harm in relocating to warmer places if you feel like your enjoyment is being compromised by freezing weather.
Winter camping can be fun too. Just follow the safety guidelines, keep warm at all times, and, most of all, take care. You will be in for a treat.
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