How to Store your Caravan through Winter: A Beginner’s Guide
- Dec 29, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: Feb 16
As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, it’s essential to prepare your caravan for the off-season. Properly winterising your caravan not only protects it from damage but also ensures it’s ready to use when the warmer months return. This guide will walk you through the key steps to winterise your caravan, keeping it in excellent condition during its hibernation.
Winter Preperation
Before the winter chill sets in, taking the time to properly prepare your caravan for the off-season can prevent costly damage and ensure it’s ready to hit the road when warmer days return.
1. Thorough Cleaning
Before storing your caravan, give it a deep clean inside and out.
Exterior: Wash the bodywork with a caravan-friendly cleaner and rinse thoroughly. Pay attention to the roof and gutters, as debris can cause damage or staining over time.
Interior: Vacuum the carpets, wipe down all surfaces, and remove any perishable items from cupboards and the fridge. Leave the fridge door slightly ajar to prevent mould and unpleasant odours.
2. Drain Down the Water System
Water left in your caravan’s system can freeze, leading to burst pipes and costly repairs. Follow these steps:
Empty the freshwater and wastewater tanks completely.
Open all taps, including the shower, and set them to the middle position to allow any remaining water to drain out.
Run the pump briefly to ensure no water is left in the system.
Consider using a specialist caravan antifreeze for added protection.
3. Cassette Toilets Maintenance
When winterising your caravan, it's important not to overlook the cassette toilet. Proper maintenance and care will ensure it remains in good condition and avoids any unpleasant issues during the colder months.
Clean the Toilet and Cassette: After emptying the cassette, clean both the toilet bowl and the cassette itself. Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner or a specialised toilet cleaner designed for caravans. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the materials. Pay attention to the seals and joints, ensuring they are clean and free of residue.
Empty the Cassette: Before storing your caravan for the winter, always empty the cassette toilet. Even if it seems empty, it's a good idea to check for any remaining waste or liquids, as these can freeze in cold temperatures and cause damage to the cassette. Dispose of waste responsibly, following local guidelines, and give the cassette a thorough clean with water.
Use a Deodoriser: To keep your cassette toilet fresh and odour-free during storage, consider using a toilet deodoriser specifically designed for cassette toilets. These products help prevent the build up of unpleasant smells and ensure the cassette remains hygienic. Place the deodoriser in the cassette when you store it for winter to keep it in top condition.
Check the Seals and Valve: Inspect the seals and valve on the cassette to make sure they are intact and not cracked or damaged. A faulty seal can lead to leaks or unpleasant odours. Replace any damaged seals before storage to ensure a tight, leak-free fit. Additionally, check that the valve is functioning correctly and that it opens and closes smoothly.
Store the Cassette Properly: When not in use, store the cassette toilet in a dry, frost-free environment. If possible, remove the cassette from the toilet and store it inside the caravan, away from freezing temperatures. Freezing temperatures can damage the internal components of the cassette, so it’s important to keep it in a warm, dry location.
4. Appliances and Gas Safety
When winterising your caravan, it's essential to pay attention to your appliances and gas systems to prevent potential hazards or damage during the cold months.
Turn Off Gas Supplies: For safety, ensure all gas appliances are switched off, including stoves, heaters, and water systems. Additionally, close the valves on your gas cylinders to stop the flow of gas. If your caravan has quick-connect regulators, it’s also advisable to disconnect them from the cylinders and fit protective caps on exposed pipework. This will prevent any accidental leaks or issues during storage.
Clean Appliances: It's important to thoroughly clean your appliances before storing your caravan for the winter. This includes wiping down heaters and fridges, as dirt and dust can accumulate over time, reducing efficiency and potentially causing a fire risk. Clean the heating system’s filters to avoid blockages, and ensure all vents are clear. If your fridge has a freezer compartment, defrost it completely to prevent ice buildup, which could cause damage to the appliance or result in unpleasant smells.
Check for Gas Leaks: Inspect all gas lines and connections for signs of wear or leaks. A simple but effective method to check for leaks is the soapy water test: apply soapy water to the connections and look for bubbles, which would indicate a leak. If any issues are detected, it's essential to address them before storing the caravan to ensure there’s no risk of leaks when you next use the gas system.
5. Solar Panel Maintenance
When winterising your caravan, it’s vital to ensure that your solar panels remain in good working order throughout the colder months. Solar panels rely on direct sunlight to generate power, so checking their condition before winter is key to maintaining efficiency and a steady energy supply.
Check Wiring and Connections: Over time, exposure to weather conditions can cause wear and tear on the solar panel wiring. Inspect all visible cables for signs of fraying, corrosion, or damage. Ensure that the connections between the panels, charge controller, and other components are secure and free from rust or loose fittings. Faulty connections can result in poor performance or complete power loss.
Test the Charge Function: It's important to verify that the solar panel is effectively charging the system. Check the output voltage of the panels using a multimeter to ensure it is functioning correctly. If the panels are not producing the expected charge, it could indicate an issue with the panel itself, the charge controller, or the wiring. A properly functioning solar panel should still generate some charge, even during the winter months, albeit at a reduced rate due to shorter daylight hours.
Clean the Panels: Dirt, debris, and even snow can obstruct the panels, reducing their efficiency. Clean the solar panels using a soft cloth and water, avoiding harsh chemicals that may damage the surface. Make sure no ice or snow accumulates on the panels, as this can block sunlight from reaching them and hinder performance.
6. Protect the Battery
Maintaining your leisure battery during winter is crucial to ensure its longevity and readiness for use when the season changes. Here’s how to manage it, especially if your caravan is equipped with solar panels:
Remove and Store: If you’re not using your caravan over winter, it’s advisable to remove the leisure battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Regularly check its charge and recharge it every six weeks to prevent it from becoming fully discharged.
Onboard Charging with Solar Panels: If your caravan has solar panels and you choose to leave the battery installed, the panels can help maintain the battery’s charge. Ensure the panels are clean and positioned to receive maximum sunlight. Keep in mind that during UK winters, shorter daylight hours and lower light levels can limit solar charging efficiency. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor the battery’s charge level regularly.
Use a Trickle Charger: Alternatively, consider using a mains-powered trickle charger designed for leisure batteries. This device provides a steady charge to keep the battery at an optimal level without the risk of overcharging. If your caravan is stored at a facility with access to mains electricity, this can be a reliable method to maintain battery health.
Security Systems: If your caravan has security devices like alarms or trackers that require constant power, it’s crucial to ensure the battery remains charged. In such cases, leaving the battery in place with a maintenance charging solution, such as a suitably sized solar panel or trickle charger, is recommended.
By following these steps, you can help ensure your caravan’s leisure battery remains in good condition throughout the winter months, ready for your adventures when spring arrives.
7. Ventilation and Damp Prevention
Proper ventilation helps to prevent damp and mould from developing during storage. Here’s how to ensure good airflow:
Leave cupboard doors and drawers slightly open.
Use moisture absorbers to reduce humidity levels inside the caravan.
Avoid sealing all vents, as some airflow is necessary to prevent condensation.
8. Inspect and Maintain the Exterior
Check the exterior for any signs of wear or damage that could worsen during the winter months:
Inspect seals and reseal any cracks to prevent water ingress.
Lubricate hinges, locks, and other moving parts.
Apply a breathable caravan cover to protect the exterior from the elements while allowing moisture to escape.
9. Rodent and Pest Prevention
Winter can invite pests looking for warmth and shelter, and your caravan is an attractive option. Ensuring your caravan is sealed and protected from unwanted invaders will save you from damage and hygiene issues later on.
Seal Entry Points: Thoroughly inspect the caravan for any small cracks or holes where rodents or insects could enter. Pay close attention to door seals, window seals, and areas around cables and pipes. Use weather stripping, silicone caulk, or expanding foam to seal any gaps. Even small openings can allow mice and other pests to make their way inside.
Use Deterrents: Consider using natural deterrents such as peppermint oil, which pests find unpleasant. Soak cotton wool balls in the oil and place them in areas where you suspect rodents might enter, such as under the floorboards, in the corners, or near vents. Additionally, placing traps or bait stations around the caravan's perimeter can help deter pests.
Store Food Properly: Before leaving your caravan for winter storage, remove any food or snacks. Store non-perishable items in airtight containers, and check for any forgotten crumbs or spillage in cupboards or drawers that could attract rodents.
10. Secure the Caravan
Winter storage often means your caravan will be unattended for long periods. Enhance security to deter theft:
Use a hitch lock and wheel clamps.
Park the caravan in a secure location, such as a storage facility or locked driveway.
Remove any valuables or equipment that could attract thieves.
11. Insurance and Documentation
As you prepare your caravan for storage over the winter, it’s crucial to check your insurance policy to ensure your caravan is adequately covered during this time.
Review Your Insurance: Before putting your caravan into storage, confirm that your insurance policy covers potential winter-related risks, such as damage from snow, ice, or freezing temperatures. Additionally, ensure that your insurance includes coverage for theft or vandalism if your caravan is stored in a location that is not entirely secure.
Check Documentation: Double-check that your registration and insurance documents are up-to-date and stored in a safe, easily accessible location. This will help in case you need to file a claim or retrieve any essential documents quickly.
Notify Your Insurance Provider: If you're planning to leave your caravan in storage for an extended period, it’s a good idea to notify your insurer. Some policies may have specific requirements or adjustments for long-term storage, and informing them will help you avoid any surprises.
12. Check Tyres
Tyres can deteriorate if left stationary for months:
Inflate tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
If possible, rotate the wheels periodically or use axle stands to relieve pressure on the tyres.
Ensure the caravan is level to distribute weight evenly.
13. Plan for Regular Checks
Even while in storage, your caravan will benefit from periodic inspections:
Check for signs of damp, pests, or other issues.
Ensure the cover remains securely in place and free of damage.
Verify that any moisture absorbers are replaced as needed.
Final Thoughts
Winterising your caravan might seem like a daunting task at first, but following these steps will help protect your investment and ensure it’s ready for your next adventure. With a bit of preparation, you can rest easy knowing your caravan is safe and sound until spring.
Happy caravanning, and here’s to many more miles on the road when the sun returns!
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