10 Simple Steps to Winterize Your Trailer
10 Simple Steps to Winterize Your Trailer
Posted on March 16, 2020
As the weather cools and an open fire seems more welcoming than the open road, it's time for your trailer to hibernate. Here's your Edmonton Trailer guide on winterising a trailer, ensuring it stays in great shape through spring.
1) Winterize the Water System
Frozen and burst pipes are the number one cause of damage in overwintered trailers. To avoid them, fully drain the water system, including any appliances, according to the instructions provided by your trailer manufacturer. Leave the faucets open while draining to ensure all water is completely removed. Next, fill the system with antifreeze, making sure all pipes, faucets, and even drains are fully
filled.
2) Remove Batteries for Storage
Remove every battery in your trailer and store at room temperature in a dry place. Take care of safety by turning off all your trailer's breaker switches before disconnecting any cables from the battery terminals.
3) Clean the Air Conditioning
Remove, clean, and replace the AC filters. This ensures there's no mold or other contamination which could grow into a problem over the months your trailer isn't in use.
4) Consider a Dehumidifier
Depending on the storage location, moisture can build up inside your trailer over winter, potentially damaging the furnishings and fittings. If your storage spot has a power source, running a portable dehumidifier inside your trailer every couple of weeks will prevent the problem. If not, consider installing a passive dehumidifier or adding moisture-absorbing materials to the interior.
5) Locks and Hinges
Clean and lubricate every lock and hinge on your trailer, both inside and out. Doing this will help
avoid rust, jams, and damage over the months of winter inactivity.
6) Clean the Interior Thoroughly
Give your trailer's interior a deep clean using a disinfectant. Leave behind no crumbs or other materials which could attract pests, or specks of mold which could spread.
7) Clean the Awning
If your trailer has an awning or any other exterior fabric materials, clean them with a suitable detergent then dry them completely. Even tiny traces of dampness could bloom into mold while your trailer is out of action in an enclosed space.
8) Protect the Exterior
Give the exterior of your trailer a wash, then protect it with a high-quality wax or another coating designed for your trailer's body. Ensure a thorough covering to fully protect from the elements, even if your trailer will be stored under cover.
While you're applying the wax, check carefully for any cracks or splits in the finish, and fix them
using a suitable sealant.
9) Cover the Wheels
Next, fit your trailer's wheel covers to protect the tires, especially if you're planning to winterize your trailer outdoors. Freezing nights followed by direct winter sun can weaken or split unprotected tires surprisingly easily.
10) Consider a Tarp
Lastly, consider covering the entire structure with a tarp or other waterproof material if your trailer is winterised outdoors. However, doing this risks moisture build-up underneath, so either leave a few breathing spaces toward the top of your trailer or plan to open up the covering every few weeks to give your trailer an airing.
If you need any advice on winterising your trailer quickly and easily, Edmonton Trailer is here to help in person, by phone, or by email.