Winter - Ready Wheels
As the colder months approach, it’s time to prepare your van for winter’s chill. Whether you’re planning to store your van for the season or gearing up for an epic winter adventure, getting your van ready for freezing temperatures is crucial. From protecting your water system to insulating and maintaining your heating, a few simple steps can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your van in top shape.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to winterize your van, ensuring you’re prepared for whatever the season brings. And once your van is winter-ready, don’t forget to check out our list of exciting winter activities you can take your adventure van to this season, from snow-covered hikes to cozy evenings near a hot spring.
Step 1: Drain and Protect Your Water System
- Drain Freshwater Tank: Completely drain your freshwater tank to prevent freezing and potential damage. Run the water pump until it’s dry to clear any remaining water.
- Empty Grey and Black Tanks (If you have one): Drain the grey and black water tanks at an appropriate dumping station. You don’t want any residual liquid freezing in these tanks.
- Blow Out Water Lines: Use compressed air to blow out your water lines, removing any remaining water that could freeze and cause damage.
- Add Antifreeze: Pour RV antifreeze (non-toxic, propylene glycol) into the water lines, toilet, and drains. This will protect your plumbing from freezing temperatures.
Step 2: Insulate Your Van
- Seal Drafts: Check for any air leaks around windows, doors, and vents. Use weatherstripping or insulation tape to seal these areas.
- Add Reflective Insulation: Place reflective insulation in windows to help retain heat inside the van. This will also prevent cold drafts from coming in.
- Floor Insulation: If you don’t already have floor insulation, consider adding rugs or foam tiles to create a warmer surface underfoot.
Step 3: Protect Your Batteries
- Use a Battery Heater: Cold temperatures can reduce your battery’s performance. Consider installing a 12V battery heater or insulating the battery compartment if you don't have a battery heating system already.
- Keep Batteries Charged: Make sure your batteries are fully charged before storing your van, as cold weather can drain them quickly. Disconnect them if the van will sit for a long time to prevent discharge.
Step 4: Prepare Your Heating System
- Check Your Heater: Ensure that your van’s heating system (diesel, propane, glycol or electric) is working properly. Clean any filters and test the system to avoid issues on the road.
- Stock Up on Fuel: If your heater uses propane or diesel, make sure you have a sufficient supply.
Cold weather can cause you to burn through fuel faster than usual.
Step 5: Tire and Exterior Preparation
- Check Tire Pressure: Cold weather can reduce tire pressure, so make sure they’re properly inflated to avoid any issues on the road.
- Inspect Your Tires: If you're planning on driving in snowy or icy conditions, consider upgrading to winter tires or carrying tire chains.
- Wax Your Van: Applying a coat of wax to your van’s exterior can help protect the paint from salt, snow, and ice.
Step 6: Ventilation and Moisture Control
- Install Vent Covers: Use vent covers to help block cold air while still allowing for necessary ventilation. These covers can reduce drafts without affecting airflow.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Cold air can lead to condensation inside the van. A portable dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing products like silica gel can help prevent dampness and mold.
Step 7: Safety Measures
- Emergency Kit: Pack an emergency kit including blankets, extra layers, a shovel, and emergency food and water. Be prepared for any roadside issues, especially in remote winter areas.
- Carbon Monoxide Detector: Ensure your carbon monoxide detector is working properly, especially if you’re using propane or diesel heaters inside the van.
Step 8: Store Your Van Properly (If Not in Use)
- Find Covered Storage: If you’re storing your van for the winter, keep it in a covered, dry location to protect it from snow and ice.
- Elevate the Van: Elevating your van slightly off the ground can help prevent tires from freezing to the ground and reduce pressure on them during long-term storage.
Winter Wonders
Once your van is ready for winter, why not take it on some exciting adventures? Here are a few winter activities you might want to get on the road for.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at your favorite mountain resorts. Take the ultimate Ski Slopes Tour, and use the Epic or Ikon Pass to explore new terrain all across the U.S.
- Snowshoeing: Explore serene winter trails covered in snow. With fewer crowds, you’ll have the chance to see the beauty of your favorite trails in a whole new light.
- Ice Fishing: Head to your favorite frozen lakes for a peaceful day of ice fishing and relaxation.
- Winter Hiking: Enjoy the quiet and beauty of nature during the snow-covered months, when trails are often less busy.
- Hot Springs: There’s no better way to visit hot springs than when they’re surrounded by snow. Breathe in the crisp winter air while the warm waters embrace you.
- Winter Festivals: Park your van near festive mountain towns with holiday markets, ice sculptures, and seasonal events.
- Sledding: Drive around and find some epic sledding spots along your route—there’s nothing like racing down a snow-covered hill!
- Ice Skating: Whether it’s at a local rink in town or on a frozen pond in the mountains, grab your skates and glide through the winter air.
- Snowmobiling: Rent a snowmobile and embark on an exhilarating backwoods adventure through snow-covered landscapes.
- Dog Sledding: Whether you're watching a dog sled race or trying it yourself, this is a winter activity you won’t want to miss.
- Visit Small Mountain Towns: Many small mountain towns have the best winter festivals, activities, and even unique architecture. Leavenworth, for example, is a charming German- inspired village nestled in the Cascade Mountains.
- Go to a Light Show: Winter brings some of the most spectacular light shows of the year. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy the twinkling, festive lights.
- Explore a Winter Market: Whether you're hunting for sentimental holiday gifts or just soaking in the atmosphere, winter markets bring a special kind of cheer to the season.
No matter how you plan to spend the colder months—whether you're storing your van until spring or gearing up for a season filled with epic winter adventures—properly winterizing your van is essential. Taking the time to protect your van from freezing temperatures ensures that your plumbing, heating, and electrical systems are safe from damage, saving you from costly repairs.
Plus, a well-prepared van means you can fully enjoy those magical winter experiences, from skiing down the slopes to relaxing in a snowy hot spring. With your van winterized and ready to go, you'll be free to embrace the season without any worries.
