Tacoma winters are cool and damp, which is tough on plumbing, batteries, roofs, and fabrics. Winterizing your RV is more than pouring pink fluid down a drain. Done right, it prevents cracked fittings, mold, dead batteries, and springtime repair bills. Use these ten tasks as a simple, reliable plan.
1. Drain Fresh Water and Bypass the Water Heater
Start by shutting off the water heater and letting it cool. Open the drain plug or anode rod and let it empty fully. Engage the bypass valves so you do not waste gallons of antifreeze filling the tank. This step keeps the heater safe and saves money on fluid.
2. Empty Holding Tanks and Rinse the System
Dump black and gray tanks at an approved station, then flush them clean. Add a small amount of RV safe tank treatment to prevent odors over the winter. Leaving waste in tanks is hard on seals and creates stubborn smells when you reopen in spring.
3. Blow Out Lines, Then Add RV Antifreeze
Use regulated compressed air at about 30 to 40 psi to blow water from the lines, opening each faucet and low point drain in turn. After the air passes, pump RV-rated, non-toxic antifreeze through the plumbing until pink appears at each fixture, including outside showers and toilet valves. Pour a cup into every P-trap so the traps do not crack.
4. Protect Valves, Seals, and the Water Pump
Cycle the toilet and tank valves with a little antifreeze so seals stay lubricated. Draw a bit of antifreeze through the water pump to protect the impeller and housing. If your rig has a filter canister, remove the cartridge and leave the bowl empty to avoid a messy surprise later.
5. Battery Care That Prevents Spring Issues
Batteries prefer full charge and stable temperature. Clean terminals, check water levels on serviceable batteries, and connect a quality maintainer. If the RV will sit outside without power, remove the batteries and store them in a cool, dry space on a maintainer. A rested, charged battery lives longer and saves headaches on the first trip back.
6. Engine, Generator, and Fuel System (Motorhomes and Toy Haulers)
Change engine oil before storage so acids do not sit on bearings. Top off fuel and add stabilizer, then run the engine and generator long enough to pull treated fuel through. Check coolant strength and date, and service the air filter if it is due. For generators, change oil and verify output under load so it is ready when you need it.
7. Tires, Brakes, and Storage Stance
Set tire pressures to the correct spec for storage and block the RV securely. If possible, move the rig a few inches monthly to avoid flat spotting, or use tire cradles. For long-term storage, consider using jack stands rated for the vehicle's weight to reduce the load on suspension components. Release the parking brake on air brake systems only if the wheels are properly chocked.
8. Roof, Seals, and Moisture Defense
Inspect the roof for cracks, soft spots, and lifting sealant around vents, skylights, and antennas. Reseal as needed with the correct RV sealant. Tacoma’s humidity demands airflow, so use vent covers to allow ventilation without inviting rain. Place desiccant tubs inside and consider a small dehumidifier on a timer if the RV has shore power.
9. Interior Cleanout and Pest Prevention
Empty all food, wipe cabinets, and vacuum soft surfaces so crumbs do not attract rodents. Prop open closet and bath doors for airflow, and crack the refrigerator doors after cleaning so mildew does not form. Seal entry points under the chassis and around plumbing with appropriate mesh or foam, and set traps at known access spots.
10. Propane, Appliances, Slides, and Awnings
Turn off the propane at the tank and cap open lines if any appliances are disconnected. Lightly oil appliance hinges and latches. Retract slides and awnings only after they are dry and clean to avoid trapped moisture. If your fridge has a winter setting, follow the manual; otherwise, leave it off with doors propped.
Quick Tip for Tacoma’s Climate
Moisture is the main enemy. Ventilate, use desiccants, and recheck the RV after the first heavy rain to catch leaks early. A breathable cover helps, while plastic tarps trap condensation and encourage mold.
Get Professional RV Winterization in Tacoma with Genesis Automotive and RV Repair
Want a one-visit, done-right winterization? Bring your RV to our Tacoma team. We will drain and bypass the heater, blow out lines, add the right antifreeze, service batteries and generators, and inspect the roof and seals for leaks.
Schedule your appointment and park your RV with confidence all winter.
