The Ultimate Caravan Winterisation Guide (2025 Edition)

Proper winterisation is essential for protecting your caravan from damp, frost damage, corrosion, and premature component failure. Whether your leisure vehicle will be stored on a driveway, CL site, or in a storage facility, the steps below outline a comprehensive, technician-level process to ensure it remains in optimal condition throughout the colder months.

Why Winterisation Matters

Cold temperatures, moisture, and lack of ventilation create the conditions for:

• Burst water pipes

• Cracked taps and water pumps

• Damp, mould, and mildew

• Battery degradation

• Tyre flat-spotting

• Corrosion on chassis, gas regulators, and metal fixtures

Thorough winterisation protects your investment and significantly reduces the workload when spring touring begins.

Step-by-Step Winterisation Procedure

1. Drain Down the Water System Completely

This is the most important task. Any residual water can expand when frozen and cause costly damage.

What to do:

• Open all taps, including mixer taps, and leave them in the mid position.

• Open the drain-down valve on your caravan’s water system.

• Remove the water heater’s drain plug (Truma, Alde, or Whale systems differ—refer to specific manuals).

• Disconnect the water pump from the external barrel and shake out excess water.

• Blow air through pipes or use a low-pressure air system to expel remaining water (never exceed manufacturer PSI guidance).

Recommended upgrade: Fit inline frost protection or drain-down valves to simplify the process.

2. Empty and Clean the Toilet System

Steps:

• Remove, empty, and thoroughly rinse the cassette.

• Add a small amount of non-toxic antifreeze to the cassette blade seal (optional but protects rubber).

• Drain the toilet flush tank if your van has a separate system.

• Lubricate the toilet blade seal with appropriate silicone lubricant.

3. Deep Clean the Interior

A clean caravan over winter reduces mould and prevents spring odours.

Checklist:

• Vacuum and wipe down all surfaces with mild antibacterial cleaner.

• Clean fridge and freezer; leave the fridge door ajar using the integrated latch.

• Remove cushions and store in a warm, dry area if possible.

• Remove bedding and soft furnishings (mattresses can be propped upright).

• Empty all cupboards and remove perishable foods.

4. Ventilation & Moisture Control

Best Practices:

• Use moisture traps (salt-based or rechargeable desiccant).

• Open internal doors, lockers, and cupboards to improve airflow.

• Ensure roof vents are unobstructed.

• Avoid fully sealing the caravan — some airflow is necessary to prevent condensation.

Avoid using household dehumidifiers inside a closed caravan; they can cause over-drying and damage interior materials.

5. Exterior Bodywork & Seals

Steps:

• Wash exterior panels with caravan-safe shampoo.

• Apply a protective wax or sealant for winter.

• Inspect window seals, door seals, and awning rails for gaps or deterioration.

• Lubricate all hinges and locks with silicone or graphite spray.

• Clean the awning rail; apply a rail lubricant to prevent future black streaks.

6. Tyres, Chassis & Running Gear

Recommendations:

• Inflate tyres to the upper safe limit recommended by the manufacturer.

• Move the caravan slightly every few weeks to prevent flat spots (or use winter storage pads).

• Apply corrosion protection spray to exposed metal components.

• Check the corner steadies and grease as required.

If storing for more than six months, consider jacking the caravan to relieve tyre pressure.

7. Battery Care (Leisure & Motor Mover)

Professional guidance:

• Remove the leisure battery and store it in a dry, frost-free location.

• Use a smart charger or maintain charge monthly.

• For motor mover batteries, the same applies unless the manufacturer states otherwise.

A poorly maintained battery is one of the most common spring faults — prevention is far cheaper than replacement.

8. Gas System (Bottles & Regulators)

Steps:

• Turn off gas bottle valves.

• Disconnect regulators if storing long-term.

• Store bottles outside or in a well-ventilated, approved space.

• Inspect hoses and pigtails for cracks or date expiry.

Avoid applying grease or lubricant to gas threads — it can affect sealing.

9. Secure & Prepare the Caravan for Storage

Checklist:

• Remove valuables and electronics.

• Close blinds halfway (prevents tension damage and discourages break-ins).

• Fit high-quality wheel locks and hitch locks.

• Check caravan cover compatibility (use only breathable, UV-resistant caravan-specific covers).

• If stored on grass, use levelling boards or pads to prevent settlement into soft ground.

Common Winterisation Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving taps closed during drain-down

• Forgetting the toilet flush system

• Using household antifreeze in water pipes (unsafe; never do this)

• Storing with fridge door fully shut

• Neglecting battery maintenance

• Blocking all ventilation points

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use automotive antifreeze in my caravan water system?

No. Only use non-toxic antifreeze specifically designed for leisure vehicles.

Do I need a caravan cover?

Covers are optional but recommended for UV and debris protection. Ensure it is breathable to prevent damp.

How often should I check my caravan over winter?

Ideally once per month — especially battery charge levels and moisture traps.

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