Winterizing

Winterizing protects the water system from freeze damage. Do this before temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C) for extended periods.

Don’t skip this

A single freeze event can crack pipes, fittings, the water pump, and the water heater — repairs can cost $500–$2,000+. Winterizing takes about an hour.

What you need

• RV antifreeze (non-toxic, pink — not automotive antifreeze)
  • Typically 2–3 gallons for the Aurora 16BHX
• Water heater bypass kit (may already be installed)
• Air compressor with blow-out plug (optional — for the blow-out method)
• Screwdriver

Method 1 — Antifreeze (recommended)

Step 1 — Drain the water heater

1. Turn off the water heater and let it cool completely (at least 30 minutes).
2. Turn off the water supply (city water or pump).
3. Open a hot water faucet to relieve pressure.
4. Go outside and remove the water heater drain plug (1-1/16” socket, driver’s side panel).
5. Let the tank drain completely.
6. Reinstall the drain plug.

Step 2 — Bypass the water heater

1. Locate the water heater bypass valve (behind the water heater access panel or inside a cabinet).
2. Turn the bypass valve to the BYPASS position — this routes antifreeze around the 6-gallon tank so you don’t waste antifreeze filling it.

Step 3 — Drain the fresh water tank

1. Open the fresh water tank drain valve (usually under the camper).
2. Let it drain completely.
3. Close the drain valve.

Step 4 — Add antifreeze

1. Pour RV antifreeze directly into the fresh water tank, or use a hand pump connected to the antifreeze jug.
2. Turn on the water pump.
3. Open each faucet (hot and cold separately) until pink antifreeze flows out — then close.
4. Flush the toilet until pink antifreeze appears — then close.
5. Pour a cup of antifreeze directly into each drain (sink, shower, toilet) to protect the P-traps.

Step 5 — Final steps

1. Turn off the water pump.
2. Open a faucet to relieve pressure.
3. Disconnect and drain any water hoses.
4. Leave faucets slightly open or in the open position.

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Method 2 — Compressed air blow-out

This method uses air to blow water out of the lines instead of antifreeze. It’s faster but less thorough — some water can remain in low spots.

1. Connect a blow-out plug to the city water inlet.
2. Connect an air compressor (set to 30–50 PSI max — higher pressure can damage fittings).
3. Open each faucet one at a time and blow air through until no water comes out.
4. Flush the toilet until no water comes out.
5. Still pour antifreeze into the P-traps (drains) — air can’t protect these.

Caution

Don’t exceed 50 PSI when blowing out lines. High pressure can damage the water pump, fittings, and valves.

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De-winterizing (spring)

When you’re ready to use the camper again:

1. Turn the water heater bypass back to NORMAL (open) position.
2. Reinstall the water heater anode rod if you removed it.
3. Connect city water or fill the fresh water tank.
4. Turn on the water pump.
5. Open all faucets and run until clear water (no pink antifreeze) flows from each.
6. Flush the toilet several times.
7. Sanitize the fresh water tank — see Seasonal Maintenance.
8. Check all connections for leaks.
9. Turn on the water heater and verify it works.

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Winterizing checklist

• Water heater off and cooled
• Water heater drained
• Water heater bypass set to BYPASS
• Fresh water tank drained
• Antifreeze pumped through all faucets (hot and cold)
• Toilet flushed with antifreeze
• Antifreeze poured into all drains (P-traps)
• Water pump off
• All water hoses disconnected and drained
• Propane tanks closed
• Battery disconnected or on a trickle charger
• Slide-out retracted
• Roof vents closed
• Tire covers installed (UV protection)
• Camper covered or stored in a covered location