Tips for Winterizing your Habitat

If storing your trailer in persistently cold weather, you’ll need to prepare it appropriately.

We recommend storing your habitat in a dry, level, well-ventilated area.

Step 1:

Exterior

Close all vents + windows
Raise leveling jacks
Retract front step
Wash the exterior (don’t forget the roof + tires + wheels)
Extend the awning (if you have one), vacuum/sweep away branches and leaves. Wash with a mild, natural soap to reduce mildew. Allow to dry completely before retracting.
Inspect sealants (windows/doors/roof racks)
Secure all exterior components (7 pin connector, breakaway switch, safety chains)

Chassis:

Lubricate all grease fittings on the axle hubs
Check tires for damage + set tire pressure to the max indicated on the tire sidewall
Clean the underside of the trailer – wash off mud or other road accumulations on frame, axles, or other components
Inspect for any damage
Chock wheels to prevent habitat from rolling unexpectedly

Step 2:

Interior

Empty/clean your fridge/cooler. Block lid open to provide air movement
Spread out cushions so air can reach all sides
Place containers of moisture-gathering beads in the habitat
Clean the floor, walls, surfaces

Plumbing

Proper prep and winterization of your fresh + wastewater systems are vital. Freezing water expands and can lead to possible rupture of tubing, fittings, tanks, and fixtures.

Empty fresh water tank
Empty grey water tank
Open all faucets (hot + cold) in the sink + shower
Turn the yellow drain valve located under the kitchen sink within the plumbing access to drain
Disconnect the shower hose + the drain hose
Drain the TRUMA combi eco hot water system per manufacturer instructions (see page 12 + 13 of the TRUMA manual)
Use an air compressor to blow out any remaining water
Fill P traps with non-toxic anti-freeze (sink drain + shower drain)