How to Winterise a Static Caravan

We have had a great summer here in the UK this year, but all good things must come to an end. Soon the days will start to get shorter, and the leaves will fall from the trees, reminding us that colder, wetter days are on the way. Please excuse the cliché here but I can’t resist consider this phrase is relevant but “Winter is Coming”.

If you are a static caravan owner, making the necessary preparation now to protect your caravan, will help to reduce the risk of damage in the harsh winter weather. Unused static caravans may be vulnerable to damage caused by the cold such as escape of water and flooding. As a static caravan owner, it’s about that time you should start to consider Winterisation your static caravan.

Winterisation is the process of preparing your static caravan for the winter. While modern caravans are equipped to operate normally throughout the winter, chances are you won’t be operating it normally; chances are you won’t be using it at all.

There are many things you can do to make your static caravan ‘winter ready’, however we have put together some suggestions which could help reduce the likelihood of an unfortunate event occurring.

Keep Your Static Caravan Clean

Cleaning your static caravan is highly recommended, whether you’ll be using the caravan during winter or not.  Cleaning lowers the risks of condensation and mildew growth. Low humidity inside the van helps to keep internal components free from water-related structural damage. It is important to clean the static caravan from top to bottom, including the fridge and freezer, food cupboards and wardrobes, leaving all doors left propped open so that air can circulate. Also ensure you remove all food from the caravan,

Drain Down the Caravan

Draining down is a crucial tip to winterise a static caravan. Draining down describes the process of ensuring that all the water is completely flushed out of the water system and its pipes, before closing the static caravan for the winter. To remove all the water, disconnect the stop clock (typically located underneath the caravan), then open each drain valve, turn on the taps and shower until they run dry and flush the toilet until the cistern is empty.

This should remove all the water from the pipes. We recommend pouring anti-freeze into the sink, toilet bowl and cistern, as well as the shower plughole to prevent any cracks from occurring because of freezing damp. The shower should also be disconnected to ensure there is no damage. If you don’t want to risk carrying put the draining down procedure by yourself, that’s ok because many static caravan holiday parks offer a drain down service that allows you to drain down your caravan using s professional service.

Clear Drains and Gutters

Make sure you clean the drains and gutters from any debris that may have built up from falling leaves. They can fill up your gutters and cause a blockage which means water is not able to flow properly, leading to water damage if ignored. Keeping on top of this regularly will prevent any long-term problems.

Gas and Electricity

Both gas and electricity must be disconnected or switched off at the mains. Gas canisters should always be stored in a dry, secure, and well-ventilated location. Boilers that are poorly maintained can waste energy inside your static caravan. Get your boiler serviced to avoid it breaking down and leaving you with a large bill for a replacement boiler or repairs.

Keep Air Vents Clear

The air vents in the static caravan should be wiped clean and left open and obviously unobstructed; if they are blocked, condensation and mould could potentially form. However, roof vents should be keep closed.

Move Items Away From The Walls

Up end any soft furnishings in the static caravan and store away from the walls and doors, (preferable in the centre of the caravan lounge). Also up end the mattresses or remove them from the windows and doors. Make sure you take all duvets, pillows, and bedding home with you as these can attract damp in the winter.

Check In On Your Static Caravan

Problems typically arise when caravans are left unattended for extended periods of time like they are ovre the winter period. It is a good idea to visit your static caravan during this period to check that everything is still as you left it. This is especially important following any episodes of severe weather, as it provides an opportunity to identify any issues sooner rather than later.

Final Thought………

Static Trader recommended to winterise your static caravan, whether you’re planning to retreat to the caravan during winter or not. We hope you can implement the above-reviewed tips to make your caravan winter-ready this year.