Off-season tips6 things to know
Shelter
If the van is unused for long periods, park it in a sheltered or covered area if possible, to reduce exposure to the elements. If that is not possible, a big cover will do.
Leisure battery
Switch off the leisure battery if the van will be stored for months without use.
Pests
Check from time to time for pests or rodents, especially in stored food or bedding areas.
Tyres
Move the van occasionally if it stays stationary, so the tyres do not develop flat spots.
Drain the water
Drain all water before the freezing months. Non-toxic antifreeze may be used, but the best guarantee is to drain the system completely.
Purge the plumbing
Open all taps and let the pump purge all the water from the plumbing, then turn the pump off. Leave a note at the fill point as a reminder: "Plumbing is disconnected".
Before freezing weather4 steps
Drain the whole water system: the fresh water tank, the grey water tank and any external hoses.
- Open all the taps and let the pump purge the water from the plumbing.
- Turn the pump off.
- Leave the taps open, so the pipes are empty and anything left has room to expand.
- Leave a note at the fill point as a reminder that the plumbing is disconnected.
Non-toxic antifreeze can be used, but draining completely is the only real guarantee.
Water expands as it freezes. Trapped in a pipe, pump or tap, it can split fittings that then leak as soon as it thaws. Leaving the taps open gives any last drops room to expand.