There isn’t always a winter wonderland awaiting us from December 1st to February 28th. Sometimes it’s a cruel winter land, especially for our mobile homes, but can you live in an RV in winter?
That’s exactly what we are here to dive into, along with a few other frequently asked questions regarding RVing in the winter:
- Can you live in an RV in winter?
- How cold is too cold for an RV?
- How long does it have to be below freezing for RV pipes to freeze?
- Will RV pipes freeze at 32 degrees?
- Will RV holding tanks freeze?
- How Much Antifreeze Should I Put in my RV Holding Tank?
Let’s start with this one here: Can I Use My RV in Winter? Yes, you can use your RV in the winter months. You just have to make sure you have the proper information and tools to take care of yourself, this is not the trip you want to take spontaneously.
3 Cold RV Winter Tips
- Add Antifreeze to Holding Tanks.
- Insulate Pipes.
- Store Hoses in Warm Component.
Related: Can Antifreeze Be Dump On The Ground?
Can You Live in an RV in Winter?
Yes, you can live in your RV in the winter. Get Antifreeze, Snow Chains, and put that RV in a Skirt your RV can handle all winter conditions.
Proper RV maintenance ensures you get the most out of your RV during the winter season. And, don’t run out of propane, or you’ll be cold.
Driving and living in your RV in the wintertime presents a host of challenges thanks to the cold weather.
Still, it’s entirely possible to live and fire up your RV to hit the road in the winter. You’ll need to keep your vehicle maintained to ensure the engine and electronics are in working order.
When driving, you’ll need to get some RV snow chains for your vehicle to prevent losing control on icy roads. But we suggest you do not plan a travel day when it’s snowing.
How Cold Is Too Cold for an RV?
Between -19ºF and -25ºF (-28 Celsius to -31 Celcius) is too cold for an RV. It is extremely difficult to endure such low temperatures in an RV, as frostbite could occur in just a few minutes.
Double-check your RV heating equipment like your propane furnace, heat pump/AC unit, or electric fireplace. Whatever you have to alternate the temperature so it doesn’t get this old inside your RV.
No matter how adventurous you are. you don’t want to play in these temperatures. Cold weather RVing can be a lot of fun too, but not at the risk of your health or your RV breaking down.
Many RVers live in their Rig during the winter for weeks or months at a time to stay close to ski slopes, mountains, and beautiful National Parks that shine in the winter.
Related: Best Dehumidifier for Winter Storage of RV
How Long Does It Have to be Below Freezing for RV Pipes to Freeze?
24 hours for RV pipes to freeze in below freezing temperatures (32 degrees F ). This is all dependent on many factors such as if you have an enclosed underbelly, heated underbelly, heat tape, insulation, and other preventative measures in place.
We avoid freezing by insulating our pipes, using heat tape, buying a heated water line, heating our wet bay, a tank heater, heating the underbelly of our RV, upgrading your RV’s insulation, and keeping the water flowing in our rig.
Combine a handful of these methods to keep the water running in any weather!
Will RV Pipes Freeze at 32 Degrees?
Yes, pipes will freeze at 32 degrees after 24 hours.
Will RV Holding Tanks Freeze?
Yes, your holding tanks will freeze if you don’t insulate or take steps to prevent freezing, both to prevent costly damage and have a functional water system while RVing in winter temperatures.
The location of your holding tanks really matters in regards to freezing. If holding tanks are above floor level, the ambient heat of your interior furnace will help to delay freezing.
Holding tanks in the underbelly are exposed to harsh temperatures, so they are highly susceptible to freezing temps.
Related: How to Keep Food Cold in RV While Driving?
How Much Antifreeze Should I Put in my RV Holding Tank?
Put 2 to 3 gallons of RV antifreeze in your holding tank depending on the size of your RV. Contact your manufacturer if you feel uncomfortable with that amount, they will have an exact number based on your RV model.
Sub-Freezing Winter Camping in a Truck Camper- Living in a Truck Camper
Be Safe Out There!
So, can you live in an RV in winter? the answer is, yes, with preparation. We learned so much and we hope you did as well.
Winter RV living requires some planning ahead, it’s an absolute must that will save you heartache and money in the long run!
You’ll see some beautiful sights during the winter in your RV. There’s nothing quite like being in the solitude of a winter campsite, watching the snowfall and cover the land around you.
Just make sure you prepare yourself to stay safe during your winter adventure.
