Your Complete Guide to Motorhome Winterisation: Keep Your Motorhome Safe This Winter

As the darker nights settle in and temperatures start to tumble, many motorhome owners begin thinking about parking up their home-on-wheels until spring makes a welcome return. While it’s tempting to simply turn the key and walk away, taking the time to properly winterise your motorhome is one of the best investments you can make. A little care now can prevent frozen pipes, damp problems, battery failure and expensive repairs later.

Whether you’re a seasoned motorhomer or preparing your vehicle for winter storage for the first time, our complete winterisation guide will help ensure your motorhome stays safe, dry, and protected throughout the colder months.

Motorhomes are designed for adventure, but cold weather can be surprisingly tough on them. Water tanks and pipes can freeze, batteries can lose charge, tyres can develop flat spots, and damp can creep in when left unchecked. Proper winterisation not only protects against damage but also means you’ll be ready to hit the road as soon as the sunshine returns.

The Complete Motorhome Winterisation Checklist

1. Drain and Protect Water Systems

Water is your motorhome’s biggest winter threat. Ice expands—and that expansion can cause pipes, taps, and tanks to split.

Drain the freshwater tank completely

Empty the grey and black waste tanks

Drain the water heater/boiler following the manufacturer’s guidance

Open all taps, including mixer taps, and leave them in the middle position

Run the water pump briefly to clear remaining water

Add non-toxic antifreeze to plugholes (if suitable for your model)

Taking these steps ensures your water system survives the cold with no costly surprises.

2. Take Care of Your Toilet System

A frozen cassette or damaged seal is something nobody wants to deal with in spring.

Empty and thoroughly clean the cassette

Add a small amount of approved antifreeze if recommended

Lubricate toilet seals with a silicone-based product

3. Protect the Interior

Your motorhome will benefit from good airflow and dryness over winter.

Remove all food and perishables to prevent pests

Clean thoroughly and leave the fridge door ajar

Prop up mattresses and cushions to avoid mildew

Add moisture absorbers to help manage condensation

Ensure vents remain open for natural airflow

4. Gas System Safety

Turn off gas at the bottle

Disconnect bottles if preferred or required by storage facilities

Check hoses for cracks and note their expiry dates

5. Look After Your Batteries

Cold weather drains battery life, so proper maintenance is essential.

Fully charge both engine and leisure batteries

Either disconnect them or attach to a maintenance charger

Ensure all interior electrics are switched off

A well-maintained battery means your motorhome will start up happily when spring arrives.

6. Exterior Protection

Your motorhome’s bodywork and seals need love too.

Give the exterior a thorough wash

Apply a protective wax or sealant if possible

Lubricate rubber seals to prevent cracking

Inspect for cracks or areas where water could enter

Consider a breathable cover to shield from the weather

7. Tyres and Chassis

Inflate tyres to the recommended pressures

Move the motorhome occasionally to avoid flat spots

Check brake discs and clean if necessary

8. Engine & Fuel System

Fill your diesel tank to reduce condensation

Consider adding a fuel stabiliser

Run the engine briefly before storage to circulate treated fuel

9. Awnings & Accessories

Ensure awnings are clean and completely dry before storing

Remove outdoor accessories, carpets, and valuables

Store all loose items in a dry, well-ventilated place

10. Final Safety Checks

Confirm all doors, windows, and rooflights are secure

Park on level ground, use chocks, and release the handbrake if safe

Double-check that your insurance and storage arrangements are up to date

Date created: 02 Dec 2025