WINTER RENTALS

For rentals during the winter months (generally between mid-October through mid-May) the motorhome water system is winterized, meaning there is no running water to the sinks, shower, or toilet. The water system is shut down and filled with a food-grade anti-freeze as all pipes and tanks are exposed to outside temperatures.

If you want to use the water and we deem the destination to have favorable weather conditions for water, there is a one-time $189 fee to un-winterize/re-winterize the RV for you. Insurance does not cover any damages caused by frozen holding tanks, waste tanks, water heater tanks, etc. If you choose to have water and get damage from freezing, the repairs would be your financial responsibility.

Winterized

If you are traveling to a destination with consistently freezing temperatures, you will not have use of running water. We have included some suggestions below regarding usage of the water systems during the winter season when keeping the RV winterized.  Please remember that you are responsible for any damage that may occur during your rental, including damage from freezing.

Sinks and Shower

If you plan to use the sinks or shower, you will need to bring your own jugs of fresh water and RV Antifreeze. You MUST use RV or Marine Antifreeze that is approved for freshwater systems.  You can pour your water into the sinks or shower for washing hands, washing dishes, etc. then add the antifreeze after each use to help prevent freezing in the pipes and gray water holding tank. We recommend -50° RV Antifreeze and using at least ½ gallon of antifreeze to every 2 gallons of water.

Toilet

The toilet system will have no water to flush waste. In order to “flush” the toilet, you will need to add water from the jug and RV Antifreeze to the bowl for each flush. We recommend using -50° RV Antifreeze and to use at least a ½ gallon of antifreeze to every 2 gallons of water. 

Winterized

If you are travelling to a destination with consistently freezing temperatures, you will not have use of running water. We have included some suggestions below regarding usage of the water systems during the winter season when keeping the RV winterized.  Please remember that you are responsible for any damage that may occur during your rental, including damage from freezing.

Sinks and Shower

If you plan to use the sinks or shower, you will need to bring your own jugs of fresh water and RV Antifreeze. You MUST use RV or Marine Antifreeze that is approved for freshwater systems.  You can pour your water into the sinks or shower for washing hands, washing dishes, etc. then add the antifreeze after each use to help prevent freezing in the pipes and gray water holding tank. We recommend -50° RV Antifreeze and using at least ½ gallon of antifreeze to every 2 gallons of water.

Un-Winterized

If you are traveling to a destination with temperatures consistently above freezing, you may purchase the un-winterization add-on and have full use of the RV water system. You may need to take precautions if temperatures temporarily drop below freezing to safeguard against potential freeze damage. As previously mentioned, you are responsible for any damage that may occur during your rental, including damage from freezing.

Furnace Operation

It is recommended you plug-in to shore power during winter rentals. The furnace generates heat with propane and circulates the warm air using battery (12v) power. When you are in colder temperatures, the furnace will cycle more often to hold temperature which will use more battery power. If you are plugged in to shore power, your batteries will stay charged.

If you are not plugged in to shore power, you will need to charge your batteries during the day prior to running the furnace through the night. You can charge by driving, starting the automotive engine or running the generator. The regularity and length of time the batteries will need to be charged will vary depending upon your use of the vehicle. To conserve your propane, we suggest you turn the thermostat down to 60 degrees while you are away from the motorhome. During freezing weather, the heat must remain on at all times.

Water Heater

It is also recommended to run your propane water heater if the temperatures dip below freezing. Whether you have a tankless water heater or a 6-gallon tank, keeping it running will aid in preventing freeze damage to those water lines exposed to lower temperatures.

Water Drains

Use of the water runs the risk of damage anytime you are in freezing temperatures. We recommend using -50° RV Antifreeze down the drains to help prevent freezing of the drain lines and waste holding tanks when you can. Pouring a gallon or 2 down the sinks, shower, and toilet prior to any use will help the drain lines from freezing on the nights the temperatures get too low. If you empty out the tanks during your trip, remember to add RV Antifreeze back into those drain lines.

To help minimize potential damage caused by freezing temperatures, we encourage you to always use your best judgment during your rental. 

KEEP IN MIND…

Driving During Winter Conditions

Winter driving conditions are unpredictable, so drivers need to exercise caution and use good judgment while on the road. Please maintain good stopping and driving distances. We recommend checking road conditions before leaving and adjust plans according to weather. B&B RV, Inc. is not responsible for road closures or any challenges that may occur during your rental due to winter conditions. This would include getting stuck or driving on an unmaintained road. Use of chains on the motorhome tires is prohibited as damage to the wheel wells, sidewalls, and tires will occur. If you are traveling somewhere that requires them, you will need to change your route accordingly or wait until conditions allow you to pass.

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