Forum Discussion

portliz's avatar
portliz
Explorer
Dec 10, 2016

Freezing temps and staying in 5th wheel

We are leaving from Ontario to head south on Dec.15. The temps are taking a nose dive. We have 2 dogs. The rig is winterized. We have a campground open all year where we normally stay the first night. Temps will be -11 C during day
and -15 at night. Are we crazy to stay in the rig? We have the furnace, 2 ceramic heaters, electric blanket and 50 amp service.
  • daveB110 wrote:
    Lot of travelers are heading to Mexico, and having to start in cold weather conditions. We have done it several times. Even coming home in months that one might think are moderate in weather, can surprise. Casinos often have RV Parks that are operating, so making use of their AC power is very helpful. Buy a supply of Plummer's Antifreeze and add it to your holding tanks, but you possibly can keep your fresh water tank as such, and by keeping cupboard doors open that contain water pipes, when you haven't winterized, and if you get caught by unusual cold weather somewhere, can help. By doing these we have been fine camping in foul blizzard weather in Alberta for days, unable to leave because of road conditions, but with access to AC, and with outside temperatures reaching down to 12 degrees F. Nothing froze in our 30 foot motor home, which we have never winterized. Several thermometers are helpful, as well.


    Why take the chance of freezing your unit, when $50 worth of anti-freeze would solve the problem? Dollar foolish. We put heat tapes on the plumbing and pink in the sinks and drains. I don't fill my water tanks (3) until I get far enough south of MT as possible or where freezing isn't an issue. I have an onboard 11.5kw generator that I can run at night rather than hooking up with 50amp cord. It's not that we are cheap - just using our noodles.
  • Some good solutions have been coming your way. Keeping your propane available and your house batteries in good condition are a couple more. There is no doubt too, that your generator can be a godsend. We have never relied on ours, solar has helped, but while traveling you can be keeping the batteries charged as well. Have a good trip down, and enjoy!
  • Watch your propane and you should have no issues with a winterized RV.
    May want to fire up the furnace 30 to 60 minutes before your final stop as long as the slide does not cover the vents.