How Cold is too Cold for an RV?

For those who wish to have an extreme winter camping experience, you’ll need to ensure your rig can manage the cold. There are many Recreational Vehicle (RV) manufacturers built for arctic climates and below-freezing temperatures.

Motorhome companies offer artic upgrades at a reasonable price, including Kirkland RV Sales. Actual RV artic brands include Keystone Montana, Jayco Redhawk 26XD, Windjammer 3008W, and Forest River Artic Wolf.

How Cold is Too Cold for Camping in an RV?

Traveling in an RV at low temperatures is challenging. An RV is equipped to manage the winter elements. Staying in an RV is problematic when temperatures drop below 20 – 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

If the temperature drops below 24 degrees Fahrenheit overnight and remains below freezing during the day, your RV is at risk.

What Are Some Issues That Can Be Caused Due to Coldness?

The cold weather will significantly impact your RV. You must understand how a temperature drop will ruin your journey and even place you in danger.

Extreme cold affects the water pipes, black water tanks, batteries, heating systems, and engines- additionally, cold causes mold, which negatively impacts your health.

Your Engine Fails Due to The Cold Temperature

Your RV’s engine won’t start, stall, or turn over. Your RV’s alternator belts will crack under the cold. Broken alternator belts will prevent power from running to your battery.

The Strain on Your RV’s Heating System

A drop in temperature increases the need for heat. The below-average weather conditions demand more from your RV’s heating system. Hypothermia or increased frostbite risk will result if the RV’s heating system fails. Frostbite can occur within minutes and is mainly due to fluctuating temperatures. Keep your RV in the sun wherever possible to rest your RV’s heating.

The heater in your RV is a forced air heater. When temperatures drop below freezing, the heating system in your RV automatically pushes hot air through the vents. When the atmosphere becomes too cold, the reliance on the heating system takes a toll on your RV.

The RV’s heating system is simple and efficient. In addition to the thermostat and fan, there is a safety limit switch, circuit board, sail switch, duct design, intake vents, and exhaust vents. Some RVs have hydronic heating systems that move water and antifreeze through radiators and pipes. The engine heats the water while driving.

Usually, RVs have either an electric system or a propane heater. It’s advisable to bring along additional heaters. Propane space heaters and catalytic heaters are safe and suitable. Electric heaters vary, including infrared, oil-filled, ceramic, and micathermic heaters.

Infrared heaters radiate electromagnetic energy and generate heat to various physical aspects of the RV. Oil heaters are subtle and effectual, keeping the space at a steady temperature. Ceramic heaters use more energy. Finally, micathermic heaters have internal panels lined in mica, which effectively transmits heat.

Safety is the priority. Leaks from a propane heater are deadly. Therefore, acquire a propane detector and a carbon monoxide detector. Airflow is crucial when the forced air heating system turns on. Therefore, ensure vents are uncovered.

Draining Your RV’s Battery

Your RV’s battery is a chemical reactor, and the cold weather will decrease the battery’s electric conversion. Furthermore, the surrounding freezing air will solidify the oils and lubricants in your engine- the cold increases engine resistance, demanding more from your RV’s battery.

The cold will ensure you rely too much on your battery for various electrical output appliances, like heaters. Over-reliance reduces the lifespan of your battery. Additionally, too much use will drain the battery’s charge, preventing it from fully recharging. Sulfation arises when a battery can’t recharge adequately.

Sulfation is a buildup of lead crystals, and this rapidly drains your RV’s battery. When a battery doesn’t fully recharge, the lead crystals inhibit the conversion of chemical energy into electrical energy. Sulfation can also result from overcharging and storing it with an empty charge.

Burst Water Pipes and Frozen Holding Tanks

Too cold for an RV is when the RV’s pipes and plumbing system freeze. When water freezes, it expands in volume, causing burst pipes. Frozen pipes need replacement, which is expensive. Burst pipes damage the interior of your RV, creating a mess and contributing to the overall cost.

Some RV manufacturers design their motorhomes with plumbing systems outside in a storage compartment. Here the pipes will certainly freeze and likely burst. Keep this in mind when buying a suitable RV. Also, open your kitchen cabinets when possible, especially at night, as the warmth will naturally move to these areas.

Protect your RV’s water pipes and holding tank. Completely drain your pipes. Dry your electric heated hoses before storing them. Some RV’s waterlines and tanks have heating pads or attachments. Ensure your RV is well equipped.

Another excellent way to protect your RV’s internal plumbing system is with heat tape on the pipes. You can install heat tape yourself or have it professionally done. It’s fast and straightforward to install, yet it must be thermostatically controlled, as it could damage your plastic pipes.

Tanks freeze in the icy weather. A consequence of the extreme cold is that your RV’s black water tank will freeze into a frozen solid or burst. You must wait for the contents to thaw before disposing of them. A holding tank heater will combat the cold. Another method is to pour non-toxic RV antifreeze into the tank via the p-trap and toilet.

Ensure your black water tanks aren’t filled before the weather drops below freezing. They must be one-third filled or have enough space to accommodate volume expansion when freezing. Add RV antifreeze which will lower the freezing temperature of the water.

Mold in Your RV

Cold weather causes condensation and mold problems. Condensation results from vapor, warm air, and a cold surface. If the condensation isn’t managed, mold forms on your RV’s linen, bedding, and mattress. Mold is difficult to remove and hazardous to your health.

Insulate the mattress bed frame, use a coir bed mat, or install a Froli system under the mattress. A coir bed mat is made from natural materials and is affordable. The Froli system is plastic, with many separate pieces. There is also anti-mold paint that effectively protects your bed space.

Insulate Your RV for Better Performance in Cold (and Warm) Weather

Insulate the walls, ceiling, and floor in your RV. Some campers aren’t built for below-zero-degree temperatures. Reinforce the insulation you have and upgrade where necessary. Be mindful that your RV’s insulation and overall amenities deteriorate in the cold.

The following are ways to insulate your RV:

• Seal your camper’s doors and windows. You can fasten your door with high-quality weather stripping.
• Insulate your motorhome’s windows. There are inexpensive ways to insulate your RV’s windows, like reflective foil or film. The reflective foil redirects heat into the RV.
• Thick fabric and heavy drapes are practical insulation measures. Watch out for mold. Heavy drapes can partition sections of your rig, keeping the heat in a small space for longer.
• To insulate your camper’s floors, use foam floor boarding, heavy rugs, and carpets.
• Place RV skirting or windskirting around the bottom section of your motorhome.

Tips and Tricks for RVing When the Temperature Drops

These tips and tricks will keep your RV safe and warm throughout your journey.

1. Leverage multiple forms of heating

It’s essential to supplement your RV’s heating system. There are portable heaters to accompany you on your journey.

2. Drive with caution

Driving with caution requires gradual braking, slow changes, and knowing your RV’s handling features. Your RV requires greater braking distance. Additionally, consider the weight and size of your RV in icy weather.

3. Open the window when using the propane heater

Airflow is essential for the effective functioning of your propane heater. Crack open a window with a few inches of fresh air to let the carbon monoxide flow out. Carbon monoxide is odorless and dangerous, resulting in poisoning. Although your propane heater will likely be for indoor use, creating proper ventilation is crucial.

4. Don’t park under trees

Your RV is at risk if it’s planted under trees during arctic conditions. Branches weighed with snow will snap, break, and crash on your RV. The increased moisture in the trees’ atmosphere will also damage your RV.

5. Keep yourself warm and insulated

As mentioned above, frostbite can occur in seconds. Keep your body warm and covered to maintain adequate blood circulation. Avoid tight articles of clothing.

Hypothermia will cause death. Preventive measures to avoid hypothermia include wearing multiple layers of clothing like hats and scarves. Also, ensure your pack supplies like matches, heat pads, etc.

To prevent hypothermia and frostbite, drink plenty of warm liquids and water, not caffeine or alcohol. Stay warm and take regular breaks from the cold.

6. Run RV-specific antifreeze through your plumbing system

RV antifreeze is different from standard antifreeze as its active ingredient is propylene glycol and not highly toxic ethylene glycol. RV antifreeze isn’t as dangerous to the environment when waste dumping and is safer for animals and people. Flush your RV toilet with RV antifreeze.

7. Keep potable water on hand

Prepare, and bring alternate water sources in the event your pipes freeze. Keep fresh water in your RV- about ten gallons.

8. Always have an emergency plan

Do the necessary research before you travel. Look at weather forecasts, speak to experts, and store the required provisions. Decide on an extreme weather evacuation plan and pack a first aid kit.

Most RV parks have storm shelters. Call camping grounds and parks before arrival to determine the safety amenities available.

9. Keep a pair of ski boots

Always keep a pair of ski boots around your RV if you need to go out into the freezing snow.

10. Monitor the charge capacity of the battery

Generally, there are three ways to monitor your battery. Check your monitor panel, voltage meter testing, and testing using the specific gravity method.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it advisable to take winter trips in an RV?

RVing in the winter depends on your level of RV experience. Therefore, if you’re new, remain in the warmer regions and slowly progress.

2. How to naturally keep the cold out of the RV?

There are a few tricks, like keeping the bathroom door open at night or whenever possible, as the isolated room encloses the cold. An open door allows warmth to move into this space.

3. How to prevent the RV batteries from draining quickly?

Frequently clean and service your batteries and fill them with distilled water. Use the batteries kill switch or disconnect switch if they’re overloaded. Store your battery in a climate-controlled space.

4. Can draining batteries of RVs be caused by low temperatures?

Yes. The cold negatively impacts your RV’s batteries. Extreme cold can prevent lithium-ion batteries from charging.

5. Is an RV insulated enough for extreme weather conditions?

If you intend to travel to artic conditions, buy an RV built specifically to handle the weather. Generally, RVs aren’t isolated enough and need necessary upgrades.

6. How dangerous is cold weather for camping?

There’s a definite risk involved when camping in cold weather. So, stay vigilant and be aware of the dangers.

7. How does extreme cold affect your vehicles?

The excessive cold will crack your rubber tires, the engine’s belts, and hoses. Fluids, like brake fluids, engine oil, and transmission oil, solidify and won’t function. Additionally, road salting corrodes your tires.

8. Can RV propane lines freeze?

Yes, your RV’s propane line can freeze. Replace the old propane lines and don’t over fill or allow excess moisture.

9. What is it like living in RV in winter?

It’s tough. There are invaluable lessons to take away from living in an RV. Firstly, buy a heated RV water hose, as it’s worth the expense. Secondly, propane tanks empty very quickly.

Final Thoughts

Too cold for an RV is when the temperature drops below 20 – 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The consequences of the cold on your RV include burst water pipes, a frozen black water tank, engine failure, a drained battery, and mold.

There are measures to assist your RVing during the excessive cold. These include RV antifreeze, heat tape for your internal piping, portable heaters, heated RV water hose, and various anti-mold methods. Prepare in case of emergencies and have plenty of fresh water.

Resources

https://www.quora.com/How-cold-is-too-cold-for-an-RV

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm/hypothermia-and-frostbite.html

https://www.rvzone.com/best-rv-antifreezes/