Embracing Winter in an RV: Our First-Hand Experience and Essential Tips

**Introduction**

As we embarked on our full-time RV adventure in May 2023, winter in Park City, Utah, presented a new set of challenges. For those unfamiliar, Park City is known for its significant seasonal weather variations. During winter, the average snowfall peaks at about 12 inches around late December, with the snowy period extending from late September to late May. The coldest days see temperatures dipping as low as 12°F in January, making it imperative for RV dwellers like us to prepare meticulously for these conditions [Weather Spark Source], [OnTheSnow Source], [Weather Spark Source].

Elevated at over 7,000 feet, Park City's high altitude contributes to its colder temperatures and substantial snowfall, averaging around 267 inches annually. This environment demands not just a love for the serene, snow-covered landscapes but also a commitment to ensuring your RV can withstand the harsh winter elements [OnTheSnow Source].

In this post, we'll dive into the specific steps and products that have helped us navigate our first winter here, providing comfort and security in our RV home amidst the snowy mountains of Utah.

**Insulating Your RV** 

Insulating your RV is crucial for winter living, especially in a place with harsh winter conditions like Park City, Utah. Proper insulation not only keeps you warm but also helps in reducing heating costs. Here’s how we did it and what we recommend:

• Skirting: Skirting your RV is the first line of defense against cold air. It prevents the underbelly of your RV from being exposed to freezing temperatures. We initially used EZ Snap skirting, which is easy to install and provides excellent insulation. However, for a more budget-friendly option, consider pairing EZ Snap fasteners with used billboard vinyl. This DIY approach requires more effort but can be just as effective. Remember to measure your RV accurately and leave some room for ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.


• Recommended product: EZ Snap RV Skirting


• Window Insulation: Windows are significant sources of heat loss, especially in an RV. There are a couple of effective methods we've explored:


• Reflectix Insulation: This winter, we chose to use Reflectix-type insulation, which we found to be highly effective. We cut the material to fit each window and secured it with tape. This method not only reduces heat transfer significantly but is also customizable to each window's size. It's a simple and efficient solution that can be easily removed and stored after the winter season.


• Recommended product: Reflectix Insulation

Plastic Wrap Insulation: For next year, we are considering using a plastic window insulation kit as an additional measure. This kit typically includes clear plastic sheets that adhere to the window frames, creating an air-tight seal. It's a great option for reducing condensation and further minimizing heat loss.

• Recommended product: Frost King Plastic Insulation Kit

Wet Bay Insulation: Protecting the wet bay from freezing is critical to prevent any water system issues. We insulated our wet bay, ensuring that pipes and water tanks are safeguarded against the freezing temperatures. For this, using foam board insulation or even fiberglass insulation rolls can be effective. Make sure to cover all exposed piping and tanks thoroughly.

Door Insulation: Insulating your RV's door is another critical step. Cold drafts can easily seep in through doors, so we used a specific insulation product that adheres to the door, providing an extra barrier against the cold. This product is simple to apply and has made a noticeable difference in keeping our RV warm. We like this one over others because the opening is slightly off center (reversible) making it just a bit easier to get in and out. 

• Recommended product: Insulated RV Door Cover
  

Additional Tips: When insulating, pay attention to any areas where pipes enter or exit the RV, as these are common spots for cold air ingress. Use weatherstripping around doors and slide-outs to prevent drafts. For an added layer of insulation, consider using thermal curtains inside your RV.

**Heating Solutions** 

Ensuring your RV stays warm during the winter months is essential, and a reliable heating strategy often involves a combination of propane and electric heat sources. Here’s how we manage our heating:

• Propane Heating: Propane is a popular choice for RVers due to its efficiency and availability. However, monitoring your propane levels is crucial, especially in colder regions where you'll use more. 


• Propane Monitor: To keep a constant check on our propane levels, we use a propane monitor that connects to our phone via Bluetooth. This tool provides peace of mind and ensures we never unexpectedly run out of propane.


• Recommended product: Mopeka Propane Tank Gauge Sensor


• Propane Tank System: In addition to monitoring our propane levels, we've also implemented a system that ensures a steady supply of propane even in freezing temperatures. This setup, featured in our detailed post "Winter RVing: Keeping the Heat Steady with Propane", has been invaluable for maintaining consistent heating. The blog post covers the specific product we use and how it has significantly improved our winter RVing experience.


• Recommended product: Dual Propane Tank Connector


• Supplementing with Electric Heaters: While propane is effective, supplementing with electric heaters ensures a constant source of heat. We use an oil-filled radiant heater and a mini electric fireplace for additional warmth. 


• Oil-Filled Radiant Heater: Ideal for maintaining a steady temperature, it's energy-efficient and safe.


• Recommended product: Oil-Filled Radiant Heater


• Mini Electric Fireplace: Adds ambiance and warmth, and can be moved around as needed.


• Recommended product: Electric Fireplace Stove


• Heated Mattress Pad: While not technically a 'heater', our heated mattress pad has become an indispensable part of our winter RV setup. It's our little slice of heaven, especially at bedtime, after a shower, or first thing in the chilly morning. We don't usually leave it on all night, instead opting to turn it on just long enough to dispel the cold and create a snug, welcoming bed. What makes it even more convenient is its dual-control feature, allowing each of us to customize our side of the bed to our preferred temperature.


• Recommended product: Heated Mattress Pad


• Power Management: Managing power usage is key when running multiple electric heaters. We use a 10-gauge heavy-duty extension cord to safely connect additional heaters, making sure to switch off one when using high-power appliances like the microwave.


• Recommended product: 10-Gauge Heavy-Duty Extension Cord

**Plumbing Protection** 

Ensuring your RV's plumbing system is well-protected against the cold is crucial for a trouble-free winter experience. Here's how we safeguard our plumbing:

• Heated Water Hose: A heated water hose is essential to prevent your water supply from freezing. We use the Camco heated hose as our primary. We've heard great things about the Pirit heated hose so went ahead and purchasd it as a backup. This redundancy is key in winter RVing, ensuring continuous access to water even in freezing temperatures.


• Recommended Products
• Camco Heated Hose
• Pirit Heated Hose


• Sewer Hose Insulation: Protecting your sewer hose from freezing is just as important. We found a unique solution by insulating our sewer hose with a cotton pipe wrap and then covering it with a 6" flexible aluminum duct. This added layer of protection helps maintain the flow and prevents any potential freezing issues.


• Recommended Products: 
• Cotton Pipe Wrap
• Flexibile Aluminum Duct


• Additional Plumbing Tips:


• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation to cover any exposed plumbing. This is an easy and effective way to prevent freezing.
• Faucet Drip: On extremely cold nights, consider allowing faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving, which helps prevent freezing. (Note: There is some controversy around this practice so please do some additional research before deciding if this practice is right for you.)

**Weatherproofing and Winter RV Maintenance**

Maintaining and weatherproofing your RV for winter conditions is essential to ensure a comfortable and damage-free experience. Here’s a combined and expanded guide on how to keep your RV in top condition during the colder months: 

• Roof Maintenance:
• Snow Removal: Regularly check your roof for snow accumulation. A lightweight roof rake or broom can be used to gently remove snow, preventing excess weight and potential damage. 
• Sealant Inspection: Inspect the roof sealant for any cracks or wear. Reapply sealant as needed to prevent water damage. 


• Humidity Control:
• Dehumidifiers: Use a dehumidifier to control moisture levels inside your RV, preventing mold and mildew growth. We have found our small, portable dehumidifier to be mostly effective for this purpose but then again, we're in a fairly dry climate (Utah). A larger household dehumidifier may be necessary depending on your location, the size of your RV, number of occupants, etc. 
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation, especially during cooking or showering, to reduce condensation.


• Emergency Supplies:
• Repair Kit: Keep a stock of essential RV repair supplies such as extra sealant, duct tape, and replacement fuses. 
• Know Your Furnace: Don't wait until the furnace goes out before you get familiar with it. Study the owners manual for your particular model and be prepared for troubleshooting future issues. 
• Heating Backup: Have a backup plan for heating, such as extra blankets, portable heaters, or additional propane tanks. 


• Regular Inspections:
• Tire Checks: Monitor tire pressure and condition, as cold weather can affect tire performance. 
• Battery Maintenance: Cold weather can drain batteries faster. Regularly check and maintain your RV’s battery. 


• Additional Tips:
• Online Community: Consider joining Facebook groups servicing full time RV'ers or Winter RV'ing. 
• Slide-Outs: Lubricate slide-out mechanisms and apply RV slide-out rubber seal conditioner to prevent them from sticking or freezing. 
• Awning Care: Retract awnings to prevent snow accumulation and potential damage. By following these steps, you can ensure your RV withstands the harsh winter conditions, keeping you safe and comfortable throughout the season. 

**Conclusion**

As we wrap up this comprehensive guide on winter RV living, it’s clear that the key to a comfortable and enjoyable experience lies in meticulous preparation and regular maintenance. From insulating your RV with materials like EZ Snap skirting and Reflectix, to ensuring a steady supply of heat with propane and electric heaters, each step plays a crucial role in creating a warm and secure winter haven.

We delved into the importance of plumbing protection, utilizing tools like heated hoses and innovative solutions for sewer hose insulation. Weatherproofing and regular maintenance checks, including roof care and humidity control, are indispensable for the longevity and comfort of your RV.

This journey into winter RV living, especially in the challenging conditions of Park City, Utah, has been an enlightening one. By sharing our experiences and the specific products that have made our lives easier, our hope is to inspire and equip you for your own winter RV adventures.

Remember, with the right preparation and a proactive approach to maintenance, winter in an RV can be not just a season of survival, but one of serene beauty and cozy tranquility. Embrace the adventure and enjoy the unique experiences that winter RVing has to offer!