How to winterise your Static Caravan
Owning a static caravan brings joy during the summer season, but as winter approaches, it’s essential to prepare your caravan properly to avoid potential damage from cold weather and neglect. Winterising your static caravan involves several steps to protect it from freezing temperatures, dampness, pests, and other winter-related risks. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your caravan stays in optimal condition during the colder months.
Drain Down Water Systems
- Importance: Prevents frozen pipes, which can lead to bursts and flooding.
- Open caravan drain-down taps.
- Flush toilet and run taps to empty pipes and tanks.
- Add anti-freeze to prevent residual water from freezing.
- Remove shower head and hose to prevent damage.
- Turn off water supply at the stopcock.
Disconnect Gas and Electricity
- Importance: Minimises risks of gas leaks and electrical hazards.
- Turn off piped-in gas supply or disconnect bottled gas.
- Switch off all electrical switches and unplug appliances.
- Turn off power at the mains.
Clean and Empty Caravan
- Importance: Reduces risk of unpleasant odours, mould, and pests.
- Deep clean interior to remove food and drink residues.
- Vacuum carpets, curtains, and upholstery thoroughly.
- Remove all perishable items and valuables.
- Ensure all surfaces are dry.
Keep Caravan Dry
- Importance: Prevents mould and mildew growth.
- Leave open containers of salt to absorb moisture.
- Ensure proper ventilation by leaving doors, windows, and vents open.
Prevent Insects and Vermin
- Importance: Protects against infestations.
- Seal any holes, gaps, or loose joints.
- Cover plug holes and keep lids down on toilets.
- Store all food securely.
Secure and Air Out
- Importance: Ensures safety and freshness.
- Lock all doors and windows securely.
- Leave internal doors, cupboards, and drawers open.
- Air out the caravan by opening doors and windows before closing up.
Exterior Maintenance
- Importance: Protects caravan from external elements.
- Clean gutters to prevent blockages and leaks.
- Store outdoor furniture to prevent damage.
- Check and seal any cracks or gaps in the exterior.
- Inspect for vermin-friendly entry points and address them.
Inform Park Management and Check Insurance
- Importance: Ensures park management is aware of your absence and verifies insurance coverage.
- Notify holiday park management of your departure and return plans.
- Review insurance policy to ensure coverage during winter months.
- Ensure you follow rules and advice provided by your park.
Additional Tips and Considerations:
Bedrooms, Kitchen, and Lounge Preparation:
- Remove valuables, bedding, and soft furnishings.
- Clean and empty fridge and cupboards.
- Store electronics and appliances securely.
Exterior Checks: - Ensure all drainage systems are clear.
- Block any potential entry points for pests.
- Assess the condition of steps, tires, and vegetation around the caravan.
Winterisation Checklist: - Turn off gas, disconnect electricity, and shut off water supply.
- Open drain-down taps and leave taps running.
- Use antifreeze in pipes and toilet cistern.
- Securely close all windows and doors.
Conclusion:
Properly winterising your static caravan is essential for protecting your investment and ensuring a hassle-free return to your holiday home in the spring. By following this comprehensive guide and checklist, you can safeguard your caravan against freezing temperatures, dampness, pests, and other winter-related risks, allowing you to enjoy peace of mind during the colder months.
For more information on the parks Static Home Sales partner with, click on the following links to take you to Caldecott Hall Country Park nr Great Yarmouth and North Denes Holiday Park on the seafront in Lowestoft.