Description
As cold weather approaches, it is time to start thinking about winterizing your RV, or is it? If you aren't ready to say good-bye to the travel season and put your RV into hibernation but sunny Florida isn't calling yet either, then you might be getting into chilly territory. Since the majority of RVs do not come off the line equipped to handle extreme temperatures, there are some things that can be done to make any unit more capable of handling cold weather.
The first thing to confirm is what’s insulated and what is not. Quite often the tanks and plumbing will be totally exposed or have sub-par insulation. This can lead to freezing and bursting within your water system when approaching wintery conditions. To keep the liquids in your tanks from freezing and continuing optimal flow, warmth is key. One convenient way of doing this is by adding heating pads to the mix.
Take for example this RV Tank Heater Pad from RecPro. The peel and stick adhesive and slim profile can be added to the outside of most tanks and used with various set-ups. When properly installed, it will provide consistent and efficient protection for up to a 50-gallon holding tank. This particular product can also be used for your RV's steps. It is thermostatically controlled and when your holding tank temperature reaches 45°F (5°C), it will turn on and off when it reaches 68°F (20°C). It will continue to cycle, preventing freezing as long as it is turned on and is supplied with electrical power.
If you want to take advantage of late fall or even winter with a crackling campfire and a woodsy walk in the first flurries, you might need to consider if your unit is equipped to handle this time of year. And if not, then it might be time to add a heating pad or two to keep things flowing.
Details:
- Overall Dimensions: 7 1/4" W x 25" L
- Pad Thickness: 3.0 mm
- Lead Wire: 36"
- Up to 50-Gallon
- Optional Toggle Switch
- For Steps or Tanks (Fresh, Gray Water, or Holding)
Technical Data:
- Voltage: 12V DC
- Wattage: 78 Watts
- Amp draw: 5.8 Amps