draining down your caravan

Tips To Protect Your Static Caravan This Winter

As autumn comes to a close we look ahead to winter. In this blog we will share some tips for preparing your static caravan for the cold.

Previously, owners, us included, have had several weeks to plan our winter drain down but with impending lockdown this year might be a bit of a rush.

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Although most modern static caravans are designed to ensure comfort, there is always that concern when winter rolls round that it can cause issues due to the cold. With winter approaching, it means a lot of cold and wet weather is on its way. You need to start preparing your static caravan now to get it winter-ready. Here are tips to ensure your static caravan is well-prepared for this winter, whether you are using it or not.

Top tips if you are using your static caravan this winter

As temperatures drop, most modern static caravans will cope well. Caravans built in the past ten years are usually fitted with double glazing and insulation. The more luxury end will have a wet cental heating system, gas or electric fire and possibly underfloor heating. Try not to block any radiators as this can prevent the heat from flowing through the caravan. 
You can make your caravan even warmer by using rugs and carpets.

Prevent cold from creeping in by putting thicker lined, thermal curtains up at the windows. Remember to use thick blankets and duvets to keep the warm in bed. A winter tog duvet is a good choice in the depths of winter, as we discovered with our static in the Lake District.
If you caravan is not quite so modern you can improve the heating with a portable heater or oil filled radiator.

The floor of a caravan can allow the cold in as they are close to the ground. It may be worth thinking about aftermarket underfloor heating. On older caravans you could upgrade your windows and doors and reduce draughts by adding more insulation. 

Top tips if you are not using your caravan this winter

To avoid flooding in your static caravan this winter make sure you drain it down properly. Flooding can occur due to storm damage, old piping or if the caravan is not drained down. The later is the most common cause of water damage in winter. By not draining down the toilet, water pipes and shower you risk damage from burst pipes if they freeze. You may not be covered by your insurance for this damage. It’s always best to check your static caravan insurance UK to see if you will be covered should the worst happen. 

Follow the steps below to drain down your caravan:

• Lift the lid off the toilet cistern and flush the toilet. As it begins to refill, pour the antifreeze in. You’ll need about three-quarters of water and one-quarter of antifreeze.

• Remember to remove the shower hose and shower head to prevent these from being damaged if water inside freezes. 

• Turn off the water supply from the drain down valve. Turn the taps on and let any water run through until there is none left in the pipes. Leave all the taps in the open position so frozen water can expand and not cause damage.

To prevent damp from occurring inside the caravan, remove curtains and nets to avoid mildew. Make sure sofa cushions and mattresses are pulled away from exterior walls. It is best to pile them together in the centre of the room and off the floor.

Take valuables with you and leave any blinds open to show there is nothing inside. Don’t leave any unopened food behind as this will attract mice and rodents. Try to leave cupboards and wardrobes open and leave bedroom doors ajar to allow air to flow through. 

Remember to block any gaps that rodents and insects may use to get into the caravan and ensure gutters and downpipes are in good condition. Make sure there are no leaks or loose joints in the roof, sides, windows and skylights.

These are a few ways you can protect your static caravan this winter. It’s important to take steps now to prevent any problems from occurring.