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Winterization Guide (Late 2024-2025)

This guide applies to all 2025 model year VanCraft vans and 2024 model vans with a Renogy Core One controller. 

You’re in the right place if your van has a “Winterize” valve in the rear of the utility box under the bed, a Schrader valve to pressurize your system with air, and is older than 2025.

Please watch this winterization video:

 

Prepare Electrical for Storage

  1. Refrigerator:
    • Turn off the refrigerator.
    • For Dometic models, use the off button on the interior.
    • For Whynter models, unplug from the side.
    • Leave the refrigerator door ajar.
  2. Power Panel Breakers:
    • Turn off the DC-DC charge breaker (150 amp).
    • Turn off the Inverter/Inverter Charger breaker (200 amp).
    • 40 Amp Breaker:
      • Turn off if storing indoors.
      • Leave on if storing outdoors (sun will maintain battery charge).
  3. Load Output Analog Switch: Turn off the red battery switch located in the utility bay next to the solar controller.
  4. Air Conditioner (if applicable): Long press the power button until the blue light turns off (a blue light indicates standby mode).
  5. Roof Aux Switch: Ensure this switch is off.
  6. Starter Battery: Disconnect the negative lead (refer to your Mercedes owner's manual).
  7. Optional Trickle Chargers:
    • Connect a trickle charger to the power panel.
    • Connect a trickle charger to the starter battery.

Verification: At this point, the batteries should have no draw. Verify this using the touchscreen Renogy Core One display.


Prepare Plumbing

  1. Dial Setting: Turn the dial to the "winterize" position.
  2. Water Removal: Pressurize the system and remove all water from the indoor shower, sink, and outdoor shower system.
  3. Drain Holding Tanks: Drain all holding tanks, including the hot water tank, and leave the valves open.

    water heater 2025
    Hot water tank, twist black knob counter clockwise until it clicks.
  4. Fixture Position: Leave all fixtures (sink, shower) in the open/on position.
  5. Extreme Circumstances (Optional):
    • Fill the system with anti-freeze.(1/4 id nylon tube)
    • Remove the aerator from the faucet.

Verification: At this point, there should be no water in the van, and all fixtures should be open.


Last Check: Ensure all roof vents, windows, and doors are shut tight.

Optional: Use a car cover.