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How do I winterize my campervan, mid 2023?

This guide applies to Vancraft vans from mid-2023 to 2024.

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. Turn off the DC-DC charge breaker (150 amp) and the Inverter/Inverter charger breaker (200 amp) in the kitchen base cabinet.
  2. Turn off the 40 amp breaker in the kitchen base cabinet if stored indoors (leave it on if stored outdoors, as the sun will keep the battery topped off).
  3. Turn off the load output analog switch (the red battery switch in the utility bay next to the solar controller). (Prop the fridge lid open to prevent mildew).
  4. If you have an air conditioner, long-press the power button until the blue light turns off (if the blue light is on, it is in standby mode).
  5. Disconnect the starter battery negative lead (see the Mercedes-Benz owner’s manual).
  6. Lithium batteries: Long-press the battery control screen until it powers off (this is shelf storage mode for batteries).
  7. AGM batteries: These do not have a “shelf mode” and must be charged periodically. If stored outdoors, the solar should keep them topped off.
  8. Optional: Connect a trickle charger to the house batteries.
  9. Optional: Connect a trickle charger to the starter battery.

Verification: At this point, the batteries should have no draw on them. Verify this using the battery monitor screen. 


Prepare Plumbing for storage:

  1. Turn the dial to winterize.
  2. Pressurize the system and remove all water from the optional indoor shower, sink, and outdoor shower system.
  3. Drain all holding tanks, including the hot water tank, and leave the valves open.
  4. Leave all fixtures in the Open/On position (sink, shower).
  5. In extreme circumstances, fill with anti-freeze.
  6. In extreme circumstances, remove the aerator from the faucet.

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


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

Optional: Use a car cover.