Preventing damage to touring caravans in cold weather

Winter is usually a quiet time for touring caravan owners. While some people may continue to venture out with their caravan come rain or snow, many choose to wait until the spring season begins.

Whether your caravan is tucked up in storage or you’re still planning trips away, colder weather presents many risks to your beloved caravan. Here are some of the most common winter concerns and how to protect your touring caravan against them.

Preventing caravan water system problems

Just like a brick-and-mortar home, the water systems of a touring caravan can be very susceptible to colder temperatures. Water left in the system while the caravan is out of use can freeze, expand, and cause pipes, taps, or the water heater to burst, and if the water pump freezes, it can crack.

Before putting your touring caravan into storage for the off-season, empty all water tanks, pipes, and the boiler to prevent freezing and bursting. You may be able to use non-toxic antifreeze in the water system instead of draining the water, but check whether this is recommended or advised against by the manufacturer.

Caravan damp prevention

Cold weather combined with low ventilation can lead to moisture buildup, causing mould and mildew to grow on walls, upholstery, and woodwork.

Whether your caravan is in storage or in use, keep moisture absorbers and dehumidifiers inside, and leave cupboards and doors open slightly to improve air circulation. Keeping soft furnishings and bedding stored in a dry, ventilated space when not in use will also help prevent condensation, damp, and mould. It’s beneficial to invest in thermal blinds or insulated window covers to help maintain a steady interior temperature, and you should consider running a low-wattage heater on a timer if the ambient temperature is particularly low.

Protecting your caravan’s battery and electrical systems

Cold temperatures can significantly reduce battery capacity, leading to a dead leisure battery if not regularly charged. While your caravan is not in use, remove the leisure battery and store it in a warm, dry place, charging it periodically.

If your caravan has any exposed electrical wiring, disconnect and insulate the wires before storing your caravan away. This will help prevent rust and other damage to the electrical systems.

Preventing damage to caravan tyres

If your caravan is in storage, it’s advisable to move the caravan slightly every few weeks to prevent the tyres from sitting in one position for too long. This is because prolonged stationary storage can cause deformation in the tyres.

For those who are still heading out on the roads, be aware that colder weather can cause a decrease in tyre pressure (just like with motor vehicles), so regularly check the caravan’s tyre pressure and inflate whenever necessary. Check your caravan’s manual to ensure you’re inflating the tyres to the correct pressure as this will avoid flat spots.

Protecting your caravan’s bodywork

Freezing temperatures can cause the rubber seals around windows and doors to crack, and ice and snow present a risk of the protective coatings wearing away.

The best ways to prevent damage to your caravan’s bodywork in cold weather are to cover any vents with breathable covers to reduce moisture buildup, and apply a protective wax coat to the bodywork to shield against frost. Check for any cracks or gaps where cold air or moisture could enter, and seal these gaps before the temperatures get too low.

If you’re storing your caravan out in the open, like on a driveway or in an open air storage facility, invest in a breathable winter caravan cover to protect against snow, ice, and debris. And, of course, ensure your caravan is suitably secured with locks on the doors, windows, and hitch to prevent theft.

The best protection is a comprehensive insurance policy

At Compass, our touring caravan insurance covers damage caused by harsh frost, so you can relax over the winter period knowing the cover of your caravan is in good hands. Get a quote today!