Winterizing Your Tiny Home

How to Properly Winterize a Park Model RV Tiny Home

Park Model RV Tiny Homes are well built, but winter in the Pacific Northwest demands a little extra preparation. These homes typically come standard with R-11 insulation in the walls and floor and R-21 in the ceiling. That insulation level works well for three season use, but true winter comfort and protection comes from how the home is set up, sealed, and maintained.

Below is a straightforward breakdown of everything that matters when winterizing a Park Model RV Tiny Home for Northwest winters.

Start With the Right Expectations on Insulation

The insulation package in a park model cannot be upgraded after the home is built. That means winter performance relies less on adding insulation and more on managing airflow, moisture, plumbing protection, and heat retention.

The goal is simple: keep cold air out, keep heat in, and keep water systems from freezing.

Skirting Is One of the Most Important Upgrades

Because park models sit off the ground, cold air moving underneath the home is one of the biggest causes of frozen pipes and cold floors.

Installing skirting around the entire perimeter blocks wind and traps warmer air underneath the home. This protects plumbing and improves interior comfort.

Skirting options include:

• Insulated vinyl skirting systems

• Rigid foam board panels cut to fit

• Custom metal or wood skirting

• Temporary solutions like plywood or foam board for seasonal use

The tighter the skirting and the fewer gaps at ground level, the better the protection.

Protecting the Water Supply and Plumbing

Water systems are the most vulnerable part of any tiny home in winter.

For the main water connection:

• Use a heated or insulated RV water hose

• Insulate and protect the exterior spigot

• Never leave exposed hoses unprotected in freezing weather

For interior plumbing:

• Keep interior temperatures above 50 degrees at all times

• Open cabinet doors under sinks during cold snaps

• Insulate any accessible pipes

• Use heat tape on vulnerable pipe sections if needed

For sewer connections:

• Use a rigid sewer pipe when possible

• Maintain proper slope so liquids fully drain

• Insulate exposed sections

• Avoid leaving sewer valves open constantly

If the home will be unused during winter, drains, traps, and washing machines should be treated with RV antifreeze to prevent freeze damage.

Water Heaters Need Special Attention

Electric tank water heaters are generally safe as long as the interior stays heated.

Tankless water heaters require extra care. Many have built in freeze protection, but only if the unit has power. If the home will be vacant or unheated, tankless systems should be properly drained and winterized according to manufacturer instructions.

This is one area where professional help can be worth it if you are unsure.

Heating the Home Consistently Matters More Than Cranking Heat

Park models do best with steady, consistent heat rather than big temperature swings.

Best practices include:

• Keeping the thermostat set above 50 degrees at all times

• Using the primary heating system as intended

• Supplementing with electric space heaters if needed

• Running ceiling fans in reverse to circulate warm air

• Adding rugs to improve floor comfort

If electric heat is your primary source, have a backup plan in case of power outages.

Appliances and Utilities in Winter

Washers need protection if the home will be unused. Running RV antifreeze through the washer pump prevents freeze damage.

Dryers and ovens do not require winterization but exterior vents should be checked and sealed against drafts.

Propane systems should be checked before winter. Keep tanks filled, protect regulators from ice, and monitor usage since winter consumption increases.

Electrical connections should be inspected for moisture protection and load capacity, especially when using heated hoses, heat tape, and space heaters.

Moisture Control Is a Big Deal in the Northwest

Cold weather plus moisture leads to condensation and mold if unmanaged.

Helpful steps include:

• Using bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans

• Running a small dehumidifier

• Avoiding unvented heaters indoors

• Wiping down window condensation

• Leaving airflow space behind furniture

A dry interior actually feels warmer and is healthier long term.

Exterior Prep and Weather Protection

Before winter arrives:

• Inspect the roof and seal any potential leaks

• Clean gutters and direct water away from the home

• Trim overhanging branches

• Secure outdoor items against wind

• Monitor roof snow load during heavy storms

These steps protect the structure and prevent preventable damage.

Pest Prevention Is Part of Winterizing

Rodents look for warmth in winter.

Seal all exterior penetrations, especially around plumbing and wiring. Store food in sealed containers and inspect the skirting regularly for gaps. A few preventative steps now can save a lot of frustration later.

DIY vs Professional Help

Many winterizing steps are easy DIY projects using off the shelf products like:

• Heated water hoses

• Heat tape

• Pipe insulation

• Window insulation kits

• Skirting panels

• Dehumidifiers

Professional help is worth considering for:

• Full plumbing winterization

• Tankless water heater draining

• Electrical upgrades

• Furnace servicing

• Custom skirting installations

Final Thoughts

Park Model RV Tiny Homes can absolutely be comfortable and reliable through Northwest winters when set up correctly. The key is understanding that winter performance is less about adding insulation and more about managing airflow, moisture, plumbing, and consistent heat.

With proper skirting, protected utilities, steady heating, and moisture control, a park model can perform extremely well even in cold, wet conditions.

Done right, winterizing is not complicated. It just needs to be intentional.