How to Winterize Your Car, Camper/RV, and ADU in the Columbia Gorge (Before the Cold Hits)
Spring has come and gone, summer was here in a flash, and it feels like fall didn’t even get a chance to set in. We’re back in Winter here in the Gorge. It’s a time to put those studs on, purge your lines, and cover those hose bibs!
Winter in the Columbia Gorge is no joke. Between freezing nights, sideways rain, and ice forming when you least expect it, it’s important to prepare anything you live in, drive, or sleep inside for colder weather — especially if it’s parked outside. Whether you're winterizing your daily driver, a camper parked for storage, or an ADU that gets used occasionally, a little preparation now can save you major headaches (and major repair bills) later.
Winterizing Your Car
Even if your vehicle is just sitting in the driveway, cold weather puts extra stress on it. Here’s what to tackle:
1. Check Your Battery
Cold weather reduces battery output. If starting your vehicle has been just a little slow, now’s the time to test or replace your battery before it dies on a freezing morning.
2. Top Off Fluids
Coolant/antifreeze (critical)
Windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temps
Engine oil (consider a cold-weather-weight oil if your car struggles to start)
3. Inspect Tires
Tires lose about 1 PSI for every 10°F drop in temperature. Low pressure = bad traction on icy roads.
If you live on a hill or drive east through the Gorge regularly, consider true winter tires, not just all-seasons.
4. Keep an Emergency Winter Kit
Even if you’re not planning to drive in bad weather:
Blanket
Gloves
Flashlight
Traction sand or cat litter
Ice scraper
Jumper cables or a lithium jump kit
Winterizing Your RV / Camper
RVs and campers are especially vulnerable to freezing damage because of exposed plumbing. A single burst line can cause thousands of dollars in repair costs.
1. Drain and Protect the Plumbing
Drain the freshwater tank, water heater, and holding tanks.
Pump RV-safe antifreeze through the lines until it runs pink from every faucet.
Do not use automotive antifreeze. Different chemicals — one is safe for plumbing, one is not.
2. Seal Drafts and Vents
Use foam vent covers, window shrink film, and weatherstripping around the door. The smallest gaps make the biggest difference in comfort.
3. Maintain the Roof and Seams
Check roof caulking and window seals before moisture finds a way in. Winter leaks lead directly to hidden mold. Tarp up now to avoid doing it in a snow storm!
4. Store Smart
If parked long-term, consider:
A breathable RV cover (not a tarp — they trap moisture)
Blocking the tires off the wet ground
Rodent prevention around wiring and insulation
Winterizing an ADU (Or Any Guest Space That Only Gets Used Occasionally)
ADUs are common in the Gorge, but many aren’t insulated or heated like a full-time home. If they’re used as guest suites, studios, or part-time living spaces, winterization is crucial.
1. Prevent Frozen Pipes
If the ADU has a bathroom or sink, don’t let it sit unheated during freezing weather.
Best options:
Keep a small space heater on a thermostat, keep the cabinets open so the warm air stays around the pipes
Insulate exposed pipes, keep pipes running when you can! Even just a drip
Heat tape on vulnerable runs
2. Add Simple Weather Barriers
Door sweeps
Window insulation kits
Draft stoppers
Heavy curtains (huge impact for the cost)
3. Address Moisture Right Away
Cold buildings trap moisture. Use:
A small dehumidifier
Good bathroom ventilation
A “no drying laundry indoors” rule (unless vented)
Need Help Winterizing?
If you'd like a handyman to take care of winterizing your RV, camper, ADU, or home, we can help. We service the entire Columbia Gorge:
Winterize RV systems
Install weatherstripping and insulation upgrades
Protect pipes from freezing
Evaluate moisture and heat loss issues
Prepare seasonal guest spaces
Book or ask a quick question:
info@thehoodriverhandyman.com