parcfarm in snow

Vale Holiday Parks

Winter Drain Down and Periodic Safety Checks

How and why static caravans & holiday lodges are drained down.

During the drain down process, the mains water supply is disconnected, and all water in the holiday home's running fresh water and wastewater systems are flushed out and completely drained in accordance with manufacturer specifications, mainly using pressured air hoses to push any remaining water from the system's U-bends. The reason this is done is that any water left in the system over winter could expand when frozen and severely damage or burst the water pipes, this water then melts and leaks into your caravan, meaning it isn't just the water system that's damaged but also your holiday home itself. If this happens when the holiday home is still connected to the mains water supply then the damage can be much more severe, as large amounts of water will escape into the holiday home over a long period of time.
 

I want to use my caravan over the winter

If you want to use your caravan over the winter (for holiday purposes only and your Licence Agreement permits it) you should attempt a quick drain down yourself at the end of each visit by turning off the mains water at the stopcock, and then opening the caravan drain plugs, setting all taps to be fully open, flushing the toilet and draining all water from sinks and basins. You could even add salt to any last drops of water in toilets and traps to prevent freezing. Please note, that this procedure is done at your own risk and there is no guarantee that this will prevent your pipes from freezing. However, if you're leaving the caravan for more than just a few weeks we would reiterate our recommendation to have your static caravan fully drained down by us to ensure all water is fully removed from all equipment.


Precautions you should take when leaving your caravan for the last time this winter:

  • Arrange for your static caravan or holiday lodge to be professionally drained down.
  • Unplug any electrical devices including large white goods.
  • Remove any bedding, clothing or soft furnishings from the caravan or lodge completely or store them in a place where air can circulate to avoid damage from damp or mould.
  • Prop open all internal doors and cupboards, and slightly pull out all drawers to encourage air to circulate.
  • Remove or hide from view any valuable items such as Televisions or Hi-Fis. Then leave curtains open so that any would-be thieves can see such items have been removed.
  • Completely empty and clean any fridges or freezers and leave switched off with the door slightly ajar. Remember to drain any ice or chilled water dispensers built into your fridge.
  • Ensure external vents are clear of debris • Remove any foodstuffs which might attract vermin (mice etc).
  • Close and lock all external windows and doors.
  • Lubricate door hinges and window locks with a dab of petroleum jelly to ensure they open smoothly when you return.

By having your unit professionally drained down and taking all the other steps outlined above, you'll have more peace of mind that when you come to use your static caravan in the Spring it will be ready and waiting for you, with no damage and no damp. The process of reconnecting will be performed by the park at your request. It is worth reading your insurance policy to see how your insurer deals with burst pipes and escape of water claims over the winter months.