Below zero


What actually happens to the camper when the outside temperature is low or even drops below zero?

A number of things can happen — some innocent, some potentially problematic.


Here are the main things to look out for:


Freezing of water pipes and tanks.

The fresh water tank, the grey water tank (water from the shower, sink or basin) and the black water tank (toilet) can freeze if they are not insulated or heated. Water pipes can burst if the water in them freezes and expands.

The boiler and pump can also be damaged.

Possible solutions:

  • Use antifreeze (special RV antifreeze, not automotive antifreeze).
  • Insulate pipes or use heating tapes.
  • Turn on the heating in the camper, also near pipes.
  • Empty the tanks when you are not using the camper. The combi boiler automatically drains the water from the boiler when the temperature approaches the zero degree limit.


Condensation and mold formation

When it is cold, the humidity inside the camper increases (from breathing, cooking, etc.), and this can condense on windows, walls and ceilings.

Possible solutions:

  • Ventilate well, even if it's cold.
  • Use a dehumidifier or moisture absorbers.
  • Insulate cold surfaces (such as windows) with thermal foil. For example, I use a special one from IsoLux including sunshade. This is really great! I have no condensation on the windows in the morning.


Loss of energy and heat

Campers are often less well insulated than houses, so they lose heat quickly.

Possible solutions:

  • Use insulating window coverings or thermal curtains.
  • Place rugs on the floor.
  • Make sure that gaps are properly sealed.


Problems with gas bottles

Butane does not work well at temperatures below 0°C — it will no longer evaporate properly.

Possible solution:

  • Use propane instead of butane, as it evaporates down to about -40°C.


Moisture in batteries and electronics

Cold temperatures can reduce the performance of your batteries, especially lithium batteries. These are often not allowed to be charged below 0°C.

Possible solutions:

  • Make sure batteries are kept in a warm place.
  • Use a battery with a heater (many lithium batteries have this built in).
  • Do you want to winter in the camper or just get through a few cold nights? That also makes a difference in how well you have to prepare.


Grip on the road

When cold, the rubber in tires becomes harder, which leads to less grip — especially on wet or slippery roads.


Difference per tire type:

Summer tires
  • At temperatures below ~7°C they lose a lot of grip.
  • The rubber becomes stiff, which results in poorer road holding and longer braking distances.
  • Absolutely unsuitable for snow or ice.


Winter tires
  • Made of softer rubber that remains flexible at low temperatures.
  • Have a special profile for better grip on snow, ice and wet roads.
  • Work best at temperatures below 7°C.


4-season tires

  • A compromise between summer and winter tires.
  • Reasonable grip in cold conditions, but not as good as real winter tires in extreme conditions.