Georgia's winters are mild compared to northern states, but they're not warm enough to ignore winterization entirely. Temperatures dip below freezing multiple times each winter, and unprotected water systems can crack. For snowbirds heading south or RV owners parking for winter, finding storage with shore power AND winterization services simplifies the seasonal transition.

Atlanta Metro winter:

• Average January low: 33°F
• Freezing nights: 40-50 per winter
• Occasional hard freezes: Single digits possible
• Freeze duration: Usually brief (overnight)

Georgia winters typically don't require:

• Full "northern" winterization
• Continuous freeze protection
• Extreme cold weather measures

Georgia winters DO require:

• Draining water systems when not in use
• Protection during freeze events
• Attention to extended cold snaps

Because Georgia doesn't have severe winters, some owners skip winterization—and pay the price:

• A single hard freeze can crack pipes
• Water heaters and pumps are vulnerable
• Repairs cost $500-2,000+

With shore power, you can:

• Keep RV thermostat at low setting (40-45°F)
• Prevent freeze damage automatically
• No winterization chemicals needed

Cost consideration: Electric heating isn't cheap—may cost $100-200/month in winter

Winter storage without shore power:

• Batteries discharge over cold months
• Cold accelerates discharge
• Spring may require jump start or replacement

With shore power:

• Battery maintainer keeps charge
• Systems stay healthy
• Ready when spring arrives

Some RV owners use heat tape on pipes:

• Requires shore power
• Provides targeted freeze protection
• Lower cost than heating entire RV

Basic winterization:

• Drain all water lines
• Drain water heater
• Drain holding tanks
• Blow out residual water
• Add RV antifreeze to P-traps

Comprehensive winterization:

• All basic steps plus
• Pump antifreeze through entire system
• Treat holding tanks
• Check seals and caulking
• Battery maintenance/disconnect
• Cover tires

RV dealerships:

• Full service departments
• Know what they're doing
• Schedule in advance (busy season)

Mobile RV service:

• Come to your storage facility
• Convenient if available
• Quality varies

RV storage facilities with services:

• Some offer on-site or coordinated winterization
• Convenient one-stop solution
• Less common

DIY:

• Kits available at RV stores
• Save money if comfortable
• Takes 1-3 hours

Georgia recommendation: Complete by early December

Why: First freezes typically November-December. Don't wait for a freeze warning.

Some facilities offer shore power AND coordinate winterization:

• Premium facilities may have partnerships
• RV dealership storage sometimes includes both
• Ask specifically about this combination

Availability: Limited in Atlanta Metro

More common approach:

• Store at facility with electrical hookups
• Hire mobile service for winterization
• Or DIY winterization

How it works:

1. Schedule winterization before storing
2. Have service come to your home or facility
3. Store with shore power for battery maintenance

A few facilities offer comprehensive service:

• Accept RV, handle everything
• Winterize, store, de-winterize in spring
• Premium pricing for convenience

Best for: Hands-off owners who value convenience

Monthly rate with electrical: $150-300/month

Basic winterization: $100-175

Comprehensive winterization: $150-250

Spring de-winterization: $75-150

Example: November-March (5 months)

| Component | Cost | |-----------|------| | Storage with power | $175/mo × 5 = $875 | | Winterization | $150 | | De-winterization | $100 | | Total | $1,125 |

Compare to freeze damage repair: $500-2,000+

If you prefer handling it yourself:

1. Drain fresh water tank
2. Drain water heater (after cooling; use bypass if equipped)
3. Open all faucets (hot and cold)
4. Flush toilet (hold handle down)
5. Drain holding tanks
6. Blow out lines (compressed air)
7. Add RV antifreeze to P-traps and toilet bowl

• Compressed air (or pump-through antifreeze kit)
• 2-3 gallons RV antifreeze (NOT automotive)
• Basic tools for water heater access

45 minutes to 2 hours depending on experience and RV complexity

Oxford RV Storage supports winter storage needs:

Shore power:

• Electrical hookups for battery maintenance
• Allows winter heating if desired
• 30A service available

Winterization coordination:

• Space for mobile service access
• Can coordinate with area RV service providers
• DIY winterization supported

Storage features:

• Covered options for additional protection
• Gated security year-round
• Accessible during winter months

For snowbirds and winter storage customers, Oxford provides the electrical hookup capability that makes Georgia winter storage practical, with flexibility to arrange winterization through your preferred service provider.