How to Winterize Your RV: A Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out Water Lines with Air
Winterizing your RV is crucial for protecting it from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures. One of the most effective methods for winterizing your RV’s plumbing system is to blow out the water lines with compressed air. This removes the majority of the water, preventing pipes from bursting and components from cracking when water freezes and expands. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, step-by-step, ensuring your RV’s water system is protected all winter long.
Why Blow Out RV Water Lines?
Leaving water in your RV’s plumbing system during freezing weather can lead to significant damage. Water expands when it freezes, putting immense pressure on pipes, fittings, water pumps, water heaters, and other components. This can result in:
* **Burst pipes:** The most common and often most expensive problem. Burst pipes require replacement, which can be labor-intensive and costly.
* **Cracked fittings:** Even small cracks can lead to leaks when you de-winterize in the spring.
* **Damaged water pump:** The pump’s housing can crack, or internal components can be damaged by ice.
* **Water heater damage:** The water heater tank can crack or rupture, requiring replacement.
* **Appliance damage:** Ice can damage washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers if your RV is equipped with them.
Blowing out the water lines with air is a simple and cost-effective way to prevent these problems. It removes most of the water, leaving minimal residual moisture that is unlikely to cause damage.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
* **Air compressor:** A small to medium-sized air compressor is sufficient. You’ll need one that can deliver at least 30 PSI (pounds per square inch). A pancake compressor or a small portable compressor will usually do the job. Make sure the compressor is in good working order and that you have a reliable power source.
* **Air compressor adapter:** This adapter connects your air compressor hose to your RV’s city water inlet. They are readily available at RV supply stores or online. Look for one specifically designed for blowing out RV water lines. These adapters often have a built-in pressure regulator.
* **Pressure regulator (if not integrated into the adapter):** A pressure regulator is critical to prevent over-pressurizing your RV’s plumbing system. **Do not exceed 40 PSI**. A regulator will ensure that the pressure remains at a safe level. Many adapters come with this integrated, but if yours doesn’t, you’ll need to buy one separately.
* **Wrench:** You may need a wrench to tighten the air compressor adapter onto the city water inlet.
* **Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead):** These may be needed to access and bypass the water heater.
* **RV antifreeze (non-toxic):** This is used to protect P-traps and other areas where water may accumulate. Make sure you use RV antifreeze, which is safe for potable water systems. **Do not use automotive antifreeze!**
* **Water heater bypass kit (if not already installed):** A bypass kit allows you to isolate the water heater, preventing it from filling with antifreeze (which would be wasteful). If your RV doesn’t have one, consider installing one before winterizing.
* **Water heater drain plug wrench (if needed):** Some water heaters have a drain plug that requires a special wrench to remove.
* **Bucket:** To collect water draining from the water heater and low point drains.
* **Gloves:** To protect your hands.
* **Safety glasses:** To protect your eyes.
* **Towels or rags:** For cleanup.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Blowing Out RV Water Lines
Follow these steps carefully to ensure you properly winterize your RV’s water lines:
**1. Preparation:**
* **Park your RV on a level surface.** This will help ensure proper drainage.
* **Turn off the water heater.** This is crucial! Make sure the water heater is completely off and cooled down before proceeding. Never drain the water heater while it’s hot or pressurized.
* **Disconnect from city water.** Disconnect any hoses connected to the city water inlet.
* **Turn off the water pump.** Locate the water pump switch and turn it off.
* **Open all faucets and showers (both hot and cold).** This includes the kitchen faucet, bathroom faucet, inside shower, and outside shower (if equipped). Also, flush the toilet.
**2. Drain the Water Heater:**
* **Locate the water heater drain plug.** It’s usually located at the bottom of the water heater. Some RVs may have an anode rod instead of a drain plug; this serves the same purpose.
* **Open the pressure relief valve.** This valve is usually located at the top of the water heater. Opening it allows air to enter the tank and facilitates draining.
* **Remove the drain plug or anode rod.** Use the appropriate wrench to carefully remove the drain plug or anode rod. Be prepared for water to gush out, so position a bucket underneath to catch it. The water may be hot, even if the heater has been off for a while, so be careful.
* **Allow the water heater to drain completely.** This may take some time, depending on the size of your water heater.
* **Replace the drain plug or anode rod.** Once the water heater is empty, replace the drain plug or anode rod and tighten it securely. Inspect the anode rod for corrosion. If it’s significantly corroded, replace it with a new one.
**3. Bypass the Water Heater (If Equipped):**
* **Locate the water heater bypass valves.** These are usually located near the water heater. The bypass system typically consists of three valves.
* **Turn the valves to the bypass position.** The exact configuration will vary depending on the type of bypass system you have. Typically, you’ll close the valves on the hot and cold water lines going *into* the water heater and open the valve on the bypass line connecting the hot and cold water lines. Consult your RV’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
**4. Drain the Fresh Water Tank:**
* **Locate the fresh water tank drain valve.** This is usually located near the fresh water tank. It may be a simple valve or a petcock.
* **Open the drain valve.** Allow the fresh water tank to drain completely. This may take a while, depending on the size of your tank.
* **Close the drain valve.** Once the tank is empty, close the drain valve.
**5. Locate and Open Low Point Drains:**
* **Identify the low point drains.** These are usually two separate drain lines (one for hot water, one for cold water) that extend from the underside of your RV. They are located at the lowest points in the plumbing system to facilitate complete drainage. They are typically capped or have valves.
* **Remove the caps or open the valves.** Allow all water to drain from the low point drains. There may be some residual water, so be prepared.
* **Replace the caps or close the valves.** Once the water has drained, replace the caps or close the valves.
**6. Connect the Air Compressor:**
* **Attach the air compressor adapter to the city water inlet.** Screw the adapter onto the city water inlet fitting on the outside of your RV. Make sure it’s securely attached.
* **Connect the air compressor hose to the adapter.** Connect the air compressor hose to the air compressor adapter. Make sure the connection is secure.
**7. Set the Air Compressor Pressure:**
* **Set the air compressor pressure to 30-40 PSI.** **Do not exceed 40 PSI!** Over-pressurizing the system can damage your RV’s plumbing. If your adapter has a built-in regulator, adjust it accordingly. If not, use a separate pressure regulator between the compressor and the adapter. Starting with a lower pressure (around 30 PSI) is a good idea and gradually increasing it if needed to clear the lines effectively.
**8. Blow Out the Water Lines:**
* **Open one faucet at a time.** Starting with the faucet furthest from the city water inlet, open the faucet and allow air to blow through the line until no more water comes out. This may take several minutes per faucet.
* **Close the faucet and move to the next one.** Repeat the process for each faucet and shower in your RV, working your way from the furthest to the closest to the city water inlet. Don’t forget the outside shower (if equipped) and the toilet flush valve. For the toilet, flush it repeatedly while the air is blowing.
* **Pay attention to the water flow.** You should see water sputtering out initially, followed by a mist of water and then finally just air. Continue blowing air through each line for a minute or two after the water stops to ensure it’s as clear as possible.
**9. Repeat the Process:**
* **Repeat the entire blowing-out process.** After you’ve gone through all the faucets and showers once, repeat the process again. This will help remove any remaining water that may have settled in the lines.
**10. Address the Water Pump:**
* **Disconnect the inlet and outlet lines from the water pump.** Be prepared for some water to spill, so have a towel handy.
* **Turn on the water pump briefly (for a few seconds).** This will force any remaining water out of the pump. Be careful not to run the pump dry for too long, as this can damage it.
* **Pour RV antifreeze into the pump housing.** This will protect the pump from freezing.
* **Reconnect the inlet and outlet lines.**
**11. Add Antifreeze to P-Traps and Drains:**
* **Pour RV antifreeze into each drain.** This includes the kitchen sink drain, bathroom sink drain, shower drain, and toilet bowl. Pour enough antifreeze to fill the P-trap, which is the curved section of pipe under the sink that traps water and prevents sewer gases from entering the RV. Typically, a cup or two is sufficient.
**12. Protect the Toilet:**
* **Pour RV antifreeze into the toilet bowl.** Flush the toilet to distribute the antifreeze throughout the bowl and the drain line. Make sure the antifreeze reaches the holding tank.
**13. Gray and Black Water Tanks:**
* **If you haven’t already, drain and flush both the gray and black water tanks thoroughly.** Even though they won’t freeze and burst, leaving waste inside over the winter can cause unpleasant odors and potentially damage the tanks.
* **Pour a few gallons of RV antifreeze into each tank.** This will help prevent any residual water from freezing in the drain valves.
**14. Disconnect and Store Hoses:**
* **Disconnect all water hoses.** Drain them completely and store them in a dry place.
**15. Final Check:**
* **Double-check all faucets and drains.** Make sure all faucets are closed and all drain plugs or valves are closed.
* **Inspect for leaks.** Look for any signs of leaks around pipes, fittings, and appliances.
Important Considerations and Tips
* **Never exceed 40 PSI when blowing out the water lines.** Over-pressurizing the system can cause serious damage.
* **Use only RV antifreeze (non-toxic).** Automotive antifreeze is poisonous and should never be used in a potable water system.
* **Consider installing a water heater bypass kit.** This will save you a significant amount of antifreeze each winter.
* **Inspect your anode rod regularly and replace it as needed.** This will help prolong the life of your water heater.
* **If you are unsure about any part of the winterizing process, consult a qualified RV technician.**
* **Document your winterization process.** Keep a record of what you did and when you did it. This will be helpful when you de-winterize in the spring.
* **Don’t forget to winterize your washing machine or dishwasher if your RV is equipped with one.** Consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
* **Open cabinets and drawers.** This allows air to circulate and helps prevent condensation.
* **Consider using a dehumidifier.** A dehumidifier can help reduce moisture inside your RV during the winter months.
* **Check on your RV periodically throughout the winter.** Look for any signs of leaks or damage.
De-Winterizing Your RV in the Spring
When spring arrives, it’s time to de-winterize your RV and prepare it for another season of adventures. Here’s a brief overview of the de-winterizing process:
* **Flush the water system.** Connect your RV to a city water source and flush the entire water system thoroughly to remove any residual antifreeze. Open all faucets and showers and let the water run for several minutes.
* **Sanitize the fresh water tank.** Use a bleach solution to sanitize the fresh water tank and plumbing system. Follow the instructions in your RV’s owner’s manual.
* **Reconnect the water heater (if bypassed).** Turn the water heater bypass valves back to their normal positions.
* **Turn on the water heater.** Allow the water heater to fill and heat up.
* **Check for leaks.** Inspect all pipes, fittings, and appliances for leaks.
By following these steps, you can properly protect your RV’s water system from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures. Blowing out the water lines with air is a simple and effective way to prevent costly repairs and ensure your RV is ready for another season of travel.
This detailed guide provides the necessary information to confidently blow out your RV water lines, safeguarding your investment and ensuring worry-free adventures for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your RV’s owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model. Happy travels!