Master Winterizing Your RV: Get Expert Tips for Blowing Out Water Lines

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Prepping the RV for Winter
   • Cleaning out perishables
   • Removing clothes and linens
3. Understanding the Winterization Process
   • Draining the water heater
   • Disconnecting water lines
4. Blowing Out the Water Lines
   • Checking and closing faucets
   • Hooking up the air compressor
5. Bypassing the Water Heater
   • Accessing the bypass valve
   • Setting the bypass valve
6. Blowing Out the Faucets
   • Blowing out the kitchen sink
   • Blowing out the bathroom sink
   • Blowing out the tub
   • Blowing out the shower
7. Blowing Out the Washer and Dryer
   • Disconnecting the hoses
   • Blowing out the lines
   • Storing the hoses
8. Draining the Low Point Drains
   • Locating the low point drains
   • Blowing out the lines
9. Conclusion
10. FAQ

Introduction

Welcome to Tawanda Freely! In this article, we will guide you through the process of winterizing your RV, specifically focusing on the steps we take to ensure our Aunt Glady stays protected during the cold weather. While this may not be a definitive guide, we have conducted extensive research and learned best practices that we will share with you. Keep in mind that it is essential to consult your RV's owner's manual for specific instructions. Let's dive in and learn how to effectively winterize your RV!

Prepping the RV for Winter

Before we begin the winterization process, it's important to prepare the RV by cleaning out perishable items and removing clothes and linens. This ensures that no food or clothing will remain in the RV over the winter season, reducing the risk of any issues. Take the time to organize and remove any items that could be damaged or attract pests during storage.

Understanding the Winterization Process

To fully understand the winterization process, we'll break it down into a few key steps. The primary goal is to remove all water from the RV's water lines to prevent freezing and potential damage. We will first drain the water heater, followed by disconnecting the water lines throughout the RV.

Blowing Out the Water Lines

In order to remove as much water as possible from the water lines, we will blow air through them using an air compressor. But before we do that, we need to ensure all faucets are closed to prevent air from escaping. Beginning with the kitchen sink, we will systematically open each faucet one at a time to blow out the water. This process will be repeated for the bathroom sink, tub, and shower.

Bypassing the Water Heater

To bypass the water heater during the winterization process, we will need to access the bypass valve. By turning the valve, we can redirect the water flow and ensure that antifreeze does not enter the water heater. This step is crucial in protecting the water heater from potential damage caused by freezing.

Blowing Out the Faucets

Now that the water heater has been bypassed, we will continue blowing out the faucets to remove any remaining water from the lines. We'll start with the kitchen sink, ensuring both hot and cold water lines are blown out. Then, we'll move on to the bathroom sink, tub, and shower, repeating the process for each.

Blowing Out the Washer and Dryer

If your RV is equipped with a washer and dryer unit, it's important to include them in the winterization process. Begin by disconnecting the water lines from the unit and blowing out any water that may be trapped inside. Once done, store the hoses properly to prevent them from freezing during the winter months.

Draining the Low Point Drains

To ensure all water is removed from the RV, we need to drain the low point drains. These drains are typically located underneath the camper and have separate hot and cold lines. Using caution, we will open these drains and allow any remaining water to flow out.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully winterized your RV. By following these steps, you have taken important measures to protect your Aunt Glady from freezing temperatures and potential damage. Remember, it's always crucial to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions tailored to your RV model. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to visit our website for additional resources on winterization. Safe travels and enjoy the winter season worry-free!

FAQ

Q: How often should I winterize my RV? A: We recommend winterizing your RV once the temperatures consistently drop below freezing, typically during the late fall or early winter months.

Q: Can I use compressed air to blow out the water lines? A: Yes, using an air compressor is an effective method to remove water from the RV's water lines. Just remember to set the compressor to a safe pressure level to avoid any damage.

Q: Do I need to bypass the water heater during winterization? A: Yes, bypassing the water heater is crucial to prevent antifreeze from entering and potentially damaging the unit. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to locate and manipulate the bypass valve.

Q: How should I store the disconnected hoses from my washer and dryer? A: It's important to store the hoses in a dry and temperature-controlled area to prevent freezing. Coiling them neatly and placing them in a storage container or bag will help keep them in good condition until they are needed again in the spring.

Q: Can I skip blowing out the low point drains if I have already blown out the faucets? A: It is recommended to also blow out the low point drains to ensure all water is removed from the system. The low point drains are designed to allow any residual water to drain out completely.

Q: What temperature is considered safe for RV winterization? A: It is recommended to winterize your RV when temperatures consistently drop below freezing (32°F or 0°C). This precaution is necessary to protect against potential damages caused by frozen water lines.