Winterizing your RV is crucial to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. One of the most important steps is blowing out your RV water lines to remove all water, preventing pipes from bursting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, answering common questions and providing expert tips for successful winterization.
Why is Blowing Out RV Water Lines Important?
Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can exert immense pressure on your RV's plumbing system. This pressure can cause pipes, fittings, and even your water heater tank to crack or burst, leading to expensive repairs and potential water damage to your RV's interior. Blowing out your lines removes all water, eliminating this risk entirely.
What Equipment Do I Need to Blow Out RV Water Lines?
You'll need a few essential tools for this process:
- Air compressor: A portable compressor with a minimum of 100 PSI is recommended. Higher PSI is better for ensuring complete water removal, especially in longer lines.
- Air chuck with a suitable adapter: You'll need an adapter that fits your RV's water inlet. These are often available at RV supply stores.
- Blow gun: This will direct the compressed air into your water lines.
- Low-point drains: Ensure you know the location of your low-point drains (typically located under the RV) for complete water drainage.
- Water hose: To thoroughly flush the system before blowing out the lines.
How to Blow Out Your RV Water Lines: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare your RV: Turn off all water pumps and disconnect from any external water sources.
- Open low-point drains: Locate and open all low-point drains to allow any standing water to drain out.
- Flush the system: Connect a garden hose to your water inlet and turn on the water. This flushes out any remaining sediment or debris that could clog your lines during the air blow-out process. Let the water run until it runs clear from all faucets.
- Connect the air compressor: Attach the air chuck and adapter to your RV's water inlet.
- Turn on the compressor: Gradually increase the air pressure. Start low and increase slowly to avoid sudden pressure spikes which could potentially damage your system.
- Open faucets: Open all faucets and showerheads one by one, allowing the compressed air to push water out of the lines. You'll hear a whooshing sound as the air pushes out the water.
- Monitor the air pressure: Ensure the pressure remains consistent throughout the process.
- Repeat for each faucet: Continue this process until compressed air comes out of each faucet. You may need to use the blow gun to clear any stubborn water in lines.
- Check for remaining water: After completing the process, double-check all faucets and low-point drains to ensure no water remains.
What if I Don't Have an Air Compressor?
While an air compressor is the most effective method, some people use a hand-pumped system or a specialized RV winterization kit that uses compressed air in a canister. However, these methods may be less effective for completely removing all the water from longer lines.
How Often Should I Blow Out My RV Water Lines?
It's crucial to blow out your RV water lines before any freezing temperatures are expected. This typically means fall and winter. If you live in a climate where freezing temperatures are rare, it might still be wise to blow out the lines at least once a year.
What Are the Signs of a Frozen or Burst Pipe?
If you suspect a frozen or burst pipe, you might notice:
- Lack of water pressure: This is often the first sign of a problem.
- Visible cracks or leaks: Check your pipes and fittings for signs of damage.
- Pooling water: Water pooling under your RV is a clear indication of a leak.
- Unusual noises: A gurgling or hissing sound from your pipes could indicate a frozen or damaged line.
By following these steps and taking necessary precautions, you can ensure that your RV's plumbing system remains safe and protected throughout the winter months, saving you from costly repairs down the line. Remember to consult your RV's owner's manual for specific recommendations and safety guidelines.
