How To Winterize Your RV: Blowing Out Water Lines With Air

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How to Winterize Your RV: Blowing Out Water Lines with Air

Hey RV enthusiasts! Getting out on the open road in your recreational vehicle is awesome, but what happens when the temperatures drop? Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your RV's plumbing system, leading to burst pipes and costly repairs. Nobody wants that, right? That's why winterizing your RV is super important, especially if you're not planning any trips during the colder months. One of the most effective ways to protect your RV's water lines is by blowing them out with air. This process removes any remaining water, preventing it from freezing and expanding. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps on how to blow out RV water lines with air, ensuring your home on wheels is ready to roll when spring arrives.

Why Blow Out Your RV Water Lines?

Okay, let's dive into why this is so crucial. Imagine water trapped inside your RV's pipes during a freezing night. Water expands when it freezes, and that expansion can put incredible pressure on your plumbing system. This pressure can lead to cracked pipes, damaged fittings, and even a burst water heater – yikes! Fixing these issues can be a major headache and a serious dent in your wallet. Blowing out your RV water lines is a proactive way to avoid these problems. By using compressed air to force out any remaining water, you eliminate the risk of freezing and keep your plumbing system in tip-top shape. It's like giving your RV a little winter insurance policy!

Beyond preventing freezing damage, blowing out your water lines also helps to prevent the buildup of stagnant water. Stagnant water can breed bacteria and other nasties, which you definitely don't want in your drinking water. By removing all the water, you ensure that your system stays clean and fresh. So, think of it as a preventative measure that saves you money and keeps your RV healthy and ready for your next adventure. Trust me, taking the time to blow out the water lines is a smart move for any RV owner.

Gather Your Supplies: What You'll Need

Before you get started, you'll need to gather a few essential supplies. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and efficient. Here's what you'll need:

  • Air Compressor: This is the heart of the operation. You'll need an air compressor capable of delivering around 30-40 PSI (pounds per square inch). A small portable compressor should do the trick for most RVs. Make sure it has a regulator so you can control the air pressure.
  • Air Compressor Adapter: This adapter connects your air compressor hose to your RV's city water inlet. They're readily available at RV supply stores and online.
  • Teflon Tape: This plumber's tape helps create a tight seal between the adapter and the city water inlet, preventing air leaks. A few wraps of Teflon tape can make a big difference.
  • Wrench: You'll need a wrench to tighten the adapter onto the city water inlet. Make sure you have the right size wrench for the job.
  • Safety Glasses: Safety first! Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from any debris or spray.
  • Non-toxic RV Antifreeze (Optional): While blowing out the lines is effective, adding RV antifreeze to your P-traps and toilet bowl provides an extra layer of protection against freezing.
  • Water Heater Bypass Kit (If Applicable): If your RV has a water heater bypass kit, make sure it's engaged to prevent antifreeze from entering the water heater tank.

Having these supplies ready will ensure that you can blow out your RV water lines quickly and safely. Now, let's move on to the step-by-step process.

Step-by-Step Guide: Blowing Out Your RV Water Lines

Alright, guys, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to blow out your RV water lines using compressed air:

  1. Drain Your Water Tanks: Start by draining both your fresh water tank and your hot water tank. Locate the drain valves for each tank and open them to allow the water to flow out. This is a crucial first step in the RV winterization process.
  2. Bypass Your Water Heater (If Applicable): If your RV has a water heater bypass kit, now's the time to use it. This prevents antifreeze from filling your water heater tank, saving you money and hassle. Follow the instructions in your RV's manual to engage the bypass.
  3. Connect the Air Compressor Adapter: Wrap the threads of the air compressor adapter with Teflon tape. This ensures a tight, leak-free connection. Then, screw the adapter onto your RV's city water inlet. Use a wrench to tighten it securely, but don't overtighten.
  4. Set the Air Compressor Pressure: Connect your air compressor hose to the adapter. Set the air compressor regulator to 30-40 PSI. It's important not to exceed this pressure, as higher pressure can damage your RV's plumbing.
  5. Open Faucets and Fixtures: Starting with the faucet furthest from the city water inlet, open both the hot and cold water taps. This allows the compressed air to push the water out of the lines. Open all faucets, including the shower and any outdoor shower fixtures. Don't forget to flush the toilet, too! This step is key to effectively blowing out your RV water lines.
  6. Blow Out Each Line Individually: Allow the air to flow through each faucet until only air comes out. This may take a few minutes per fixture. Repeat this process for all faucets and fixtures in your RV, working your way from the furthest to the closest.
  7. Don't Forget the Toilet and Showers: Flush the toilet until all water is expelled from the bowl and the lines. For showers, remove the showerhead and allow air to flow through the shower hose. This will prevent any water from remaining in these areas.
  8. Remove the Air Compressor Adapter: Once you've blown out all the lines, turn off the air compressor and disconnect the hose. Carefully remove the air compressor adapter from the city water inlet.

By following these steps, you'll effectively remove the water from your RV's plumbing system, preventing freezing and potential damage. Now, let's talk about adding that extra layer of protection with RV antifreeze.

Adding RV Antifreeze (Optional but Recommended)

While blowing out your water lines is a great first step, adding non-toxic RV antifreeze provides an extra layer of protection, especially in areas prone to deep freezes. This antifreeze is specifically designed for RV plumbing systems and won't damage your pipes or leave harmful residue. It's a small investment that can provide significant peace of mind.

Here's how to add RV antifreeze:

  1. Pour Antifreeze into P-Traps: Pour RV antifreeze into the P-traps under each sink and shower drain. This prevents any remaining water in the P-traps from freezing and cracking the pipes.
  2. Add Antifreeze to the Toilet Bowl: Pour a generous amount of RV antifreeze into the toilet bowl. Flush the toilet briefly to distribute the antifreeze through the toilet's plumbing.

Adding RV antifreeze is a simple yet effective way to further protect your RV's plumbing system. It's especially important for P-traps, which are prone to freezing due to their shape and location. This step complements the process of blowing out RV water lines with air, providing comprehensive winter protection.

Additional Tips for Winterizing Your RV

Blowing out your water lines is a crucial part of winterizing your RV, but there are a few other things you can do to ensure your home on wheels is fully protected from the cold.

  • Drain and Flush Your Black and Gray Water Tanks: Just like your fresh water tank, your black and gray water tanks need to be drained and flushed before winter storage. This prevents waste from freezing and causing damage.
  • Open All Faucets and Drains: Leave all faucets and drain valves open during storage. This allows any remaining water to escape and prevents pressure buildup in the lines.
  • Remove or Protect Your Water Filter: If your RV has a water filter, remove it and store it indoors. This prevents the filter from freezing and cracking. Alternatively, you can pour RV antifreeze into the filter housing.
  • Seal Any Openings: Seal any openings in your RV, such as vents and windows, to prevent drafts and keep the interior warmer. This also helps to keep pests out.
  • Cover Your RV: If possible, cover your RV with a breathable RV cover. This protects it from the elements and helps to prevent damage from snow and ice.

By following these additional tips, you can ensure that your RV is fully winterized and ready to withstand the cold weather. These steps, combined with blowing out your RV water lines with air, will give you peace of mind knowing your RV is protected.

Conclusion: Peace of Mind for Winter Storage

Winterizing your RV may seem like a daunting task, but it's an essential part of RV ownership, especially if you live in an area with freezing temperatures. By taking the time to properly blow out your RV water lines and follow the other winterizing steps, you can prevent costly damage and ensure that your RV is ready for your next adventure when spring rolls around. Remember, a little preparation now can save you a lot of headaches and money in the long run.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide on how to blow out your RV water lines with air. Follow these steps, gather your supplies, and get your RV ready for winter. Happy travels, and we'll see you on the road (when the weather warms up!).