NOTE:
Do not attempt to start the water heater or use the
plumbing system after the system has been winterized.
Dewinterize. Flush and sanitize the water system prior to
use.
Winterizing With Antifreeze Only
1. Purchase 4-6 gallons of RV approved, non-toxic
antifreeze.
2.
Drain all tanks, fresh water and sewage tanks.
3. Turn water heater bypass valve to bypass position.
4. Drain water heater.
5. If you have a water filter system installed, remove
the filter from the assembly and discard. (You will
need to purchase a new one and install it when
de-winterizing your unit.)
6. Fill the tank above minimum water pump operation
level with the RV antifreeze. (Use of a long funnel
may be helpful.)
7. Turn the pump switch ‘ON’ and open the cold water
side of all faucet fixtures. Leave the faucets open
until the antifreeze (generally pink in color) flows out
of the faucets. Repeat for the hot water side.
8. Flush toilet until antifreeze is visible inside the bowl
and pour one gallon of antifreeze down the toilet to
winterize the black holding tank.
9. Pour antifreeze down each shower and kitchen sink
to fill p-traps.
10. To winterize gray tank(s), pour one gallon down
each related sink drain.
Dewinterizing Your RV
NOTE:
Do not attempt to turn on the water heater or use the
plumbing system once the system has been winterized.
Dewinterize the water system, flush and sanitize prior to
use.
1.
Drain all holding tanks (fresh water and sewage).
2. Attach garden hose to fresh water fill connection
and fill tank.
3. Turn ‘ON’ pump switch and open cold water side of
all faucet/shower fixtures. Leave open until the
water runs clear (no pink residue). Repeat for the
hot water side.
4. Flush toilet until clear water runs into the bowl.
5. Dump tanks again.
6. Sanitize the water system. (Refer to that section in
this manual.)
7. IF a water filter has been installed, drain the lines,
remove the assembly, clean and reinstall using a
new filter.
When ready to use the water heater, turn the by-pass
valve to the open position to allow water to enter and fill
the water heater tank.
Water System Maintenance and
Troubleshooting
Most problems can be greatly reduced, if not altogether
eliminated, by following a schedule of planned inspec-
tions and maintenance. Neglecting proper maintenance
procedures is the usual cause of most water system
problems and is easily recognized as such.
In addition to neglect, road vibrations and shocks, as well
as excessive pressure from some city water sources, are
the other main causes of most water system damage. It
is important to inspect all plumbing joints and fillings
often for cracks and leaks. Water leaking from a plumb-
ing joint can cause considerable damage if left
unchecked.
A leak in the fresh water system should be suspected
any time the pump is running and all faucets and valves
are closed. When the leaking fitting has been identified,
attempt to stop the leak by tightening. DO NOT over-
tighten. Plastic fittings rarely need to be tightened with a
wrench. If these fittings leak after tightening by hand,
disconnect the fitting and check for dirt, scale, or other
foreign substances which may be preventing proper con-
nection and may be causing the leak. Clean the fitting
thoroughly and reinstall. If leaking persists, shut off the
water supply until the fitting can be properly replaced.
Check with your dealer for the correct method of replace-
ment and replacement parts.
Proper winterization procedures of the plumbing system
will normally be all that is necessary to prevent damage
caused by freezing. Freezing damage can harm any
component of the system, including the water tank,
pump, water heater, and all piping. Also discuss with your
dealer any additional precautions that should be taken to
winterize your camper’s plumbing system. Due to the dif-
ferences in climates, your winter maintenance needs
may change as you travel.
Read the literature supplied with plumbing components,
such as the pump, for troubleshooting tips. Also remem-
ber that it is possible for an electrical problem to cause
water system problems. Lack of power to the pump can
be caused by a variety of reasons. If you are unsure of
how to locate and/or repair a plumbing problem, it is best
to have your dealer or a qualified plumber handle the job.
PLUMBING
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