Winterizing your RV is crucial to prevent costly damage from freezing water lines. One of the most effective methods is blowing out your camper water lines using compressed air. This guide provides a step-by-step process, addressing common questions and concerns.
Why Blow Out Your Camper Water Lines?
Freezing water expands, putting immense pressure on your RV's plumbing system. This pressure can cause pipes to burst, leading to expensive repairs. Blowing out the lines removes all water, eliminating the risk of freezing and damage. This is particularly important for those storing their RVs in freezing climates. While antifreeze is an alternative, blowing out the lines offers a more thorough cleaning and prevents the potential for antifreeze residue in your system.
What You'll Need to Blow Out Your Camper Water Lines
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies:
- Air compressor: You'll need a compressor capable of delivering at least 90 PSI. A portable compressor works well for this purpose.
- Air chuck with a regulator: This allows you to control the air pressure precisely, preventing damage to your plumbing.
- Low-pressure regulator: Essential to avoid bursts, especially with older systems.
- Several feet of air hose: Enough to reach all your water lines.
- Blow gun: A standard blow gun will work fine, just make sure the nozzle is small enough to fit into your water lines.
- Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from potential debris.
- Towels or rags: To clean up any potential spills or drips.
- Water pressure gauge: Helps ensure the water lines are fully emptied.
Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out Your Camper Water Lines
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Prepare your RV: Disconnect your RV from any external water sources. Turn off the water pump. Open all faucets and drains, including the low-point drains located under your RV.
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Connect the air compressor: Attach the air hose to the city water inlet (the connection point for your water hookup). Ensure a secure connection.
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Regulate the air pressure: Set your regulator to a low pressure, starting around 30 PSI. Gradually increase the pressure as needed, but never exceed 90 PSI. Monitoring your water pressure gauge at various points will indicate that water has been fully purged.
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Blow out the lines: Turn on the air compressor. Monitor the air pressure gauge to ensure it remains within the safe range. You may hear hissing as the air pushes the water out.
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Check all faucets and drains: As air is being blown through the lines, check that water is exiting from all faucets, showerheads, and low-point drains. Continue until air blows from all exit points instead of water.
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Inspect for leaks: After blowing out the lines, inspect for any leaks around fittings or connections.
How Do I Blow Out My Water Heater?
Your water heater requires a separate process. Consult your water heater's manual for specific instructions. Many water heaters have a drain valve specifically designed for this purpose. You'll typically drain the water from the water heater, then use compressed air to blow out any remaining water from the drain line.
What if I Don't Have Access to Compressed Air?
If you don't have access to an air compressor, you can use a hand pump designed for blowing out water lines, although this is a much more time-consuming process.
How Often Should I Blow Out My Camper Water Lines?
Blowing out your camper water lines is essential before storing your RV for extended periods in freezing temperatures. The frequency depends on your climate and storage conditions.
What are the Risks of Not Blowing Out Camper Water Lines?
Failing to blow out your camper water lines increases the risk of frozen and burst pipes, potentially causing significant damage and expensive repairs.
By following these steps and understanding the potential risks, you can protect your RV's plumbing system and enjoy worry-free camping, even in colder climates. Remember to always consult your RV's owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.
