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Dear
Anti Freeze - The best way to keep your pipes from freezing is to
pack up and head for southern climes! But assuming you've already
considered that, here's my suggestions:
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First,
drain all the supply lines. Most RVs have a low-point in the water
lines that drains all the water. Some RVs already have drain valves
for a quick drain; if not, I suggest adding them to make this job
easier and make sure you do it when needed. Open the valves or
remove the plugs and allow plenty of time for all the water to
drain.
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Inside the RV, open all the faucets to
drain all trapped water.
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Remove the drain plug on the water
heater. This often takes a special socket (1 1/16 on Suburban, xx on
Atwood). Or you can but a special drain plug with a built-n valve.
Again, allow plenty of time for all the water to drain.
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Your holding tanks should already be
drained; if not, take care of that.
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Drain the fresh water tank.
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Inside the RV, pour about a cup of RV
antifreeze down each drain to keep the trap from freezing
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The above is good for a quick drain, but
a final step to ensure no freeze-ups is to blow out the lines. Buy
an air-valve adapter from your favorite supply store. Install on the
city-water supply inlet and attach a source of air - keep the
pressure below about 40 psi to prevent damage. Repeat the steps
outlined above to alternately open each drain valve one at a time
and allow all the water to blow out - you'll be surprised how much
water comes out.
NOTE: Some RV manuals do not
recommend using air to blow out water lines but I've never had a
problem as long as the pressure is kept low.
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