Blow Out RV Water Lines With Air: A Simple Guide

by Luna Greco 49 views

Hey guys! RVing is awesome, but winterizing your rig is crucial to prevent burst pipes and costly repairs. One of the most effective methods for winterizing your RV's plumbing system is blowing out the water lines with compressed air. This method ensures that you remove as much water as possible, which is essential because any remaining water can freeze, expand, and damage your pipes and fixtures. Trust me, nobody wants to deal with that mess! In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps, provide helpful tips, and answer some common questions to make the process smooth and stress-free. So, grab your tools, and let's get started on preparing your RV for the chilly months ahead!

Why Blow Out RV Water Lines?

Okay, let's dive into why blowing out your RV water lines is super important. Imagine leaving water in your RV's pipes during freezing temperatures – it's a recipe for disaster! Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can crack pipes, damage fittings, and even ruin your water heater. The cost of repairing these issues can be significant, not to mention the inconvenience it causes. Blowing out the lines is a proactive way to prevent these problems. It’s like giving your RV a little extra TLC before tucking it in for the winter. This method effectively removes the majority of the water from your plumbing system, leaving very little to potentially freeze and cause damage. Think of it as an insurance policy for your RV’s plumbing – a small effort now can save you big headaches (and expenses) later. Plus, it's a relatively simple process that most RV owners can do themselves with a few basic tools. So, taking the time to blow out your water lines is a smart move to protect your investment and ensure your RV is ready for your next adventure when warmer weather rolls around.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to get the job done. Don't worry; you probably have most of these items already. Here’s a checklist of the essential tools and materials for blowing out your RV water lines:

  • Air Compressor: This is the heart of the operation. You'll need an air compressor capable of delivering between 30 and 40 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch). Too much pressure can damage your pipes, so it’s crucial to stay within this range. A small portable air compressor will usually do the trick, and you can find them at most hardware stores or online.
  • Blow-Out Adapter: This nifty little device connects your air compressor hose to your RV's city water inlet. It allows you to safely and effectively introduce compressed air into the plumbing system. Make sure you get one that fits your RV's connection – most are standard size, but it’s always good to double-check.
  • Wrench: You might need a wrench to remove the water filter and drain plugs. A basic adjustable wrench should work fine.
  • Screwdriver: A screwdriver (usually a Phillips head) may be required to access and bypass the water heater.
  • RV Antifreeze: This is your backup plan for any water that might be left in the system. It’s non-toxic and designed specifically for RV plumbing. You’ll use it to protect your P-traps and other hard-to-reach areas.
  • Safety Glasses: Safety first! You want to protect your eyes from any debris that might come out of the lines.
  • Gloves: Gloves will keep your hands clean and protected during the process.
  • Bucket: You’ll need a bucket to catch any water that drains out.

Having these tools and materials on hand will make the process much smoother and ensure you can properly winterize your RV's plumbing system. Now that you know what you need let's move on to the step-by-step guide!

Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out RV Water Lines

Okay, now for the main event! Let's walk through the steps to blow out your RV water lines like a pro. Don't worry, it's not as complicated as it might sound. Just follow these steps, and you'll have your RV prepped for winter in no time.

1. Drain the Water System

First things first, you need to drain as much water as possible from your RV's plumbing system. This is a crucial step because the less water you have in the lines, the better the compressed air can do its job. Start by draining your freshwater tank. Most RVs have a drain valve for this purpose, usually located near the tank. Open this valve and let the water flow out until the tank is empty. Next, drain your water heater. Remember to turn off the water heater and let the water cool down before you drain it to avoid burns. Remove the drain plug (usually located at the bottom of the water heater) and let the water drain completely. You might also want to bypass your water heater at this stage to prevent antifreeze from entering it later on. Finally, open all the faucets (both hot and cold) and flush the toilet to release any remaining water in the lines. Don't forget the outside shower, if you have one! Leaving the faucets open will also help the air flow through the system when you start blowing out the lines.

2. Bypass the Water Heater

Bypassing your water heater is an essential step to prevent filling it with RV antifreeze, which is unnecessary and wasteful. Most RVs come with a bypass valve system specifically for this purpose. It usually consists of one to three valves located near the water heater. To bypass the water heater, you'll typically need to close the inlet and outlet valves and open the bypass valve. This reroutes the water flow, so it doesn't enter the water heater tank. If you're unsure how your bypass system works, consult your RV's owner's manual. It will have specific instructions and diagrams for your model. If you can't find a bypass system, you might need to install a bypass kit, which is a relatively simple DIY project. Bypassing the water heater not only saves you money on antifreeze but also prevents any potential contamination of the water heater tank. It's a small step that makes a big difference in the overall winterizing process.

3. Connect the Air Compressor

Now it's time to bring in the air power! Grab your blow-out adapter and connect it to your RV's city water inlet. This is usually a threaded connection, just like a regular water hose. Make sure it's snug but not overtightened. Next, connect your air compressor hose to the blow-out adapter. Before you turn on the compressor, it’s a good idea to set the pressure regulator to between 30 and 40 PSI. This is the sweet spot for blowing out RV water lines – enough pressure to clear the lines without damaging them. Too much pressure can cause serious damage, so always err on the side of caution. Once everything is connected and the pressure is set, turn on your air compressor and let it build pressure. You'll hear the compressor running, and the pressure gauge will climb. Now you're ready to start blowing out those lines!

4. Blow Out the Water Lines

With your air compressor connected and set to the correct pressure, it's time to start blowing out the water lines. This is where you'll see the magic happen! Remember those faucets you opened earlier? Now, go to the faucet that's furthest from the city water inlet. This is usually the bathroom faucet or an outdoor shower. Open the hot and cold taps one at a time. You'll hear air sputtering out, followed by water. Let the air run through the lines until you see a steady stream of air with no water. This might take a few minutes for each faucet. Once the furthest faucet is clear, move on to the next closest one and repeat the process. Continue working your way through all the faucets, including the kitchen sink, shower, and toilet. Don't forget to flush the toilet a few times to clear the line to the black tank flush, if you have one. It’s crucial to do both the hot and cold water lines separately at each fixture. This ensures that both lines are thoroughly cleared of water. Be patient and let the air do its job. This step is key to preventing frozen pipes, so take your time and do it right!

5. Add RV Antifreeze

Even after blowing out the water lines, there might still be some water lurking in the P-traps (the U-shaped pipes under your sinks and shower) and other low points in the system. This is where RV antifreeze comes to the rescue. RV antifreeze is non-toxic and specifically designed to protect your plumbing system from freezing. Pour RV antifreeze into each drain – sinks, shower, and toilet. You don't need to fill the P-traps completely; just enough to displace any remaining water. A cup or two in each drain should do the trick. For the toilet, pour some antifreeze into the bowl and flush it to coat the plumbing lines and the black tank valve. This will help prevent the valve from sticking or freezing. Adding antifreeze is like the final layer of protection for your plumbing system. It ensures that any residual water won't freeze and cause damage. It’s a simple step that provides peace of mind throughout the winter months.

Tips for a Smooth Blow-Out

To make the process even smoother, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

  • Regulate Air Pressure: Always keep the air pressure between 30 and 40 PSI. Too much pressure can damage your pipes and fittings.
  • Work Systematically: Start with the faucet furthest from the water inlet and work your way closer. This ensures you're clearing the lines efficiently.
  • Open Low Point Drains: RVs often have low-point drains – valves located at the lowest points in the plumbing system. Open these to help drain any remaining water.
  • Replace Water Filter: Remove your water filter and bypass it, or install a new filter after winterizing. This prevents any trapped water from freezing in the filter.
  • Don't Forget the Toilet: Flush the toilet several times while blowing out the lines to clear the toilet valve and plumbing.
  • Check for Leaks: After blowing out the lines, inspect all connections and fittings for any leaks. Tighten connections if necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a step-by-step guide, it's easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Using Too Much Air Pressure: This is a big one. Exceeding 40 PSI can damage your RV's plumbing. Always regulate your air compressor.
  • Forgetting to Bypass the Water Heater: This can lead to antifreeze filling the water heater, which is wasteful and unnecessary.
  • Skipping the Antifreeze: Blowing out the lines removes most of the water, but antifreeze is essential for protecting P-traps and other vulnerable areas.
  • Not Draining the Water Heater Completely: Residual water in the water heater can freeze and cause damage. Make sure it’s fully drained.
  • Ignoring Low Point Drains: These drains help remove extra water from the system. Don't forget to open them.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll ensure a successful winterizing process and protect your RV from costly plumbing repairs.

FAQs About Blowing Out RV Water Lines

Let's tackle some frequently asked questions about blowing out RV water lines. Knowing the answers to these questions can help you feel more confident and prepared for the winterizing process.

Q: How often should I blow out my RV water lines?

You should blow out your RV water lines every time you're preparing your RV for freezing temperatures or long-term storage. This ensures that the plumbing system is protected from potential damage due to freezing water.

Q: Can I use too much air pressure?

Yes, absolutely. Using too much air pressure can damage your RV's pipes and fittings. Always keep the pressure between 30 and 40 PSI.

Q: Do I still need to use antifreeze if I blow out the lines?

Yes, it's a good idea to use RV antifreeze in addition to blowing out the lines. Antifreeze protects P-traps and other low points in the system where water might still be present.

Q: What if I don't have an air compressor?

If you don't have an air compressor, you can still winterize your RV by using RV antifreeze alone. However, blowing out the lines first removes the majority of the water and makes the antifreeze more effective.

Q: How do I know if I've blown out the lines correctly?

You'll know you've blown out the lines correctly when you see a steady stream of air coming from each faucet and fixture with no water. This indicates that the majority of the water has been removed from the system.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Blowing out your RV water lines is a straightforward and effective way to winterize your rig and protect it from freezing temperatures. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure that your RV's plumbing system stays in tip-top shape, ready for your next adventure. Remember, a little preparation now can save you from costly repairs and headaches down the road. So, grab your tools, get to work, and enjoy the peace of mind knowing your RV is ready for winter! Happy travels, guys, and stay warm!"