Bretz RV - Winterizing

1. Drain fresh water tank.
   
2. Drain hot water heater.
   
3. Dump and flush both black and gray water holding tanks, leave gray water valve open.
   
4. Screw compressed air adaptor into the fresh water inlet. The adapter is available from Bretz RV
   
5. Apply compressed air, keeping the pressure less than 20 lbs/sq inch.
   
6. Open each faucet, one valve at a time, allowing the compressed air to force the water out of the line. Don't forget the shower and toilet.
   
7. Remove the drain plug from the hot water tank and allow the compressed air to blow out the remaining water. Reinstall drain plug.
   
8. Remove the compressed air source and adapter.
   
9. Close the water heater by-pass valve. (SEE SPECIAL WATER HEATER NOTE BELOW)
   
10. Remove the water line that runs between the fresh water pump and the fresh water tank, where it joins the fresh water tank.
    
11. Insert the end of the line into a gallon jug of RV antifreeze. (NEVER-NEVER-NEVER USE AUTOMOTIVE ANTIFREEZE!!!!!!!).
    
12. Start the fresh water pump. It will run for a few moments, sucking antifreeze from the jug. It will stop as pressure in the system builds up.
    
13. Open each valve of each faucet, one at a time, until the red antifreeze appears, shut the faucet. Don't forget the shower and toilet.
    
    13a. Be sure to winterize all other systems that water flows through ie: Ice Maker, Hot Water Floor heat, Water filter
    
14. Remove the line from the jug of antifreeze and reattach it to the fresh water tank.
    
    HINT: For a few dollars you can buy and install an adapter that will eliminate removing and reinstalling the fresh water line. It is a small three way valve that goes in the fresh water line, between the fresh water tank and the pump. You can easily pump antifreeze throughout he system by inserting the tube attached to the valve into a gallon of antifreeze, turning the valve and starting the pump. Simply turn the valve back to its original position and you are done.
    
15. Shut the gray water valve.
    
16. Pour a few cups of antifreeze down each drain and the toilet.
    
    16a. Check sealants on the unit. Check for roof water leaks and possible window or slideout leaks.
    
17. You're done.

 

DeWinterize your RV:

If you live in a climate where winter temperatures dip well below freezing, you're probably familiar with the chores involved in "winterizing" your RV. Now that the weather is warming up, your thoughts are likely turning to RVing again. Before you hit the road, however, take the time to properly "dewinterize" your vehicle. Below are a few maintenance duties that apply to most RVs.

• Check hoses and gaskets for cracks and leaks, especially for anything related to propane.
• Recharge the battery.
• Test the electrical system and appliances.
• Check wheel bearings and brakes.
• Lubricate the suspension system.
• Inspect propane tanks for cracks and rust.
• Blow out the burner assembly of propane appliances.
• Open the hot water heater bypass. Then fill and drain the fresh water tank.
• Fill the fresh water tank again, start the water pump, and open all faucets until the water runs clear.

Dewinterizing your RV requires only a few hours, but it's often neglected in the excitement of spring. Keep in mind, however, that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Careful dewinterizing will help you enjoy a trouble-free and fun-filled season of RVing.

 

 

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