Title: Mastering the Art of Blowing Out RV Water Lines 🚐💦Introduction:Welcome fellow adventurers! If you own an RV, then you know one of the most important tasks is winterizing it when the season changes. Blowing out your RV water lines is a crucial step in protecting your plumbing system from freezing and bursting. You might think it’s a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a breeze. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of blowing out your RV water lines, step by step. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!Part 1: How to Blow Out RV Water Lines1. Gather the Tools You NeedBefore we get started, you need to have the right equipment. You’ll need an air compressor, a blowout plug, a water heater bypass kit, a water pump converter kit, and a bucket to catch any excess water. Check your RV’s manual to ensure you have the correct tools for your specific model.2. Draining the Water HeaterIt’s important to drain all the water from your RV’s water heater before blowing out the lines. Turn off the water heater and let it cool down. Once it’s cooled, open the pressure relief valve and remove the water heater drain plug. Attach a hose to the valve and let the water drain out completely.3. Bypassing the Water HeaterAfter draining the water heater, you need to bypass it to prevent antifreeze from getting into it. Locate the bypass valves near the water heater. Turn them to the bypass position and turn off the water pump.4. Opening All the FaucetsOpen all the faucets, both inside and outside of the RV. Don’t forget the showerhead and the toilet valve. This will allow the water to escape more easily.5. Connecting the Air CompressorAttach the blowout plug to an open faucet and then connect the air compressor to the plug. Set the compressor to 30 PSI or lower, as too much pressure can cause damage to your plumbing system.6. Blowing Out Each LineOne at a time, turn on the air compressor and let it blow out each line until only air is coming out. Start with the closest faucet to the compressor and work your way to the furthest one. Don’t forget to flush the toilet and run the shower to ensure all the lines are cleared.7. Adding AntifreezeOnce all the lines have been blown out, it’s time to add antifreeze. Pour it into the sink and shower drains until you see the antifreeze coming out of every faucet and toilet.Part 2: Advantages and Disadvantages of Blowing Out RV Water Lines1. AdvantagesBlowing out your RV water lines ensures that all the water has been removed from the system, preventing costly repairs from frozen and damaged pipes. It’s also a great way to save money on winterizing costs, as it’s a DIY task that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your plumbing system is protected during the colder months.2. DisadvantagesBlowing out your RV water lines can be time-consuming and tedious, especially if you have a larger RV. It also requires specific tools and knowledge, which may not be available to everyone. If you don’t do it correctly, you run the risk of damaging your plumbing system. Additionally, blowing out the lines doesn’t completely remove all the water from the system, so adding antifreeze as a precaution is still necessary.Table: Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out RV Water Lines| Step | Task | Tools Needed || — | — | — || 1 | Drain the Water Heater | Drain Plug, Hose || 2 | Bypass the Water Heater | Bypass Valves || 3 | Open All Faucets | N/A || 4 | Connect the Air Compressor | Blowout Plug, Air Compressor || 5 | Blow Out Each Line | Blowout Plug, Air Compressor || 6 | Add Antifreeze | Antifreeze |FAQs:1. How often should I blow out my RV water lines?2. Is it necessary to add antifreeze after blowing out the lines?3. Can I use a hand pump instead of an air compressor?4. How much pressure should I set the air compressor to?5. Can I blow out my RV water lines without a blowout plug?6. What if I forget to bypass the water heater before blowing out the lines?7. Can I use a shop vac instead of an air compressor to blow out the lines?8. What kind of antifreeze should I use for my RV?9. How long does it take to blow out RV water lines?10. Do I need to open the low point drains before blowing out the lines?11. Can I use an extension cord with my air compressor?12. What if there’s still water coming out after blowing out the lines?13. Can I blow out my RV water lines by myself or should I hire a professional?Conclusion:And that’s it! You now know how to blow out your RV water lines like a pro. Remember to always follow the specific instructions for your RV model and ensure you have the right tools. Blowing out your RV water lines is a crucial step in protecting your plumbing system and ensuring your RV is ready for winter. Don’t neglect this important task and take action today. Safe travels! Closing/Disclaimer:Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always follow the instructions in your RV’s manual and consult a professional if you’re unsure about any steps in the process. We cannot be held liable for any damages or injuries that may result from attempting to blow out RV water lines without proper knowledge and tools. Use this article as a guide, but exercise caution and care when performing any DIY tasks on your RV.
