How To Blow Out Rv Lines

How to Blow Out RV Water Lines for Winterization

Winterizing your RV is crucial to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. One of the most important steps is blowing out your RV water lines. This process removes all water from the system, preventing pipes from bursting and causing significant damage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring your RV is ready for winter storage.

Preparing Your RV for the Blow-Out

Before you begin, gather the necessary equipment:

• Air compressor: A portable compressor with a minimum of 100 PSI is recommended. Higher PSI is better for ensuring thorough water removal.
• Blow gun: A standard blow gun will suffice. Make sure the nozzle is relatively small to fit into the various fittings.
• Low-pressure regulator: This is vital for ensuring you don't damage your RV plumbing system by using excessive pressure. It'll allow you to safely control the air pressure.
• Water hose: For flushing the system before blowing it out.
• Towels: To clean up any spills or water that may escape during the process.
• RV antifreeze: While this isn't used for the blow-out itself, it's important to use RV antifreeze in your water system after blowing it out for complete protection.

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

1. Empty your water tank: Completely drain your fresh water tank. Open all low-point drains to ensure the tank is completely empty.

2. Turn off the water pump: This will prevent any pressure build-up that could hinder the blow-out process.

3. Open all faucets and valves: This includes all faucets (hot and cold), shower heads, toilet valves, and any exterior water spigots. Opening these ensures that air can flow freely through the system.

4. Connect the air compressor: Connect the air compressor's hose to the low-pressure regulator, and then attach the blow gun to the regulator.

5. Connect the blow gun: Connect the blow gun to your city water inlet. This is typically located on the exterior of your RV.

6. Turn on the air compressor: Slowly and carefully turn on your air compressor.

7. Monitor the pressure: Watch the pressure gauge carefully and keep the pressure under 30 PSI. Higher pressure risks damaging your RV's plumbing.

8. Listen for changes: As you blow out the lines, you should hear the water escaping through the open faucets and other valves.

9. Check for water: Check each faucet and valve to make sure no more water is exiting. This can take some time.

10. Disconnect the air compressor: Once you're sure all the water is out, carefully disconnect the air compressor and blow gun.

11. Add RV antifreeze: After the blow-out process, it's crucial to add RV antifreeze to your system. This is a vital step for complete winter protection.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Air isn't flowing freely: Check that all valves and faucets are fully open. Look for any kinks or blockages in the lines.
• Water is not exiting: Ensure your fresh water tank is completely empty and that all low-point drains are open. Sometimes, a stubborn air bubble might be the culprit, so try slightly adjusting the air pressure.

Key Considerations and Tips

• Safety First: Always exercise caution when working with compressed air. Ensure proper ventilation, and wear appropriate safety glasses.
• Regular Maintenance: Consider blowing out your lines even during milder winters if your RV will be sitting unused for extended periods.
• Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, consult with an RV professional for assistance.

By following these steps, you can effectively blow out your RV water lines, preventing costly damage from freezing temperatures and keeping your RV in excellent condition. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional if you have any doubts or concerns.