VENTURE
The Lazy Days RV Magazine

When all danger of frost has past, we can now begin de-winterizing.  Let's start with step one, flushing the water system.  Connect a water hose to the city water connection.  Inside your coach, make sure the faucets are shut off.  Place the water heater by-pass valve to the normal use position.  Outside, open the water heater door, making sure the drain plug is out, turn the hose on.  When water starts running out of the drain, it will be a pinkish color.  Allow it to run until clear and then shut the hose off.  When all excess water stops running from the drain, reinstall the plug and turn the hose back on.  Inside your RV, be careful.  Look and listen for running water which could signal a broken line.  Go to each faucet and turn on the hot and cold water, allowing them to run until clear.  Repeat this process by flushing the toilet and running the shower(s) until clear.  

We will now turn our attention to the water tank.  Close the tank drain and fill to half.  Now drain the tank.  Repeat this process until the water is clear.  The next step is to flush the water pump.  Make sure there is water in the tank, then turn on the pump.  Open a faucet and let the pump and faucet run until the water is clear.  Sometimes after flushing your tank, you may experience an unpleasant taste in your water, this is not harmful to you.  It may be caused by residue.  To eliminate this problem, add a half cup of white vinegar to a half tank of water.   If at all possible, drive or tow your RV 10 to 15 minutes to allow this mixture to swoosh around.  Now drain the tank, refill and drain again. Fill tank again as normal, and your water will be fine.

Now, let's talk about washing machines and ice makers.  Run your washing machine through at least two full cycles before doing laundry because the anti-freeze residue may cause stains.  Also, if your coach is equipped with an ice maker, allow it to cycle several times before using the cubes.

Planning ahead will prevent a canceled trip due to a breakdown.  While doing your de-winterizing, don't forget to check your running lights, turn signals, etc... to ensure your safety.

Remember, a little trip pre-planning will help ensure the start of a fun-filled season of RVing.