How To Winterize Rv With Compressed Air

How to Winterize Your RV with Compressed Air: A Complete Guide

Winterizing your RV is crucial to prevent costly damage from freezing temperatures. While there are several methods, using compressed air offers a quick and effective way to blow out water from your RV's plumbing system. This guide provides a step-by-step process for winterizing your RV using compressed air, ensuring your RV is safe and sound until spring.

Before You Begin: Gathering Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. This will make the process smoother and more efficient. You'll need:

• Compressed air tank: A portable tank is ideal, providing sufficient air pressure.
• Air compressor: If you don't have a portable tank, ensure your compressor can maintain consistent pressure.
• Low-pressure regulator: This is essential to prevent damage to your RV's plumbing system. High pressure can cause serious problems. Aim for a regulator that allows you to control the pressure between 30-40 PSI.
• Various blow guns: You'll need different nozzle sizes to reach various faucets and pipes.
• RV antifreeze: Even with compressed air, a small amount of antifreeze is recommended in low-lying areas to offer extra protection against residual water.
• Towels: For cleaning up any spills.
• Safety glasses: Always protect your eyes when working with compressed air.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from the cold and potential moisture.
• Your RV's plumbing system diagram: Knowing your RV's layout will make the process much easier. This is often located in your owner's manual.

Step-by-Step Winterizing with Compressed Air

Now let's get started with the winterization process:

1. Prepare Your RV

• Drain the water heater: This is usually done by opening a drain valve located at the bottom of the water heater tank.
• Flush the water heater: Run the water heater through a complete flush cycle to remove any residual water.
• Drain the low point drains: Locate and open the low point drains typically found under your RV. This will drain water from the main plumbing lines.
• Turn off the water pump: Ensure the water pump is turned completely off.

2. Connect the Air Compressor

• Attach the low-pressure regulator: Securely connect the regulator to your compressed air tank or compressor. Never skip this step.
• Set the pressure: Adjust the regulator to the recommended 30-40 PSI.
• Connect the blow gun: Attach an appropriate blow gun to the regulator.

3. Blow Out the Water Lines

• Start with the furthest points: Begin by attaching the blow gun to the furthest faucet in your RV (usually the outdoor shower). This will force water out in one direction.
• Work your way back: Systematically work your way back towards the water pump, blowing out each faucet, and fixture along the way. Pay attention to low-lying areas that may trap water.
• Be patient and thorough: Take your time. Ensure air flows freely through each line. Listen for a consistent whooshing sound – this indicates that the lines are clear.

4. Adding Antifreeze (Optional but Recommended)

• Pour antifreeze into low-lying areas: Despite using compressed air, add RV antifreeze into low-lying points of the system. This provides an extra layer of protection against freezing. You can use a funnel to do this.

5. Final Checks

• Inspect all connections: Check all connections and ensure that they are secure and properly sealed.
• Store your equipment: Put away all your tools and equipment.
• Document the process: Keep a record of the steps you've taken for future reference.

Tips for Success

• Use the right pressure: Too much pressure can damage your pipes. Stick to the recommended 30-40 PSI.
• Work systematically: Go slowly and methodically to ensure all water is removed.
• Protect your RV's components: Cover or protect sensitive electronic components near plumbing to prevent water damage.
• Consider professional help: If you are unsure about any aspect of this process, consider consulting a professional RV technician.

By following these steps, you can effectively winterize your RV using compressed air, keeping your RV safe and ready for use in the spring. Remember safety first and always prioritize protecting your investment!