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otrfun's avatar
otrfun
Explorer II
Dec 14, 2016

Most Common Method Used to Winterize?

Just curious how many folks drain their freshwater (FW) tank, then refill the FW tank with RV antifreeze to winterize their system? I tried this method for the first time a week or so ago. It took about 4 gallons of antifreeze to get the antifreeze level in the FW tank high enough so I didn't pull air into the water pump.

With my past trailers I winterized using a valve operated Y-adapter on the intake side of the water pump. It usually took only 1-2 gallons of antifreeze with this method. This method left me a little uncomfortable because it left the hose from the pump to the FW tank vulnerable to freezing.

22 Replies

  • Blow out or anti-freeze or a combination of both are the most common method....but the worse method is to put the anti-freeze in the fresh water tank.
  • I think the best method is the one you are the most comfortable using to winterize.

    We all have our preferred methods. I don't think one is more common than another one.

    I just use air to blow out the lines and use pink stuff in the traps.
    It works for me during Pennsylvania winters.

    If it works for you pouring antifreeze in the FW tank, I would continue with that method.
    Is it worth an additional two gallons of antifreeze for your peace of mind? And, will the two gallons really impact your RV budget? :)

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