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Albertg's avatar
Albertg
Explorer
Apr 22, 2015

Cold snap freeze worries

I just bought a Coachman Clipper (used) got it all set up and tested all the systems. Getting ready for a trip but all of a sudden we are getting freezing temps tonight 28 deg. F.
How cold for how long justifies blowing out the lines, draining the holding tank and hot water heater?
Thanks for your help

Al
  • fitznj wrote:

    BTW - it's really easy to empty the lines -


    THIS.

    ALL of the water doesn't really have to be out, just enough so that pressure doesn't build up in the lines if a spot or two does freeze.

    Do a quick drain and leave all the faucets open and then don't worry about it.
  • 'This unit has an outdoor shower attachment"
    Have you used it since you de-winterized it? if not, there is probably no water in the line. Otherwise, you may want to wrap a towel around it.
    BTW - it's really easy to empty the lines - there should 2 taps sticking down
    from you camper - crawl underneath and you should see them. If you open all the faucets and open the these 2 taps - it will drain all the water lines and
    possibly your hot water tank but NOT you fresh water tank. This will make you
    feel comfortable
    G
  • G,
    Thanks, I thought it would be okay but I hate to assume. This unit has an outdoor shower attachment, plastic of course any concerns there?
  • If it's just one night and it's going down to 28 - then I would not worry.
    We camp many times in early spring and let fall when the temps go below freezing and never had a problem. Pex lines are pretty resilient to freezing.
    If the temp is going down to below freezing for several days - that's a different story.

    If it makes you feel better - you can use an electric fan type heater and set the thermostat to come on when it gets cold - this will keep things above freezing.
    G