Classic RV Club - Questions & Answers

11/11/08

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Here's your chance to ask that question that's been bugging you about RVs & the RV lifestyle. Ask Classy all those difficult questions. Maybe you'll get an answer, maybe you won't. Other club members are invited to  provide answers whenever they can or to add their opinions to previous answers.
Q
Dear Classy - What's the best way to prepare my RV for storage during the winter months - I don't want frozen and broken pipes when I'm ready to use it again in the spring? Anti Freeze
A

Dear Anti Freeze - The best way to keep your pipes from freezing is to pack up and head for southern climes! But assuming you've already considered that, here's my suggestions:

  1. First, drain all the supply lines. Most RVs have a low-point in the water lines that drains all the water. Some RVs already have drain valves for a quick drain; if not, I suggest adding them to make this job easier and make sure you do it when needed. Open the valves or remove the plugs and allow plenty of time for all the water to drain.

  2. Inside the RV, open all the faucets to drain all trapped water.

  3. Remove the drain plug on the water heater. This often takes a special socket (1 1/16 on Suburban, xx on Atwood). Or you can but a special drain plug with a built-n valve. Again, allow plenty of time for all the water to drain.

  4. Your holding tanks should already be drained; if not, take care of that.

  5. Drain the fresh water tank.

  6. Inside the RV, pour about a cup of RV antifreeze down each drain to keep the trap from freezing

  7. The above is good for a quick drain, but a final step to ensure no freeze-ups is to blow out the lines. Buy an air-valve adapter from your favorite supply store. Install on the city-water supply inlet and attach a source of air - keep the pressure below about 40 psi to prevent damage. Repeat the steps outlined above to alternately open each drain valve one at a time and allow all the water to blow out - you'll be surprised how much water comes out.

NOTE: Some RV manuals do not recommend using air to blow out water lines but I've never had a problem as long as the pressure is kept low.

 
Q
Dear Classy - I need a new RV battery. Can I just go down to the nearest big-box store and buy a battery? Discharged
 
A

Dear Discharged - The big-box store probably has batteries, but be sure you buy the right kind. There's a difference between the batteries used as automotive batteries that supply the starter and accessories and the typical RV battery. The automotive battery is designed to give maximum cranking power for starting the engine. However, the RV battery is designed for deep-discharge applications so you get the maximum operating time and repeated discharge without damage. This ensures that you aren't left in the dark when boondocking at your favorite hidden camping spot that only you and hundreds of others know about.
 

 
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