Draining your travel trailer’s fresh water tank is crucial for winterizing, preventing stagnant water build-up, and ensuring the longevity of your plumbing system. This essential task involves locating and opening the drain valve, allowing gravity to empty the tank, and taking preventative measures to avoid future issues.
Understanding the Importance of Draining Your Fresh Water Tank
Maintaining a clean and properly functioning fresh water system is paramount for any RVer. Failing to drain your fresh water tank regularly can lead to a host of problems, ranging from unpleasant tastes and odors to serious health concerns. Stagnant water breeds bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms that can contaminate your water supply. Draining is also crucial for winterizing your trailer to prevent freezing and subsequent damage to the tank and plumbing lines. Leaving water in the tank during periods of inactivity can lead to corrosion, mineral build-up, and even cracks in the tank itself. Moreover, routinely draining and flushing the tank helps remove sediment and debris that accumulate over time, ensuring you always have access to fresh, clean water.
Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your Fresh Water Tank
This section provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to draining your travel trailer’s fresh water tank.
Step 1: Locate the Drain Valve
The first, and often trickiest, step is locating the fresh water tank drain valve. It’s usually a low point drain, designed for gravity to do the work. Common locations include:
- Underneath the trailer: Many trailers have the drain valve located underneath, often near the axle. You’ll likely see a short pipe protruding with a valve or cap.
- Inside a storage compartment: Some models hide the valve inside a storage compartment, typically one closest to the tank itself.
- Behind an access panel: Occasionally, the valve might be concealed behind a small access panel, usually in the bathroom or kitchen area.
Refer to your trailer’s owner’s manual if you’re having trouble finding it. The manual should contain diagrams and specific instructions for your model.
Step 2: Prepare for Draining
Before opening the drain valve, consider these preparatory steps:
- Level your trailer: Parking your trailer on a level surface helps ensure that all the water drains completely.
- Open faucets and low point drains: Opening all the faucets (both hot and cold) and any additional low point drains inside the trailer allows air to enter the system and facilitates a quicker, more complete drain.
- Have a container ready (optional): If you’re draining into an area where water damage is a concern, have a bucket or other container handy to catch the outflow.
- Ensure proper drainage: Make sure the area where you’re draining the water is suitable. Avoid draining into areas that could be damaged by the water or that could cause environmental concerns.
Step 3: Open the Drain Valve
Once you’ve located the valve and prepared the area, it’s time to open it. The type of valve can vary:
- Simple Valve: These valves typically involve turning a handle to open and close.
- Cap: Some drains are simply capped. You’ll need to unscrew the cap to release the water.
Open the valve completely to allow for maximum flow. You’ll likely hear a gurgling sound as air enters the tank.
Step 4: Allow the Tank to Drain Completely
This process can take some time, depending on the size of your tank. Be patient and allow the water to drain completely. The draining process could take 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your tank size.
Step 5: Close the Drain Valve
Once the water has completely drained, close the drain valve securely. Make sure the handle is fully turned or the cap is tightly screwed on.
Step 6: Inspect and Clean (Optional)
This is a good time to inspect the drain valve for any signs of wear or damage. Consider flushing the tank with a water tank cleaner for a more thorough clean. This will help remove any remaining sediment or debris. Follow the instructions on the cleaning product carefully.
Winterizing Your Fresh Water System
Draining your fresh water tank is only the first step in winterizing your travel trailer. You’ll also need to winterize the water lines and pump to prevent freezing and damage.
Adding RV Antifreeze
After draining the tank, you should add RV antifreeze to the plumbing lines and pump. There are several ways to do this:
- Using the Water Pump: Most RVs have a valve that allows you to bypass the fresh water tank and draw antifreeze directly from a bottle.
- Pouring Antifreeze into the Tank: This is less efficient, as you’ll need a large amount of antifreeze, but it can be done.
Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for the best method for your specific trailer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about draining your travel trailer’s fresh water tank:
FAQ 1: How often should I drain my fresh water tank?
Ideally, you should drain your fresh water tank every time you store your trailer for an extended period, such as over the winter. If you’re using the trailer frequently, drain it at least once a month to prevent stagnant water build-up.
FAQ 2: Can I use regular antifreeze in my fresh water system?
No, never use regular (automotive) antifreeze in your fresh water system. It is toxic and can contaminate your water supply. Only use RV antifreeze, which is specifically designed for potable water systems.
FAQ 3: Where can I dispose of the drained water?
Dispose of the drained water responsibly. Avoid draining it into areas that could contaminate water sources or damage property. Many campgrounds have designated drainage areas.
FAQ 4: What if I can’t find the drain valve?
Consult your travel trailer’s owner’s manual. It should contain diagrams and specific instructions for your model. If you still can’t find it, contact the manufacturer or a qualified RV technician.
FAQ 5: How do I know if the tank is completely drained?
You’ll know the tank is completely drained when the water stops flowing out of the drain valve. You can also check the water level indicator on your control panel, if your trailer is equipped with one.
FAQ 6: Can I use compressed air to blow out the water lines?
Yes, using compressed air can help remove any remaining water from the lines after draining the tank and adding antifreeze. Be sure to use a low pressure (around 30-40 PSI) to avoid damaging the plumbing.
FAQ 7: What if my drain valve is clogged?
Try using a flexible wire or small brush to clear the blockage. You can also try flushing the tank with water to dislodge the clog. If the clog persists, you may need to replace the drain valve.
FAQ 8: Is it okay to leave a small amount of water in the tank?
Leaving even a small amount of water can lead to problems, especially in freezing temperatures. Make every effort to drain the tank completely.
FAQ 9: What are low point drains and how do they help?
Low point drains are valves located at the lowest points in your plumbing system. Opening them after draining the fresh water tank allows any remaining water in the pipes to drain out, helping to prevent freezing and damage.
FAQ 10: How do I sanitize my fresh water tank?
To sanitize your fresh water tank, mix a solution of bleach and water (typically ¼ cup of bleach per 15 gallons of water). Pour the solution into the tank, fill the tank with water, and let it sit for several hours. Then, drain and flush the tank with fresh water until the bleach smell is gone.
FAQ 11: My water smells or tastes bad. How do I fix it?
First, drain and flush your fresh water tank. Then, sanitize the tank as described above. You may also need to replace your water filter, if you have one.
FAQ 12: How can I prevent my fresh water tank from freezing?
The best way to prevent your fresh water tank from freezing is to drain it completely and winterize the system with RV antifreeze. You can also use a tank heater if you need to use your trailer in freezing temperatures. A heated water hose can also prevent your supply from freezing.