Keeping your RV’s water system clean and safe is paramount for healthy and enjoyable travels. Proper sanitization eliminates harmful bacteria and algae, preventing illness and ensuring that the water you use for drinking, cooking, and showering is free from contaminants.
Why Sanitize Your RV Water System?
The Hidden Dangers in Unsanitized Water
Leaving your RV’s water system unattended for extended periods can create a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and algae. Stagnant water provides the perfect environment for these microorganisms to thrive, potentially leading to unpleasant tastes, odors, and, more seriously, health problems. Consuming contaminated water can result in gastrointestinal distress, infections, and other illnesses. Regular sanitization eliminates these threats, guaranteeing the safety and quality of your water supply.
Preventing Long-Term Damage
Beyond health concerns, neglecting to sanitize your water system can lead to long-term damage to your RV’s plumbing. The buildup of mineral deposits and organic matter can clog pipes, reduce water pressure, and even cause corrosion. By regularly sanitizing, you prevent these issues, extending the lifespan of your water system and avoiding costly repairs down the line. Think of it as preventative maintenance, much like changing the oil in your car.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sanitizing Your RV Water System
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies:
- Household bleach (unscented): Use regular, unscented bleach containing 5-6% sodium hypochlorite.
- Water heater bypass kit (if applicable): This allows you to bypass the water heater during sanitization, saving time and bleach.
- Water hose (potable water safe): Ensure the hose is specifically designed for drinking water.
- Bucket: For measuring and mixing the bleach solution.
- Screwdriver or wrench (if needed): For removing and reinstalling drain plugs.
- Water pressure regulator (optional): Protects your system from excessive water pressure.
- Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from bleach splashes.
Detailed Sanitization Procedure
- Drain the Existing Water: Start by draining all the water from your fresh water tank, water heater (if not bypassing), and plumbing lines. Locate the low point drains – usually found underneath the RV – and open them. Open all faucets (hot and cold) and the showerhead to allow air to enter and facilitate drainage.
- Bypass the Water Heater (Recommended): If your RV has a water heater bypass, engage it. This isolates the water heater, preventing it from filling with the sanitizing solution and saving you a significant amount of bleach. If you don’t have a bypass, proceed with draining the water heater thoroughly.
- Calculate the Bleach Solution: The recommended concentration is ¼ cup of household bleach for every 15 gallons of water tank capacity. For example, if you have a 45-gallon tank, you’ll need ¾ cup of bleach. Always err on the side of slightly more bleach rather than less.
- Mix the Bleach Solution: In a clean bucket, mix the calculated amount of bleach with a gallon or two of fresh water. This diluted solution makes it easier to pour into the fresh water tank.
- Pour the Solution into the Fresh Water Tank: Carefully pour the bleach solution into the fresh water tank using a funnel or the hose.
- Fill the Tank with Fresh Water: Fill the fresh water tank completely with potable water. This will thoroughly mix the bleach solution throughout the tank.
- Run the Bleach Solution Through the Plumbing: Turn on the RV’s water pump and open each faucet (hot and cold) one at a time until you smell bleach. Repeat this process for the showerhead, toilet, and any other water outlets. Once you smell bleach at each outlet, turn it off.
- Let the Solution Sit: Allow the bleach solution to sit in the water system for at least four hours. For heavily contaminated systems, you can let it sit overnight. This is crucial for effective sanitization.
- Drain and Flush the System: After the soaking period, drain the entire water system, including the fresh water tank and plumbing lines.
- Refill and Flush with Fresh Water: Refill the fresh water tank with fresh water and run it through all the faucets and water outlets until the bleach smell is gone. This may require several refills and flushes.
- Sanitize the City Water Connection (Optional): To sanitize the city water connection, you can purchase a specialized RV water hose with a built-in backflow preventer. Connect this hose to the city water connection and run the bleach solution through it for a few minutes before flushing with fresh water.
- Test Your Water (Optional): For peace of mind, you can purchase a home water testing kit to check for residual chlorine and bacteria. These kits are readily available at most hardware stores.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dealing with Strong Bleach Odor
If the bleach odor persists after multiple flushes, try adding a small amount of baking soda to the fresh water tank and running it through the system. Baking soda neutralizes the chlorine.
Slow Draining
Slow draining can be caused by clogged drains. Ensure the low point drains are free of debris. You can also try using a plumbing snake or drain cleaner designed for RVs.
Pump Not Priming
If the water pump isn’t priming, check the strainer for debris and ensure all connections are tight. You may need to prime the pump manually by pouring water into the pump housing.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
FAQ 1: How often should I sanitize my RV water system?
You should sanitize your RV water system at least twice a year, typically at the beginning and end of the camping season. If you use your RV frequently or store it for extended periods, you may need to sanitize it more often, such as every three months.
FAQ 2: Can I use vinegar instead of bleach to sanitize my RV water system?
While vinegar can help remove mineral deposits, it is not as effective as bleach at killing bacteria and algae. Bleach is the recommended sanitizing agent for RV water systems due to its effectiveness and affordability.
FAQ 3: What if I accidentally use too much bleach?
Using too much bleach can damage your RV’s plumbing and leave a strong odor. If you accidentally use too much bleach, drain the system immediately and flush it thoroughly with fresh water until the bleach smell is gone.
FAQ 4: Is it safe to drink the water after sanitizing?
Yes, it is safe to drink the water after sanitizing, provided you have thoroughly flushed the system with fresh water until the bleach smell is completely gone.
FAQ 5: Do I need to sanitize my RV water heater separately?
If your RV has a water heater bypass, you don’t need to sanitize the water heater separately. However, if you don’t have a bypass, you should drain and sanitize the water heater along with the rest of the system.
FAQ 6: Can I use bleach tablets instead of liquid bleach?
While bleach tablets can be convenient, they may not dissolve completely and can leave residue in the tank. Liquid bleach is generally preferred for more thorough and consistent sanitization.
FAQ 7: How do I sanitize my RV water filter housing?
Remove the water filter cartridge and wash the housing with soap and water. Rinse thoroughly. You can also pour a small amount of diluted bleach solution into the housing and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
FAQ 8: What is the best way to store my RV for the winter?
Before storing your RV for the winter, completely drain the water system, including the fresh water tank, water heater, and plumbing lines. You can also add RV antifreeze to the plumbing lines to prevent freezing.
FAQ 9: My RV water smells like rotten eggs. What should I do?
A rotten egg smell typically indicates the presence of sulfur bacteria. Sanitize your water system thoroughly with bleach and flush it well. You may also need to shock the water heater with a higher concentration of bleach to eliminate the bacteria.
FAQ 10: Can I use a pressure washer to clean my fresh water tank?
Using a pressure washer to clean your fresh water tank is generally not recommended, as it can damage the tank’s interior. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush and soap and water to scrub the tank if needed.
FAQ 11: What if I have a well water system in my RV?
If you have a well water system in your RV, you should sanitize it regularly using the same procedure as with a city water system. Test the well water periodically for bacteria and other contaminants.
FAQ 12: Where can I find more information about RV water system maintenance?
Many resources are available online and in print about RV water system maintenance. Consult your RV owner’s manual, online RV forums, and reputable RV repair shops for more information.