If you’re an RV owner, then you know that keeping your water tank clean is essential for enjoying a trouble-free camping trip. Neglecting this maintenance task can lead to all sorts of problems, from clogged tanks and pipes to bad smells and even health hazards. In this article, we will show you how to clean your RV water tank quickly and easily using just a few simple tools and supplies. So let’s get started!
How To Clean An RV Water Tank
Cleaning an RV water tank could be a daunting task for some RVers, but it doesn’t have to be.
By following these simple steps, you can have your tank clean in no time and without any headaches.
Getting Ready For The Procedure
The first step is to allow yourself at least 12 hours for the cleaning process. I recommend starting in the morning. You may allow the bleach solution to rest during the day and finish the job in the evening this way.
You should also pick a location that is free of vegetation. That way, when you empty the bleach solution, you won’t cause any damage.
Turn off the water supply to your RV’s hot water tank and allow it to cool. It’s also a good idea to turn off the power to your RV’s water pump. This will prevent any accidental damage while you’re working.
Once everything is turned off, open all the faucets in your RV to allow the water to drain out. If you have an external shower, make sure that the valve is open as well. Now would be a good time to check for any leaks in your system and repair them if necessary.
Tools And Supplies Needed:
- Water hose
- Bucket
- Sponges or rags
- Bleach (optional)
Gather Your Materials
The next step is to gather all the materials you’ll need for the job. This includes a water hose, a bucket, and some sponges or rags. If you want to use bleach, make sure you have enough on hand.
Note:
I do not recommend using bleach unless absolutely necessary. It can be corrosive and damage your RV’s plumbing. If you decide to use it, make sure you diluted it properly (one part bleach to ten parts water).
The Tank Wiping
If the water in your fresh water tank is still unsafe, you may need to wipe it down with a bleach solution.
To do this, mix one-part bleach with ten parts of water in your bucket. Use a sponge or rag to apply the solution to the inside of the tank, making sure to get all the nooks and crannies. Allow the solution to sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing it out.
Once the tank is rinsed, fill it up with fresh water and turn on the power to your RV’s water pump. Open all the faucets in your RV and run the water until it runs clear. This will flush out any residual bleach that may be left in your plumbing.
And that’s it! You’ve now successfully cleaned your RV water tank.
Don’t Ignore The Pipes:
Cleaning the pipes is also an important part of the process, but it’s often overlooked.
To clean your pipes, simply run a mixture of one part bleach and ten parts water through them. Allow the solution to sit for at least 30 minutes before flushing it out with fresh water.
It’s also a good idea to check your RV’s filters and replace them if necessary. This will help to ensure that your water is as clean as possible.
Drain The Water A Second Time:
After you have finished cleaning the tank and pipes, it’s a good idea to drain the water out again. This will help to remove any residual bleach that may be left in your system. To do this, simply open all the faucets in your RV and allow the water to run out.
Once the water has drained, turn on the power to your RV’s water pump and fill the tank up with fresh water. Run the water through all the faucets in your RV until it runs clear. This will flush out any bleach that may be left in your plumbing and ensure that your water is safe to use.
Last But Not The Least:
Your water heater should now be switched on.
You can do a final check by opening all the faucets in your RV and running the water until it is hot. This will ensure that your RV’s water heater is working properly and that your water is safe to use.
Now that you know how to clean your RV water tank, you can enjoy fresh, clean water on your next RV trip!
How Often Should Your RV Water Tanks Be Sanitized?
It’s a good idea to sanitize your RV water tanks at least once a year. This will help to prevent the build-up of bacteria and ensure that your water is safe to use. If you use your RV regularly, you may need to sanitize more often.
Safety-Tip
Never, under any circumstances, add undiluted bleach to your RV plumbing system.
The Advantages of Tank Sanitizing
Sanitizing your RV water tank has many advantages. It helps to prevent the build-up of bacteria, which can cause illness. It also ensures that your water is safe to use, taste, and smell. Sanitizing your tank is a simple and effective way to keep your RV’s water supply clean and safe.
Conclusion:
Cleaning your RV water tank is a simple and effective way to ensure that your RV’s water supply is clean and safe. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily clean your own RV water tank. Thanks for reading!
I hope this article was helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. I will be happy to answer them!
Happy RVing!
FAQs:
Q. What to do if there are problems with the tank or water supply after cleaning it?
Ans. If you experience any problems with your tank or water supply after cleaning it, please contact a qualified RV technician for assistance.
Q. How can I prevent my RV water tank from getting dirty in the first place?
Ans. There are a few things you can do to help prevent your RV water tank from getting dirty:
- Use a water filter:
This will help to remove impurities from your water before it enters the tank.
- Use distilled water:
Distilled water is free of impurities and is less likely to cause build-up in your tank.
- Drain and refill your tank regularly:
This will help to prevent the build-up of sediment in your tank.
- Use milder chemicals instead:
Harsh chemicals can damage your RV’s plumbing and should be avoided. If you must use them, make sure they’re properly diluted before adding them to your tank.
Popular Articles:
HOW TO TRANSITION TO A WANDERLUST LIFESTYLE
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY RV TRAVEL
HELLO FROM THE TOP OF GUADALUPE PEAK
