Though sanitizing your RV tanks is not a fun activity, this step is essential for a fun, safe trip! Here are some steps and tips to follow for a painless time cleaning!
Steps, tips & supplies for flushing & sanitizing water tanks
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
It is best to have the supplies you need before sanitizing your RV tanks. There is nothing worse than having to stop in the middle of the process to run out and buy more bleach! Here are a few of the items you should have in advance:
- Bleach
- Hose
- Measuring cup
- Funnel
- 1-gallon pitcher
- Old clothes and shoes in case of bleach spill
- Optional: Gloves, internal and external water filters
Cleaning your water system doesn’t take much! With these items on hand, you are ready to get started!
Step 2: Drain the Tanks
Before you actually start this step, remember to turn the water heater and ice maker off if you have these appliances. Never drain your heater when its not, as this can cause damage. Ensure your heater is cool before starting to drain.
Once you are ready, open the fresh water valve and drain the water, especially if you are unsure if the source was sanitary. It is also a good idea to turn the water pump on, making sure the tanks empty completely. Once empty, close the drains and tighten the valves.
Step 3: Mix and Pour the Bleach Solution
The rule of thumb for sanitizing your water tanks is to add 1/4 cup of bleach to every 16 gallons of water your tank holds. Double check with your camper’s manual if you are unsure how large your tank is.
Mix the appropriate amount of bleach with water in your gallon container before pouring it into the tank. Next, fill the rest of the tank with fresh water. Start the water pump again so the water flows.
To make sure the bleach solution makes it through your entire system, turn on all the faucets in your camper. Let the water run for about two minutes, or until you can smell the bleach.
Then, turn the faucets off and leave the water to sit for about 8-12 hours.
Step 4: Drain and Flush the System
Once the solution has sat for the proper amount of time, it is time to drain the water system again. Follow the same steps as earlier, opening the valves and turning on the water pump.
Once the bleach water is gone, fill your tanks again with fresh water to flush the system. It may take a few rounds to get all the bleach out of the system.
Once the smell of bleach is gone, you are ready to go! You are done sanitizing your RV tanks and can move on to the next step of getting your camper ready for the road!
Tanks: Cleaned. Riverview RV Campsite: Booked!
While the ins and outs of motorhome maintenance seems daunting, it doesn’t have to be! Once you get the hang of keeping your camper clean, its time to hit the road!
Riverview RV is located just outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma and offers the perfect quiet spot for travelers! With walking trails on the grounds and nearby, its a perfect spot to enjoy nature. We also offer amenities including hot showers, self-service laundry, a cable hookup, and more! Give us a call at (918) 245-8588 or visit us online for more information!
