How to Winterize Ice Makers in RVs
by Tami Parrington
Recreational vehicles equipped with ice makers have an extra step in the winterization process of their fresh-water system. Anti-freeze cannot be used in ice makers, but the hoses must be drained and water lines secured to avoid broken hoses during a winter freeze. The basics of winterizing ice makers in an RV are simple and apply to all ice makers, but it is always best to consult the manuals for your specific brand of appliance in order to help you locate all of the proper hoses on your system.
Step 1
Turn off water to the ice maker from the RV's water source. Drain the holding tanks and remove any city water hook-up hoses. The city water inlet connection is where the garden hose connects to the solenoid valve.
Step 2
Lift the shut-off arm on the ice maker until it locks into place in the off position.
Step 3
Disconnect the water supply to the ice maker from the water solenoid. Leave the heater wire wrapped and connected to the solenoid valve connection.
Step 4
Let the water drain out of the hoses from the water supply and the ice maker. Blow forced air from an air compressor through the hoses to rid the lines of all residual water drops.
Step 5
Bag all hoses and connections with plastic bags wrapped with duct tape to secure them and make them air tight.
References
Things You'll Need
- Air pressure tank
- Plastic bags
- Duct tape
Warnings
- Drain water dispenser lines in the refrigeration system if there are any.
- Mop up any moisture in the drip tray with a towel.
Writer Bio
Tami Parrington is the author of five novels along with being a successful SEO and content writer for the past three years. Parrington's journalism experience includes writing for eHow on medical, health and home-related topics as well as writing articles about the types of animals she has raised for years.
