How to Winterize Your RV Water Pump With Antifreeze

by Jaimie Zinski

rv image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com

Once the summer season ends and your recreational vehicle will no longer will be used for weekend camping excursions, the vehicle's water system should be winterized. Even if the RV will be taken out periodically during the colder months, the water pump and water system must be protected from frigid temperatures when it is parked. Winterizing your RV's water pump and water system with RV antifreeze will prevent water that may be trapped in pipes from expanding and damaging your water lines.

Step 1

Drain the fresh water and hot water tanks by opening their draining valves. You will also need to drain the black and gray water holding tanks. Close all of the valves after they are drained, except the gray water hold tank valve.

Step 2

Turn the water heater's by-pass valve so it is in the by-pass position. The by-pass valve can be found near the water heater's incoming lines.

Step 3

Remove the water line between the fresh water tank and fresh water pump. You may need a ratchet to loosen the line at the point where it enters the fresh water tank.

Step 4

Place the end of the water line into the opening of your RV antifreeze jug. Remember to purchase antifreeze that is specifically designed for use in RVs.

Step 5

Turn on the RV's fresh water pump. Allow the pump to run for several minutes. The pump will turn itself off once pressure begins to build.

Step 6

Turn on the RVs sink and shower faucets. Leave them on until a small amount of antifreeze begins to pour out and return each faucet to the off position.