Escapees November-December 2023

mark, my words

Your RV Questions By MARK NEMETH #45776, Escapees Technical Advisor Send your questions via e-mail to techquestions@escapees.com

Plumbing in Freezing Temps need to add tank heaters, which attach to the tanks and plug into your rig’s 12V electrical system, and also add additional insulation to the outside of the tanks. Don’t forget to insulate the connecting pipes and the dump valves as well. Some folks who winter-camp build insu lated boxes to cover their holding tanks and use a small

PHOTO BY STEVE MAURMANN #125584

Q. I purchased my fi rst RV and I am anxious to hit the road. However, this time of the year it can get pretty cold. What can I do to the RV to ensure my plumbing does not freeze? Also, are there any heater elements to place on the black and grey tanks to keep them warm and from freezing. Gene A. Winter in an RV can be a bit of a challenge, but it can be done with some preparation. When camping in sub-freezing weather, most folks fi nd it easier to fi ll their onboard fresh water tank and disconnect the hose and drain it between uses to prevent it from freezing. The same principle can be applied to your holding tanks: don’t leave your sewer hose hooked up when at the site. Only hook it up to drain your tanks, and then rinse it out and stow it. Make sure that the park water source will stay active and unfrozen. Many RV parks shut o ff water systems in winter to prevent frozen pipes. You’ll probably be OK without major mods if the temps stay above freezing during the day and don’t fall too far below the 20s at night, but, if you get a cold snap, it will be tough to keep everything working. If your tanks are exposed underneath the rig, you really

light bulb to provide heat. If your tanks are enclosed already, you may be fi ne as is, but tank heaters of some sort will de fi nitely add to your peace of mind. You will also need to run your rig’s furnace for heat (most furnaces supply some heated

air to help protect holding tanks and plumbing), and keep cabinet doors open where plumbing is routed to help prevent freeze-ups if it gets cold. Here is a website that shows some of the tank and plumbing

heaters: www.recpro.com/rv-tank-heater pads You can order from most RV parts sources, and Camping World also carries tank heaters. Good luck and stay warm!

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