As winter approaches, many RV owners prepare to winterize their vehicles to ensure they are protected from freezing temperatures. One crucial step in the winterization process is blowing out the RV water lines to prevent any residual water from freezing and causing damage to the plumbing system.
When it comes to blowing out the RV water lines, understanding the appropriate PSI (pounds per square inch) is essential. Using the right PSI will help you effectively remove all the water from the lines, preventing any potential problems down the line.
Why Do You Need to Blow Out RV Water Lines?
Before we dive into the recommended PSI for blowing out RV water lines, let’s understand why this step is necessary.
When water freezes, it expands. If there is any water left in the RV’s plumbing system during the winter, freezing temperatures can cause the pipes to crack or burst. This can lead to costly repairs and extensive damage to your RV.
By blowing out the water lines, you are removing all the water from the system, leaving no chance for freezing and subsequent damage. It’s a straightforward and effective way to winterize your RV and ensure its longevity.
The Recommended PSI
When it comes to the recommended PSI for blowing out RV water lines, most experts suggest using an air compressor set at 30-35 PSI. This is considered a safe range that will effectively remove the water without causing any additional stress or damage to the RV’s plumbing system.
Using too high a PSI can potentially damage the water lines, fittings, or valves in your RV, so it’s essential to stay within the recommended range. Conversely, using too low a PSI may not effectively remove all the water from the lines, which defeats the purpose of blowing them out in the first place.
How to Blow Out RV Water Lines
Now that you know the appropriate PSI, let’s walk through the steps to blow out your RV water lines:
- Before getting started, ensure that your RV’s water heater bypass valve is in the correct position to prevent antifreeze from entering it.
- Shut off the water pump and disconnect any outside water sources.
- Open all faucets, both indoor and outdoor, to relieve any pressure.
- Locate the water connection for your air compressor and attach a blowout plug or adapter.
- Set your air compressor to the recommended PSI (30-35 PSI).
- Starting with the closest faucet to the water pump, one by one, open the faucets until only air is coming out. Remember to include toilets and showers.
- Move through each faucet in the RV until all the lines have been blown out with air.
- Finally, pour a small amount of non-toxic RV antifreeze into each drain and toilet to protect the drain traps.
- Once all the water lines have been blown out and antifreeze added, close all the faucets and drains.
Following these steps will ensure you properly blow out your RV water lines and protect them from potential damage during the winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions Of What Psi To Blow Out Rv Water Lines
What Is The Recommended Psi To Blow Out Rv Water Lines?
The recommended PSI to blow out RV water lines is between 30-50 PSI. This will ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the pipes.
How Do I Determine The Optimal Psi For My Rv Water Lines?
To determine the optimal PSI for your RV water lines, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or your RV’s owner’s manual. This will provide specific recommendations for your particular model.
Can I Use A Regular Air Compressor To Blow Out Rv Water Lines?
Yes, you can use a regular air compressor to blow out RV water lines. Just make sure to adjust the pressure to the recommended PSI and use an appropriate attachment for the job.
What Happens If I Use Too High Of A Psi To Blow Out Rv Water Lines?
Using too high of a PSI to blow out RV water lines can cause damage to the pipes, fittings, and fixtures. It’s important to always follow the recommended PSI to avoid costly repairs.
Conclusion
Blowing out your RV water lines is a crucial step in winterizing your vehicle. It’s essential to use the recommended PSI range of 30-35 PSI to effectively remove all the water from the lines without causing any damage. Taking the time to blow out your RV’s water lines will ultimately save you from costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.