How to Prevent Your RV's Pipes from Freezing

Depending on where you live and what your RV travel plans are during winter - frozen pipes are no good. Here are some simple tips to prevent your RV's pipes from freezing.

If you own an RV, you'll need to take certain precautions to prevent the pipes and water lines from freezing. As we transition from the fall to the winter, the temperatures will become cooler and cooler. And depending on where exactly you live – and where you intend to drive – these cold temperatures could freeze your RV's plumbing pipes and water lines. Thankfully, you can prevent this phenomenon from occurring by following some simple steps.

Wrap Exposed Water Lines in Insulating Tape

You should begin by inspecting your RV for exposed water lines, and then wrapping those lines in insulating tape. Insulating tape is inexpensive and easy to use, with most home improvement stores selling it for about $5 bucks per roll. Simply wrap the tape generously around any exposed water lines for added insulation value and protection from the elements.

Drain Water Fresh Water Tank

If you plan on storing your RV for the winter, you should go ahead and drain the fresh water tank. Doing so prevents the stored water from freezing, which could otherwise damage the tank and connecting lines. And even if the water doesn't freeze, it may still promote rust and corrosion – two things you want to avoid in your RV's fresh water tank. Just remember to use the appropriate fresh water hose when draining your fresh water tank.

Install a Tank Heater

But if you're going to use your RV this winter, you'll probably want to keep the water tank full, in which case a tank heater can be used to prevent freezing. Tank heaters are placed on the bottom of the tank, using electricity to warm the tank while preventing its contents from freezing. A typical tank heater has a self-adhesive backing, allowing it to stick to the bottom of the tank. Once you connect the tank heater to an electrical outlet, it provides ample warmth to prevent freezing.

Cover Holding Tanks

You can further insulate your RV's holding tanks using towels. If there's a deep freeze in the forecast, place a stack of towels over the holding tanks. The purpose of this is to increase its insulation value, protecting the water from freezing. This alone probably isn't going to keep the water from freezing. But when used in conjunction with the other methods listed here, it can certainly help.

These are just a few tips to help prevent your RV's water lines and pipes from freezing this winter.

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