One of the worst things that can happen when you’re out camping is finding out that your water tanks have stopped working. That’s why we’re here to give you some tips on how to keep your travel trailer water tanks functioning properly all season long. By following these simple tips, you can avoid any costly repairs or replacements down the road.
1. Check for leaks regularly
One of the best ways to prevent your water tanks from malfunctioning is to check for leaks regularly. A simple way to do this is to pour a cup of water into the tank and then check the ground around the tank for any puddles or wet spots. If you see any, that’s a sure sign of a leak. Be sure to check all of the seals and gaskets around the tank as well so that you can tighten or replace them if necessary.
2. Don’t let the tank get too low
Your travel trailer water tanks are designed to function best when they’re at least half full. So, be sure to top them off regularly so that they don’t run dry. This will also help prevent any sediment from building up in the bottom of the tank, which can clog the pipes and cause problems down the road.
3. Keep an eye on the temperature gauge
If you notice that the temperature gauge on your water heater is starting to creep up, it might be time to descale the tank. This simply means removing any minerals or sediment that has built up on the sides of the tank over time. You can do this by draining the tank and then adding a Descaling Solution, which you can find at most hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the package and then refill the tank with fresh water.
4. Use the correct hose
When you’re filling up your travel trailer water tanks, be sure to use a freshwater hose that’s designed for RV use. These hoses are made of food-grade materials and are safe for drinking water. Regular garden hoses are not designed for this purpose and can introduce harmful chemicals into your water supply.
5. Sanitize the system
You should also sanitize your travel trailer water tanks at least once a season to kill any bacteria that might be lurking inside. The best way to do this is to add a Sanitizing Solution to the tank and then run all of the faucets in the RV until you can smell the solution coming out. Be sure to follow the instructions from your particular manufacturer.
6. Winterization of your travel trailer water tank
This step is very important. If you do not winterize, your pipes could freeze and burst, which would be a huge mess to clean up. There are a few different ways that you can winterize your travel trailer water tank, so be sure to consult your owner’s manual or an RV technician before getting started.
7. Dewinterization
This is the process of removing any antifreeze from your travel trailer water tanks and plumbing so that you can use them again. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual or an RV technician before getting started, as there are a few different ways to do this.
8. Using a water filter
It is a good idea to use a water filter with your travel trailer water tanks, especially if you are using them for drinking water. This will help to remove any impurities from the water and make it safer to drink. There are a variety of different filters on the market, so be sure to do your research and find one that’s right for you.
9. Chemicals in the black tank
You should never put any chemicals down your RV’s black tank, as this can damage the sensors and cause problems with the toilet. If you need to clean your black tank, there are a few different products on the market that are designed for this purpose. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully so that you don’t damage anything.
10. Regular maintenance
The best way to prevent any problems with your travel trailer water tanks is to perform regular maintenance on them. This includes checking for leaks, topping off the tanks, descaling the tank if necessary, and sanitizing the system. By following these simple tips, you can avoid any costly repairs or replacements down the road.
11. Always keep the Black Water Tank closed unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer.
The black tank valve is the key to a happy RVing experience. It controls the flow of water (and sewage) from your camper to the sewer connection at the campground. When this valve is left open, sewage can leak – and trust us, you do not want that! So, be sure to keep this valve closed at all times unless you are actively dumping your tanks.
12. Don’t forget about the gray water tank
Your gray water tank holds all of the water that goes down your drains, including shower water and sinks water. This tank needs to be dumped regularly, as well – otherwise, it will overflow and cause a big mess. Most campgrounds have dump stations that you can use. Always check and prepare. Know before you go!
13. Don’t Let Food Fall Down the Drain
Depending on your trailer, you may or may not have a sink, but if you do have one, it’s important to be careful about what goes down it. Food scraps can easily clog up your drains, so it’s best to avoid putting them down the sink. Instead, dispose of them in the trash.
By following these simple tips, you can avoid any costly repairs or replacements down the road and keep your travel trailer water tanks functioning properly all season long. Of course, if you do run into any problems, feel free to give us a call and one of our certified technicians will be happy to help you out. Happy camping!
