A Step-by-Step Guide to Sanitizing Your RV Fresh Water Tank

Ensuring that your RV fresh water tank is clean and sanitized is crucial for maintaining the quality of your water supply during your travels. Contaminated water can lead to various health issues, which can easily be avoided with regular maintenance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of sanitizing your RV fresh water tank step by step.

Why is Sanitizing Your RV Fresh Water Tank Important?

Water stored in your RV’s fresh water tank can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other harmful microorganisms if not properly maintained. These contaminants can lead to illnesses such as gastrointestinal infections, which can ruin your trip. Regular sanitization ensures that your drinking water is safe and clean.

How Often Should You Sanitize Your RV Fresh Water Tank?

It’s generally recommended that you sanitize your RV’s fresh water tank at least once every six months. However, if you use your RV frequently or notice any foul odors or tastes in your water, you should sanitize it more often. Some RV owners prefer to sanitize their tanks at the start and end of each travel season.

What You’ll Need

Before you start the sanitization process, gather the following supplies:

• Household bleach (unscented)
• Measuring cup
• Water hose
• Bucket
• Funnel
• Rubber gloves

Step-by-Step Guide to Sanitizing Your RV Fresh Water Tank

Step 1: Drain the Tank

Start by draining any existing water from your fresh water tank. Locate the drain valve and open it, allowing all the water to flow out. Make sure to also open all faucets, including the shower and outdoor faucets, to ensure that all water is drained from the system.

Step 2: Prepare the Bleach Solution

Mix a bleach solution using one-quarter cup of household bleach for every 15 gallons of water your tank holds. For example, if your tank holds 60 gallons, you’ll need one cup of bleach. Use a bucket to mix the bleach with water thoroughly.

Step 3: Add the Bleach Solution to the Tank

Using a funnel, carefully pour the bleach solution into the fresh water tank. Once added, fill the tank with fresh water using a hose. This helps to distribute the bleach solution evenly throughout the tank.

Step 4: Circulate the Solution

Turn on your RV’s water pump and open all faucets, including the shower and outdoor faucets, until you smell bleach coming from them. This indicates that the bleach solution has circulated throughout the entire water system. Close the faucets and let the bleach solution sit in the tank for at least 12 hours.

Step 5: Drain and Rinse the Tank

After the solution has sat for the required time, drain the tank again. Refill the tank with fresh water and open all faucets to flush out any remaining bleach solution. You may need to repeat this process several times until the bleach smell is no longer detectable.

Step 6: Final Rinse

Perform a final rinse by filling the tank with fresh water and running it through all faucets. This ensures that any lingering bleach is completely removed from the system. Once you’re satisfied that the water is clear and odor-free, you can consider the sanitization process complete.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Fresh Water Tank

Besides regular sanitization, there are other practices you can adopt to keep your RV fresh water tank clean:

• Use a water filter when filling your tank to remove impurities.
• Store your RV in a shaded area to prevent algae growth in the tank.
• Regularly inspect and clean the tank vents and caps to prevent contamination.
• Use potable water sources to fill your tank whenever possible.

Conclusion

Sanitizing your RV fresh water tank is a simple yet crucial maintenance task that ensures the safety and quality of your water supply. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can easily keep your water system clean and free from harmful contaminants. Remember, a clean water tank contributes to a healthier and more enjoyable RV experience. Happy travels!