How to Sanitize Your RV Fresh Water Tank Properly

Traveling in an RV offers the freedom to explore the world at your own pace, but maintaining your RV is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. One of the most important maintenance tasks is sanitizing your RV fresh water tank. A clean water tank ensures that you have safe, potable water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive step-by-step process to sanitize your RV fresh water tank properly.

Why is Sanitizing Your RV Fresh Water Tank Important?

Sanitizing your RV fresh water tank is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and other contaminants that can compromise your health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), waterborne diseases affect millions of people each year. Ensuring that your water tank is clean significantly reduces the risk of these illnesses.

How Often Should You Sanitize Your RV Water Tank?

It is recommended to sanitize your RV fresh water tank at least twice a year or whenever you notice an off taste or smell in the water. If you frequently travel, especially in regions with questionable water quality, you might need to sanitize more often.

Materials Needed for Sanitizing

Before you begin, gather the following materials to effectively sanitize your RV fresh water tank:

• Household bleach (unscented)
• Measuring cup
• Funnel
• Potable water hose
• Bucket
• Protective gloves

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

Step 1: Drain the Fresh Water Tank

The first step is to drain the existing water from your tank. Locate the drain valve and open it to let all the water out. It’s essential to start with an empty tank to ensure the sanitizing solution is effective.

Step 2: Prepare the Sanitizing Solution

Use household bleach to create a sanitizing solution. The general rule of thumb is to use 1/4 cup of bleach for every 15 gallons of water your tank holds. For instance, if you have a 60-gallon tank, you’ll need 1 cup of bleach. Use a measuring cup to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: Add the Sanitizing Solution to the Tank

Using a funnel, carefully pour the bleach into the fresh water tank. To ensure the bleach is distributed evenly, fill the tank halfway with fresh water using a potable water hose. This will mix the bleach with the water and prepare it for circulation.

Step 4: Circulate the Solution

Turn on the water pump and open all faucets, including the shower and toilet, until you smell bleach. This ensures that the sanitizing solution circulates through the entire water system, cleaning pipes, faucets, and the water heater.

Step 5: Let It Sit

Allow the solution to sit in the tank and plumbing system for at least 12 hours. This waiting period is crucial as it gives the bleach time to kill bacteria and other pathogens effectively.

Step 6: Flush the System

After 12 hours, drain the bleach solution from the tank. Refill the tank with fresh water and run it through the system as before, opening all faucets until the bleach smell is no longer detectable. You may need to flush the system multiple times to remove all traces of bleach.

Step 7: Final Rinse

After flushing, fill your tank with fresh water one last time and test it by smelling and tasting the water. If there are no traces of bleach, your tank is ready for use.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean RV Water System

• Use a water filter when filling your tank to prevent sediments and contaminants.
• Always use a potable water hose designed for drinking water.
• Store your RV with a drained water system if it won’t be in use for an extended period.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While sanitizing your RV water tank is straightforward, there are common mistakes to avoid:

• Using scented bleach, which can leave a lingering odor and taste.
• Not allowing the sanitizing solution to sit long enough.
• Failing to flush the system thoroughly, leaving bleach residue.

Conclusion

Maintaining a clean and sanitized water system is vital for ensuring your health and safety during your RV adventures. By following this guide, you can effectively sanitize your RV fresh water tank and enjoy clean, safe drinking water. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing issues and prolonging the life of your RV water system. Happy travels!