DIY Network

Interior Maintenance: Cleaning the Fresh Water Tank Learn the steps to cleaning an RV's fresh water tank. From "RV Roadtrips" episode DRVR-103

Host Gary Bunzer leads the Fortier family through the various steps of cleaning an RV's fresh water tank, which includes emptying the tank of water or antifreeze and refilling it with fresh water.

After installing an interior filter strainer and flushing out the system, Gary shares a homemade recipe to rid the water of unnecessary containments.

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Figure A

Materials:

internal water filter
chlorine
funnel
measuring cup

1. Empty the tank of water or antifreeze.

   Tip: This project should be done at home. Most RV parks will not allow you to do this inside the campground.

2. Refill tank with fresh water using an accessory water filter (figure A). This will ensure the water going into the tank is already filters and safe to drink.

3. Chlorinate the fresh water system with a homemade recipe:
   • 1/4-cup bleach for every 15 gallons

     Pour directly into the fresh water tank with a funnel.

4. Turn on the water pump.

5. Open the pressure and relief valve on the water heater, which will flush water out of the water heater. Do this for about five to 10 seconds. You'll smell bleach. This will rid the tank of unwanted calcium chips and deposits.

6. Then open all hot-water and cold-water faucets. When water is flowing freely and you've smelled bleach for about five to 10 seconds, shut them off.

RESOURCES :

Water Filter
Hydro Life
Website: www.hydrolife.com