Introduction
Cleaning the fresh water tank in an RV is an essential task to maintain the water quality and prevent any potential health risks. Regular cleaning helps remove accumulated sediments, bacteria, and other contaminants that can affect the taste and safety of the water. In this article, we will delve into the steps and methods to effectively clean the fresh water tank in an RV.
Gather the necessary materials
Materials used:
– Bleach or RV-specific tank cleaner
– Rubber gloves
– Water hose
– Soft-bristle brush
– Clean cloth or sponge
– Bucket
Before starting the cleaning process, gather all the necessary materials to ensure a smooth and efficient operation.
Drain the fresh water tank
The first step in cleaning the fresh water tank is to drain all the water from it. Locate the drain valve, usually located at the bottom of the tank, and open it to let the water flow out. Make sure to connect a hose to the drain valve to direct the water away from the RV and into a suitable drainage area.
Mix the cleaning solution
Option 1: Using bleach
– For every 15 gallons of water in the tank, mix 1/4 cup of bleach.
– Use a funnel to pour the bleach into the tank through the fresh water fill port.
– Fill the tank with fresh water until it is about 3/4 full.
Option 2: RV-specific tank cleaner
– Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the tank cleaner.
– Typically, you will need to mix the cleaner with a specific amount of water in a bucket or directly in the tank.
Circulate and disinfect the tank
Once the cleaning solution is prepared, it’s time to circulate and disinfect the fresh water tank.
Option 1: Using bleach
– Close the fresh water fill port and turn on the water pump.
– Open each faucet and run the water until you smell bleach.
– Let the solution sit in the tank and plumbing system for at least 12 hours.
– After the designated time, drain the tank completely by opening the drain valve and flushing the system with fresh water.
Option 2: RV-specific tank cleaner
– Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the tank cleaner.
– Typically, you will need to let the solution sit in the tank for a specific amount of time before draining and flushing the system with fresh water.
Clean the tank interior
After disinfecting the tank, it’s important to clean the interior to remove any remaining residue or sediment.
– Use a soft-bristle brush and a mixture of mild dish soap and water to scrub the interior of the tank.
– Pay special attention to the corners and hard-to-reach areas.
– Rinse the tank thoroughly with fresh water, ensuring all soap residue is removed.
Final steps
To complete the cleaning process, perform the following steps:
– Close the drain valve and fill the fresh water tank with clean water.
– Open each faucet and run the water until you no longer smell any bleach or cleaning solution.
– Repeat the flushing process at least twice to ensure all traces of the cleaning solution are removed.
– Finally, drain the tank completely and close the drain valve.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning the fresh water tank in your RV is crucial for maintaining water quality and ensuring a safe and enjoyable camping experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively clean and disinfect your fresh water tank, providing clean and safe water for your RV adventures.
References
– rvshare.com
– campergrid.com
