If you’re a full-time RVer, or a snowbird who hasn’t yet migrated south for the winter season, you’re likely RVing in cold weather. Even if you take the time to winterize your RV and avoid using your rig’s water systems on the road, the chilly temperatures can still take their toll. RV Trader is breaking down how to thaw a frozen RV tank, along with ways to keep your tank from freezing in the first place.
What You Need to Thaw an RV Water Tank
To thaw an RV’s water tank, you’ll need the following items:
Flashlight
Hair dryer or heat gun
3 Steps to Thaw an RV Water Tank
In addition to this method, you can also let your water tank thaw naturally. However, if you need to use your water systems more quickly, try this:
1. Locate Your RV’s Water Tanks
All of your RV’s wanker tanks—fresh water and wastewater—are typically located under your RV. You’ll want to have direct access to the tanks themselves, using a flashlight to see beneath your camper’s dark underbelly.
2. Inspect the Tanks
Before you begin, you’ll want to inspect your water tanks, as well as the water pump, pipes, and fittings, for any damage. Pipes and plastic fittings can crack under the pressure of expanding ice. If you do see a cracked pipe or fitting, turn off the water system and water pump and place a container below the pipe to catch any water that drips when the ice eventually melts. More serious damage, such as a damaged water pump, might require a trip to an RV mechanic or a call to a plumber.
3. Apply Heat to the Frozen Tank
Using a standard hair dryer or a heat gun, apply heat a few inches away from the frozen tank(s). You should start from the top of the tank and work your way down to the bottom. To avoid damaging your tank, move the hair dryer/heat gun in a smooth, continuous motion.
Once your tank starts to thaw, you should be able to open the termination valve. Do not try to force any valves open before they’re thawed to avoid breaking them.
4 Ways to Prevent Your RV Water Tanks from Freezing
By taking a few preventative measures, you can keep your RV water tanks from freezing in the first place.
1. Holding Tank Heater/Heating Pad/Heating Blanket
RV holding tank heaters, heating pads, and heating blankets attach directly to the tank with an adhesive and connect to your RV’s electrical system. These types of tank heaters have a built-in thermostat and turn on automatically when temperatures are close to freezing, then turn off when the temperatures warm up.
2. RV Skirting
RV skirting helps stop cold air from getting under your RV. You can order custom-fit RV skirting for your specific motorhome, fifth-wheel, or travel trailer. You can also make your own with insulated foam board to fit around your camper. RV skirting is a great option if you’re boondocking or camping without electric hookups.
3. Antifreeze in Wastewater Tanks
If you’ll be camping or traveling in freezing weather for a few days or more, consider adding RV antifreeze to your gray and black water tanks. This can be an inexpensive way to prevent your wastewater tanks from freezing. If you do this, you’ll want to add antifreeze often so it doesn’t become too diluted.
Make sure you use antifreeze specifically for RVs. Propylene glycol-based antifreeze, or an ethanol/propylene blend, will not damage your holding tanks. You should also never add antifreeze to your fresh water tank if you’re drinking, cooking, or washing with this water.
4. Drip Faucets Overnight
While you can’t add antifreeze to your fresh water tank, you can apply the tried-and-true method of dripping your RV’s faucets overnight. Much like in a residential home, dripping the faucets and showerheads in your RV over a cold night can keep your fresh water holding tanks from freezing.
Freezing temperatures don’t have to mean the end of your camping season and RV adventures. If you’re worried about your rig’s water tanks freezing while you’re on the road or at a campground, our preventative measures can help. If your tanks do freeze, you can safely unthaw them by following our steps above. And, if you’re shopping for used or new RVs for sale, browse the nationwide online marketplace at RVTrader.com.
