How to Keep RV Tanks From Freezing: Expert Advice

I went on a winter RV trip with my family a few years ago. We had hopes of chasing snowflakes and enjoying the peace and quiet of the season. But we had no idea that keeping our RV tanks from freezing would be our most difficult task.

That day, I realized how important it is to take timely measures to keep RV tanks from freezing. Anyhow, we managed to find some solutions after trying different things.

In this blog, I will share some tips in detail about how to keep RV tanks from freezing. I will share all the solutions and smart tips that you need to know.

How to Keep RV Tanks from Freezing?

RVs protect their water systems by enclosing the pipes and tanks, and they heat that space using the RV’s heating system. When water travels through these pipes and returns to the tank, it helps keep it from freezing, which is vital in cold weather to prevent damage.

How to Keep RV Holding Tanks from Freezing?

Set up a pump with a loop and a timer to keep your water warm during cold weather. When it gets cold, simply boil some water or use a water heater to warm it up before adding it to the tank. The timer will then automatically circulate warm water through the pipes as you sleep.

You can also consider installing a sensor in the coldest location to begin recirculating the water as it approaches freezing, ensuring that your water stays nice and hot. Try using an RV water pump. Here’s a recommendation for you:

The Revolution Pump is constructed with a unique design that makes it durable and trustworthy for any plumbing system. It’s built to last, with high flow, quiet operation, and no rapid on-off cycles. With this dependable pump, you can relax and enjoy your RV journey without worrying about your water supply.

You might also follow these procedures regarding how to keep your RV’s black water tank from freezing during cold weather:

• Connect valves and drains to your system to facilitate water line drainage. Install a 12V heater under the tank as well to melt frozen water.

• Make sure the tank has a drain and a valve at the bottom. Drain the lines into a bucket each night and restore the water to the tank.

• Concentrate on preventing the tank from freezing rather than protecting the entire water system.

• Consider utilizing RV heater pads; they perform well even in freezing temperatures.

How to Keep the Water Line from Freezing in Winter?

To avoid freezing in cold weather, leave a faucet partially open or remove the hose. At night, try to make sure that your water tank is full and bring in the hose and filter. It’s more labor, but it will save time in the morning. Heated hoses are a possibility, but they are not cheap.

Can I Add Salt to Freshwater Tank to Prevent Freezing Over Cold Nights?

Salt can cause water to freeze at lower temperatures, although a large amount is required for a significant influence. A full water tank will not freeze, but pipes without heat may.

How much salt for freezing point depression, how do you rinse it out during the day, and will the salt corrode anything?

Adding salt to water can considerably lower its freezing point, but you’d need a lot of salt for it to work. Consider a 20-gallon tank of water; to make a difference, you’d need approximately 17 pounds of salt. That’s a pain to dissolve and could damage your pipes.

It is preferable to use your furnace to keep your basement warm and prevent it from freezing. Fireplaces may or may not be linked to the basement. Disconnect the water supply hose as well to minimize freezing, especially when boondocking.
Salt is not recommended, especially if you have a hot water tank. If your sewer line valve leaks, ice could damage your dump plumbing, so schedule dumps for warmer weather.

How to Keep RV Holding Tanks from Freezing while Towing?

A portable car warmer with a halogen light might be the answer. Simply connect it to the TM circuit and set it near the water tank. This should work because there are 12 volts of current in the TM during undertow. Here’s a recommended car warmer:

Zerostart Compact Plug-in Electric Portable Heater is ideal for automobiles, vans, and recreational vehicles. It’s simple to mount on the floor or beneath the dashboard with the included bracket. It keeps your windows frost-free before starting your engine with 900 Watts of electricity. It is safe and reliable.

You can try this as well: To keep your water from freezing during your journey, fill your freshwater tank with warm water before you leave. You can use a hose from inside your home for this. The warmth and movement of the vehicle will keep you from freezing.

Additionally, opening a cabinet to allow warm air from the heater to enter can help.

How to Keep RV Propane Tanks from Freezing?

I have two lamps in the softener house to keep the walls warm and to prevent freezing. Consider getting an infrared light because it generates more heat. Below are some heat lamp recommendations:

This 100W Ceramic Heat Lamp provides excellent 24-hour heat while emitting no light. The lamp box contains a digital thermometer for simple monitoring. With a lifespan of 9,000-15,000 hours, keep in mind that it becomes very hot while functioning. So, don’t touch it and wait at least an hour after turning it off.

Hanover Wide Electric Infrared Carbon Heat Lamp is a contemporary heater. It is stylish, compact, and efficient. It keeps you warm with three power levels and is easy to regulate with a remote and timer. Assembly is simple, so you can enjoy rapid heat with companions on chilly nights.

The thing to remember: In extremely cold weather, insulated hoses avoid freezing, and water flow should melt ice in the filter. “Propane” is LPG (liquified petroleum gas) with a temperature-adjusted blend. Warmer areas have more butane, while colder areas have more propane.

You know what? Filling tanks in warm regions and transporting them to cold places can result in low vapor pressure. Camping around -35°F is difficult; therefore, fill LPG tanks near where you will be camping rather than where you started, and be cautious when warming the tank.

Some Important Things to Consider to Keep RV Tanks From Freezing

It’s essential to keep your RV tanks from freezing for a trouble-free experience. Here are some things that you should consider.

• To avoid freezing, keep water flowing through the lines.
• For efficient frost avoidance, use 12V RV heater pads.
• Consider a heated hose, which can be expensive.
• Use a 12v Coleman portable vehicle warmer with a halogen bulb near the water tank when hauling.
• For more heat, use an infrared light.
• Keeping the LPG tank warm may be required when camping, but it must be done with prudence.

These are methods for keeping RV tanks from freezing.

Conclusion

Finally, keeping your RV tanks from freezing is critical for a comfortable and trouble-free winter camping trip. Your keys to success are proper insulation, heat sources, and frequent maintenance. So, no matter how cold it gets outdoors, take these precautions to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable trip.

Also Read: Why Is My RV Air Conditioner Dripping Water Inside?