How To Sanitize Rv Fresh Water Tank With Bleach

How to Sanitize Your RV Fresh Water Tank with Bleach: A Step-by-Step Guide

Maintaining a clean and sanitary fresh water tank in your RV is crucial for ensuring safe drinking water and preventing unpleasant tastes and odors. Regular sanitizing, particularly with bleach, is a highly effective method. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to safely and effectively sanitize your RV's fresh water tank using bleach.

Why Sanitize Your RV Fresh Water Tank?

Your RV's fresh water tank, while seemingly sealed, is susceptible to bacterial growth and algae formation. These contaminants can lead to:

• Unpleasant taste and odor: A musty or foul-smelling taste can ruin your camping experience.
• Health risks: Harmful bacteria can cause illness if ingested.
• Damage to your system: Biofilm buildup can clog lines and appliances.

Regular sanitizing minimizes these risks and ensures safe, clean water for drinking, cooking, and showering.

Materials You'll Need:

• Household bleach: Use unscented, regular chlorine bleach (typically 5-6% sodium hypochlorite). Avoid scented bleaches or other cleaning solutions.
• Measuring cup: Accuracy is key for effective sanitizing.
• Water hose: To fill and flush the tank.
• RV water filter (optional): A good quality filter can further improve water clarity and taste after sanitizing.

Step-by-Step Sanitizing Process:

1. Preparing Your RV:

• Empty the tank: Completely drain your fresh water tank. If you have a water heater bypass, ensure it's bypassed.
• Flush the system: Run water through all lines until clear to remove any residual water.

2. Mixing the Sanitizing Solution:

• Accurate Measurement is Crucial: For a typical RV fresh water tank (around 40 gallons), mix ½ cup of unscented bleach with 40 gallons of water. Adjust the bleach quantity proportionally for different tank sizes. For smaller tanks (e.g., under 20 gallons), use ¼ cup of bleach. Do not exceed the recommended bleach concentration.

3. Filling and Soaking:

• Fill the tank: Fill the fresh water tank with the bleach solution you just prepared.
• Soaking Time: Let the solution sit in the tank for at least 6-8 hours, ideally overnight. This allows the bleach to effectively kill bacteria and algae.

4. Flushing the Tank:

• Thorough Flushing is Essential: After the soaking period, completely drain the tank.
• Multiple Rinses: Fill the tank with fresh water and drain it several times, at least three, to ensure all traces of bleach are removed.

5. Final Checks:

• Taste and Smell: Once you've completed the flushing process, collect a sample of water and check for any lingering bleach smell or taste. If present, repeat the rinsing process.
• Run the system: Turn on your faucets and shower to flush out any remaining bleach from the lines and fixtures.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Fresh Water Tank:

• Regular Sanitizing: Sanitize your tank every 3-4 months, or more frequently if you notice any unusual odors or tastes.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Check the tank for any debris or sediment before each trip.
• Winterizing: If you're storing your RV for an extended period, ensure the tank is properly winterized to prevent damage.

Preventing Future Contamination:

• Use a water filter: This helps remove sediment and impurities from your water supply, reducing the likelihood of contamination.
• Regular cleaning: Maintain the exterior of your fresh water tank to prevent debris from getting in.

By following these steps, you can ensure your RV's fresh water tank remains clean, sanitary, and ready for your next adventure. Remember, safety is paramount. If you have any doubts or concerns, consult your RV's manual or a qualified professional.