How to Purify RV Water Tanks

Purify the water tank in a recreational vehicle.

At the end of a long camping season, many recreational vehicle owners prepare their second home on wheels for the impending winter. This process can include draining the water system to ensure the water does not freeze during the colder weather. Many times, a small amount of water can remain. This stagnant liquid can become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Purifying the RV's water tank in the spring will ensure that fresh water can be available on the road all summer long.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid dish soap
• Water
• Liquid bleach

Instructions

1. Pour 4 tsp. liquid dish soap for every 10 gallons of water held in the tank. Fill the tank three quarters full of fresh water.

2. Turn on the RV's pump to work fresh water through all of the system's outlets.

3. Take the RV on a 2 to 3 mile drive. The sloshing water will help work the soapy water through the tank and system more thoroughly.

4. Drain the water from the tank and refill it with clean water.

5. Turn the pump on until the water runs clear and all evidence of soap is evacuated and the tank is empty.

6. Refill the tank half full with water.

7. Pour 6 oz. liquid bleach for every 10 gallons of water the tank can hold.

8. Open all of the water outlets and turn on the pump until you notice the smell of chlorine.

9. Close all of the outlets and allow the chlorinated water to sit for one hour.

10. Pump out all of the chlorinated water. Refill the tank and continue to pump out the water until chlorine can no longer be smelled in the water.

11. Fill the tank with fresh water. The tank is now ready for a road trip.

Tips & Warnings

• Purify the RV's water tank once a year or each time you suspect the water may be contaminated.

References

• Doulton: The RV Dilemma
• KOA: How Fresh Is Your RV Fresh Water System?