Water Pipes/hose Freezing?

Thread view:

Enable EMail Alerts

Start New Thread

Thread rating:

Ken D - 03 Jan 2006 17:50 GMT

If you go to the hardware store they have stuff called hot tape that you
plug in. It keeps the pipe stand and your hose from freezing if the
insulation is wrapped properly. We use the black foam insulation that comes
in 2" and 3/4" sizes etc. One for the hose one for the stand pipe. This
setup keeps the water flowing even in 0 degree temps. Then you have other
things freezing like your waste water valves etc. We use a little warm
water and a hairdryer under the rig. The water goes down the sink/toilet
and the hairdryer goes into the under compartment to heat it, takes about an
hour or two.

Reply to this Message

Mike Miller - 04 Jan 2006 13:12 GMT

> If you go to the hardware store they have stuff called hot tape that
> you plug in. It keeps the pipe stand and your hose from freezing if
[quoted text clipped - 5 lines]
> The water goes down the sink/toilet and the hairdryer goes into the
> under compartment to heat it, takes about an hour or two.

You could also install a light in the valve compartment. Your choice of AC
or DC. Either will supply enough heat to keep the valves from freezing in
above zero temps. I installed an AC drop light with a 60 watt bulb and have
not had a frozen valve since. I haven't been out in sub-zero temps so I
don't know if it will be enough for that.

Signature

Mike Miller
If all else fails - READ THE INSTRUCTIONS!
or if you like
"If all else fails - THROW HARDER" Robert Smith(pro bowler)

Reply to this Message

William Boyd - 04 Jan 2006 15:53 GMT

>>If you go to the hardware store they have stuff called hot tape that
>>you plug in. It keeps the pipe stand and your hose from freezing if
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
> not had a frozen valve since. I haven't been out in sub-zero temps so I
> don't know if it will be enough for that.

I suppose freezing temperatures are the hardest conditions to combat in
an RV. Most are not equipped with a valve compartment, unless it is a MH
of later years or a near top of the line Trailer. Even so many do not
have a sub floor covering that one could worm up. The most assured way
to prevent freezing is to head south, even then you are not totally out
of the danger zone 100% of the time.
I am full time in my 5er and have developed a moments notice for
winterization. Watching the weather bug program I dump tanks and drain
water, air blow and pump the pink stuff in within 30 minutes. I open all
drain valves and produce only gray water, I use two fresh water
containers obtained from WalMart for the duration.
This situation usually does not last over two or three days. Watching
the seven day forcast, for a full stretch of temperatures above freezing
before I recharge the water system. Of course I am always close to an RV
support facility where I can have a heated bathroom.

Signature

BILL P.
Just Dog
&
ME

Reply to this Message