Blowing out RV water lines vs antifreeze? Every RV owner knows the winter season calls for winterizing their home on wheels. One of the essential steps in this process is ensuring the plumbing system is in its supreme state and ready for extreme temperatures to avoid costly repairs.
To blow out pipes for winterizing, there are two methods. You can either blow out the RV water lines or use antifreeze. It is up to you to decide on the two methods since they each have pros and cons. So, in blowing out RV water lines vs. antifreeze, how do they compare? What is the better choice?
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Break Down the Differences
Knowing how both methods compare will ensure an informed decision. Here is a comparison table at a glance.
| Factors | Blowing Out | Using Antifreeze |
| Environmentally-friendly | Yes | No |
| Effective | Less for Extreme Weather Conditions | High |
| Safety | Safe | Safe But Needs to Be Cleaned Out |
| Reliable | Yes | Yes |
| Price | One-Time Purchase | Cost Adds Up |
Blow Out Pipes
The first method we will discuss is blowing out pipes for winterizing. Different factors will dictate differences:
1. Procedure
As it sounds, blowing out pipelines will call for an air compressor. The air pressure should be around 30 to 50 psi to be effective. With a compressed air compressor, it will push out the water through all the pipes and faucets, emptying the plumbing of any water.
2. Cost
Buying an air compressor the first time is expensive, but it is cost-effective if you are thinking about the long term since a sturdy and quality air compressor can last you a long time.
3. Time
Depending on how big the RV is, this can be time-consuming since all lines and pipes should be treated one by one to ensure that no water is left.
4. Effectiveness in Winterizing
Blowing out water lines is better for places with a temperature that does not go below the freezing point for a long time.
Antifreeze
The second method we will talk about is to winterize rv with antifreeze.
1. Procedure
Antifreeze has two ways: pouring it into the freshwater tank or using a hand pump for easier pushing to the plumbing system.
2. Cost
RV antifreeze is available in many supply stores and is fairly cheap. The cost will add up if you live somewhere cold and need to purchase it frequently.
3. Time
Using antifreeze is painless and easy. Its effectiveness is reliable. All areas are protected from freezing once the solution is distributed in the tank and pipes.
4. Chemical Use
The chemicals ethanol and propylene glycol are present in the formulation of antifreeze. These chemicals are non-toxic, but they are still dangerous when consumed. Antifreeze will require you to flush out the plumbing system before using it again.
Pros and Cons
Now that we know the differences, it is time to delve deeper into RV antifreeze vs. blowing out water lines and their pros and cons.
| Blowing Out RV Water Lines | Using Antifreeze | |
| Pros | ● Environmentally Friendly
This option is more eco-friendly since using a pump doesn’t require chemicals. ● Negative Chemical Taste The risk of antifreeze is its chemical aftertaste even after the system has been flushed. There is no risk of this since no chemicals are needed using an air compressor. ● Cost-effective No recurring expenses are needed once an air compressor is purchased. |
● Effective Protection
Antifreeze RV winterizing fluid has proven its effectiveness and is trusted by many RV users. ● Easy and Quick Using an antifreeze solution is so straightforward that it is often the first choice for RV users. ● Versatile Antifreeze can be used not just for faucets or fixtures but also for toilets and freshwater tanks, making it all-encompassing for many purposes. |
| Cons | ● Time-consuming
This option is more time-consuming for bigger RVs with multiple faucets and fixtures. ● Limited Winterization Capacity This option offers only basic protection for locations that don’t experience extreme winter conditions. Blowing the pipes may be inefficient if you plan to store the RV for longer. |
● Cost
Although antifreeze is readily available, RVers must buy them each time to winterize the RV, which will add to the recurring expenses in the long run. ● Chemical Use Because of the chemical in the solution, it is essential to flush out the system when winter is over. This ensures that no bad taste or chemical residue is left on the pipes. |
Which is Better?
Blowing Out RV Water Lines might be the wiser choice if:
- Being environmentally friendly is a top focus for you. Blowing out water pipes is a more sustainable alternative if you value the environment and wish to avoid adding chemicals to the plumbing system of your RV.
- If you own an air compressor, utilizing it to blow out water lines in RV becomes a financially sensible option because there are no additional costs beyond the first outlay.
Using RV winterized antifreeze would be a better option if:
- You live in locations meeting temperatures below freezing points. Antifreeze is ideal for RVs kept in colder locations since it offers a strong defense against freezing temperatures.
- If you like it quick and easy. Antifreeze is a reasonably simple method that will save you time and effort in winterizing your RV.
- If you like an all-around solution. Your RV’s plumbing systems can use antifreeze in a variety of ways.
The best of both worlds might be achieved by combining the two approaches. You can maximize your RV’s winterization efforts by blowing out water lines first to eliminate the water and then using antifreeze for further protection.
Conclusion
The decision of blowing out RV water lines vs antifreeze ultimately comes down to your requirements. Antifreeze might be more dependable if you live in a colder environment.
Blowing out water lines can be a preferable choice if you place a high priority on environmental issues and already have an air compressor.
Whatever method you use, make sure your RV’s plumbing system is protected during the winter according to the manufacturer’s instructions and using the correct winterization techniques.
“Hi, I’m Francis’ husband—Calvin. Our story began with our shared passion for traveling. I have had a career journey for over 11 years at Ford Motor Company, where I took on the role of BMS SW Process Engineer.
Together with my wife, I have dedicated countless hours to exploring every nook and corner of the world. Ten years living in an RV may seem long, but time seems to fly by when I’m doing what I love with the person I love.
FMCA’s 103rd International Convention & RV Expo in Gillette, WY,
Like my wife, I hope to help you see the beauty of traveling off the beaten path by sharing insights into this lifestyle. In addition to my corporate roles, I also launched our website – Outdoorbits, in 2015 and continue to contribute my knowledge and skills to the present day. And I’ll be completely honest with you—no hiding the truth or sugarcoating the possible challenges.
So, if you want to run away from the busy lifestyle to embrace nature, I’m your guy.”