Winterizing water lines with RV antifreeze

[Jayco Journey]

Last year, I winterized my Jayco 27RLS with the typical RV antifreeze pink solution and after flushing the system this Spring, could not get rid of the antifreeze odor in the water lines. It's not strong, just noticeable. I disinfected the tanks twice, using a bleach solution and have used the fresh water tanks plenty over the camping season. The line should be well refreshed but still, there is a trace amount of antifreeze odor. Does anyone have a remedy to completely refresh the water lines of this apparent "residue" odor? Thanks

[NewBlackDak]

I haven’t noticed it last the whole season before, but the smell on the initial trip is what made me go to blowing the lines out with compressed air instead of filling with antifreeze.

Get an blowout plug, compressor set to 50 PSI, and hit every faucet like you would when pumping in antifreeze. Dump a little AF into each p-trap, and you’re good to go. A gallon will last you years doing it this way.

[Heady]

I had this problem until I realized there were two spots I didn't flush the antifreeze out of....(1) the outside shower (2) the city water connection. Once I did these two I was a happy camper.

I would also suggest using a quality name brand RV antifreeze.

[GrumpyDad]

My wife is very sensitive to the smell and taste and we drink the water in our trailers everywhere. I now use the air method and only use the pink stuff in traps.

[Tunce the traveler]

Did you put antifreeze in the fresh water tank by mistake?

[DNelson]

There are two types of RV antifreeze , one made with propylene glycol and one made with ethano l(wood alcohol). The ethanol one is hard to get the taste out. The propylene glycol type is well worth the little more it costs. Be aware that there are some brands that use both ingredients. Be sure you get the one with no ethanol.

[GrumpyDad]

Originally Posted by DNelson

There are two types of RV antifreeze , one made with propylene glycol and one made with ethano l(wood alcohol). The ethanol one is hard to get the taste out. The propylene glycol type is well worth the little more it costs. Be aware that there are some brands that use both ingredients. Be sure you get the one with no ethanol.

How did I not know this? That's a great tip.

[stateboy]

Originally Posted by NewBlackDak

Get an blowout plug...

What does a blowout plug look like and where do you place it? I presume it attachs to the city water connection and/or the antifreeze siphon line located at the water pump.

[GrumpyDad]

Originally Posted by 36fire412

What does a blowout plug look like and where do you place it? I presume it attachs to the city water connection and/or the antifreeze siphon line located at the water pump.

Camco 36143 RV Blow Out Plug with Brass Quick Connect"

Availible at most Wal-Mart and on Amazon.

There are other brands, but this one is widely available.

[Jagiven]

I have noticed this with some brands. I started using Isobar, only place I have found it is at Fleet Farm. It leaves virtually no odor, and after sanitizing and a good flush it's all gone.

I also blow out the lines after winterizing to remove most of the antifreeze.

Looks like we're neighbors.

Good luck.