How to Sanitize Fresh Water Tank on Travel Trailer
Traveling in a travel trailer offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors. However, maintaining the cleanliness of your fresh water tank is crucial for a comfortable and healthy experience. Sanitizing your fresh water tank regularly helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and algae, ensuring that you have access to clean drinking water. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to sanitize fresh water tank on travel trailer.
1. Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before you begin sanitizing your fresh water tank, gather the following supplies:
– A garden hose with a spray nozzle
– A water tank brush or a long-handled scrub brush
– A bucket
– A tank cleaner or a solution of 1 cup of household bleach to 15 gallons of water
– A water tank treatment or a solution of 1 cup of household bleach to 15 gallons of water
– A water pump (if you have one)
– Safety goggles and gloves
2. Empty the Fresh Water Tank
Start by emptying the fresh water tank completely. Open the valve at the bottom of the tank and let the water drain out. If you have a water pump, use it to help speed up the draining process.
3. Clean the Tank
Once the tank is empty, clean the interior with a tank brush or a long-handled scrub brush. Be sure to scrub the entire surface of the tank, including the corners and crevices. This will help remove any dirt, sediment, or debris that may have accumulated.
4. Rinse the Tank
After cleaning the tank, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water. Use the garden hose with a spray nozzle to rinse the tank until the water runs clear. This step is crucial to remove any remaining soap or cleaning agents.
5. Sanitize the Tank
Now it’s time to sanitize the fresh water tank. There are two methods you can use:
– Bleach Solution: Mix 1 cup of household bleach with 15 gallons of water in a bucket. Pour the solution into the tank, filling it completely. Close the tank valve and let the solution sit for at least 24 hours. After the waiting period, open the valve and drain the tank completely. Rinse the tank again with fresh water until the water runs clear.
– Tank Cleaner: Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the tank cleaner. Typically, you will need to mix the cleaner with water and pour it into the tank. Allow the cleaner to sit for the recommended time, then drain the tank and rinse it with fresh water.
6. Treat the Tank
To maintain the cleanliness of your fresh water tank, treat it with a water tank treatment. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria and algae. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to determine the appropriate dosage and treatment schedule.
7. Re-fill the Tank
Once the tank has been sanitized and treated, re-fill it with fresh water. Make sure to inspect the tank for any leaks or damage before re-filling.
By following these steps, you can effectively sanitize your fresh water tank on a travel trailer. Regular maintenance will help ensure that you have access to clean drinking water during your travels. Happy trails!
