Unwinterizing Your Camper
Unwinterizing your camper is a very simple process. Just make sure you follow ALL of the steps or you might have a "rotten egg" smell even with good water.
1. Set water heater valve(s) to normal operation. (Make sure gas and electric to water heater stay off until it is completely filled.)
2. Reinstall water heater plug/anode rod.
3. Connect to campground water source.
4. Open a hot water valve first. This will allow the water heater to start filling. Let the valve open until clear water flows steadily from the faucet.
5. Open each sink, shower, and toilet valve one at a time and let run until clear water flows steadily out of each valve. (Don't forget the outdoor shower and low drain points. **This is usually the source the smell of "rotten eggs." If the lines have not been flushed, this allows bacteria to grow throughout the waterlines in the camper while the water is not flowing.)
6. Make sure water heater plug/anode rod is not leaking.
7. Make sure fresh water hose is not leaking at the hydrant or at the entrance to the camper.
8. Inspect under sinks, around the toilet, around the water heater, at the outdoor shower, and at the low drain points for leaks.
9. At this time you can turn the gas or electric on to the water heater and confirm normal heating operation.
10. You're now all set to get the campfire going, crack open your favorite beverage, and start looking down over this Dining Page to figure out where you are going for dinner this evening.