Specific question on winterizing

Hi all - thinking ahead to the winterizing process for my Pod; hoping to get one more trip in but getting colder!

The waste tanks are big enough to allow for any ice expansion. I would not worry to much about them. Drains, traps,  and lines are the bigger concern, don't forget the outside shower and black tank flush line. I put some A/F in the toilet bowl also to keep the seal moist.

Originally posted by Pod People I also drain, use compressed air and antifreeze. I think your question is more about the small amounts of residual water that end up in the black/grey tanks after your final dumping.  These occur with relieving the pressure, draining all the pipes, draining faucets, etc. I usually add enough extra antifreeze into both the tanks that the small amount of liquid in the tank is diluted with anti freeze to the point that it will not freeze.  I would not worry too much. the tanks have plenty of room to expand IF it were to freeze.  the main point is to empty the lines, all of the fittings and all of the faucets and valves.  These are the constricted areas that if frozen have no expansion room. Just my experiences in North Carolina---yours may be different  at your location. Vann

Originally posted by mhfnet keep the maxxair vent open about 1" to keep some air flow and the vent cover should keep any rain from coming in. I've heard as long as the inside and outside air are the same temperature condensation won't occur?

I was told, by a RV technician, to do this, years ago. I have done it for many years and it has served me well (only I don't do Damp Rid). The explanation was that the camper and everything in it would expand/contract uniformly - putting less stress on joints, seals, caulking, etc. My vent is almost never closed, year round. I have a Maxx Air 2 vent cover and have never had anything get in.

Regarding the OP's question, agreed with all of the above. Don't sweat the small amount in the waste tanks - for the reasons stated.

Hi Ben, We have used compressed air since 2012 on our 2011  177.  Takes about 2-3 minutes to get hose out and connected under the sink and about 1 minute to go through all the lines 2 times.  As stated above the little bit of water in the tanks is nothing to worry about.  By looking at the fresh water tank there is probably at least 3 gallons that do not drain because the drain is not at the low point in the tank.  We will often get well below zero during the winter months and have never had any leak issues.  After the lines are blown I measure 16 oz. of RV antifreeze to use in our 2 sink and 1 shower drain trap and also I little bit on top of the toilet valve to keep it wet.  After 6 years I have used a total of 96 oz. of antifreeze.