Airstream NTERSTATE - Manual (Page 72)

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PLUMBING
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STORAGE AND WINTERIZING
When storing your motorhome for a short or long period, use the same precautions as
you would in your own home in regard to perishables, ventilation and rain protection.
In addition, for prolonged storage periods flush out all the drain lines and the holding
tank. Also, drain the entire water system, including the water heater and the fresh
water storage tank. Instructions for draining the water system are explained in the
following paragraphs on winterizing.
Twice a year, or after a long storage period, we suggest you take your unit into your
Airstream dealer for a check-up and cleaning of the gas operated appliances.
The main consideration in winterizing is to guard against freezing damage to the hot
and cold water systems, the waste drain system (including the traps), the waste hold-
ing tanks, the water heater and the battery. To completely winterize your motorhome
follow this procedure:
1. Level the motorhome from side to side and front to rear. Open the hot and cold
water valves on the exterior water service, lavatory and wet bath.
2. Turn the water pump switch to the OFF position and/or disconnect city water.
3. Open low point valves for the hot and cold water lines and the fresh water tank drain
valve. On the Rear Bath model they are located inside the rear cargo doors. On the
Mid Bath model the tank drain is located under the galley and the water line drain
valves are under the motorhome in front of the dump valves. One drain valve or plug
is located on the water heater exterior and is accessible through the water heater
access door. Remove this plug and allow water to drain. See drain valves and their
access in this section.
4. Follow winterizing instructions for your toilet in the toilet section of this manual.
5. While the water is draining from the system, depress hand spray thumb button on the
telephone shower head and drain all the water. Unscrew the head on spray unit and
store. Remove, drain, and store the exterior water service hose and shower head.
6. After the water has stopped running from the drain lines, fresh water tank, and water
heater, apply at least 60 lbs. of air pressure at the city water inlet. Be sure the toilet
valve and all drain valves and faucets are open and pump outlet hose is discon-
nected. This can be accomplished at a service station. The goal is to force any
remaining water from the water heater and remove any water that may be trapped
in low areas.
7. Pour a cup of non-toxic antifreeze into the wet bath and galley sink drains to prevent
freezing water in traps.
8. Be sure to open the holding tank valve, and drain and flush the tank thoroughly. (This
is very important, as the frozen sewage could seriously damage the tank.)
9. Remove the house battery from your motorhome and store in a cool dry place where
there is no danger of freezing. It is very important for optimum life of your battery
to check it periodically and to keep it fully charged. This is especially true in winter
months, when the temperature may drop below freezing. If the period of storage
is for 30 days or less, you may turn off the battery disconnect switch rather than
remove the battery. Continue to check and recharge the battery as needed, at least
weekly in severe weather.
10. Remove any items (food, cosmetics, etc.) from the interior that might be damaged
by freezing, or might damage the motorhome if containers break.
Daimler/Chrysler recommends disconnecting the engine battery if the vehicle is stored
for a long duration. Always disconnect the and connect the ground first. If you remove
the battery, follow the same storage tips as explained for the house battery.