Airstream 390 - Manual (Page 66)

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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 a prolonged storage period, flush out all the drain lines and the holding
tanks. Also, drain the entire water system, including the water heater and the water
storage tank. Instructions for draining the water system are explained in the following
paragraphs on winterizing.
The Sky Deck area should be protected from long-term exposure to snow and ice. The
freezing and thawing of snow and ice can damage the streamliners and other areas of
the Sky Deck. Remove cushions and store them. Cover the sky deck area or put the
motorhome in an inside storage facility. Follow all winterizing and storage procedures
outlined in this manual.
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 batteries. To completely winterize your motorhome
follow this procedure:
1. Level the motorhome from side to side and front to rear. Open all faucets.
2. Turn the water pump switch to the OFF position.
3. Open the two drain line valves in your utility compartment as well as the exterior
water faucet. Open the water tank drain valve also located in the utility compartment.
Remove plug or open petcock on the exterior face of the water heater. Sky Deck
owners must be sure the shut off valve to the wet bar is open for the roof plumbing
to properly drain. It is located inside the washer/dryer cabinet. Lift the cover behind
the appliance to access the valve.
4. The toilet water valve should be left in open position while draining water. It
is located in the lavatory cabinet.
5. While the water is draining from the system, depress the button on all hand spray
heads and drain all water. Unscrew the head on spray unit and store.
6. After the water has stopped running from the drain lines, 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 disconnected. This can be accomplished
at a service station and will force any remaining water from the water heater and
remove any water which may be trapped in low areas.
7. Pour a cup of non-toxic antifreeze into the lavatory, sink, and tub drains to prevent
freezing water in traps.
8. Be sure to open the waste holding tank drain valves, and drain and flush the tanks
thoroughly. (This is very important, as the sewage in the tank, if frozen, could
seriously damage the tank.)
9. Remove the batteries 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 “kill” switch rather than remove the
batteries,
10. Remove any items (food, cosmetics, etc.) from the interior that might be damaged
by freezing, or might damage the motorhome if containers break.