07-3
Plumbing Systems and Holding Tanks
Troubleshooting the
Fresh Water System
Water system problems usually fall into two
categories: Inherent system problems, and
problems caused by neglect. System problems
are usually the result of road vibration and
campsite water pressure variations. Problems of
neglect usually stem from failure to clean filters,
improper winterization, and poor battery main-
tenance. Most water system problems can be
avoided by conscientious maintenance.
Leaks
Vibration, flexing and twisting while traveling
can work pipe fittings loose. Check all plumb-
ing for leaks at least once a year. If the water
pump runs when a faucet is not open, suspect a
leak. Be sure the tank drain valves are tightly
closed. Leaks occur most often around threaded
fittings. If necessary, tighten or clean and
tighten the fittings. Do not overtighten fittings.
Connections at galley and lavy fixtures should
not be tightened with a wrench. They will nor-
mally seal with hand-tightening. If a leak per-
sists at one of the fittings, disconnect it com-
pletely and check for mineral deposits or other
foreign matter at the seating surfaces. Clean the
surfaces thoroughly and reinstall the fitting.
Connections at the water tank, pump and valves
are made with special clamps. They can be
replaced with standard automotive type hose
clamps.
Leaks caused by freezing damage can be pre-
vented by proper winterization of the system.
See the
Storage
chapter of this manual.
Freezing damage is usually extensive and may
include a burst water tank, split piping, and a
damaged water pump, toilet, and water heater. If
you experience this type of damage, repairs can
best be made by an authorized Fleetwood
dealer.
For your safety, the shower faucet is equipped
with a vacuum breaker device. This device is
designed to prevent backflow of water into the
fresh water system, reducing the possibility of
contamination of the water supply. When the
faucet is in the OFF position with the shower hose
held above the faucet, water will drain out of the
vacuum breaker. This drainage is not a defect, but
indicates that the faucet is working correctly.
Sanitizing the Fresh Water System
As approved by the U.S. Public Health Service,
sanitize the fresh water tank and piping system
whenever the system may have become contam-
inated, has not been used for a period of time, or
before long periods of storage. This will dis-
courage the growth of bacteria and other organ-
isms that can contaminate the water supply. Use
a chlorine/fresh water rinse as follows:
1. Prepare a solution of 1⁄4-cup household liq-
uid chlorine bleach (5% sodium hypochlo-
rite) to one gallon of water. Use one gallon
solution for each 15 gallons of tank capac-
ity.
2. Close drain valves and faucets, pour the
chlorine solution into the exterior fresh
water tank filler spout, and complete filling
at tank with potable water.
3. Turn water pump switch ON. (Be sure you
have 12-volt DC power.) Open all faucets
individually until water flows steadily, then
turn them off. This will purge any air from
the lines.
4. Top off water tank with fresh water and
allow the system to stand for at least 4 hours.
5. Drain the entire system by opening all
potable water tank valves, plumbing line
drain valves, and operating faucets.
6. Flush the system with potable water. Let the
fresh water flow through the system for sev-
eral minutes to flush out the chlorine solu-
tion.
7. After you stop the flushing, close the tank
valve, drain valves, and faucets. You can
now fill the tank with potable water, and
the system is ready to use.
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