When you are new to RV’ing, you end up learning a lot of things on the fly. There is probably a long list of things you never considered or thought you would need to travel around in your RV.
Antifreeze may be one of the items on that list. Yes, if you have an RV, you need antifreeze. So let us get down to the details about what RV antifreeze is and why you need it.
What is RV Antifreeze?
When it comes to an RV, antifreeze is non-toxic and commonly used in the plumbing system of the RV. In addition, it is used for winterization, which is the process you follow before you store the RV for the winter season.
If you live in an area where the weather gets to a freezing cold temperature regularly, you should consider winterizing your RV. RV antifreeze is a necessary component of that. It helps keep the temperature of water high so that it does not freeze.
Antifreeze is poured into the plumbing system and drains of the RV. When you do this, the antifreeze keeps any leftover water from freezing and expanding. When water expands in your pipes, it can cause them to expand and burst.
Another great place for antifreeze is in the black and grey water tanks. This process prevents the waste from freezing inside of your tank. Using RV antifreeze ensures there is no damage to the tanks and makes the tanks easy to clean during the spring thaw.
Types of RV Antifreeze
1. Ethanol Antifreeze
While ethanol is a name you probably have heard before, you usually hear of it related to alcohol. This particular antifreeze has alcohol in it. It is one of the most affordable types of antifreeze. This type of antifreeze is common and easy to find.
You may know that alcohol does not freeze. The ethanol in this antifreeze prevents it from freezing. Just like alcohol, it is also flammable. This type of antifreeze is also toxic. After using it in your water lines to winterize your RV, you need to purge it thoroughly in the spring.
Even though you purge the antifreeze from the lines, some owners state that their water tastes funny even after the antifreeze has been purged. In addition, ethanol antifreeze may dry the rubber seals and rubber gaskets that you have in your RV. When your gaskets dry out, it means you will have to replace them often.
2. Propylene Glycol Antifreeze
Propylene glycol antifreeze is one of the more preferred antifreeze options. It is not toxic or hazardous. This means that it does not ruin your water or change the taste of it in the spring thaw. In addition, this type of antifreeze is not flammable.
Propylene glycol antifreeze is a better option for your plumbing system. Instead of drying out your seals and gaskets, it lubricates them. This helps them to last longer, which means you will not have to change them as often.
Antifreeze with propylene glycol is more expensive than ethanol antifreeze. It may cost as much as a couple of dollars more for each bottle. While this antifreeze is not toxic, you should not drink it or allow anyone else to drink it.
3. Ethanol and Propylene Glycol Blend Antifreeze
Ethanol and Propylene Glycol Blend Antifreeze is exactly what it sounds like, a blend between ethanol and propylene glycol. Typically, blended antifreeze remains non-toxic; however, some brands add more ethanol than propylene glycol, which makes it more toxic.
When you are purchasing an antifreeze blend, you want to check the label to be sure that it is not toxic.
If you are not sure and you absolutely want an antifreeze that is not toxic, then you should stay with propylene only antifreeze. Blended antifreeze is a less expensive option; however, it can still have some of the same downsides as plain ethanol antifreeze.
It may change the taste of your water or dry out your seals and gaskets.
What is An Antifreeze Kit?
There is a tool called an antifreeze kit that is ideal for those who are new to RV’ing. Anyone can use an antifreeze kit. However, they are not just intended for just those new to RV life. An antifreeze kit is essentially a winterizing kit.
These kits include a wide range of tools. However, some of the items may not be completely useful for winterization purposes. For example, a kit may consist of a hand pump, dehumidifiers, and nozzles to help with antifreeze dispersion.
An antifreeze kit is an affordable alternative to just antifreeze. You may not need all of the tools. It is essential to be aware that these kits typically last just one year. You have the option to buy only the individual pieces you need. This could be a less expensive route.
What Are the Benefits of Using RV Antifreeze?
The major benefit of RV antifreeze is that it prevents any water in your plumbing system from freezing. When your pipes freeze, the frozen water may cause your pipes to burst. As a result, it can help you avoid expensive repairs to your plumbing.
Many RV antifreeze options are non-toxic, making them safe to use in your drinking water lines. It is safe for pets. It is typically made from materials that are biodegradable. This means if it leaks, spills, or is accidentally flushed into the sewer, it will not have a negative implication on the environment.
RV antifreeze has many uses, including in an RV. You can also use it for your boat, swimming pool, or vacation home. In addition, it can be used directly from the bottle because it is already diluted.
What Do I Look For in RV Antifreeze?
There are some key features that you should look for when you are purchasing antifreeze for your RV.
Rating for Temperature
Almost every antifreeze that you find has a temperature rating of -50 degrees Fahrenheit. To some, this temperature rating is referred to as burst protection. This temperature rating is enough for most areas that have a cold climate.
You can find antifreeze with a temperature rating as low as -100 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature rating is ideal if you live in an area where the temperature drops really low. This temperature level guarantees that your lines will not freeze.
Toxicity
A non-toxic solution is the healthiest one for you, your family, and your pets. While no one should be drinking the antifreeze, if it is accidentally consumed, it should not be harmful. You can find an antifreeze blend that is friendly to the environment and approved by the FDA.
Amount of Concentration
You can find RV antifreeze in a concentrated solution or a prepared solution. The concentrated option is one that you can mix yourself. This is more affordable and will last longer.
A prepared solution is also pre-diluted. This means that it is already mixed, and you do not have to mix the solution. Therefore, these solutions are less messy.
Extra Additives
You want to pay attention to the extra additives that are mixed into your antifreeze. These additives can preserve the sewer system and your water. There could also be additives to inhibit corrosion or rust. Finally, there are lubrication additives to help protect the seals.
Color and Compatibility
You may want to select an antifreeze that has a color to it. This helps you find leaks. You can also tell when it has been completely flushed out of your system in the spring.
You also want to ensure that the antifreeze is compatible with your RV. You do not want it to clog your pipes. You also want to understand what material your pipes are so that you purchase the proper antifreeze for them.
Can I Use Anything Else To Clear My Lines?
You can use an air compressor to flush the water out of your lines. If you already own an air compressor, this option could be the most affordable one for you. An air compressor forces the water out of your plumbing pipes.
It would be a more significant upfront cost if you do not have an air compressor. This could save you money over the long term because you do not have to buy antifreeze. However, it is essential that you use the compressor correctly.
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you might want to start with antifreeze, so you know the lines are clear.
How is RV Antifreeze Different From Auto Antifreeze?
There is a difference between the antifreeze you use for your car and for your RV. The first thing to consider is that the way antifreeze is used in your car is different than how it is used in your RV.
In an RV, antifreeze is used in the plumbing system. In your car, antifreeze is used as part of the coolant system. The antifreeze used in a car is poison and should never be consumed by people or pets. RV antifreeze is much less toxic.
Car antifreeze is denser and contains ethylene glycol. They are usually found in two different aisles in the store. These two types of antifreeze come in different colors.
The antifreeze for your RV is typically blue or pink. The antifreeze for a car is typically found in yellow or green. Therefore, it is critical that you do not use car antifreeze in your RV. If you do, you can damage the plumbing system.
You also do not want to use RV antifreeze in your car. It can create a disaster for you because it is not formulated properly for your car. Car antifreeze has anti-boiling agents to prevent it from overheating.