De-Winterising Your Water System

What This Is

After winter storage, the water system needs to be sanitised and checked before use. Bacteria can grow in stagnant water, and fittings may have worked loose during temperature changes. This guide ensures your water is safe to use.

Tools & Parts Required

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Close all drain taps and valves that were opened during winterisation. Check all tap handles are in the closed position.

2. 2

   Fill the fresh water tank with clean water. Add a sanitising solution — typically 1 capful of Milton sterilising fluid per 10 litres of water, or follow your tank cleaner's instructions.

3. 3

   Switch on the water pump and open each tap in turn — hot and cold — until you can smell the sanitising solution. This ensures the solution reaches every part of the system.

4. 4

   Allow the solution to sit in the system for at least one hour (two hours is better). This kills any bacteria that have grown during storage.

5. 5

   Drain the entire system and refill with fresh water. Run each tap until the water runs clear and the sanitising smell has gone. You may need to flush two or three times.

6. 6

   Check the hot water boiler. Refill it and check for any leaks around the connections. Switch it on and allow it to heat up. Check again for leaks once at operating temperature.

7. 7

   Refit the water filter cartridge (replace if it has been stored for more than a season).

8. 8

   Check under the vehicle and inside cupboards for any signs of water leakage from pipes that may have been stressed by frost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Safety Warnings

When to Call a Professional