Guidelines for Water Tank Maintenance and Pump Operation to Keep Your Water System Running Smoothly

Guidelines for Proper Maintenance and Pump Operation to Keep Your Water System Running Smoothly

Proper maintenance and pump operation are essential for ensuring that your water system is functioning at its best. This article provides helpful tips for maintaining your water tanks and operating your pump to keep your water system running smoothly.

Tank Maintenance: To keep your water tanks in good working order, it is important to perform periodic maintenance. This includes washing off the top of your tanks to remove any build-up of dust or dirt that may accumulate after long periods of dirt road travel. Inspect the tank breathers for obstruction and keep rubber caps on the inlet connectors when not in use. This will help to prevent any debris or contaminants from entering your water system.

1. Gather Supplies: Collect RV-safe tank cleaner.   Camec Tank Cleen is a well known brand although you can use any of your choice.  You will also require gloves, a hose or funnel, a bucket, and access to clean water.

2. Empty the Tanks: Ensure the water tanks are completely empty by draining all water from them. Open the tank valves or use the drain plugs, allowing the water to flow out.

3. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to dilute the RV-safe tank cleaner. Typically it's about 1/4 cup of cleaner per 57 litres of tank capacity. Mix the cleaner with a small amount of clean water in the bucket.

4. Add Cleaning Solution: Carefully pour the diluted cleaning solution into the empty water tanks using a hose or funnel. Avoid spilling the solution.

5. Soaking Time: Close the tank valves or replace the drain plugs, sealing the tanks. Allow the cleaning solution to sit inside the tanks for the recommended time, often around 12 to 24 hours. This allows the cleaner to break down and remove any residue or build-up.

6. Flush the Tanks: Open the tank valves or remove the drain plugs to empty the cleaning solution. Rinse the tanks thoroughly by flushing them with clean water. Repeat this step until the water runs clear and free of any cleaner residue.

7. Sanitize (Optional): For extra cleanliness, add a diluted bleach solution (about 1/4 cup of bleach per 57 litres of water) to the tanks, let it sit for a few hours and then thoroughly rinse again.

8. Final Rinse: Close the tank valves or replace the drain plugs, and give the tanks a final rinse with clean water to remove any remaining traces of cleaning or sanitizing solutions.

9. Inspect and Refill: After the tanks are clean and rinsed, visually inspect them to ensure they are free of debris and build-up. Once satisfied, refill the tanks with fresh, potable water from a trusted source.

10. Regular Maintenance: To prevent future contamination, make it a habit to clean your caravan's water tanks regularly, especially if the vehicle is not used frequently. Consider using a water filter at the source to help keep the tanks cleaner for longer periods.

Always prioritize safety: wear protective gear when handling cleaning solutions and follow manufacturer recommendations for cleaning products and procedures.

Pump Operation: Your water pump is designed to engage when any tap is turned on. It is important to note that the pump is not required when on mains pressure as it is bypassed straight through the filter. This means that when you are connected to a mains water supply, you do not need to use your pump.

Tips for Pump Operation:

• Check your pump regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly. If you notice any issues, such as reduced water pressure or strange noises, it may be time to replace your pump.
• If you are using your pump, be sure to turn off all water-using appliances and fixtures when you are finished to avoid any damage or leaks.
• Keep an eye on your water pressure gauge to ensure that your pump is providing the appropriate amount of pressure to your water system.

Proper maintenance and pump operation are essential for ensuring that your water system is functioning at its best. By following the tips provided in this article, you can help to ensure that your water system is running smoothly and providing a reliable supply of water for your travels. If you have any questions or concerns about maintaining or operating your water system, please refer to your manufacturer's instructions or seek professional assistance.