Blowing Out RV Water Lines vs Antifreeze: What is Effective?

Saving your recreational vehicle’s plumbing system or water lines from freezing is crucial. In this case, blowing out RV water lines and antifreeze are 2 effective methods. But many users fail to decide which method to use for de-winterize as they are unaware of the difference between them.

Blowing out with the compressed air method is cost-effective and eco-friendly. In contrast, antifreeze is a popular and faster RV winterization process.

When selecting a method between them, knowing their advantages and disadvantages is important. This comprehensive guide discusses in-details regarding these methods.

Blowing Out RV Water Lines vs. Antifreeze – Comparison Chart

Here is a comparison chart between antifreeze RV water lines vs. blowing out. Read them carefully.

Parameters	Blowing Out	Antifreeze
Eco-friendly	Yes	No
Reliable	Less reliable	More reliable than blowing out
Safe	Pretty safer	Thorough rinsing is a must to make it a safer option
Effectiveness	Less	High
Price	Affordable	High in the long run

What is Blowing Out RV Water Lines?

The blowing-out process uses compressed air to prevent water from freezing. This process cleans the RV water lines and gives you a worry-free trip in low temperatures.

Advantages

When removing water from your RV’s plumbing system pipes, using the blowing air method is effective. This method offers the below benefits.

1. Using Too Much Antifreeze is Unnecessary

One of the biggest benefits of blowing out RV water lines is this process doesn’t require the 100% use of antifreeze.

You might have noticed that I mentioned “100% antifreeze.” It means usage of antifreeze is minimal.

In reality, a little antifreeze must be used in washing machines, P-trap drains, dishwashers, and toilets. This helps you save money in the long run. At the same time, such a thing makes the process environment-friendly.

2. Easier & Faster De-winterizing

Blown out RV water lines method is faster and easier to de-winterize your RV.

Dumping lots of antifreeze into the sewer system is unnecessary in this process. Also, the entire system doesn’t require a thorough flush.

This is handy if you use your recreational vehicle infrequently during winter.

3. Zero Odor of Antifreeze

Since a minimal amount of antifreeze is used in the freshwater lines, you will hardly taste or experience odor in your water.

Although you may need to use anti-freeze in the toilets, P-traps, or drains, this minimal amount doesn’t affect the water quality.

4. Less Annual Cost

Price is always a vital factor. Happily, you won’t have to spend much money using the blowing out RV water lines method.

Antifreeze use is damn less in this process, so buying this item is not required every fall. This way, dumping gallons of antifreeze at the dump station is needless after de-winterizing.

However, the job needs an ideal air compressor. But this is required anyway since all recreational vehicles consist of tires.

5. Involves Zero Risks

People are much concerned when it comes to de-winterizing their recreational vehicles. As stated, this process requires minimum involvement of antifreeze. Thus, no or a small amount of antifreeze is left behind in the entire system.

Moreover, blowing out RV water lines uses compressed air, making it a chemical-free process. As a result, it reduces the risks and prevents clogged water pipes due to cold.

Read Also: Why Bottom of Slide Bowing Out in My Rv & How to Fix it?

Disadvantages

Find the disadvantages below.

1. Maintaining the Correct Procedure is a Must

Blowing out process needs to be done correctly and completely. Some amount of water may retain in the valve seals, low points, or other components, increasing the risk of a failed valve. Also, the water pipe may crack and create a disastrous situation.

So, ensure the correct process is maintained in this method. Using the right components and getting the job done efficiently would always be best.

Additionally, taking professional help will be beneficial if you want to get the most out of this method.

2. Less Reliable

Compressed air needs to blow through the plumbing system at high pressure. It increases the risk of damaging the plumbing system, causing expensive repairs. 

Reading the instruction manual is the best suggestion. Also, make sure to use the right PSI.

What is RV Antifreeze to Winterize?

RV antifreeze is formulated differently than normal automotive antifreeze. The main component of RV antifreeze is propylene glycol. This is a toxic-free chemical, making the process reliable.

Advantages

I shared the advantages in detail in the below points.

1. Best Way to Protect Your RV Plumbing System in Colder Months

If you want to protect the plumbing system of your rig, antifreeze to winterize is the best method. This method is best, especially when storing the RV in sub-freezing temperatures.

Sometimes, some RVers make short trips in the winter. They prefer using antifreeze for winterizing the rig and toilet flushing during camping in the colder season. They carry the bathing and drinking water, using a propane stove to heat.

Meaning antifreeze is a good option for storing RV in winter and use.

2. Reliable

Antifreeze is a good performer in winterizing RVs in ice-cold temperatures. It prevents water pipes from cracking, minimizing costly repairs.

Moreover, this method is much more efficient than the blowing out process.

3. Widely Available

You will find antifreeze in most automotive and hardware stores. In addition, RV antifreeze is toxic chemical-free because it is formulated for recreational vehicle water systems.

It means RV antifreeze is different from traditional antifreeze. RV antifreeze uses toxic-free propylene glycol. On the other hand, normal antifreeze uses toxic ethylene glycol.

So, you can use RV antifreeze without hesitation.

4. Effortless Process

Hiring a professional is unnecessary when using RV antifreeze to winterize the vehicle. A beginner can complete the process with little time.

Moreover, antifreeze reacts quickly. After pouring antifreeze, winterizing your RV will take only a few minutes.

Disadvantages

The prime disadvantages of antifreeze are discussed in this section.

1. Not Eco-friendly

If you are concerned about the environment, avoid following this method.

Correct disposal is a must after using antifreeze in your RV plumbing system. RV antifreeze is poisonous to animals. Plus, it can do long-term damage to the environment if improperly disposed of.

2. Expensive

RV antifreeze can’t be reused once drained through the plumbing system. Thus, it becomes an expensive method in the long run. You will have to buy a new container every year.

3. Weird Odor & Taste

Thorough rinsing of the antifreeze from the water pipes is mandatory. If a little amount of antifreeze mixes with drinking water, the water tastes weird, unpleasant, and strange.

So, sanitize and flush the whole system efficiently after using RV antifreeze. Ensure the pink stuff is completely removed from your RV plumbing system.

Blowing Out RV Water Lines vs. Antifreeze – Which Method is Better?

Both are effective and feature their own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Choose the blowing out method if,

• You are looking for an eco-friendly method
• Your preference is an affordable option

Choose the antifreeze method if,

• Price is not an issue for you
• You prefer a reliable and effective de-winterize method.

Read Also: Why Pop Up Camper Door Won’t Stay Closed & How to Fix it?

FAQs

Final Words

When choosing between blowing out RV water lines vs. antifreeze, the most important consideration is your preference and requirements.

Blowing out is the best option if you winterize your recreational vehicle yourself. On the other hand, if you don’t have any problem spending a lot of money in the long run, the antifreeze will be an ideal choice.

Whatever process you choose, use the best method to save your RV plumbing system from freezing.

Finally, consider all factors before making a decision.