Water Systems --- Section 6
The Executive 2005
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WATER SYSTEMS - Troubleshooting
Water system problems are generally caused by improper use or lack of attention. Improper win-
terizing, poor maintenance, road vibration and campsite water pressure variations are common culprits
of water system failure.
Check all plumbing connections for leaks at least once a year. If the water pump runs when a faucet
is not open, check for a water leak. Close drain valves. If the pump continues to run, take the
motorhome to an authorized dealer for service.
Disinfecting Fresh Water
Disinfecting the water system with chlorine bleach (superchlorination) protects against bacteriologi-
cal or viral contamination from common water sources.
When to disinfect the fresh water system:
• If the motorhome is new.
• If the motorhome has not been used in a long time.
• Every three months.
NOTE:
An independently operated water pump with garden hose connections, and a con-
tainer to hold the prepared solution, may be used to perform this task.
To Disinfect the Water System:
• Remove water filter elements in water bay and re-install filter sumps.
• Prepare a chlorine bleach solution using one gallon of water and ¼ cup of chlorine bleach.
Use 1 gallon of solution for every 15 gallons of tank capacity. For example: Add 2 2/3 gal-
lons solution to a 40 gallon tank. Add 4 2/3 gallons solution to a 70 gallon tank. Add 6 2/3
gallons to 100 gallon tank. This mixture puts a 50 PPM (parts per million) disinfecting
solution in the water system that will act as a quick-kill dosage for harmful bacteria, virus-
es and slime-forming organisms. Concentrations higher than 50 PPM may damage the
water lines and/or tanks.
• Another method of introducing the chlorine bleach would be to multiply the number of gal-
lons by 0.13. The result would be the amount in ounces of chlorine needed to be introduced
into the fresh tank with water.
• Drain the fresh water tank. Close the drain and prepare to introduce the solution into the
fresh water tank. The method of introduction is up to the owner.
TIP:
Use the same hose labeled for potable water to introduce the chlorine solution into
the system. This will disinfect the potable water hose at the same time. Several flush-
es will be required to remove chlorine residue from the potable hose.
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