While RVs are generally capable of handling cold weather, issues can arise once the temperature drops below freezing. You could suffer serious damage to your RV if the holding tank, connections, or pipes freeze. In order to avoid dangerous situations, everyone needs to know how to safely thaw a frozen RV tank. Due to their exposed location, RV holding tanks can take a long time to thaw. When your RV is out of service, you may not have running water.
RV tanks should be defrosted using the following methods:
The defrosting process can be sped up and freezing prevented by certain methods. Following is a list of some of the most effective options.
1. Hair dryer/heat gun:
Directly applying heat to a frozen RV tank will help it thaw more quickly. Heat guns are more effective than hair dryers at achieving the same results. When using this method, you should exercise caution. Without special measures, your holding tank’s outer shell could melt if temperature changes dramatically. Holding tanks made of ABS and polyethylene should be handled with special care. You should work your way down from the top of the tank to the bottom for best results. Don’t use a hair dryer or a heat gun for long periods of time. The termination valve should be accessible once you reach it. Moving the tank will cause its contents to heat up. The tank has thawed when this happens!
2. Install a 100-watt bulb:
A 100-watt light bulb can be used to slowly and steadily defrost. Holding tanks can be kept at a comfortable temperature with the help of a heater. Because a 100-watt bulb cannot produce much heat on its own, you won’t have to worry about extreme temperature swings. Generally, this method is most effective on closed undersides of RVs without heaters if the holding tanks are inside. By installing a 100-watt light bulb under the eaves, the space will gradually be heated. A hair dryer or heat gun is safer than this method, but you will need patience. The tank will defrost faster if it is defrosted instead of left to thaw on its own.
3. Thaw the tank naturally:
It is also possible to wait and let your tanks thaw naturally if you have no other option. It is natural for your tanks to melt when the outside temperature is above freezing. You should not attempt this if you are in a hurry. It could take several hours. Your RV’s tanks can be insulated and the heater can be turned on to speed up the process. Thawing the tanks slowly will prevent cracking or damage to their exteriors.
