Posts Tagged ‘Winter’

Heat Tapes For Water PipesWinterizing Your RV – Enjoy a Comfy and Cozy Winter Retreat

Being prepared is probably the most important part of the winter camp and with this in mind, the first thing to do is winter your RV. There are many ways to do this, but in this article I will discuss what has worked for us. It is trial and error and learning as we went through our first winter. It 'was hard and dirty work, but when all was done, was very comfortable and welcoming. Be sure to give you enough time to prepare everything in time. Ihesitated, and within 2 days, the weather of 40 degrees to -14 degrees with a cold wind is -30 degrees. I came to work at -14 degrees under the snow for two days trying to get everything situated.

The wind blew through the window and door seals. The floor was cold to the point where you had to wear shoes and frost builds up inside of the characteristics of the window only to melt in the hottest hours of the day. The first two weeks ofour winter camping adventure really got my wife and I wondering if our decision to camp during the winter was a mistake. We got hit very hard, very early into the winter season but what we learned made it a pleasurable experience in the end.

For a better understanding, you need to know what kind of RV we are living in and what needed to be fixed. We live in a 1979 Cruise Air motor home designed by Georgy Boy manufacturers. There were some things that needed to be fixed the first month we were out there, keep this in mind when purchasing an older RV.

- Power Inverter/battery charger – 5 + installation.

- Heater Blower – 5 parts + 0 installation

- Battery –

- New fresh water drainage hose –

- New Kitchen faucet washers

- Miscellaneous light bulbs and washers.

I’m going to lay this out into sections as to what needed to be done.

- Build skirting

- Insulating the plumbing

- Windows and doors

- Roof vents

- Waterproof the roof

Building the Skirting:

Skirting will help you reduce energy costs, help keep the plumbing, fresh water tank, water pump and all the hoses from freezing. We used plywood and I nailed R-13 insulation onto the plywood that would face inside. Most of the RV’s I have seen with skirting had it coming from under the RV frame but this wasn’t an option for us. The wheel wells, tanks and storage compartments where all uneven and that made it very difficult. I decided to design skirting that would give a 3″ shelf around the outside of the RV. For drawings of the skirting design visit my blog (link can be found in my profile) and the pictures are in the “drawings” tab. Measure everything twice to make sure you get the right dimensions. You will need to cut out an opening in the skirting for the steps and a couple of doors for the waste tank dumping and a storage area, if you want one.

I also drilled a 1″ hole through the skirting for the propane hose to run through. Pack around the hose with insulation to keep the wind, snow and cold out. We rented a 100 gallon propane tank that sits outside the RV so we wouldn’t have to worry about having to run and have it refilled constantly. There are many different options for this, talk to your propane company to find the plan that works best for you. We call the propane company at the end of each month and let them know what percentage is left in the tank and they come out and fill it for us, it is real convenient. Attach skirting together with 2×4’s and screws. You don’t want any gaps or cracks so make sure it all fits together snug, each corner is secure. Check all around the skirting for any openings and fill with insulation, it really helps if no wind or snow can get under your RV.

Insulating the Plumbing:

Under the RV, where the gray and black tank dumping area is, it’s a good idea to get some insulation that can be wrapped around the tanks output. Make sure to leave room so you can still get the cap on and be able to attach the dump hose. I also placed two 500 watt utility lamps, one near each tank, to help keep the tanks and outlet from freezing. Make sure the lamps are not touching the tanks or are to close to any insulation. Also add some non toxic RV anti-freeze to both tanks, this will help to keep things from freezing. Trust me, you are going to want to put some kind of Deodorant in the black tank, we use Aqua-Kem.

We didn’t have the dump hose attached full time. We kept ours in 2 garbage bags and stored in the front of the RV to keep it from freezing. Trust me, you don’t want that hose to freeze, it becomes very brittle and breaks real easy. We dump the waste tank first and then the gray tank that holds all the water that comes from washing dishes, the kitchen and bathroom sinks and from showering. Dumping the gray tank last helps to clean out the waste and keeps it from stinking and me passing out.

You can purchase electrical heat tape that is designed to be wrapped around water hoses. Add insulation over the electrical heat tape and hose to ensure things will not freeze. I have also seen people use 3″ PVC pipes for there tank dumping needs. You won’t have to worry about storing the hose inside and it is more convenient, just make sure it’s a down hill trip from the RV to the sewer. I didn’t do this because we had a slightly up hill track to the sewer. I couldn’t stand the thought of knowing something was in that pipe. If you have any leaks in the gray or black tank outlets a good product to use is J-B Water-weld. You can use it on wet surfaces or even under water, this really helped us out.

Windows & Doors:

The wind howling through the single pane glass is something that needs to be taken care of right away. We had good luck using Reflective Foil Insulation with Bubble Core on the driver compartment windows and bedroom. We used shrink film on the inside of the kitchen and dining area windows to keep us from feeling to claustrophobic. We really needed the outdoor views and it did help keep the wind from blowing in. On the doors I used weatherstripping on the frame of the door to keep the elements outside. I also put a sheet of Reflective Foil Insulation on the door itself for more protection. Another thing that I did was put duct tape on the outside of the windows to try and keep the wind from coming in through the seal. It may not look good but the survival side of me took over in the cold and it does seem to help.

Roof Vents:

Keeping the heat in is the key. For the roof vents we made customized pillows that fit nice and tight into the opening. Some old foam I had worked great and I covered that in cloth from a couple of shirts that didn’t fit anymore. It really helps to keep the heat in and the fashionable look can’t be beat. What is real fun about owning and living in your own RV is you can decorate any way you like. Express yourself. I have heard of people leaving the roof vents open a little bit to let the moisture out but with the way the wind blows here, that wasn’t an option. It is a good idea to purchase a dehumidifier, otherwise you could wake up with water dripping from the ceiling and find frost around the windows.

Waterproof the Roof:

This is a must do! You don’t want melting snow and rain dripping into your rv from the roof, this can cause many problems, especially if the water freezes. There are many products out there to use, do some research and contact your RV dealer to figure out whats best for you. Make sure to scrap off the old stuff and be sure when you apply the new stuff to get every nook and crevice. I think it better to put a little extra on than go to light.

This should help you have a comfy and cozy winter camping experience. It is allot of work but it is well worth it and gives you peace of mind and less surprises during those winter months. Some items I keep on hand are: duct tape, electrical tape, flat and Phillips screwdrivers, needle nose pliers and J-B Water-weld. I hope this helps you out and happy winter camping.

Heat Tapes For Water Pipes

Heat Tapes For Water PipesDilemma of the bridge above ground swimming pool! What is the best winter cover?

To close your new pool for the winter? There are differences between coverage on the ground and inground pool and there are several considerations of coverage. Read on to learn not to damage the pool and enjoy a care free winter storage and the opening of the summer season. I was new to "pool maintenance and safety" of a few years as well. I spent some time trying to understand the techniques, so hopefully we can save time and leave you with a pair of swimmingcover the secret.

Here are five things to consider

1. The pool design is important. swimming pools above ground and underground pools are some obvious differences. An above ground swimming pool is autonomous, usually lower, and all piping is exposed, rather than an environment on the bottom of the pool. Both models require you to leave the pool of water in the winter indoors. G over a swimming pool, it is important that your side can collapse with little water.

Now add theweight of a cover on the ground. Suppose we have the water drain from the middle (too low in my opinion) is necessary to join the indoor pool and guaranteed by all sides. Now comes the rain, its roof is filled with water, the pressure is high on the sides in all directions and the folds of your pool in the scene bad. So think of your pool design and size. Drain the water just below the foam. Buy a deck above ground pool is greater than the surface of the pool as it needs rest (float) in water remainingthe pool. So when the rains that have left enough slack on the deck of the pool to keep the rain and not cause pressure on the sides of the pool attached.

2. The water levels. We talked about previously. The best rule of thumb is to drain the water just below the skimmer opening. This way you can remove the tube and cold storage. You can empty a little 'more if you wish, but not much. Remember, the hot spring and sunny, it is necessary to fill the pool and (in myarea) of water costs money, so be careful what you waste.

3. What kind of roof above ground swimming pool to use? It depends on the time of year most of the time, and some personal preferences. I use a pool on the heavy vegetation cover throughout the year because I like to keep the advantage in my heat and reduce evaporation. I think my heater does not work if I have pool coverage, even in summer, after daily use.

I am unique in my neighborhood that winter is not winter above ground poolcoverage, but leave my pool open. I in water, place in chemistry and enjoy the beauty of the pool during the winter. I clean once a month and remains in circulation. Many pool owners have a pool cover on the ground from the summer sun, light, yet durable and easy to remove. Then have a hard winter on the cover above ground swimming pool to seal the pool during the winter.

4. This is an above ground pool cover, add to security? You bet it does. There is on earthSwimming pool winter covers that attach and secure all parts of your pool. Once in place, an adult can walk on them without falling into the water. This gives you a huge piece of mind for anyone concerned about their children or animals entering the pool.

5. Repair and maintenance of the pool deck on the ground. Mary just asked the question: "I have a 2 foot tear along a seam in the middle of the road Any ideas on how to solve this problem he used to rip it again?".

This is what we propose. Most of the swimming pool supplyshops to bring a tape just for this purpose. Make sure that both sides are clean and dry and apply the tape. And 'the strongest of the tape, even led, eventually break down the chemicals. Of course, remember the correct installation of the bridge, sitting in the water below, so do not get a natural tension in your pool cover on the ground.

Heat Tapes For Water Pipes

Heat Tapes For Water PipesTips for staying healthy and the system of drainage pipes in winter

For homeowners who live in an area that has cold winters, it is important to take steps to pass the winter in the house before winter arrives. A home system requires more wintering in the hydraulic system. In taking the measures essential for the house in winter, you will be able to avoid problems such as frozen pipes and other conditions that can damage the house, causing a disruption in daily activities and lead to costly repairsBill.

Here are some tips for maintaining good health and the system of drainage pipes in winter:

Insulate the pipes at home: And 'essential to protect your plumbing from freezing in winter. The first thing you need to do is identify where the piping system likely to freeze. Having identified the main drainage pipes, you should insulate the pipes. The easiest and cheapest way to insulate the pipes is to coverpipes with foam insulation. Right size tubes to get the right size and then place the foam insulation.

Hot Strip: Available in hot band special that can be connected to the pipe. This band, when connected, it will become a little 'heat and pipes from freezing. You can find this tape at most hardware stores and plumbing supply stores. Similarly, it is important that the basement is kept warm to prevent pipes freezing and bursting. You cankeep the thermostat low ground during cold nights.

Winter holidays: if you take the winter break, it is vital to adopt measures to prevent pipes freezing and breaking, while you are away. Before starting, you should drain the water pipes and pressure. Turn off the main water shutoff valve and open the taps. This will allow the water pressure in the exhaust. Maintain the water when you are away. You should also empty the dishwasherand washing lines to prevent freezing.

Add antifreeze Drains: With the addition of a small amount of antifreeze to drain, which prevents water from freezing in the pipes. It 'important to make sure you add the right amount authorized, and make sure you follow the appropriate guidelines when using antifreeze. You should consult a plumber before adding a small amount of antifreeze.

No one likes coming home to find burst pipes anda flooded basement. If you learn about the different ways in the winter of hydraulic system, it will greatly reduce the probability of having a serious problem during the cold months. It 'a good idea to consult a professional plumber to be able to provide some guidance on the maintenance of pipes during the winter. Understanding how your winter plumbing at home and take steps to isolate the system, including flight, your winterpleasant and relaxing.

Heat Tapes For Water Pipes

Heat Tapes For Water PipesHow to prevent plumbing problems Top 4 Winter

Protect your pipes against the winter will save you thousands of dollars that would otherwise have to spend on repairs. Plumbers in New York on the list of plumbing problems are more common during the winter, and simple solutions.

In the sink pipes
In many homes the kitchen sink is installed in the wall of your house out of NY. In addition to stunning views of the snow can be seen from her kitchen window while washing the dishes, evensee the water lines in the gel sink. New York, hydraulic pipe insulation, so that your first defense against freezing pipes. Keep closet doors open so that you can move heat and keep the pipes from freezing. It can also lead to an open closet doors, radiator, ensuring that the flow of warm air through the water lines.

Frozen oil lines
During the winter, the reservoir oil burner is at times due to water freezing in the fuel. The first step to prevent the oil line freezepipe insulation. Homeowners who already have their remote oil lines that you want to call their professional plumbers in New York to remove all mud and water from their tanks.

No hot water
Sudden cold showers during the cold season is a sure way of getting the flu. Court of hot water may be the result of two major problems in heating water – a bad or low temperature settings. While it is possible to increase the temperature levels, the establishment of a damaged part of your water heatermust be performed by a licensed plumber in New York.

Freezing Pipes
More than one million chilled water piping and bust during the winter. The lack of isolation is the number one cause of water pipes freezing and bursting. However, poor installation can also cause your water pipes exposed to freezing. Sleeves Heat tape fiberglass or foam insulation of large pipes.

Heat Tapes For Water Pipes

Heat Tapes For Water PipesPipes burst in winter prevent

When you realize that the cold air in the fall, it's time to start thinking about the plumbing in the house and how to keep safe for the snowman.

You should be aware that the plumbing in the house can be frozen, if you live in an area where temperatures drop below freezing. Pipes can freeze the house and then explode if not properly maintained. It is not enough to break repair damage hydraulic water, but the guarantees can be very destructive. A simple pair ofsteps in the late autumn you can save a lot of frustration and expense.

Start with the exterior of your home. Disconnect the hoses and store them for winter. Leave them attached can damage the faucet. Next, inspect the valve to ensure no leaks or drips. These can also lead to the damaged pipe. Finally, there are traffic jams outside the isolation valve can get additional insurance. These limits are usually made of polystyrene and are very cheap.

The nextstep is to identify the pipes that are in unheated spaces in your home. The garage is a common place to find tubes of this type. Wrap the pipe foam padding specifically designed to work. This coverage can be purchased at hardware stores or DIY. Mulch helps to insulate the pipes and prevent freezing. DIY alternative is to wrap the pipe with rags and tape. However, this process is not recommended because any small leak in the pipes are wet rag and denyits insulating properties.

Throughout the winter, should be allowed to every faucet in the house to run periodically. The pipes can freeze and heat the water very slowly through them can melt the ice on the lines. This procedure should be used more frequently with the taps located on an outside wall.

Also, make sure that all areas of heating your home, at least minimally. It is often difficult to tell where the pipes in the walls. Deciding not to heatReplacement of your room you can exit from pipe runs are more likely to freeze and burst if they are in the adjacent walls.

Finally, you may need to insert tubes or lamps near the radiator in unheated areas, if the temperature drops considerably. Living in Minnesota, I am well aware of what the actual temperature can reach -20 F. Low temperatures can quickly cause serious damage to a pipe system, if not properly protected.

By taking these steps, low-cost, easyYou can protect your home against a bad surprise. For more information on how to protect your home, contact a plumber or contractor.

Heat Tapes For Water Pipes