In areas where the temperature drops considerably during winters, this question seems legitimate. In fact, it’s one of the basics to know while taking care of your motorhome or RV during the winter season.
RV antifreeze is an essential accessory in an RV because it protects the plumbing and piping system, and keeps the rig’s temperature below the freezing point.
So, can RV antifreeze be reused? Yes, it can, so make sure you collect it in a bucket and store it correctly in an airtight container. RV antifreeze has a shelf life of approximately 4 years, and can potentially be used multiple times, but only if stored safely.
Do You Really Need an RV Antifreeze?
This liquid pink solution prevents your trailer’s plumbing and piping system from breaking and freezing.
The motorhome’s water pipelines are thin and narrow, and as the temperature goes down, the pipelines freeze and then expand.
Once the expansion begins, it results in water damage. Eventually, you have to replace the entire piping system. Furthermore, replacing is not a straightforward process; therefore, it is not cheap.
The purpose of RV antifreeze is to maintain the engine’s temperature. When the antifreeze mixes with water, it decreases the freezing temperature and raises the water’s boiling point.
When the outside temperature fluctuates, the antifreeze stabilizes the temperature. Therefore, antifreeze is essential in cold regions for the protection of pipes.
Is RV Antifreeze Different From Normal Antifreeze?
It is one of the most crucial points that every RV owner should know. Regular antifreeze for various automobiles is an entirely different thing compared to RV antifreeze.
You can use automotive antifreeze only inside the vehicle’s engine, and it is toxic. However, RV antifreeze protects your plumbing system and is non-toxic.
This non-toxic liquid comes in pink and blue colors. These colors vary because they have multiple compositions. The various types of RV antifreeze are discussed below.
Various Types of RV Anti-Icing Solutions
There are usually three types of RV antifreeze, and they more or less cost about 6 to 8 dollars/gallon.
Each anti-freezing solution has its pros and cons; therefore, before using it, you have to consult an RV professional to prevent your piping system from harming.
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Ethanol and Propylene Based
This product is safe and non-toxic for RV’s plumbing systems. Moreover, this blend helps in drying out the plumbing seals.
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Ethanol Based
It is available in several RV shops and hardware stores. This solution is extremely flammable; hence, you should be cautious when using it.
This alcohol-based antifreeze can damage particular plumbing systems, so you should use it with Quest or Pex plumbing lines.
Also, the ethanol-based RV antifreeze produces foul smells, and it alters the taste of the water. Moreover, it dries out the rubber seals in the faucets and toilets quickly since it is alcohol-based.
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Propylene Glycol Based
You will find this product at any local recreational vehicle shop. It is a safe and non-toxic product for winterizing RV pipelines.
This product doesn’t have any fire safety cautions, and it is made as a lubricant that will extend your toilet and faucet seal’s life.
Now, let’s jump to our main topic!
Can You Reuse RV Antifreeze?
Yes, you can. You can reuse antifreeze
Not that it lubricates or anything, but the formula becomes less effective over time. You can reuse it for two to four winters, and then it is better to discard it.
Does Anti-Icing Lubricant Go Bad?
It is a widespread practice to use RV antifreeze lubricant and store the unused solution for the next year. So, can I reuse last winter’s RV antifreeze? Does this solution have a definite life?
Many people talk about how an old antifreeze works perfectly, but it relies on whether the pink solution is properly sealed or kept open.
If the pink stuff is appropriately sealed and you haven’t opened it, it can remain on your shelf for 2 to 5 years. It is usually the shelf life of every RV antifreeze, but it is better to check the expiration date on the label.
If you have kept the pink solution open and did not seal it properly, you will probably need a new one for the next year.
An excellent tip for testing whether the antifreeze solution is suitable for reuse is to place it in a deep freezer. If the pink liquid does not turn into ice and remains slushy, it means it is good, and you can reuse it. However, if it does, it means you have to toss it away.
How Much RV Antifreeze Do I Need to Winterize My RV?
Since the freezing weather is a few months away, you should be all set to get your RV winterized for the extreme and harsh season. It is an ideal way to keep your motorhome’s plumbing systems in mint conditions.
But the question is, how much of the antifreeze do you need to winterize your RV?
It all depends on the length, layout, and size of your travel trailer. RV’s length varies. They may be 45 ft in length or can be less than 20 ft.
The bigger your RV, the larger the plumbing and piping system will be. Thus, you will require more of the RV antifreeze.
Considering the RV’s average size, you will need 2 to 3 gallons of it to protect your plumbing system during winter.
Should You Dilute Your RV Antifreeze?
I don’t know why anyone would want to dilute the solution, but it is the question RVers ask a lot. It would be best if you never did this.
Why? Because you don’t want to diminish your RV antifreeze’s strength. If you dilute the antifreeze, it won’t work like it is supposed to.
Many people have tried this, and it has damaged their piping system and appliances such as water pumps. Thus, it is better not to dilute it and use the full strength RV antifreeze.
Is It Possible To Winterize Your RV Without Using Antifreeze?
If the weather is not severe, and the temperature is not going way down, you can use the method of compressed air to expel water drops.
But why do you want to go without an antifreeze on a cold day? It is not costly, but your RV costs way more than that.
You might avoid it because it changes the water’s taste; however, it is not a big problem. In conclusion, you can winterize your RV without an antifreeze.
It is better if you go with the solution because it is not bad for your RV and it is light on the pocket.
Can I Put RV Antifreeze In a Freshwater Tank?
No!
Don’t pour your antifreeze in a freshwater tank because you will require a lot of solutions, and it is not an efficient method.
Moreover, when you drain the tank, a few drops of fresh water will remain at the bottom. These water droplets will mix with the antifreeze and decrease the protection level.
Ending Note
Several people begin the winterizing preparation before winter in order to protect the water system in their travel trailer or motorhome.
RV owners who reside in extreme snow falling areas or states can’t ignore the importance of an RV antifreeze. Most of them know that a little ignorance can eventually turn their RV into an utterly useless vehicle during winters.
But what most of the RVers don’t know is, they can reuse their antifreeze as it lasts for about four years maximum. So, for those who have the antifreeze properly sealed on their shelves, this post can save some bucks for you!
Just make sure to seal it properly so that it does not go bad.
