winterizing and storage

[bill j]

Last year we winterized the fresh water systems in our Cutwater with RV antifreeze. In the spring, we had mold and algae which was difficult to clean out requiring numerous flushes. The service manager at LaConner Maritime recommended adding gin or vodka to prevent this from happening. Since vodka doesn't freeze, I wonder if I could use 80 proof vodka alone as an antifreeze agent in the empty fresh water tank. Since it costs about $18 for 2 liters, it might be practical. Thoughts?? In central Texas we only experience 5-10 days below freezing per winter so the freezing threat is not great. Thanks for any advice - Bill

 

[Rodeo]

Perfect, what an idea, then you can make a martini right out of the tap in the spring. 😀

 

[walldog]

I have added Vodka to tank to help remove odor and taste of the pink stuff. I do wonder how the alcohol in vodka would react with the seals and gaskets on the pump, etc. if it were not diluted as it would be with a full tank of water.

 

[Bruce Moore]

We also use vodka, very successfully, to condition the tank after it was winterized. After the usual white vinegar solution and bleach dilution didn't yield satisfactory results, the vodka did the trick.

One fifth in a full tank, pumped out the next day, repeat.

I agree with Herb's caution.

Cheers,

Bruce

 

[pugtug613]

I prefer to drain the tank, blow out the lines with air and use 1 gallon in the tank. Then I drain the hot water heater and use another gallon (gravity feed) for the HWH. I put it in the highest hose and leave the drain and vent open. I pour the pink stuff in until it comes out pink.

In the spring I drain as much as I can from the tank, disconnect a hose. Then I run water thru it until it comes out clear. The same with the HWH. That way that pink stuff smell goes away a whole lot faster. I put a 1/2 cup of bleach in the first tank. Enough that you smell bleach when you run the water. I run it thru all the hoses a few times. Then I drain the tank, just turn on the water until it's empty. The next tank, I add no bleach. After that I go every other tank about 2 tbs. bleach just to keep things bug free. I never drink that water. Just dishes and showers.