caravanning in winter

[catherine2]

We are thinking of going away in our caravan this Xmas / New Year and would like some info on preventing the water pipes from freezing. We anticipate leaving the heating on all the time to keep it warm inside but will the aquaroll and pump outside freeze if its cold?

I've heard you can do something to the cold water system to winterise it. We have a truma crystal 11 submersible pump and inlet. Does anyone know what this is and is it difficult / expensive to convert?

We use propane so should be ok on the gas side of things.

 

[rob_jax]

Jacket and pipe insulation for the aquaroll - and raise the aquaroll off the ground on a wooden (or polystyrene foam) block

And by jacket, I've seen people use an old puffa-type jacket around their water tank or real insulation covers

But if it's very cold for days on end, then it's going to freeze. Insulation will just give some over-night protection, and hopefully it will warm up during the day.

Robert

 

[NorfolkMike]

Have you not heard of global warming, it is not going to freeze until at least next Summer...... Trust Me!!!

ttfn

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Catherine,

An alternative approach to Rob_jax' is to fit an internal water pump connection and non return valve - usually in the bathroom, so that all the water containers are kept inside.

A blanked off pump fitting can be used in the external connector to prevent leakage.

Care would have to be taken to make sure the pump control system was functioning correctly.

Usually a smaller water container is used so it take up less space in the bathroom.

If we you are considering UK Christmas conditions, then Rob's solution is probably more than adequate.

 

[RayS]

Further to John L's post, Whale make a special kit for fitting a second pump connection internal to the van. Whale pump connections include a non return valve in the socket.

A good place for an "in board" tank is under a (fixed) bed using a 20 litre or similar poly jerry can. If no romm under the bed, the front locker is an alternative where you can lag the tank but watch the nose weight with the tank full.

This arrangement also very useful for overnights when doing a long trip.

 

[catherine2]

Thanks for your replies.

Is the Whale kit easy to fit and whereabouts does it go?