R-Pod RV Winterize - Step-By-Step Process (with Anode Rod)

[@JohnMarucci]

Here is the link to the free winterization process doc. Click the link and choose the R-Pod Winterization Process download: johnmarucci.com/docs-downloads/

[@grandmapatty1493]

Hey John, Thanks to you, R Pod Spotter, and others I was able to winterize my 176 by myself. I did make one rookie mistake. It got dark outside, and the weather was going just to the freezing mark, so I went ahead and did it. Because it was dark, and I was new at this, I had the out side shower valves open instead of closed. I didn't realize it until I was sprayed all over with anti freeze. I had a good laugh about it. All of you who post videos are awesome!!! I do appreciate all your help!!!

[@JohnMarucci]

Great! It feels good to be able to tackle these type of tasks. Glad I could help.

[@GCRickerNH]

Did the dealer give you an answer about if you don't have an Air Compressor?

[@mpuls54]

We just winterized our R-Pod for the first time today. Thank You for the video! It made it so much easier than if we tried to figure it all out and remember to do each thing. BLESS YOU for all your help!

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad the video was helpful! All the best!!

[@robinlayton7422]

I’ve just read that later models don’t have the pump under the bed now. It’s said to be behind the vacuum.

[@Tom75562]

Thanks very much I have an RPOD 178 very similar, mine did not have a low water drain for the hot just a combined one. It was not as low as the one in the video which made it a little harder to get the cap off.

[@JohnMarucci]

Ok, thanks for the comment!

[@TravelswithLucky]

Big help.... thank you! the heating rod looked pretty bad on my 2016 rpod 179.... so I will replace it. The guy we bought ours from said he just blows out the lines . We live in Montana and may use it in the winter to go south.... is that something anyone else does (skip antifreeze)? then you don't have the antifreeze taste in your water.

[@JohnMarucci]

Some people used forced air and only blow out their lines. There are videos online about this method. I’ve only ever used the RV antifreeze method as it is factory recommended and I’ve never had an issue. I also don’t have any RV antifreeze aftertaste. Thanks!

[@stacyhazelwood4033]

John, thanks again. We used your video again this year to make sure we did it right.

[@JohnMarucci]

Great to hear. Glad the video is still helpful!

[@holmesroach]

Outstanding - that fresh water tank is stubborn for sure. Just bought an Rpod used and my 1st winter prep . Your details were all spot on

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad it helped!

[@dianebauers4231]

Extremely helpful. I have to winterize my 179 for the first time this year. I live in Florida and never winterized it. But, this year, I am leaving the camper in Ohio due to now having a permanent site on the Ohio River. So, this is a very great and helpful video

[@JohnMarucci]

Diane, glad the video can be helpful!

[@DaveCox-t7q]

Hi John - I just completed all of the steps in your video, with the exception of blowing out the lines with an air compressor. Since all the lines now have antifreeze in them, can this step be skipped? I don't have an air compressor. We live in Oklahoma, so we usually get a few days of 0-10 degrees F, and rarely an extreme of -10 degrees F (once or twice a winter). Thanks.

[@JohnMarucci]

You should be ok, as long as you are getting RV antifreeze out of all the faucets, including any outside shower or quick connect.

[@AdventureDerrick]

Thank you for this! I do have a question about the Hot Faucet knobs. I couldn’t get anything to run out of the hot faucet on the kitchen sink or the bathroom sinks. Cold faucets were fine. I would think that is fine because we disabled the water heater line, but you show pink antifreeze flowing in the hot water faucets. Did I do something wrong? Is it going to be ok?

[@AdventureDerrick]

BTW ours is a RPod 178.

[@JohnMarucci]

Are you absolutely sure you bypassed the hot water heater? If not, you will be filling up the hot water tank. You certainly should get antifreeze from both hot and cold taps.

[@craigphillips7258]

Thank you. I, too, followed techntrek's list but watching made it easier to follow. The information, your clear instruction, and the quality of the videos, especially the sound, make your videos so helpful for us newbies.

[@JohnMarucci]

Craig, you happened onto the highest viewed video on the channel with the Winterization video. I still go back to it annually to remind myself what to do and so I don't miss any steps!

[@cfrizz]

2nd year using your instructions, thanks!!

[@JohnMarucci]

Great to hear!

[@paulvanderborgt5581]

I just used this video to winterize my 2021 Palomini. A few very minor differences, but this made it so easy! Thanks for an invaluable video. I've got it bookmarked.

[@JohnMarucci]

That’s really great to hear, thanks for sharing!

[@JohnMarucci]

I should have mentioned this on the video, but we went through about 4.5 gallons of RV antifreeze to do all this. A full gallon to get stuff coming out of the low-point drains and another 3.5 to get a good color stream from each of the faucets and toilet, as well as putting some in the traps. Hopefully this info helps if you are going to buy some. Walmart has plenty as well as Menards this time of season.

[@JohnMarucci]

I have done this more recently with 2 gallons. I think prior to this I was wasting much out the low-point drains!

[@RobertLee-if9ix]

Hi John, I was wondering if once done with the winterizing steps, can we return the water lines to normal operation? This would help save time in the spring. I have the 179 also. Thank you.

[@JohnMarucci]

​@@RobertLee-if9ix You sure can.

[@dariuszburzynski5063]

Im now the proud owner the Rpod from this video, you did amazing job with up keeping, thanks for all the instructions and videos. (!)

[@JohnMarucci]

Congrats! All the best!

[@VanessaOoms]

Thank you for this!! Just winterized our R-Pod for the first time and it went well! So grateful for your channel. 🙏🏼✨

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad the video was helpful. All the best!

[@jasonfriday9525]

Bought an R Pod this summer, watched this video and it was no problem. Thanks for the easy instructions, John!

[@JohnMarucci]

Jason, glad the winterization video was helpful. All the best!

[@brownkenvt]

Just got a used 180. Is it really necessary to find the water pump and run antifreeze thru the lines if I have blown them out with the air compressor? Can't I just then pour antifreeze in the p-traps, the sinks, and the toilet, drain the hot water tank and call it a day?

[@JohnMarucci]

If you only use compressed air to blow out all the lines you don’t need antifreeze but there is a specific process to follow. I haven’t done Winterization using compressed air only, so you’ll want to find a good video or two that will walk you through the process. Thanks!

[@terrywatts7896]

i love your summary at the end

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@stacyhazelwood4033]

Watching your video again. Thanks!!

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad it was helpful again!

[@timhamers4378]

Hello, once again, today I used your video to winterize my RPOD. 1,000 thank you’s.

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad the the video was helpful again!

[@rodneykanikkeberg4020]

Thanks John. Very helpful video. Question for you...after running antifreeze through water pump I was not able to see anything coming out of the hot water low point drain. Where did I go wrong? Thanks,

[@JohnMarucci]

Rodney, are you seeing pink RV antifreeze coming out of each hot water side of the faucets?

[@rodneykanikkeberg4020]

@@JohnMarucci Yes

[@JohnMarucci]

That’s good. So if you open the hot water low point drain only with the water pump on at this point, you should see pink antifreeze come out. May take a moment. You really want to have someone help turn the pump on and off for you as you open then close valve. If nothing comes out, maybe the water heater isn’t bypassed? Have a retry and let me know. Thanks.

[@rodneykanikkeberg4020]

@@JohnMarucci I will try that. Thank you much. Really enjoy the videos. They have helped make the trips in RPOD more enjoyable.

[@rodneykanikkeberg4020]

@@JohnMarucci I think I got it. There was another valve in addition to the hot and cold bypass valves that needed to be turned (open or closed- not sure) and this allowed antifreeze to run through lines and exit hot water low point drain.

[@biblesnbarbells]

Thanks for the video John. I will need to do this on my 2015 Forest River RPod 179. Anthony.

[@JohnMarucci]

Anthony, I am glad the video was helpful.

[@stevebrittain3807]

good information & no nonsense, i appreciate it!

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad the video was helpful! All the best!

[@laurenclark-fr7ow]

Having trouble. Got to the point where I am running Anti-freeze through the pump and nothing is getting to any of the sinks and only one of the low point drains. Does this mean I have a leak and where do I start looking for signs of that? Thanks!!

[@JohnMarucci]

If I understand correctly, the pump is drawing antifreeze from the jug, but with the low point drains closed, no antifreeze is getting to any of the faucets. If the plumbing worked fine during season using the fresh water tank and pump, likely you don't have a leak. It is possible a faucet aerator is clogged. You may also have your hot water tank unbypassed, so antifreeze would be going into the hot water tank and not the lines.

[@WisconsinCountryStaffing]

Thanks John!!!!! I ordered everything off Amazon you suggested through your links! I hope you get credit! Happy Camping:) Keri

[@JohnMarucci]

Thank you! All the best!!

[@micahcollins8]

Works awesome. Thanks John

[@JohnMarucci]

Great to hear!

[@davidlopanful]

John, do you pull out your rv batteries and put them in your garage? I'm in NM and gets as cold as MI if not colder. I probably will pull them out.

[@JohnMarucci]

I do pull out my battery when the trailer is in storage. I keep it in my garage off-season. Thanks!

[@jameslewis5568]

If the water pump stopped working when pumping in antifreeze what would could cause that? I have replaced some of the fuses but wasn't sure which ones to replace.

[@JohnMarucci]

Are you sure that you still have 12 volt battery power working in the RV? The water pump uses 12 volt.

[@jameslewis5568]

@@JohnMarucci Thanks John, I figured out that I didn't pump enough rv anti-freeze into system before closing the low point drains. After opening them back up the pump started right back up.

[@JohnMarucci]

Okay, thanks for letting me know!

[@EdGadberry]

Thanks John. One thought, does it make sense to turn on the water heater bypass valves before step 3? Otherwise. When trying to drain the lines I think the pump will be pulling from the full water heater every time you turn on a hot faucet. I ask because it was taking much longer than 15 mins and I can hear it sucking from the full water heater.

[@JohnMarucci]

Ed, the water pump only pulls from the fresh water tank. Are you sure you had all the water fully drained from it before running the water pump? The basin sits lower in the middle vs where the drain plug is, so you may need to lean the trailer down a bit to fully drain it.

[@panreach]

My 180 was taking forever on this step. Finally I just opened the outside shower and walked away. Maybe they stuffed 3 miles of water hose somewhere inside the walls, lol.

[@panreach]

When I came to step 7, hardly any water came out of my hot water heater.

[@panreach]

Of note though is that I have three shut off valves by the water heater (not including the anti-freeze valve)- unlike yours in the videos. I may have had one open/closed that I shouldn't have?

[@randybeach9907]

Hi john , thanks again for all that you do and these very helpful videos! , question.. is it to late to blow out the city water hook up after you have already winterized your pod ?? In other words hook the air compressor up … will it blow out through the low point drains only ? Pink stuff has been fed into all the trailer lines! Thanks again and will be waiting for your response

[@JohnMarucci]

Randy, I don't have a plumbing diagram for the R-Pod, but I think that if you blow air through the city water inlet, it should push through the plumbing lines and to the low-point drains pretty quickly. I am not sure how much RV antifreeze you would lose, but likely most will remain in the lines. If you do this, you might want someone to help you manage having a bucket under the low-point drains and also closing the low-point drains after you get air through. I wouldn't open other faucets or have the air compressor running unless the low-point drains are open. Thanks!

[@randybeach9907]

@@JohnMarucci thank you John , I pulled each one of the caps off this morning before leaving for work and it was nothing but pink stuff that drained so it looks as though I’m good !, thank you so much for getting back to me and I must say that your videos are pretty much spot on ! I did have 3 valves besides the antifreeze by pass line, cold , hot, and the third line , that we turned off as well , but all drains and faucets were pure pink , drains and full , I did put about 3/4 to a gallon in each of the tanks !, probably over did it but would rather be safe ! Thanks John , looking forward to your next video !

[@mtsapphire1889]

John, what do you do if the pump isn't pulling antifreeze out of the jug? Worked last year; didn't work this year! Bypass valve set to bypass; pump worked before I drained the water...

[@JohnMarucci]

Clem, are getting suction at the tube that pulls the antifreeze? If not, is the pump pulling water ok from the fresh water tank?

[@mtsapphire1889]

@@JohnMarucci Thanks for your speedy reply, John. It doesn't seem like there's any discernible suction at the end of the tube. However, when I put the bypass valve in in-line mode (ie, no bypass) the pump pushed some remaining water out of the lines, so it seems like the pump is working normally. Other suggestions I have tried: 1) Press the valve behind the CW filter to relieve an air block: Did that. A little water came out but didn't solve the problem. 2) Make sure antifreeze jug is above the pump: Yes, it is. 3) Check that bypass valve is working: Visual check of aftermarket bypass valve seems to show the valve is working properly. 4) Put the anode back in: I did that but since I have bypassed the hot water tank, that doesn't do anything. Other solutions offered involve pulling the pump (may need replacement) but as I said above the pump seems to be working. I have made an appointment next week with the service dealer I had gone to in the past, but would rather figure this out myself (with your advice!) if at all possible. Thanks.

[@JohnMarucci]

Clem, the only other thing you might want to try is to prime the pump. I did this recently using a small funnel and the jug of RV antifreeze. Basically turn the water pump on and pour a bit of RV antifreeze into the intake line. It make take a moment, but if the pump is working and has no air leaks in the lines near the pump, it should begin to pull the RV antifreeze in. Once you hear or see (if using a clear line) you can quickly put the intake tube into the bottle of RV antifreeze. Hopefully this will work.

[@mtsapphire1889]

@@JohnMarucci Thanks, John. That didn't work either. The antifreeze that I poured into the tube went somewhere past the pump, but didn't make it to any of the outlets. Air leaks in the lines are a possibility but that would be quite a job to trace, I would think.Someone suggested connecting a shop vac to the kitchen faucet (a new use for duct tape!) with the pump running until the pump takes over. I may try that.

[@jetdust]

There a video doing this without an air compressor?

[@JohnMarucci]

Not that I know of. The blowout plug is about $10 and a compressor $40-50, maybe cheaper at a place like Harbor Freight. To me it is a small investment vs paying a dealer to do it or breaking a plumbing line over the winter. Plus with an air compressor you can then keep you tires properly inflated. Thanks!

[@blj859]

Saw in one of your podcasts where in a pinch, you used a Viair tire air compressor to blow water out of your lines. Knowing that it’s not a full winterization, did you find that this worked for you in a pinch? Thanks

[@JohnMarucci]

Don't remember using just an air compressor to winterize in a pinch. Can you let me know which podcast you are referring to?

[@blj859]

@@JohnMarucci you ran winterization fluid through after using what I thought was a Viair tire compressor with adapter… my question is to what extent did you find that the Viair pushed water out of the system, and which, and do you remember which Viair compressor model you used?… Thanks Ps : Hope all the kinks are out of you new rig!🙏

[@darlahoerman9229]

Hi John, the link to the instructions no longer works. Can you share a new link? Good video - thank!

[@JohnMarucci]

Yep, I also have them on my website: johnmarucci.com/2020/10/05/winterization/

[@mattberrett310]

GREAT vids John--I think I speak for many in saying thanks.

[@JohnMarucci]

Thanks!

[@alisonlowe2677]

super helpful video, thanks so much. I don’t have an air compressor, but if I were to buy one - will any air compressor do, or is there something specific to look for when buying?

[@JohnMarucci]

Alison, The one I have is small but has two gages, one to show how much pressure is in the tank, and the other gage to show how much pressure is dialed to the line. Some cheaper compressors only have the tank pressure gage, which won't allow you to regulate a steady stream into the line. Here is an example of a decent one from Walmart on sale. I did buy mine originally to do some upholstery work, so it can come in handy for other things. I would also check a local Harbor Freight store. www.walmart.com/ip/Factory-Reconditioned-Bostitch-BTFP1KIT-R-18-Gauge-Brad-Nailer-and-Compressor-Combo-Kit-Refurbished/151126061

[@johnhoward3190]

Good informative video.

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad it was helpful!

[@neilhudson6194]

Hi John--great video----I don't have access to a air compressor--can I skip this step?

[@JohnMarucci]

Neil, if you have used the city water connection when camping this season, likely there is water still in that line that needs to be blown out with compressed air. If not, your call, but I always err on the side of safety and blow this line out so no water can freeze in the line and potentially damage or break the line(s).

[@neilhudson6194]

@@JohnMarucci Thanks for your prompt reply John--You are a great resource for a newbie like me--very well done videos--I'm sure you have saved a lot of people's "bacon" over the years

[@chyna320]

Excellent presentation - Thanks ! ( what I don't understand is if all the water was drained , why is there a need for the anti freeze )

[@JohnMarucci]

Thanks! There is an ongoing debate between those who only used forced air to blow out lines and those who use RV antifreeze. The former use air compressors and push 50+ psi through the lines and seem to do okay with removing all the water. Others are not so confident and use the RV antifreeze. If you leave just a little water in the lines by accident, it can do damage to your water pump or toilet seal. I tend to be more risk averse and go with the RV antifreeze. You can find more on this on the Rpod Owners Forum: www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=10720&PN=1&title=winterizing-issues

[@paulob5153]

Thanks for asking I am glad I read further down as that's what i was going to ask ...i figured once you remove all the water no expansion is going to happen to damage lines etc

[@robbiebobbie2011]

when the antifreeze comes out the low point drains do you cap it off immediately or turn pump off then put low drain point caps back on

[@JohnMarucci]

Robert Daniels I usually turn off the water pump immediately and hop outside and cap the drains. It helps if you have someone helping at this point to cap the drain quickly so you don’t waste too much antifreeze. Hope this helps.

[@robbiebobbie2011]

John Marucci thnx man

[@janstewart7076]

John..great video but I'd really like the print out. Could you provide the link you referenced in the beginning? Thanks!

[@JohnMarucci]

This is in the description: kzbin.info?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rpod-owners.com%2Fforum_posts.asp%3FTID%3D846&v=173ozyKAcqk&event=video_description&redir_token=yEw5z5GUror0T_fvm2zb-OgRa1R8MTU2OTAyMTQwN0AxNTY4OTM1MDA3

[@theotherguymax9189]

Thanks sir, I've used your videos for alot of training on campers lol

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad to hear it!

[@ryanhiniker]

Thank you so much!!

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad the video was helpful. All the best!

[@michellefilipchuk6381]

I don't have an air compressor! I live in B.C. so heavy winters. Any suggestions if no compressor?!

[@JohnMarucci]

I suppose if you didn't use your city water connection, you can just use antifreeze. I did see a small compressor with 70 psi max on Amazon for just over $30 US. It might be worth considering as part of your tool kit for winterizing and to keep tires properly inflated. Thanks!

[@michellefilipchuk6381]

@@JohnMarucci Thanks! No Io I did not use city water. I have opened my low drain, emptied the fresh water tank. Turned on the water pump and opened the tap so nothing is coming out. I closed off the valves to the hot water heater pulled the anode out and let it drain with a few flushes. So now I guess I find the intake bypass and put the hose in the antifreeze and run it though all taps in how and cold? Then some extra in the drains and toilet correct!? Then replace the anode for the winter. I haven't done the antifreeze because I could not find the hose so I am looking further under the bed today, I did however hear a little water sloshing around near the pump when I turned it on to look for it, hope this is still ok at this step.

[@kimvaughn5323]

Your videos are so helpful. Thank you! I would just like to see (hear) your commentary regarding flushing the antifreeze through to “please capture the antifreeze as it exits your RV!” This product has a sweet taste and attracts animals that will die if they ingest it.

[@JohnMarucci]

RV antifreeze is not car antifreeze and is generally considered food safe. I do recommend using a bucket under the low point drains to capture and reuse the rv antifreeze in the p-traps in the last step. Thanks!

[@kurtschramm6454]

John did you add the hose and bypass valve on you rpod to pump the antifreeze through the system or is that installed from the factory

[@JohnMarucci]

Kurt, my R-Pod had the hose and valve from the factory. There are kits to add if needed.

[@kurtschramm6454]

@@JohnMarucci thank you

[@Kedeco628]

Great video as usual, seems like process will work for my NOBO. Question how many gallons of Antifreeze did you use?

[@JohnMarucci]

About 2.5 gallons, but I think I could have gotten by with 2 had I not lost as much via the low point drains. A bucket under these drains (if doing this solo) or having someone shut these off quickly would save a bunch of antifreeze. Thanks!

[@puchski1]

Thanks for the great video. Kinda a revelation to know that it will take 3 hours and lots of antifreeze. Hot tip on blowing out the lines! One never seems to get all the water out no matter what. Hence the need for the antifreeze to backfill the fines; just cheap if not time intensive insurance. Thanks again.

[@JohnMarucci]

Thanks for the comment and for watching! The three hours needs a bit of clarification. That includes all the time it took to drain a full freshwater tank and the fact we were filming the process. This past time, I had the fresh water tank already empty and wasn't filming anything and it took less than half that time. Hopefully this better sets your expectations. It also is nice to have someone with you helping open faucets when pushing antifreeze through the lines. You can save a good deal of antifreeze if someone is helping out. All the best!

[@pnwester2697]

Yes

[@cbrown5936]

Since you apparently live in MI, what do you do about winterizing after you travel south during the winter? I would assume it will be freezing when you get home (say in Jan/Feb/Mar) so you need to winterize along the way home, right? Also, are you de-winterizing in the cold before you leave - doesn't that create freeze problems? Trying to understand so perhaps we can travel during the winter from OH.

[@JohnMarucci]

I usually travel south and de-winterize once I am in a climate where it will not go below freezing, usually TN or GA. On the way back, it is generally later in the winter and often I can time the return so I have a day or two to winterize when I reach home. I do however, carry a couple of gallons of RV antifreeze and my small air compressor with us going back north in case we do have to winterize along the way. Thanks!

[@adambishop5032]

Super helpful!! Love the thorough step by steps

[@Kedeco628]

John, Can you skip the compressed air and just pump in antifreeze until the fixtures and low points run pink?

[@cdharrison935]

Is there any other option I can use if I don't have an air compressor?

[@JohnMarucci]

Not really. The problem is leaving water in the city water intake line. I see that a small air compressor is about $70 at Harbor Freight and right around $100 at Home Depot. Much cheaper than having something freeze and breaking. It is somewhat essential equipment when owning an RV. Thanks!

[@ryankdye]

Thanks so much John

[@JohnMarucci]

You are very welcome!

[@gregbennett3720]

Nice job!!!! Just did mine this past weekend.

[@JohnMarucci]

Thanks Greg for complement!

[@chrissiem3843]

Hi John-just got an Rpod 179 so your videos are fantastic as far as leading a newbie through all the systems and their processes for winterization and DE-winterization. I have subscribed to your youtube channel and look forwrd to any tips and tricks you can offer!! I am not certain about where to put the pink antifreeze since out RPod has no siphon hose to put directly into the antifreeze. I have watched the basic and regular de-winterization videos and I'm still a little worried about filling the hot wather tank with pink fluid. Also, where is the best place to pour the antifreeze to get it into the system? Thanks so much for all your help! Chris

[@JohnMarucci]

Chris, have you identified the location of your water pump under the bed? If so, you are saying there are no valves at the hot water tank, also under the bed? What year is your 179? Thanks.

[@chrissiem3843]

@@JohnMarucci Thanks for getting back so quickly-there are valves but none with an open end to use a a siphon for the antifreeze

[@chrissiem3843]

it is a 2016

[@JohnMarucci]

Chris, feel free to attach a few photos of the area to my email at: [e-mail]

[@chrissiem3843]

@@JohnMarucci Will do first thing tomorrow AM-thanks!

[@cwmoser]

Very informative. Looks like this procedure is applicable to my Rpod 180.

[@JohnMarucci]

Carl Moser I am pretty sure the 179 & 180 should be almost identical as far as mechanics. Not totally sure on location of your tanks, but may be very close to the 179.

[@philip48230]

From my point of view, I’ve stopped using anti freeze. I’ve been using compressed air only ... at thee d I leave all valves and facets open. As long as 95% of water is out of system, and open, anything that freezes has expansion room, so no broken lines, etc. 4 years no problems. Also put 1/2 gal anti freeze/Lysol in black tank and sink drains. This way if I decide to go to Florida in middle of winter I don’t have to deal with anti freeze, and when I come back north I just blow out all the lines at my last warm weather stop. Compressed air method takes about 30-45 minutes total. Definitely, got to remember to turn battery off or some small LED will kill it during the winter/storage. 4 years no problems.

[@JohnMarucci]

Compressed air can work if you know what you're doing. Not everyone does. A service manager mentioned to me that they get a lot of cracked water pumps in the spring because people leave too much water in the system and the water pumps crack. In Michigan, it can get pretty cold, so I err on the side of caution. I know a guy in upper Michigan who has used compressed air for years without issue. Thanks for the comment.

[@paulc1994]

hi John thank you for the great steps! Do you recommend adding antifreeze to your freshwater tank? I did not see it in your video or others related to the r-pod but I've seen it in other RV winterization videos. Thanks in advance! Paul

[@JohnMarucci]

Paul, I throughly drain the fresh water tank and only put the pink antifreeze through the intake tube next to the water pump when adding it to the water lines. I know some people do put the antifreeze into the fresh water tank in other RVs, but I haven't seen the need to do this with an R-Pod. It isn't too difficult to run it through the intake tube provided. Thanks for watching!

[@garagebandbrothers]

great job on this video it really helped me a lot

[@JohnMarucci]

Glad the video was helpful!

[@thomashalayko5862]

John another well done video. Clear and concise. Great job as always.

[@Murphygolfsimulators]

Did anyone have any problems putting the anode rod back in? Mine doesn’t seem to want to line up.

[@JohnMarucci]

Brent, that can be a bit tricky. I usually thread it by hand with the Rod inside the socket.

[@katiem6537]

Hello, thank you so much for this checklist! It’s so helpful for a newbie like me! Question- I’ve gotten to the compression portion of the checklist, and it’s working as it should....but every time I think it’s blown out all the remaining water, I give it one more cycle with the air and it starts all over again! Should I be concerned about the amount of water the air is blowing out?? Is it normal that I’ve gone through about 6 cycles and it keeps blowing out a ton of water!! The video said a few seconds but it’s taking way more than that! Thank you for any tips!

[@JohnMarucci]

Possibly keep the pressure release valve open on your hot water tank as well as your low point drains, sometimes more will come out.

[@JohnMarucci]

Make sure your low point drains are open before releasing water pressure from the tank!

[@katiem6537]

Yikes, any clue where I would find that valve? We have the exact same year/model rpod....and yes all the exterior drains are open and the faucets in the sinks are open....the pod is also not hooked up to power or water currently.

[@pnwester2697]

@@katiem6537 The pressure relief valve is toward the top of the water tank. Looks just like the one on your water heater in your house.

[@janeanf123]

How cold does your area have to get to need to winterize Rpod?

[@JohnMarucci]

Usually if it is going to stay below freezing for more than a few hours and there is water in the lines, you could have problems. If you are staying in the trailer at the time, you can compensate with the furnace and not need to winterize. I have another video on the subject of freeze warning tips: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oZfNYpmZo5uhpc0

[@harley9218]

Don't mean for this to sound like a stupid question, but could you prepare your rv for winter simply by draining all the water? Blowing air thru the pipes would be an added step. No water nothing to freeze.

[@JohnMarucci]

Harley, lots of folks use compressed air only vs using RV antifreeze. You just need to make sure you get all the water out or you can have serious problems when it freezes. Thanks again for watching!

[@pnwester2697]

There will be residual water in the lines that collects at the low points. This would also potentially happen if you did a sloppy job using compressed air. For safety sake, I use both methods. Compressed air and RV antifreeze. Is it necessary to do both? Probably not but it is the safest method.

[@jessicagentile7856]

Hi John -- while pumping the antifreeze through, it came out of the city water intake. Is this normal?

[@JohnMarucci]

Jessica, that is not normal. Somehow it is back flowing from the water pump. I am not clear on why it is back flowing on you. You may want to inquire on the owners forum: RPod-owners.com.

[@jessicagentile7856]

John Marucci that’s what I was afraid of, thank you.

[@dman666666666]

We are still doing research on wether to buy an Rpod or Jayco Hummingbird, your thoughts? Did you look at the Jayco before you Rpod purchase? Very informative vid!

[@JohnMarucci]

dman, The Hummingbird 17RK is about the same floorplan as the RPod 179. I see four things different that you may want to consider: 1. The sink on the RPod is stainless and below the counter, so you can put the insert in for more counter space; 2. The stove is below the counter on the Rpod as well, so again more counter space; 3. The shower has a plastic surround on the RPod vs wallpaper on the Jayco; 4. And this is a big one to me, the Rpod has 30-gallon Black, Gray & Fresh tanks vs the Jayco's 25.4 gallon talks. If you plan on doing any dry camping or State Parks with no hookups, the larger tanks are a big deal. The Jayco I believe has a standard 2-year warranty vs the RPods 1 year, so that should be considered. I went with the RPod 179 having owned a 171 prior. I liked the 171 very much, but I was looking for something a bit bigger. I had no hesitancy going with another RPod. They are not perfect, but there is a lot of value for the dollar. Obviously, do some walkthroughs of both. I would also include the Winnebago Winnie Drop models to look at as they are also very similar. Thanks for the positive feedback on the video. ~JM

[@grandmapatty1493]

Hi dman666666666, Check out the new R Pod 190. It has a dry bath.

[@dman666666666]

Thanks for the follow up! They also have a 189 with a sofa and table... now it's a matter of which one to choose. I'm leaning toward the 190.

[@JohnMarucci]

It makes it a tough choice for sure. Lots of +/- for each model. The 180 is great if you don't plan to cook much inside and want the larger bathroom. The 179 (mine) is great if you do plan on cooking inside a lot and may work from the unit a bit (like I do), and don't need a large bathroom. The 189 and 190 are both interesting as they try to strike a balance a bit better. Nice dry bath, less kitchen, less indoor storage, more under the unit storage. It can get confusing with all the trade-offs, but its sure nice to have the choices! Also, if you try one for a year, like I did on the 2016 171, they keep their value and are easy to sell, so you can look at it as long-term rental to try it out.

[@dddbbb4731]

Great video buddy

[@rhondalyn100]

Thanks so much for your thorough instruction...very helpful.

[@JohnMarucci]

Thanks for the positive comment!

[@grandmapatty1493]

If I don't have an air compressor is it enough to just look for the antifreeze to come through the system? Do you use teflon tape on everything that has to be screwed back into place? I just received notice yesterday that my R Pod 176 has arrived at the dealership. I'm wondering if I should just have them winterize it for me since winter is just around the corner. Once it is winterized I won't know if there are any leaks till spring. Thanks for doing the video. I hope I can do all this by myself. I know nothing but what I have viewed on you tube. You are very helpful!!!

[@JohnMarucci]

If you don’t plan on using it before winter, you may want it inquire with the dealer about winterization. Likely they can do it for you.

[@LordFalconsword]

In my experience, yes. You might want to run more than a gallon through, but blowing out the lines is not essential if you use the RV water anti freeze. We live in an area where the temps don't get much below freezing, so we just drain tanks and flush a gallon in and call it good.

[@BrettRidgewaysLearningForLife]

Excellent video that really helped. Thanks so much!

[@JohnMarucci]

Thanks Brett! Glad the video was helpful. Thanks for watching!

[@sandyrobinson8756]

Would love to see a de-winterization video!!!!

[@JohnMarucci]

Next on the list. Hopefully in the next week or so we'll have a 179 specific step-by-step de-winterization video posted. Thanks for watching!

[@JohnMarucci]

Sandy, the de-winterization video was just posted. Enjoy!

[@robertgeorge2833]

Great vid, thanks! Although I've decided RVing is not for me, so I'm selling my RPod.

[@JohnMarucci]

That’s too bad. Anything specific that led to you calling it quits on RVing?

[@robertgeorge2833]

@@JohnMarucci Yes it is too bad. Its just too costly. Gas and maintenance are outrageous, not to mention repairs and storage. Its a full-time job just maintaining the thing, and its brand new! I have also found the local dealers are of no help, and are so busy they have no time for even the most basic assistance with it. I'm a newbie RVer, and it wasn't a pleasant experience. I couldn't get anyone to help with even the most basic of things like hooking up the battery and towing. So I'll stick with tenting and B&Bs, and leave the RVing for rich people and people who like to tinker.

[@JohnMarucci]

@@robertgeorge2833 ok, thanks for sharing. I always am interested in why people find RVing not much fun. BTW, your reasoning is spot on as these trailers are just too much work and many dealers are not responsive once they have the sale. All the best!

[@robertsutphen2333]

John, did you notice your water pump running (making noise) while blowing air through the lines to kitchen and bath and outside shower faucets.

[@JohnMarucci]

Robert, using compressed air in this method was only to remove water from the city line. This is why we used low psi and opened only the low point drain to push any water from the city water line inlet. For the other faucets we pushed any remaining water out by pushing the antifreeze through at each faucet. This does take a bunch of antifreeze but works well.

[@danmc1486]

I'm curious about the "blow-out" step. Is it really necessary with a small trailer? Pulling antifreeze in until all lines are pink seems adequate.

[@JohnMarucci]

That step is only to blow out the city water line. All the other lines are simple push of antifreeze through.

[@keikotalley4314]

Hi John, Love your informative videos, enjoy them a lot. Am a new 179 owner and love it! Need to winterize and have learned so much from this video but I can’t find the link for the written instructions that you mention, can you write it in an answer. Thanks so much, Marie

[@JohnMarucci]

Marie, the instructions are art this link: kzbin.info?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rpod-owners.com%2Fprinter_friendly_posts.asp%3FTID%3D846&event=comments&redir_token=bXDC1DTUCQy11Jht-IEZPDu-ABl8MTUzNjYwOTI1N0AxNTM2NTIyODU3

[@keikotalley4314]

Thanks so much !!

[@gregpriddy9249]

Hello! John excellent tutorial. To me it seemed a daunting task, until I found you on this channel. I do you have a question when you air up your line to 20psi.with your compressor where do you get that fitting to screw into the trailer? Thank you so much for explaining this process. I am retired. We just purchased this RV so me and my wife can travel the country. We have already been using it and we love it. I know winter coming up soon. I needed to know all of information you provided. I can winterize it myself so I will not have to take it to my dealer. Excellent KZbin channel keep up the good work!!

[@JohnMarucci]

Greg, thanks for the comment. I am glad the video was helpful. Here is the link from my Amazon store to the blowout plug needed for blowing compressed air through the plumbing lines: amzn.to/3hdQWpM

[@wildihj]

Hi John, thank you so much for this video and the written instructions! My husband used it today to winterize our Rpod and he found it incredibly helpful. We have noticed once it got colder that the hot water didn't last as long. We were only able to get a couple minutes of warm water. Have you found this? Not sure if it was the weather or the hot water heater. It hasn't gotten below freezing yet (tonight is the first night for that), it's been in the 40s and 50s though. Just wondering if we should have our hot water heater checked or if only getting a couple minutes hot water is normal with the cooler temps. Thank you again!

[@JohnMarucci]

Hi Holly, it is not my experience to only get a couple of minutes of hot water, the six gallon hot water tank should last longer than that usually. I am curious whether you are using Propane or Electric or both when heating the hot water in the Pod. I have a recent video on the hot water heater if you are not sure which you are using. I almost always use electric to heat the water when plugged into 30 amp shore power and only use propane when not plugged in. Here is the link, feel free to comment back. I would test it on both sources if possible: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2LUm5-JlteXiq8

[@anamenjak9542]

John I ordered connector and anode, hope you get credit. What is the size for the deep socked for the anode? This is my first attempt to winterize my 179, finger crossed. BTW dewinterizatoon went flawlessly thanks to your video

[@JohnMarucci]

The deep socket should be a 1-1/16". Hope all goes well!

[@DM-ho6ts]

Does it matter what type of antifreeze I use?

[@JohnMarucci]

Only use RV antifreeze as it is food safe. Don't use any other type. Easy to find at most Walmarts in the camping sections.

[@pnwester2697]

@@JohnMarucci And it's less expensive.

[@plazman8911]

Awesome! Thanks so much!

[@jameslewis5568]

is winterizing the 178 the same as winterizing the 179?

[@JohnMarucci]

Very similar but the hot water tank and water pump will likely be in a different area in the 178 vs my 179. You can find where the water tank is by locating the hot water heater on the outside of the RV. The tank will be inside at that same location. If you don't know where the water pump is, turn it on for a moment and follow the sound. Thanks!

[@Animepandas-08]

Super helpful!

[@bryontro]

Well Done! Thank you!

[@kimwalker5065]

I have a very important question...antifreeze is very toxic to dogs...this is pouring out onto the concrete...is there an antifreeze that is not poisonous to animals??

[@JohnMarucci]

Kim, RV antifreeze is food safe and is NOT automotive antifreeze. This pink-colored RV antifreeze can be purchased at a local Walmart or Home Improvement store in the RV section or from a local RV dealer, just make sure you are only using pink RV antifreeze. Thanks!

[@kimwalker5065]

John Marucci thank you so much! I had no idea. Your videos and your feedback and knowledge are invaluable. Keep them coming!

[@pnwester2697]

There are some automotive antifreeze products out there which are safe. The jugs are clearly labeled. But if it's on the ground you won't know.

[@corynardin]

I don't see the point in blowing out your lines and then adding antifreeze. You only need to do one or the other. I don't really understand why people use antifreeze, but I assumed it was only because they don't have an air compressor.

[@JohnMarucci]

Many people don't add RV antifreeze and just blow out their lines with compressed air. I am not as certain with using just air that I will remove all water from the lines. With the cold Michigan winters if I make a mistake, it would be costly. I would recommend searching KZbin for winterization with compressed air. I know there are several videos to follow. Thanks.

[@paulc1994]

I'm doing this today! :)

[@JohnMarucci]

Paul, we got down to 25 degrees up here this morning, glad I got mine done already, Hope it goes well!

[@paulc1994]

@@JohnMarucci It went great, thanks again! So glad to do it yesterday here (low 50's)... versus today (high 30s).

[@JohnMarucci]

@@paulc1994 Paul, glad to hear it went well. Been looking at snow out of the window most of the day so far!

[@erikwiker5378]

Where is the link?

[@JohnMarucci]

Erik, what link are you looking for?

[@tylergrey3535]

Sighhh…really wished he showed himself turning off BOTH lines to the hot water tank, and not just the hot line and the pump bypass. My cold line is partially hidden under the hot and I missed it. Have a hot water tank full of antifreeze…

[@JohnMarucci]

I just double checked and at time stamp 8:20, I do turn the hot and cold valves to bypass. Sorry if it wasn't that visible or easy to see in the video.