cold weather operation

[Pete Masterson]

I had no trouble driving in Colorado with temps down to the teens. The AquaHot system gets heat from the engine (coolant loop) and is able to keep the basement warm (low-temperature thermostat in my front, curb site compartment allows selecting a temp of 40 degrees (or higher)). With the basement warm, the water tanks are not likely to freeze. However, cold weather CAN make the dump valves difficult to open, due to partial freezing where they are most exposed. (Hint: Put 1/4 to 1/2 cup rock salt (I used "ice cream salt") in (each) the black and gray tanks _first_ after dumping. Then run a little water into each tank to 'wash' the salt into the exit pipe. (For the black tank, I'd put the rock salt into the microphor toilet, give it a moment to settle to the bottom, then one flush would carry the salt into the tank.) This really helps.

Do not you calcium chloride or other 'snow melting' chemicals. They generate considerable heat when wet and might damage the plumbing or tanks.

'Birds are designed for "all weather" and the wide-body models are fairly well sealed up and insulated. Your 78 FC33 might be more challenging as much of the plumbing is more exposed.

I note that in cold weather, even if shore water is available, it's best to fill the fresh tank, then operate off the pump. Leaving a hose connected will just freeze the hose. Once you fill the tank, _empty_ the hose and put it in a heated compartment, so you can use it again the next time. (Don't ask how I know this.)

Pete Masterson

(former) '95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42

El Sobrante CA

"aeonix1@mac.com"

On Jan 4, 2010, at 5:58 PM, Mike wrote:

How low can the outside temperature be and still keep the fresh water tank from freezing while driving down the road in a 99 Lxi? We want to get to Quartzite without "drying camping" for the first few days out of Minnesota. Temps this morning were -30. We're hoping for the 20's by the time we leave next week.
Mike Kneeland
99 Lxi 43
78 FC33