5th Wheel Travelling Below Freezing

[RichP-REDW]

We will be travelling in below freezing weather between RV parks next week. Are there things that we can do to make sure that things don't freeze in between our next chance for shore power?

 

[ghnl]

How long will you be travelling and how low are the expected temperatures?

Water doesn't instantly freeze. If it starts out at 50*F - 60*F and you're driving for a few hours at 25*F - 30*F I doubt it'll get cold enough for long enough to be a problem. Especially inside the trailer. If you have an outside kitchen perhaps draining those pipes would ease your mind.

The main concern with freezing pipes is that water expands as it turns to ice. The resulting hydraulic pressure against the yet unfrozen water is what causes burst pipes. Shut off the water pump (and obviously disconnect from city water) and open all the faucets. This will relieve any residual pressure and, by leaving them open, if any ice should form it will reduce the chance of burst pipes.

 

[16ACE27]

We will be travelling in below freezing weather between RV parks next week. Are there things that we can do to make sure that things don't freeze in between our next chance for shore power?

Run the furnace.

 

[RichP-REDW]

Run the furnace.

Can we do that when towing?

 

[RichP-REDW]

How long will you be travelling and how low are the expected temperatures?

Water doesn't instantly freeze. If it starts out at 50*F - 60*F and you're driving for a few hours at 25*F - 30*F I doubt it'll get cold enough for long enough to be a problem. Especially inside the trailer. If you have an outside kitchen perhaps draining those pipes would ease your mind.

The main concern with freezing pipes is that water expands as it turns to ice. The resulting hydraulic pressure against the yet unfrozen water is what causes burst pipes. Shut off the water pump (and obviously disconnect from city water) and open all the faucets. This will relieve any residual pressure and, by leaving them open, if any ice should form it will reduce the chance of burst pipes.

Depending on road conditions we are 4 to 6 hours in between parks. Temps during travel will be around 25F.

 

[16ACE27]

Can we do that when towing?

Yes, the furnace runs off the battery and propane. As long as you have a decently good battery it should not be a problem.

BUT. The furnace will only heat the interior and any "Wet Bay" that may have a furnace duct to it. I don't know the construction of your 5th wheel. If you have any exposed water supply pipes under the trailer they may still have a problem.