Belize 43: Winterizing Water Tanks

[peteatbeach]

We brought Delphinus (2003 Belize) back to US from Caribbean so we enjoy her during the summer and maybe get up to New England next year. We are winterizing for the first time. I have an extensive prep list, but one thing concerns me.

The Belize has two 60 gal aluminum tanks, with PVC pipes interconnecting both to a transition to flex hose that attaches to the water pump. I'm planning to use W/M Alcohol/Glycol antifreeze in the main water lines (down stream side of water pump), but not sure about what to put in the tanks. I'm a little concerned about the interaction with the aluminum tanks, after-taste, and how to ensure I get a thorough flush of antifreeze from the tanks and hoses.

What do you do?

[mikeod]

As long as you drain the tanks and winterize from there through the rest of the plumbing your fine.

[rbk]

I just drain & clean the tank, then drop the pick up hose in RV antifreeze until it’s pink from all faucets then blow out the lines with the dingy foot pump. Make sure to also drop the intake for your head(s) and pump into the bowl and into the holding tank and overboard discharge if equipped. I also do the same for the engine raw water and throw some in the bilge(s) in case fresh water finds its way down there as it can ruin pumps or worse, turn on bilge pumps to ensure water is not sitting in the discharge or impeller.