How To Clean and Sterilise Your Caravan Aquaroll and Water System
How To Sterilise a Caravan Water System
Knowing how to clean and sterilise a caravan water system is crucial for maintaining the health and safety of your caravan. It plays a vital role in providing clean water for drinking, cooking, and washing while on the road. However, these systems can become breeding grounds for bacteria and other contaminants without proper care and maintenance. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process. Following these expert tips and techniques ensures that your water remains fresh and safe throughout your travels.
Understanding the Importance of a Clean and Sterilise Caravan Water System
Thoroughly sterilise the water system to eliminate harmful bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants that may have accumulated over time. Secondly, regular maintenance prevents the formation of unpleasant odours and tastes in your water. Finally, keeping your water system in good order reduces the risk of potential health issues caused by contaminated water. Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of achieving a pristine water system.
Gathering the Necessary Supplies
Before you begin the process, gathering all the necessary supplies is important. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
- Cleaning solution (specifically designed for caravan water systems)
- Sterilizing tablets or liquid (suitable for caravan use)
- Clean, lint-free cloths
- Rubber gloves
- Hosepipe or water container
- Small brush (to wash the water container)
- Bucket or container (to collect drained water)
- Water source for rinsing
Ensure that the products you choose are safe for caravan water systems. You can find these items at your local caravan supply store or online using our Amazon affiliate links in this article.
- Model number 5031680870060.
- Puriclean – 400g
- sconosciuto
Step 1: Draining the System
To begin the process, you must first drain the system completely. Follow these steps:
- Position your caravan on level ground and ensure the water pump is turned off.
- Open all the taps and allow the water to flow until the system is empty.
- Open the caravan’s drain plug – usually a yellow lever under one of the front seats.
- Once the water stops flowing, close all the taps to prevent air from entering the system.
Step 2: Cleaning and Sterilising the Aquaroll
Firstly we’ll clean and sterilise the Aquaroll itself, then we’ll move onto the water system, which is cleans from the Aquaroll:
- Pour out any remaining water.
- Fill it with water and add a small amount of the solution. Aquaroll recommend bicarbonate of soda – see links below. Also see video below from Aquaroll.
- Pay special attention to the cap and valve areas, as these are common places for accumulating dirt and bacteria.
- Aquaroll recommend giving the unit a shake (or even roll it around a bit) and leave it in for 24 hours.
- Rinse it with water to remove any residue from the solution.
- Leave it to air dry completely before reattaching the fittings.
- Food grade baking soda 1kg
- Gluten free, soy free, aluminium free
Step 3: Flushing the Water System
Flushing the water system helps remove any remaining debris and ensures a good starting point for the sterilisation process. Follow these steps to flush the system:
- Close all the taps and shower in your caravan.
- Connect a hosepipe to an external water source or use a water container with a tap.
- Open one tap at a time, starting from the highest point in your caravan (e.g., showerhead) and moving to the lowest (e.g., kitchen tap).
- Allow the water to flow for a few minutes at each tap, ensuring that the water runs clear without any signs of dirt or discolouration.
- Repeat this process for all taps in your caravan, including any external water outlets.
- Once all the taps have been flushed, turn off the external water source or close the tap on the water container.
Step 4: Cleaning the Water Pipes and Fittings
Your caravan’s pipes and fittings can accumulate sediment and other deposits over time. Maintaining them ensures optimal water flow and prevents blockages. Follow these steps:
- Locate the pipes and fittings under your caravan’s sink or the service hatch.
- Inspect the fittings for any signs of dirt or blockages. If necessary, use a small brush to scrub away any residue gently.
- Wipe the fittings and pipes with a cloth dampened with your chosen solution (some caravanners use Puriclean).
- Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas and corners where bacteria or dirt may accumulate.
- Rinse the pipes and fittings with water to remove any solution residue.
- Check for any leaks or loose fittings and address them accordingly.
- Puriclean provides a simple and effective method of cleaning and purifying the complete water system. The unique dual-purpose formula which both cleans and sterilises in one easy action.
- Puriclean is non-toxic and non-caustic, it does not smell, foam or harm any components in the water system.
- Puriclean 2 x 400g Water Tank Purification Treatment Caravan System Cleaner
Step 5: Sterilising the Water System
Sterilisation is critical in ensuring your pipes are free from harmful bacteria and other contaminants. Here’s how you can effectively decontaminate it :
- Fill the Aquaroll with water from a reliable source, ensuring it’s not contaminated.
- Add the recommended amount of tablets or liquid to the water in the Aquaroll.
- Stir the water gently to dissolve the agent.
- Attach the inlet pipe and ensure they are tightly secured.
- Open all the taps in your caravan, one at a time, starting from the highest point and working your way down.
- Allow the solution to flow through the system for the recommended time specified in the product’s instructions.
- Close the taps and let the solution sit in the system for the recommended contact time.
- After the contact time has passed, open all the taps again and flush the system thoroughly to remove the solution.
- Continue flushing until the water runs clear and there are no signs of the agent.
Step 6: Rinsing and Refilling
After decontaminating, it’s crucial to rinse the system thoroughly to remove any remaining traces of the agent. Follow these steps:
- Disconnect it from the caravan’s water inlet or external source.
- Empty the water from and rinse it with water.
- Repeat the rinsing process until there are no signs of the agent.
- Refill with water from a reliable source.
- Reattach the inlet pipe and connect to the caravan, ensure they are tightly secured.
- Open all the taps and let the water flow through the system for a few minutes.
- Close the taps and check for any leaks or irregularities in the water flow.
Maintaining a Sterile System
Once you’ve successfully cleaned the system, it’s important to establish a routine for maintaining its cleanliness.
- Regularly maintain it by following the steps outlined in this guide.
- Use a suitable water filter or purifier to enhance the quality of your water supply further.
- Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the pipes or contaminate the water.
- Inspect the system for any signs of leaks, blockages, or damage, and address them promptly.
- When not in use, store it in a dry area to prevent the growth of mould or bacteria.
- Consider using a UV water steriliser or other advanced water treatment systems for additional peace of mind.
FAQs
Q: How often should I maintain my caravan water and pipes?
A: It is recommended to do it at least once every season. However, if you notice any signs of contamination, unpleasant odours, or unusual tastes in your water, it’s advisable to clean it immediately.
Q: Can I use regular household cleaning agents to clean my system?
A: No, it is not recommended to use regular household agents as they may contain harmful chemicals if ingested. Always use agents specifically designed for caravans to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean?
A: It is not recommended to use bleach for your aquaroll . Bleach can damage the system components and leave a residual taste and odour. It’s best to use sterilising tablets or liquid designed for caravan use. Always use fresh water to rinse, from with a fresh water tank, or your domestic supply if at home.
Q: How can I prevent the growth of algae?
A: To prevent algae growth, keep it away from direct sunlight when not in use. Additionally, regularly wash it, as algae can thrive in stagnant water.
Q: Is it necessary to sterilise the pipes if I only use it for non-drinking purposes?
A: Yes, it is still important to sterilize the pipes even if you only use it for non-drinking purposes. Bacteria and contaminants can still risk your health through skin contact or ingestion while cooking or washing.
Q: Can I drink water from my caravan aquaroll without further filtration?
A: While the process helps ensure the water’s cleanliness, it’s always recommended to use additional filtration methods, such as a water filter or purifier, for drinking water. These extra measures provide an added layer of protection.
Q. Can I Use Milton?
Milton can be used; however, it is not always recommended. It is commonly used to clean surfaces but is ineffective in removing debris from a system. This debris can potentially harbour harmful bacteria, making it difficult for Milton to decontaminate the system completely. It is best to consult a professional plumber or water treatment specialist to determine the most effective way to sterilise your system. Milton can also be corrosive, which isn’t ideal for caravan pipe work.
Q. Would I be ok soaking the Whale unit in the Milton or best just to use white vinegar?
For cleaning the Whale unit, soaking it in Milton or using white vinegar could both be effective options. However, it is important to check the instructions and recommendations from the manufacturer before using any cleaning products or methods to avoid damaging the unit.
Conclusion
Keeping your caravan aquaroll clean and sterile is vital for maintaining healthy and safe water during your travels. You can easily maintain your system following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide. Remember to clean it regularly, flush the pipes, and conduct routine inspections to address any issues promptly. With a clean and sterile system, you can enjoy your caravan adventures with peace of mind, knowing that your water is fresh and safe. All these recommendations can also be applied to a static caravan.
Aquaroll’s Advice On Cleaning
*Last update on 2024-12-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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