Easy water removal from lines..worked 4 me

[Jim & Mitzi]

A freeze warning here in the Tampa area prompted me to proceed to drain the water lines in my 73 International. I thought about our HOOVER carpet cleaning machine and decided that it was also a vacuum of sort. I removed the dirty water holding tank, inserted the female end of the water hose from our AS into the hole where the removed tank sets and turned it on..........To my surprise and pleasure, it pulled the water out of all the lines ( faucets opened 1 at a time ) and even the water heater. Took about 10 minutes. Should be OK. Worked for me.......

[bwoodtx]

Sounds like a neat idea. Just proves-necessity IS the mother of invention

[dznf0g]

Great idea. Whether sucking or blowing the lines, be aware that a few drops can remain in the small clearances of the faucets. I would recommend leaving them open, leave the cabinets open and run enough heat to keep the AS interior above freezing.

Prolly in Tampa, it's not gonna be a concern, not below freezing long enough to hurt, but at least leave the faucets open.

[Aage]

I would also make sure that the lines in the shower got emptied. I froze a 5½" piece behind the wall because I didn't hang the shower flexi up high enough for it to drain out.

[polarlyse]

Hey Bruce, is that a Great Pyrenees in your photo ????? Great looking dogs. Personally I'm a fan of German Shepards, but my wife's parents raised the GP's a long time ago. Wonderful dogs and great family pets.

Sorry to be off the topic here. Just couldn't resist.
Carry on

[Kamiak]

Originally Posted by dznf0g

Great idea. Whether sucking or blowing the lines, be aware that a few drops can remain in the small clearances of the faucets. I would recommend leaving them open, leave the cabinets open and run enough heat to keep the AS interior above freezing.

Prolly in Tampa, it's not gonna be a concern, not below freezing long enough to hurt, but at least leave the faucets open.

Exactly. And water will remain in any tubing/pipe where there is no air on the other side, such as the low-point drains if those petcocks weren't opened, or in the toilet, if the handle wasn't depressed during the vacuuming.

[richinny]

add the toilet sprayer, galley sprayer and water filter to the list if you've got them. don't forget about the shower and sink traps too.