Squealing Winterization Valve

[Boris and Natasha]

Our water heater winterization valve is located behind a cabinet door in the bedroom, and is adjacent to the water heater. In the last couple of days a squeal has started coming from the valve whenever the hot water is turned on.

My first thought was the check valve in the WH needs to be replaced. (We heard same noise coming out of WH in our first MH. Before we could replace it we bought a new MH!) But, I'm wondering if the problem is with the winterization valve itself, which seems to be the source of the noise.

Any ideas if this is an easy DIY fix? Or, shall we schedule a trip to a dealer before we run out of hot water? (Or, shall we just go buy another MH? Just kidding!)

Many thanks!
Mary

[Clay L]

Replacing the valve is not difficult but access can be a problem. Mine is in a cabinet under the refrigerator and it was a little hard to get both arms in there at the same time.
The fittings unscrew and were not much more than finger tight. A pair of pliers easily loosened them.

I had to replace mine because it was leaking slightly and allowing cold water to feed into the hot water out line. I stll don't know why it started leaking when it had only been turned once in 7 years.

[gmanatl]

I just had to replace both check valves at the water heater on my 08 Winnebago Tour to stop a loud squealing noise when using water. The dealer told me they had seen several of these issues and Winnie told them it was due to sediment getting into the water lines and deteriorating the o-rings. I have started using a sediment filter in-line between the spigot and the coach and hope this blocks any more grit coming in.