smelly white foam from hot water

[decodancer]

I know this is a strange time of year for this problem but until today I haven't used the hot water in this travel trailer. I assume the foam is from winterizing but how do I clean it out and when is it safe to use for dishwashing? Also how do I prevent this issue next season?

[awarnes]

I would first drain your hot water heater of all water (make sure your bypass valve is closed - should be on the HW heater under the cabnets). Then run water through your lines (HW) until a constent flow. Then turn on the bypass valve and fill tank. After tank is filled run water through the lines and you should have not foam. Afterwards drain the tank and fill up. It may have been sediment in the tank. I'm assuming that the cold water lines are ok? You may have also had some air in the tank.

Good Luck
Arnold

[leadman]

There can be a build-up of flammable gas in the hot water heater if it sets with water in it for and extended period of time. There is a warning printed in my Attwood water heater manual referencing this.