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Janjanjan · 10-08-2006, 12:36 PM

We've been winterizing our '05 Adventurer today, and had the same problem we had last year. The process uses much more antifreeze than the book calls for, and upon checking, it is obvious that antifreeze has gotten into the hot water tank.

We do have the valve properly set to bypass the hot water heater.

We had the same problem last year, but after using more antifreeze, we just forgot about it. This year, we opened the hot water release valve and determined that there is indeed pink stuff in the hot water tank, so we know we're not just crazy.

We've read and reread the instructions and have much gnashing of teeth, but no success. Help is appreciated.

Janjanjan · 10-08-2006, 12:36 PM

We've been winterizing our '05 Adventurer today, and had the same problem we had last year. The process uses much more antifreeze than the book calls for, and upon checking, it is obvious that antifreeze has gotten into the hot water tank.

We do have the valve properly set to bypass the hot water heater.

We had the same problem last year, but after using more antifreeze, we just forgot about it. This year, we opened the hot water release valve and determined that there is indeed pink stuff in the hot water tank, so we know we're not just crazy.

We've read and reread the instructions and have much gnashing of teeth, but no success. Help is appreciated.

Hikerdogs · 10-08-2006, 01:09 PM

Take a look at the direction of the handle on the bypass valve. It should be at a right angle to the tube. If it's inline with the tube you're not bypassing the heater. We had the same problem the first time we tried to winterize ours. The labels were in the wrong places. We assumed they were correct and just followed them.

If you're sure the valve is actually in bypass it could be you have a defective valve. Also make sure the valve on the water inlet is in the "City Fill" direction. If the fresh water valve is in the "Water Tank Fill" direction you'll pump antifreeze into the fresh water tank.

Tom N · 10-08-2006, 01:24 PM

If your bypass handle is turned correctly as Hikerdogs indicated and you still have antifreeze going into the hot water heater you may have a bad check valve on the outlet side of the water heater. This valve prevents antifreeze from entering the water heater from the outlet side. If you can access this valve (it is a one way only valve and has no handle) try lightly tapping the check valve with a wrench. The valve may be stuck.

If you have the inlet valve shut off this check valve on the outlet side is the only way antifreeze can enter the water heater.

Janjanjan · 10-08-2006, 05:56 PM

Thanks to both of you. The bypass valve is indeed perpendicular to the water line. We were unaware of the check valve, and possibly it is the issue. We definitely aren't filling the hot water heater--maybe 1 gallon or so, so a leaky valve makes sense. We will try what you suggest.