When you should sanitise

• After long-term storage
• After hot shed storage (heat accelerates growth)
• If your water tastes or smells bad
• After using questionable water sources
• As routine maintenance every few months (depending on use)

What you’ll need

• A clean hose (preferably drinking-water safe)
• Clean bucket/jug
• A sanitising solution appropriate for potable water systems
• Time: allow for circulation + dwell time + flushing

Important: Always follow the instructions for the sanitising product you use. If you’re unsure what’s safe, choose a product designed for caravan/RV potable water systems.

Step-by-step sanitising routine (general method)

1. Drain old water from the tank if it’s stale.
2. Prepare sanitising mix in a bucket/jug (follow product instructions).
3. Add solution to the tank via the filler.
4. Top up the tank with fresh water.
5. Turn the pump ON and run each outlet until you smell the solution:
   • Cold taps
   • Hot taps
   • Shower
   • External shower (if fitted)
6. Let it sit for the dwell time recommended by the product.
7. Drain the tank completely.
8. Flush by refilling with clean water and running all outlets until smell/taste is gone.

Hot water system note

If your hot water system holds water, it’s important to run sanitised water through the hot side too. If you’re unsure about your specific hot water unit, use the general method above (run hot taps until solution is present), then flush thoroughly.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Not running solution through every outlet (leaves untreated sections)
• Not flushing long enough (taste/smell remains)
• Using harsh chemicals not designed for potable systems
• Letting water sit for long periods without maintenance

What to do if taste/smell remains

• Flush again with fresh water (often needs more than one refill)
• Run water through all taps for longer
• Consider replacing an in-line filter (if fitted)
• If issues persist, log a ticket describing the smell/taste and what you’ve done