How do I use and maintain my trailer water system (tanks, pump, and water heater)?

Please take a moment to watch the video below for step-by-step guidance, or follow the step-by-step written directions.

If you need additional help, our After Sales team at Escape Trailer will be happy to assist you. You can submit a support ticket using this form. 

Check Water Tank Levels (Monitor Panel)

1. Locate the monitor panel (usually above the kitchen).

2. Find the buttons labeled:

   • Fresh (clean water)

   • Black (toilet waste)

   • Gray (sink/shower water)

3. Press the button for the tank you want to check.

4. Look at the indicator lights:

   • Lights show how full the tank is (e.g., 1/3, 2/3, Full).

5. Use this info to decide:

   • Refill fresh water if low.

   • Empty waste tanks if full.

Ignore the “Battery” button—it’s not accurate on newer systems.

Use the Water Pump

1. On the monitor panel, locate the Water Pump switch.

2. Turn it ON to:

   • Pull water from the fresh tank.

   • Use sinks, shower, and other water fixtures.

3. Turn it OFF when finished using water.

4. Understand the Water Pump (Optional Adjustments)

• The pump may have:

  • An adjustment screw (controls pressure cutoff).

  • A valve for switching to antifreeze intake (used for winterizing).

  • An accumulator tank (keeps water pressure steady).

• If the pump runs constantly, try adjusting the pressure screw.

De-Winterize the Hot Water System

1. Go to the area under the bed (where the water heater valves are).

2. Locate two valves:

   • One on the cold line (blue)

   • One on the hot line (red)

3. If valves are pointing toward each other (bypass mode):

   • Turn both valves so they align with the pipes.This allows water to flow into the hot water tank.

   
   

    

Turn On the Water Heater (Propane)

1. Go back to the monitor panel.

2. Turn the Water Heater switch ON.

   • This activates the propane burner.

Access the Exterior Water Heater Panel

1. Go outside to the water heater access door.

2. Open the panel by:

   • Turning the latch

   • Pulling the door down

Check if the Tank is Full

VERY IMPORTANT before heating water

1. Lift the pressure relief valve slightly.

2. Observe:

   • Air = tank not full

   • Steady water = tank full

3. If air comes out:

   • Run a hot water tap inside until water flows steadily.

Never heat an empty tank- it can damage the heater.

Reset the Water Heater (If Needed)

1. Locate the reset buttons under the relief valve.

2. Press them if:

   • Heater won’t turn on

   • System isn’t working properly

Use Electric Heating (120V Option)

1. Find the electric switch on the exterior panel (bottom left).

2. Turn it ON only when connected to shore power.

3. Turn it OFF when done.

 Important: Leaving it on with an empty tank will burn out the heating element.

Drain & Maintain the Tank (Anode Rod)

The anode rod:

• Protects the tank

• Acts as the drain plug

To check or remove it:

1. Turn off:

   • Water pump

   • City water connection

2. Release pressure:

   • Lift pressure relief valve until water stops

3. Ensure:

   • Tank is cool

4. Remove the anode rod.

Safety:

• Never remove under pressure (can be dangerous).

• Hot water can cause burns.

Inspect the rod:

• If you see the metal core → replace it.

Reinstall:

• Wrap threads with Teflon tape before putting it back.

Final Shutdown Steps

1. Turn OFF:

   • Water pump

   • Electric heater switch

2. Close and secure the exterior panel.

Quick Tips

• Always confirm the tank is full before heating.

• Turn off the pump when not in use.

• Check the anode rod once per season.

• Never store the RV with the electric heater turned on.