Balloon trick helps protect camper water systems from frost damage

Before winter, water must be fully drained from motorhome and caravan tanks and lines, as residual water can freeze and burst pipes or damage fittings. German publication ProMobil outlines a roughly 20-minute routine: clean the system, drain via open taps and valves, then blow out lines with compressed air. If no compressor is available, an inflated balloon can be pressed over the tap outlet to push remaining water from the fitting and adjacent line. TÜV Nord also advises closing gas cylinders, checking connections with leak-detection spray, checking tyre pressure and fluid levels, and removing battery-powered devices from the vehicle.