Solution to Prevent Plumbing on Slide-In Camper From Freezing

Updated 11/10/2021 | Published 11/09/2021

Question:

We have a Lance 650 Truck Bed Camper. We are a disaster relief ministry and are trying to figure out how to get out in the winter and not have a plumbing problem with freezing. Also want to make sure we dont melt a tank or hose. As we are on the road a good bit and often in areas with no power we need the solution to work on 12v. Recommendations?

asked by: Byron

Expert Reply:

Heating pads such as the # 277-000164 are designed for 29 to 40 gallon tanks which are much larger than the tanks on your Lance 650 truck camper. My fear is that they could possibly get too hot and damage the tank.

From what you describe, a solution such as a self-regulating heating cable such as the Valterra # W01-1573 for a 25 foot or # W01-1574 for a 50 foot length would be your best bet. The cables operate on 120V AC power, so you'll need an inverter like # DU89FR to power them.

I've linked to product videos for the inverter and the heating cables.

expert reply by: Mike L