Winterizing and Water Heater Issue

[CPether]

The weather started turning cold here in Texas and that was my reminder that it was time to winterize the RV. So, I performed all of my normal steps like, closing valve that’s located before the water pump, turning the bypass switch in the convenience bay to bypass, removing the water filter element and removing the anode rod located in the water heater. I began pumping antifreeze into the system and noticed pink antifreeze trickling out of the water heater where I had removed the anode rod. Is there a check valve that has gone bad somewhere? I changed the bypass valve thinking it had gone bad but this did not solve the problem. Has anyone else had this problem?
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[RMcNeal]

If memory serves, there is a check valve on the rear of the water heater itself to prevent the hot water backflow into the cold water inlet. I remember reading somewhere that the original ones are plastic.

 

[hotsocket]

We have A 2021 model 3781. last year whenever I was winterizing the camper I had the same problem. What I discovered was there was little black flakes in the water I had drained out of the water heater. I called the water heater company and they said it was the lining of the water heater, so they sent me a new water heater with no check valve. I ordered a new check valve. when I got the water heater out. I took the check valve out of the water heater, which was brass and it had that black stuff in the check valve holding it open , so you might check that. I could get to my check valve by squeezing between the supports in the basement.

 

[Mark77]

I can confirm the check valve. Mine stuck once and I had the same symptoms.

I like the 3 valve bypass better and I do have the room and access to use one, but it was a lot easier just to replace the check valve.