If your faucets sputter, spit air, or make loud coughing sounds when you turn them on, you likely have air trapped in your RV water lines. This often happens after winterizing, draining the system, replacing filters, or running the freshwater tank dry. The fix is simple if you follow the right order.
Why Air Gets Into RV Water Lines?
Air enters the system when:
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The freshwater tank runs empty
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The water heater has been drained
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Lines were blown out for winter
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A water filter or pump was replaced
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Plumbing repairs were made
Before water can flow smoothly, this air must be pushed out.
Step 1. Connect to a Stable Water Source
Use either:
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City water connection, or
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A full freshwater tank with the pump ON
Make sure all valves and low-point drains are closed before starting.
Step 2. Start With the Faucet Closest to the Pump
This is important. Work from closest to farthest.
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Open the cold side fully.
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Let it sputter until a steady stream appears.
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Then open the hot side and do the same.
You may hear coughing and see bursts of air. This is normal.
Step 3. Move Through Every Faucet One by One
Follow this order if possible:
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Kitchen sink
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Bathroom sink
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Shower
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Outside shower
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Toilet sprayer (if present)
Do both hot and cold at each point.
Step 4. Don’t Forget the Water Heater
Air often hides here.
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Turn on the hot water and let it run longer than usual
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This fills the water heater tank and pushes air out
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If you hear gurgling, keep the faucet open until it stops
Important: Never turn the water heater on until the air is fully out and the tank is completely full.
Step 5. Check the Water Pump
If using the pump:
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Let it run while faucets are open
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When air is gone, the pump sound becomes smooth and steady
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If it keeps pulsing, there may still be air in the lines
Step 6. Repeat the Cycle Once More
After all faucets run smoothly, go back to the first one and repeat briefly. Small air pockets sometimes move through the system.
Signs the Air Is Fully Removed
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Smooth, steady water flow
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No sputtering sounds
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Water pump runs quietly without pulsing
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Consistent pressure at all faucets
When Air Keeps Coming Back?
If you keep getting air in the lines, it may indicate:
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A loose fitting drawing air into the system
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A cracked line
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A failing water pump check valve
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A leak before the pump
This requires inspection behind panels or inside compartments.
We Can Help!
If the problem does not go away, you can call Custom-way.
We understand RV plumbing layouts and can access hidden areas inside cabinets, walls, and the underbelly to find where air is entering your system and fix it properly.
📞 +1 840-205-7314
✉️ customway.ca@gmail.com