| RV Antifreeze - Not all Antifreezes are
Created Equal
RV/Marine non-toxic antifreeze is probably the most
misunderstood commodity in our industry today. There are currently three
different varieties on the market at three very different prices.
Ethanol (alcohol) based: This type of antifreeze is most readily
available in hardware stores and most RV shops it sells for
approximately $3.00 - $4.00 a jug. However, this product is also
extremely flammable and not to used around any sort of pilot flames or
cigarettes. As well, this product has been known to taint certain RV
plumbing systems and is only to be used with Quest or Pex plumbing
lines. If you have ever used this product you will quickly remember how
bad you water smelt and tasted the next spring. Furthermore, because
this product is made from alcohol it works to dry out all the rubber
seals readily found in your faucets and toilet. As a result we do not
recommend or sell this product.
Propylene Glycol based: This product is only available at your local RV
shop (and not every RV shop for that matter). It sells for approximately
$5.00 - $6.00 a jug. Like the ethanol antifreeze, this product is
non-toxic and safe for all RV plumbing. However, propylene glycol does
not have the same fire safety warnings, nor the risk of tainting your RV
plumbing system. Furthermore, propylene glycol is a lubricant and will
actually work to extend the life of the seals in your faucets and
toilets, unlike the ethanol based products. This is the only product we
use on our own RVs and the only product we sell in our parts store. We
have just received our first shipment of Propylene Glycol based anti
freeze. We have it on sale at the following prices
Case Of 6 Gallons $23.94 (3.99 Gal)
$4.49 per gallon (each)
Propylene/Ethanol Blend: Again this product is non-toxic and completely
safe for RV plumbing systems. It will cost more than $4.00 - $5.00
a jug. This may seem like a good idea, however, it is unknown how much
ethanol is required to taint RV plumbing lines and dry out plumbing
seals. For that reason we do not recommend this product.
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