plumbing question from a newbie

[garyoregon]

We are just getting started on this whole RVing thing. This may be a silly question, but here goes:
When hooked to city water, does the water tank fill up, or do you bypass the tank? I ask because I have a trip in a couple weeks and it is likely to freeze at night. I know I can put some antifreeze in the grey/black tanks, but can I run on city water and not worry about freezing my main water tank and exterior hose?

 

[steve dunham]

There is a check valve in the system to prevent water from flowing into your fresh water tank when hooked to a city / campgrounds water supply

 

[garyoregon]

Is it an automatic check valve, or do I need to flip a switch? Thanks for your patience with this "junior member"

 

[steve dunham]

Is it an automatic check valve, or do I need to flip a switch? Thanks for your patience with this "junior member"

The check valve is automatic and requires no action on your part IE ; The valve is not manually operated

 

[rubicon327]

Is it an automatic check valve, or do I need to flip a switch? Thanks for your patience with this "junior member"

The check valve is built into the onboard pump. If it malfunctions you will fill your tank with city water and water will come out of the overflow once the tank is filled. This rarely happens, but it can.
If it is not too far below freezing you'll be fine with your hose hooked up overnight. If it is getting really cold I would unhook the hose. If it is really cold and you want to maintain water service you would need an insulated, heated water hose. This is only practical with full hook-ups as you would need electric for hose heater and would keep your gray valve open for any waste water to go right thru the tank and into the sewer system.
www.amazon.com/Camco-TASTEPure-Heated-Drinking-Thermostat/dp/B01ABONB0A

Another way to handle it is to work with a container of water within the trailer as your supply. Still have to deal with the gray water though.