Frost is one of the greatest dangers for the water system in a motorhome or Camper Van. Even slightly below freezing temperatures can damage the boiler, water tank or water pipes. A frost monitor (the colloquial name for a safety and discharge valve in your motorhome's water system)reliablyprotectsthe system from frost-related damage.
If the frost monitor (safety and discharge valve) cannot be closed, this is usually due to the temperature or the installation situation.
This is how you proceed step by step:
1. Check buffer position
The frost monitor only closes directly at the valve at temperatures above approx. 7 °C. If it is colder, the valve remains open automatically to prevent frost damage. In most cases, it is not a technical defect, but a direct consequence of the current temperature on the frost monitor.
Heat up the interior: Heat the area around the valve to above approx. 7 °C -, then wait approx. 15-30 minutes, after which the push button can be re-engaged.
Note: The frost monitor is often located close to the ground - where it is colder than in the living area. Alternatively, heat the area around the frost monitor in a targeted manner (e.g. with hot air).
The installation location of the safety/discharge valve differs depending on the model. Please refer to your operating instructions for the exact position of the valve. For motorhomes, the installation location of the safety/discharge valve can be found under the category "Installation location of the safety/discharge valve". In Camper Vans , the frost monitor is usually located next to the heater under the bench seat.
2. Close valve correctly
As soon as it is warm enough:
Turn the rotary knob (1) to "Operation" . Set it to "Operation" before pressing the push button.
-
Press the push button (2), usually blue, firmly until it clicks into place. If the button does not RAST, it is almost always still too cold.
Picture: Safety and discharge valve open
Picture: Safety and discharge valve closed
3. Check installation position and mobility
Check that the frost monitor is freely accessible .
Check whether dirt, limescale or deposits are blocking the valve.
Carefully actuate the valve several times (do not use force).
4. Switch off the water pump
Before closing:
Switch off the water pump
Close all taps
Check the water pressure: If water escapes despite the closed position, the reason may be that the water pressure is too high. Use a pressure reducer if necessary. This prevents back pressure, which can make closing more difficult.
5. If it still does not work
Valve does not close despite heat → possible defect
-
In this case:
Contact dealer or service partner
Have the frost monitor replaced if necessary
Abstract
✔ Heat above 7 °C
✔ Turn blue knob + press in push button
✔ Pump off, no back pressure
✔ In the event of a permanent problem: Contact service/dealer
Read also: What is a frost monitor in a motorhome?
We answer many of your questions about our vehicles in your vehicle's operating instructions . Step by step, we explain how our vehicles and standard accessories work.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your contract partner. You can find an overview of all Carado dealers easily and conveniently in our dealer search.