Can I run the diluted bleach water through my tankless water heater?

I opted to run it through, but flushed it twice to be safe. Some suggest bypassing the tankless heater. From private Airstream Groups: With the small amount of chlorine used, it should be fine to run through the tankless. I always run everything through the tankless. I always turn off water going into the hot water tank as bleach is not good for the tank. Bacteria can grow in your water heater. I would not bypass it.

How much bleach do you use to sanitize an Airstream fresh water tank?

Use 1/4 cup of unscented household bleach (like Clorox) for every 15 gallons of fresh water tank capacity. Dilute the bleach in a gallon of water before adding it to the tank to ensure even distribution.

How long does it take to sanitize an RV fresh water tank?

If you don't count 4+ hours for no-effort sterilization, the actual work takes about 30 minutes. That includes diluting and adding bleach, filling the tank, running water through all faucets, draining, and refilling with clean water until the chlorine smell is gone.

How do you know when all the bleach is out of your RV water system?

Run each faucet until you can no longer smell chlorine in the water. That is your confirmation the system has been flushed. Always do the smell test rather than relying on a set timer or number of gallons.

How does Airstream recommend we sanitize our fresh water tanks in the owner's manual?

Multiply gallons of tank capacity by 0.13 to get ounces of bleach needed. Mix the bleach into a container of water. Pour the solution into the fresh water tank and fill with potable water. Open all faucets allowing water to run until the distinct odor of chlorine is detected. Allow 4 hours of contact time to disinfect. When contact time is completed, drain the tank.

I upgraded my Airstream steps, and you might want to too. Here’s why.

A Search for a Better Airstream Step

I love hitting the open road with my Airstream. Nothing beats the calm of a forest, the smell of a crackling fire, and the joy of camping next to a creek. It’s the perfect way to recharge from my busy professional life.

Admittedly, I never thought I’d write about the steps on my 2022 Airstream Globetrotter. That is, until my wife said she felt unsafe loading our rig with all the camping gear, including our new Papillon puppy, Sammy.

GenX Glamping Guy dog looking out of the Airstream window — Samual the Papillon Dog in His 27′ Airstream Globetrotter

The stock Airstream steps were sleek, compact, and efficient, but they felt like a diving board. They squeaked and felt spongy underfoot. I was also worried about pinching my fingers every time I opened or closed them. It’s not that we’re elderly or have mobility issues, but the steps just didn’t feel secure.

I first tried a freestanding RV step ladder as a temporary workaround. It was a solid option for about $90, but it wasn’t attached to the trailer and was wobbly on uneven terrain. Plus, it started rusting within a couple of months. Not ideal.

GenX Glamping Guy using freestanding RV step ladder for $90 — Freestanding RV Step Ladder for $90

When Torklift reached out to see if I’d try their GlowStep Revolution system, I was intrigued. Made in the U.S. and designed for RVers who want more security and stability, the GlowSteps promised a lot. I agreed to give them a shot and am excited to share my experience here.

A Side-by-Side Comparison: Torklift GlowSteps vs. Airstream Factory Steps

I made a video that breaks down the pros and cons of the Torklift GlowSteps versus the factory Airstream steps. Here’s a written summary.

GenX Glamping Guy testing Airstream steps vs. Torklift Glowssteps

Key Differences Between Torklift GlowSteps and Airstream Steps

More Steps = More Stability

My GlowStep system came with three steps instead of the standard two on the Airstream. That extra step makes a big difference, especially since I lifted my Airstream 3 inches for better clearance. The added step lowers the riser height, making each transition easier on your knees.

Dimensions & Grip

The Airstream’s top step is about an inch wider, and the depth is one inch greater. I wear a size 12 flip-flop and noticed the shorter depth on the GlowSteps, but it didn’t bother me.

The riser height on the Torklift GlowSteps feels more natural when climbing in and out. The grip on both step systems is solid, but I like that the Torklift’s SureGrip™ treads are pressed into the aluminum, so there’s no peeling or replacement needed.

Setup & Use

The ease of deploying the GlowSteps was a game changer for me. The Airstream steps require caution to avoid pinching your fingers. By contrast, the Torklift GlowSteps open and close like a finely tuned, military-grade mechanism—quick, smooth, and satisfying.

Bounce Test

On my factory Airstream steps, I bounced. On the GlowSteps? Nothing but grounded, stable footing. Their all-terrain landing gear adjusts to uneven surfaces and connects firmly to the ground.

Field Test: Enter Bigfoot

To test stability, I brought in a special guest: my buddy Bigfoot (a.k.a. Sasquatch). He has size 15 feet and zero fear. Watching him stomp up and down the GlowSteps without hesitation was all the proof I needed. If he can feel secure on these steps, so can anyone.

Bigfoot testing Airstream steps for bounce. — Bigfoot Helping Test the Airstream Factory Steps vs. the GlowSteps

The Not-So-Glamorous Part: Installation

I’m not a pro mechanic—I’m a 6.5 out of 10 on the handiness scale—and installing the GlowSteps wasn’t exactly plug-and-play. The hardest part was removing the factory Airstream steps, which tested my patience. But I figured it out and am glad to share some of my learnings. For example, using an Allen wrench ratchet would have dramatically reduced my installation time.

A few lessons learned:

An Allen wrench socket set would have saved me hours.
Drilling access holes (only on some models) in a pristine Airstream seems terrifying. It’s not.
The trim cover between the step and the Airstream skirt doesn’t always stay in place (a minor but annoying issue).
I scratched the GlowSteps on my first attempt to close them before they were fully installed. Totally my fault, but worth noting.

I documented the installation and made a video with helpful tips to help you avoid my mistakes.

👉 Watch the video now to learn how to install the GlowSteps on an Airstream

**GenX Glamping Guy Deploying GlowSteps**

So, Are the GlowSteps Worth It?

Yes. The Torklift GlowStep Revolution system gives me peace of mind every time I step in or out of my Airstream. They’re sturdy, comfortable, and easy to use. They also feel much safer, especially on uneven terrain or in the dark, thanks to the adjustable all-terrain legs and glow-in-the-dark strips.

If you’re like me, a GenX glamper who values both form and function, these steps are more than an upgrade. They’re a smart investment in safety, accessibility, and daily comfort.

Final Takeaways

Most stable RV step system I’ve used.
Perfect for lifted Airstreams and off-level terrain.
Great for all ages and sizes (including Bigfoot).
Installation takes some time but is totally doable.

About Me

I’m the GenX Glamping Guy with a YouTube channel dedicated to helping GenXers embrace the outdoors in style and comfort. My content is often tongue-in-cheek, but I create practical, honest reviews and tutorials for weekend warriors and Airstream lovers who want to get the most out of their time away from work.

To see the full GlowStep installation, watch my step-by-step video and subscribe here: youtube.com/@GenXGlampingGuy

Glamp on!