RV Water Systems Explained: Complete Guide [by RVers]
Hey RVers! Don’t get left high and dry by your RV water system!
Raise your hand if this sounds like you, “I don’t spend any time thinking about my RV Water Systems UNTIL something goes wrong!”
That’s my mindset too, but you know what? I’m not a plumber. And like you I’ve learned that problems always pop up at the worst time and have a way of sucking all the fun out of the day.
To a non-plumber, the maze of PEX piping in your RV Water System seems overwhelming. Maybe your water system problem is a leaky connection, clogged filters, low water pressure, or something worse?
We all know how hard finding an RV tech can be and not to mention expensive. So before calling in the pro’s let’s help you trouble shoot your RV Water Systems!
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about managing your RV’s water system—from keeping your fresh water clean to mastering the black and gray water tanks.
Ready to dive in?
Click here to download your free Guide to RV Water Systems now
Table of contents
Since we have tried to capture as much information as humanly possible in this beginner’s guide to RV Water Systems, there is a lot of info in here.
It’ll be easier to navigate if you click on a topic below and let the magic of the World Wide Web instantly take you there.
To get the most from this guide, you should probably read from beginning to end then print it to keep with your RV manuals. Digital is sometimes better so grab our quick reference guide here.
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TL;DR: Key Takeaways for Maintaining Your RV Water System
Keeping your RV water system in peak condition is key to enjoying clean water, consistent pressure, and a fresh environment. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Regular Sanitization: Clean and sanitize your fresh water tank once or twice a season to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Proper Filtration: Inline and under-sink filters to improve water quality and taste.
- Water Pressure Control: Always use a water pressure regulator to prevent damage from high-pressure sources.
- Waste Water Tank Maintenance: Keep your gray and black tanks clean with enzyme treatments and plenty of water to avoid clogs and odors.
Ready for more in-depth tips? Dive into the full guide and watch our YouTube video on RV water system care!
What is an RV Water System?
Don’t worry, we’re not going to write a boring article filled with technical gargin where you have to Google every word. But knowing a few key terms is important to get the most from this RV water system guide.
Your RV’s water system ensures you have access to clean water while you’re on the road. It typically includes:
- City Water Inlet: Connection point for drinking water to enter your RV. Sometimes this is labeled “City Water”.
- Water Heater: Heats freshwater for use in sinks or the shower. Show of hands if you hate a cold shower!
- Fresh Water Tank: Stores potable (aka drinking) water.
- Gray Water Tank: Collects water from sinks and showers.
- Black Water Tank: Holds waste from the toilet.
- RV Water Pump: Moves water from the fresh water tank to your faucets. Only turn on the RV Water Pump when you are pumping water from the fresh water tank.
- Plumbing System: The entire system of piping that allows water to flow from the city water connection through your RV and into the waste water collection tanks.
This system works whether you’re hooked up to a city water connection at a campsite or using water from your fresh water tank. We’ll also cover RV water pressure regulators to manage high water pressure, water filters, quick connects.
How to Ensure Clean Water in Your RV
Clean Water Solutions for RV Campers
Keeping your RV water systems safe from harmful bacteria is essential for your family’s safety. In the US, we take for granted our water system is clean and safe to drink. We’ve been guilty of assuming our RV water system is always clean and safe to drink.
We’ve been LUCKY!
The best practice is to sanitize your RV’s fresh water system at least annually. Fortunately, sanitizing your RV’s fresh water system is easy. We’ll share two methods of sanitizing your RV’s fresh water system.
Method 1 – Homemade RV Fresh Water System Sanitizer
Step 1. Mix a bleach water solution of ¼ cup of bleach for every 15 gallons of water.
Step 2. Pour into the Fresh Water Tank
Step 3. Let sit for a minimum of 3 to 4 hours. Many RV sources recommend 24-hours
Step 4. Run the solution through the entire plumbing system (all water faucets and showers)
Step 5. If you have inline water filters inside your RV, I would remove them or replace them to avoid damage.
Step 6. Refill the freshwater tank with fresh water and flush the lines until the bleach smell is gone
This process involves filling the water system, so it’s best to do it at the beginning of the camping season. Having a full hook-up site or access to an RV dump station and plenty of fresh water is essential!
Method 2 – Purchased RV Fresh Water System Sanitizer
There are several pre-made store-bought RV Fresh Water System Sanitizers available. Many of the major brands like Camco, Thetford, and Star Brite all sell products to sanitize fresh water systems.
Step 1. Fill the fresh water tank ¼ to ⅔ full of fresh water
Step 2. Add the recommended amount of solution
Step 3. Finish filling the fresh water tank
Step 4. Let the mixture sit for the recommended time
Step 5. Pump the solution through the fresh water system
Step 6. Refill the freshwater system twice and run the clean water through the system to remove any cleaning solution.
Connecting to City Water
When camping at camp site with fresh water hookups (also known as city water), it’s tempting to connect any old garden hose to your RV. But hold on—using the wrong hose could lead to unsafe drinking water! Most garden hoses aren’t designed for drinking water and may contain lead.
Always use a hose specifically designed for drinking water to keep your family safe. Want to know more about choosing the right RV Fresh Water Hose? [Click here for our guide on RV Fresh Water Hoses].
Pro Tip: Consider adding a quick connection device to make connecting your drinking water hose to your RV’s city water inlet easier, faster, and leak-free!
Regulating Water Pressure
Now, let’s talk water pressure. Connecting your RV directly to the city water faucet can be risky—most city water lines run between 45 and 80 psi, while most RV systems are designed to handle no more than 40 to 45 psi. Always use a water pressure regulator to avoid damaging your RV’s plumbing.
We used to connect our pressure regulator at the faucet, but we’ve since changed our system.
Now, we connect it after our dual-stage water filter. Why? Water pressure naturally decreases when passing through filters, and putting the regulator afterward ensures that the maximum pressure is available for filtering before being reduced.
Water Filtration
Here’s our system in action: we connect a Camco PureTaste Water Filter to the city water hookup or water spigot, followed by our drinking water hose. The Camco Pure Taste filter is considered an inline filter. This filter helps to remove sediment, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds, which make it safe water for drinking and even taste better!
The hose then connects to our Beech Lane Dual Stage Water Filter. While more expensive systems like Clear H2O exist, our research found they use similar cartridge-style filters, so we went with the more affordable option and have been thrilled with the results!
Once the water is filtered, it flows through our pressure regulator before entering the RV’s city water valve. This pressurizes the entire freshwater system, feeding the water heater, faucets, shower, and toilets—clean, safe, and regulated.
Often, at high-end resort campgrounds, we see full-time campers use a water softener to help reduce scale buildup in the plumbing system. I suspect it also helps the water maintain a consistent taste and feel from campground to campground.
Combating Low Pressure, Bad Taste
After camping for several years, we can confirm not all city water sources are the same. In Louisville, we’re spoiled with the best tap water in the nation! Other places have all kinds of challenges, like bad taste and low pressure.
If the pressure is low, check the water flow through your inline Camco PureTaste Water Filter and the screens on your hoses to ensure you’re getting good water flow.
Fresh Water Tank Maintenance and Filling Tips
Earlier, we highlighted the importance of keeping your RV’s fresh water tank sanitized. Aim to sanitize your tank once or twice per season based on usage, and at a minimum, give it a good clean at the start of each camping season. Sanitizing prevents bacteria buildup, keeps water fresh, and protects your water system. After each trip, fully empty the tank to allow it to dry, which reduces the risk of contamination.
After you’ve spent the time cleaning the tank, it’s essential to use a clean, potable water source for refills.
What is Potable Water? Potable Water is a fancy-pants way to say drinking water!
Thankfully, non-potable water is usually marked to avoid any confusion—such as at truck stops, where water taps in the Big Rig fueling lanes are often designated as non-potable. Avoid using these to keep your fresh water system clean and safe.
Ready to fill up the fresh water tank on your camper? Here’s how:
- Using an RV Drinking Water Hose: Connect your drinking-safe and lead-free hose to a potable water source like the hookup for campground water.
- Add a Water Filter if Possible: For additional protection, attach a filter to remove sediments and other impurities before the water enters your tank.
- Avoid Overfilling: Watch the water level as you fill to prevent overflow, which can cause unnecessary mess and waste.
Maintaining your RV’s fresh water tank is a simple process that enhances your camping experience by ensuring you always have access to clean water.
Filling Your Fresh Water Tank
Filling your RV’s water storage tank can take some time since most RV systems are gravity-fed. As the tank fills, air escapes through a small vent tube to prevent pressure buildup. This setup requires patience, as water flows in while air flows out, making the process steady but sometimes slow.
Other Ways to Fill Your Fresh Water Tank
If direct access to a water hookup isn’t available, you can use portable water jugs as a backup. We keep a couple of 6-gallon jugs on hand for this purpose. Keep in mind that these containers are heavy when full—about 50 pounds each!
To make the transfer easier, consider using a small drill pump or siphon to help move water from the jug to your tank without lifting. This setup is ideal for boondocking or remote camping situations where water fill stations aren’t nearby.
Why Would You Use Non-Potable Water?
In some cases, using non-potable water may be a practical option. If you plan to bring bottled water for drinking, brushing your teeth, making coffee, and cooking, using non-potable water for other needs can extend your fresh water supply.
If you decide to go this route, ensure everyone in your camping group understands not to drink water from the faucets. As a precaution, we recommend sanitizing your RV’s fresh water system after using non-potable water to maintain cleanliness and reduce contamination risks.
How Does Water Flow from the Fresh Water Tank to the Faucet?
When you’re relying on your fresh water tank rather than a city water connection, you’ll need to turn on the RV’s 12-volt water pump. This pump activates automatically whenever there’s demand for water, like when you open a faucet, flush the toilet, or use the shower. Remember, winterizing the RV water pump is essential if you’re camping in colder months to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
These best practices for filling, managing, and maintaining your fresh water tank make a big difference in the quality of your RV water supply, ensuring safe, clean water whenever you need it on the road.
Other Fresh Water Tank Considerations
Facebook message boards are filled with comments about the build quality of RVs. Sadly, I’ve read many post about RVers who had their fresh water tank FALL off their RV while driving down the road. When they contact the manufacturer, they learn that the manufacturer does NOT recommend transporting the RV with a full tank.
WHAT!?! Crazy.
We know some RV Mobile Mechanics will reinforce your tank to help prevent the fresh water tank from fall out!
Another option is to fill your fresh water tank with a few gallons of water so you can fill up water bottles, use the restroom when you make a fuel stop, etc. This is another hot topic on Facebook. Many people claim a less-than-full tank sloshes around, causing handling problems. We’ve never noticed this problem when traveling with 10 gallons or so.
Understanding the Gray Water Tank in Your RV’s Fresh Water System
The gray water tank plays a critical role in your RV’s water management system by collecting used water from the sinks and shower. Unlike the black tank, which holds wastewater from the toilet, gray water is categorized as “gray” because it’s not sewage but still contains soaps, detergents, and small food particles from washing and showering.
Gray tanks are designed with plumbing similar to a household system. Each sink’s drain is connected to the gray water tank via a PVC pipe and a P-Trap—a section of pipe shaped to hold water, which creates a barrier that keeps unpleasant odors from traveling back into your RV.
Avoiding Buildup in the Gray Water Tank
When washing dishes, be mindful to avoid sending food waste down the drain, as it can collect in the gray tank. Over time, this can cause buildup, leading to foul odors and even clogs. For best results, scrape plates thoroughly and dispose of food waste in the trash rather than down the sink.
Treating the Gray Water Tank
To keep the gray water tank fresh and functional, we use a gray water tank treatment a few times each season. Our go-to is Camco TST Camper Grey Water System Control, which is formulated to break down grease and improve odor control within the gray tank. This step helps to maintain a clean system and reduce the likelihood of buildup.
Pro Tip: Avoid dumping your gray water tank directly onto the ground. In most areas, this is illegal because gray water is considered sewage. It may contain particles that attract wildlife to campgrounds—a situation no one wants! Always dispose of gray water responsibly.
Regular maintenance of your gray water tank and the entire water system keeps your RV’s plumbing in top shape, making your camping experiences more enjoyable and worry-free.
All About the Black Water Tank: Essentials for RVers
Dealing with the black water tank can feel intimidating, especially for new RVers, but a little know-how makes it manageable. The black tank is the holding place for all the sewage waste from your RV toilet. Because of its unique setup, the black water tank requires a few special practices to keep it functioning smoothly and odor-free. Let’s dive into what you need to know.
How an RV Black Water Tank Works
RV toilets connect directly to the black tank without a fresh water tank or P-trap, unlike household toilets. To prevent odors from seeping up, a small amount of water is kept over the flapper valve at the base of the toilet.
Pro Tip: Always use plenty of water when flushing, especially after “number two.” RV toilets don’t flush with the same volume as home toilets, so adding extra water to the bowl before flushing helps ensure waste flows freely through the pipes and into the tank.
A dry black tank is a recipe for trouble, leading to waste buildup that can harden into a dreaded “poop pyramid.” Prevent this by keeping the tank wet with every flush.
Using Toilet Paper in the Black Tank
There’s much debate on whether or not to use toilet paper in RV black tanks. We’ve found that as long as you’re using water liberally, toilet paper works just fine. Just avoid overloading the tank with excessive toilet paper, and always use RV-safe toilet paper, which dissolves more quickly than regular types.
Should I Use Black Tank Treatment Chemicals?
Yes, black tank treatments can keep your system functioning and odor-free. We’ve tried a few types, and here’s our take:
- Drop-In Packets (like Camco TST Max): These are easy to use and do a decent job. After dumping or at the start of a trip, fill the toilet bowl with fresh water, drop in a packet, flush it into the tank, and add one more bowl of water for good measure.
- Liquid Enzyme Treatments (like RV Digest It): Liquid enzyme formulas seem more effective for breaking down waste. Just pour in the recommended amount, usually a few ounces, and add 2-3 gallons of water to get things started.
- DIY Solutions (Calgon Water Softener + Dawn Dish Soap): This mixture helps keep the tank walls “slippery,” encouraging waste to flow out during dumping. Pour a capful each of Calgon and Dawn into the toilet, add 2-3 gallons of water, and flush. Note that DIY treatments won’t break down waste, so consider them more of a maintenance option than a true tank treatment.
Should I Keep the Black Tank Valve Open?
No, always keep the black tank valve closed except when dumping. This allows liquid to accumulate in the tank, which helps keep solids from sticking to the walls. Dumping only when the tank is at least two-thirds full ensures enough pressure to flush out waste thoroughly.
Best Practices for RV Water Filtration Systems
Our hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, is known for some of the best tap water in the nation. With high standards for water quality, our taste buds are pretty discerning! When we first started RVing, we assumed that a simple inline filter, like the Camco TastePure, would be enough. While this filter does improve water quality, we quickly found it wasn’t enough to get that truly fresh taste.
Camco TastePure Filter’s 6-Stage Process
Camco’s TastePure RV inline water filter connects easily to your hose and provides basic filtration before water enters your system. The Camco TastePure filter improves water quality through a robust 6-stage process, targeting sediment, bacteria, and contaminants to help ensure safe and clean drinking water on the go.
- Filter Hose Washer: Captures large debris and particles right from the start.
- Pre-Filtration Foam Layer: Adds an extra level of sediment control.
- Premium Activated Carbon Layer: Reduces odors, chlorine, and unpleasant taste for fresher water.
- Superior KDF Layer: Acts as a bacteria prevention agent, keeping the water healthier.
- Post-Filtration Layer: Adds a final polish to the water clarity.
- Spun Polypropylene Layer (20 Micron Filter): Ensures fine filtration to capture small particles and impurities.
Beech Lane Dual-Stage Canister Filter
The Beech Lane Dual-Stage Canister Filter offers powerful dual-stage filtration and is among the best RV water filter choices for those who want thorough water purification. The 5-micron filter removes larger particles, while the 0.5-micron activated carbon block effectively filters out smaller contaminants, including VOCs and residual odors.
What’s great about this system:
- Industry-Standard Filter Size: Easily swap out filters to customize for different filtration needs.
- Durable Design: Beech Lane’s brass fittings are lead-free and provide great quality in terms of durability and leak prevention.
- Customizable Filtration: Add an additional canister or switch to a 1-micron pre-filter for finer sediment removal if needed.
If you’re looking for an affordable, customizable system, the Beech Lane filter setup is likely the best option for most RVers. With the option to add an additional canister, it’s a flexible system that lets you avoid the cost of a three-filter setup.
Under-Sink Filter for Drinking Water
For pure water quality, consider adding an under-sink filter for your kitchen tap, especially if you’re sensitive to different water tastes while traveling.
For an extra layer of filtration, we installed the Waterdrop 10UA Under Sink Water Filter System under our kitchen sink. This compact filter delivers fresh, great-tasting water, ensuring our drinking water is even cleaner and free from residual contaminants. Installation is straightforward, and it’s an excellent addition for those who prioritize taste and purity.
Filtration Tips
- Drain Canisters After Each Trip: This prevents water from sitting stagnant in the filters, reducing the risk of bacteria and mold growth.
- Use a Water Pressure Regulator: When connected to a city water source at the campground, always use a water pressure regulator to protect your RV’s plumbing.
To further improve water quality, we later added a Beech Lane dual-stage canister water filter system. This helped, but wasn’t quite enough for longer trips, like our adventure through Michigan, where we needed more filtered water. That’s when we finally added an under-sink filter to our kitchen area, which solved our taste issues for good.
The Role of RV Water Filters
RV water filters are designed to remove a range of impurities, from sediment and iron to potentially harmful chemicals, improving both the safety and taste of your water. Here’s what they target:
- Sediment Removal: Filters out particles like sand, rust, and dirt, which could otherwise damage your RV plumbing.
- Chemical Reduction: Activated carbon stages help remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chlorine, and other chemicals that can affect taste and safety.
- Odor and Taste Improvement: Carbon filters also improve taste and odor, crucial if you’re sensitive to local water differences or contaminants.
- Heavy Metals: Some filters remove heavy metals like lead, especially important when camping in areas with older water infrastructure.
FAQ: Troubleshooting Common RV Water System Issues
Q: Why is my RV water pressure low?
A: Low pressure can result from clogs in sediment filters, an issue with the RV water pump, or even a kinked hose. Use a water pressure regulator at the faucet to help maintain balanced water pressure.
Pro Tip: Sometimes the Zero-G hose can kink. Coil any unused hose under the camper to prevent this.
Q: How can I prevent odors in my black water tank?
A: Use enzyme-based black tank treatments to break down waste and reduce odors, and rinse the tank thoroughly during each dump station visit.
Pro Tip: Ensure your black tank is 75% full before dumping. For shorter trips, I sometimes add water the night before to allow the enzymes time to break down solid waste before flushing.
Q: Why is my RV’s hot water inconsistent or not heating up?
A: This can point to issues with propane, electricity, or sediment in the water heater. Flush the tank to remove sediment and ensure proper propane or electrical connection.
Pro Tip: Check the water heater flame by removing the vent cover (careful, it may be hot) – it should be a strong, bright blue. If it isn’t, the burner tube might need cleaning. Never turn on the water heater without water in the tank, as it takes longer to fill than expected.
Q: What should I do if I see leaks in my RV water system?
A: Check all connections, hoses, and valves for any loose fittings, damage, or cracks. Tighten connections and replace worn parts as needed.
Pro Tip: Remember that RV connections can loosen up due to travel vibrations. Regularly check these fittings to prevent leaks.
For more in-depth tips and to see these methods in action, check out our YouTube video on RV water system maintenance – perfect for visual learners looking to keep their RV water systems in peak condition!
Wrapping Up: Keep Your RV Water System Running Smoothly
Maintaining your RV’s water system doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of regular upkeep and the right tools, you can keep the fresh, gray, and black water systems working like a charm and avoid those dreaded “surprise” issues on the road.
- Regular Checks: Keep your filters clean, monitor tank levels, and inspect connections to avoid leaks or blockages.
- Safe Water: Use quality water filters and pressure regulators to ensure clean, safe water every trip.
- Pro Tips in Action: With just a few extra minutes, you can prevent buildup, odors, and low water pressure issues that could ruin your trip.
Ready to get hands-on? Watch our YouTube video on RV water system maintenance to see these tips in action!
About Us
We are Mike and Sara, and our kids and dog are exploring the US while camping in our fifth wheel! Since the late 90s we have been exploring the great outdoors one hiking trail at a time. We introduced our kids to hiking while they were young and they love exploring new places. We call Kentucky home and we find ourselves exploring the state parks, national parks, and other wildlands in our area as often as we can!
Our RV camping journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Waking up close to the trails we love hiking was enough for us to get hooked on the camping lifestyle! Thanks for following our adventures!
