Camper Plumbing Systems: A Comprehensive Guide

Jake

• 12 min read
Camper Plumbing Systems: A Comprehensive Guide
Camper Plumbing Systems: A Comprehensive Guide

Hello to all you happy campers and RV enthusiasts out there! Today we're diving into the inner workings of our homes on wheels, addressing a topic that's quite vital for a comfortable journey, but often overlooked or misunderstood: plumbing.

Whether you're a seasoned nomad or a newbie just starting out, understanding your RV or camper's plumbing system is crucial for maintaining a well-functioning and hygienic mobile home. So, buckle up as we embark on this journey, flushing out the ins and outs of RV and camper plumbing!

Understanding Your RV/Camper Plumbing System

Essentially, the plumbing system in your RV or camper is made up of three main components:

  1. Fresh Water System: This brings clean water into your RV or camper, either directly through a city water hookup or from an onboard fresh water tank.
  2. Grey Water System: After you’ve used the water for washing dishes, showering, or any other non-toilet use, it becomes grey water and goes into a separate grey water tank.
  3. Black Water System: This handles waste from your toilet, collecting it in the black water tank.

Let's delve into each of these systems in more detail.

A Deep Dive into the Fresh Water System of RVs and Campers

The fresh water system is an integral part of your RV or camper, supplying you with the water you need for drinking, cooking, showering, and other needs. Today, we are going to delve deeper into the components of this system, discuss the specifications and maintenance, and provide some tips to keep it in top shape.

Fresh Water Tank

The size of the fresh water tank you should have greatly depends on the size of your RV or camper, the number of people traveling, and your intended usage. A typical tank for a smaller RV or camper van might hold 20-40 gallons (75-150 liters), while larger motorhomes might have tanks that can hold 60-100 gallons (225-380 liters) or more.

For most users, a tank that can hold 40-60 gallons (150-225 liters) of fresh water will be more than adequate for a few days of dry camping (also known as boondocking) or until you reach the next campground with a water hookup.

Piping

Your RV or camper's fresh water system will be equipped with a network of pipes that transport water from your tank or city water connection to your faucets and appliances. PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a popular choice for this piping due to its flexibility, durability, and resistance to both freezing and high temperatures.

The pipe diameter can also affect your water flow. Most RVs and campers use 1/2" (1.25 cm) or 3/8" (2 cm) pipes, but check with your manufacturer or a trusted RV service center for specifics on your model.

Water Pump

Your RV or camper needs a water pump to pressurize the water from your fresh water tank and supply it to your faucets and appliances. When you open a faucet, the pump senses the drop in pressure and starts to pump water from the tank.

Electric water pumps

There are two main types of water pumps: 12-volt DC pumps and 120-volt (240-volt in the EU) AC pumps. The 12-volt pumps are the most common in RVs and campers because they can run off your vehicle's battery when you're not connected to a power source.

The power consumption of an RV fresh water pump varies depending on the model and the specifications of the pump. However, a typical 12-volt DC fresh water pump will draw between 3-7 amps when in operation.

For instance, a common model, like the Shurflo 3.0 GPM pump, draws around 7 amps at its maximum flow. Some more energy-efficient models might draw less than 3 amps, while larger, more powerful pumps might draw more.

It's important to keep in mind that your fresh water pump isn't continuously running. It operates on a demand basis, meaning it only runs when you open a faucet or flush the toilet, which decreases the overall power consumption.

Nevertheless, if you frequently dry camp or rely on your battery for power, it's a good idea to factor in the power consumption of your fresh water pump when planning your energy usage. Always ensure that your RV's electrical system can handle the load of the water pump along with your other appliances and systems.

Manual water pumps

Manual water pumps are typically used as a backup system or for off-grid camping situations where electrical power might be limited or unavailable. They operate by a hand-lever or foot-press mechanism that, when activated, draws water up from your fresh water tank and through your faucet.

One popular type of manual pump is the hand pump, which requires you to physically pump a handle to draw water. These can be mounted on your countertop or sink, and while they require more effort than a typical electric pump, they can be a lifeline when electrical power isn't an option.

Foot pumps are another manual option, where you use your foot to operate the pump, leaving both hands free. This is particularly useful in the kitchen, where you may be handling food or dishes and need to control the flow of water more precisely.

While manual pumps may not provide the same water pressure or convenience as an electric pump, they can be extremely useful for conserving power, extending your fresh water supply, or providing a reliable backup water source. As always, your individual needs, camping style, and RV setup will determine what type of pump is best for you.

Bacteria Prevention

Keeping your fresh water system clean and free of bacteria is paramount for your health. Here are a few tips to maintain a bacteria-free water system:

  • Sanitize Regularly: At least once a year, or more often if you're a frequent traveler, sanitize your fresh water system. This involves adding a diluted bleach solution to your fresh water tank, running the solution through your pipes by turning on all faucets, and then letting it sit for several hours before thoroughly rinsing the system.
  • Use Safe Water Sources: Whenever possible, fill your tank from a trusted source. If you're unsure about the quality, consider using a water filter when filling your tank, or use bottled water for drinking and cooking.
  • Keep It Fresh: Don't let water sit in your tank for long periods of time. If you're not using your RV, drain the system.

City Water Hookup

When you're staying at a campground with water facilities, you can connect directly to a city water hookup. This will bypass your fresh water tank and provide a continuous water supply directly to your faucets and appliances.

Here are the steps to connect to a city water hookup:

  1. First, ensure your water hose is safe for drinking water. Never use a standard garden hose, as it can leach harmful chemicals into your water.
  2. Connect one end of the hose to the campground's water source, and the other end to your RV's city water inlet.
  3. Turn on the water supply slowly, checking for any leaks.
  4. Use a water pressure regulator. City water pressure can sometimes be too high for your RV's plumbing system, and a regulator will protect against this.

Fresh water filtering

Fresh water filtration is a key component of any RV or camper plumbing system. Clean, safe water is essential for drinking, cooking, and bathing. There are several types of water filtration systems you can have in your RV or camper:

  1. Sediment Filters: These filters are designed to remove larger particles like sand, silt, rust, and other sediments from the water. They're typically the first line of defense and help prolong the life of the more advanced filters downstream.
  2. Activated Carbon Filters: These filters are effective at removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors, and improve the taste of the water. They might not remove all bacteria or heavy metals, so they're often used in combination with other types of filters.
  3. Ceramic Filters: Ceramic filters have small pores that can filter out bacteria, cysts, and sediments. Some ceramic filters are also treated with silver to kill bacteria and prevent their growth on the filter itself.
  4. Reverse Osmosis Systems: Reverse osmosis (RO) systems use a semipermeable membrane to remove up to 99% of contaminants in water, including heavy metals, fluoride, and bacteria. These systems are highly effective but produce a lot of waste water and can be slow, so they're less common in RVs.
  5. UV Purification Systems: UV systems use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. These systems are effective against pathogens but don't remove chemicals or improve the taste of the water, so they're often used in combination with other filters.

Most RVers use a combination of these systems to ensure their water is clean and safe. For instance, you might have an inline sediment filter at the city water hookup to remove larger particles, an activated carbon filter under the sink for drinking water, and a UV purification system to ensure all water in the system is free of harmful microorganisms.

As always, your specific needs and camping style will dictate the best water filtration system for your RV or camper. And remember, no matter what type of filtration system you have, regular maintenance and timely filter replacement are crucial to ensure it continues to provide safe, clean water.

Remember, understanding and properly maintaining your fresh water system will enhance the comfort of your RV or camper living experience. Safe and happy travels!

Going Grey: Understanding the Grey Water System in RVs and Campers

Our journey through the intricacies of RV and camper plumbing systems continues, and this time, we're focusing on the grey water system. This system plays a crucial role in wastewater management in your mobile home, collecting the used water from your sinks, shower, and washing machine.

Grey Water Tank

The size of your grey water tank is dependent on several factors including the size of your RV or camper, the number of occupants, and your water usage habits. As a general rule of thumb, your grey water tank should be at least as large, if not larger, than your fresh water tank because every gallon of fresh water used (excluding toilet use) potentially becomes a gallon of grey water.

The capacity of grey water tanks can vary greatly, with smaller campers and RVs often equipped with a 20-30 gallon (75-115 liters) tank, while larger models can have tanks that hold 60 gallons (225 liters) or more. If you find you're frequently filling your grey water tank before your black tank, you might want to consider a larger grey water tank or altering your water usage habits.

Piping

Similar to the fresh water system, your grey water system uses pipes to transport water from your sinks, shower, and washing machine to the grey water tank. Again, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is commonly used for this purpose due to its durability and flexibility. The pipes typically have a diameter of 1.5 (4 cm) to 2 (5 cm) inches for the drain pipes leading into the grey water tank.

Disposal of Grey Water

Proper disposal of grey water is essential to protect the environment and comply with local regulations and campground rules. Here are some general guidelines for disposing of grey water:

  • Use Designated Dump Stations: The most common way to dispose of grey water is at a designated RV dump station. Here, you'll connect your RV's drain outlet to a sewage inlet using a sewer hose. Always make sure the connection is secure before opening the valve to your grey water tank.
  • Portable Waste Tanks: Also known as "honey wagons," these portable tanks can be used when your grey water tank is full but you can't move your RV to a dump station. You can empty your grey water into the portable tank, then transport the tank to the dump station.
  • Occasional Disposal in the Wilderness: In some remote areas, and where it's not against the rules, grey water (not black water) can be disposed of in the wilderness. Make sure the water doesn't contain any harmful chemicals or non-biodegradable materials, and always scatter it well away from water sources and campsites. Remember, this should be the exception and not the rule.

In any case, it's essential to always use biodegradable, RV-safe soaps and detergents to minimize the environmental impact of your grey water.

It's also important to regularly clean your grey water tank to prevent buildup and odors. Tank treatments can help break down any solids and reduce smells. Additionally, you should flush out the tank with clean water regularly, ideally every time you empty it at a dump station.

Understanding your grey water system and maintaining it properly will not only make your RV or camper experience more comfortable, but it'll also contribute to the well-being of the beautiful environments that you travel to. Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we will be diving into the black water system. Happy camping!

Continuing our in-depth journey through the plumbing systems of RVs and campers, we are now venturing into the territory most feared by many: the black water system. Despite the sometimes unpleasant nature of dealing with this aspect of your mobile home, understanding it is vital for maintaining a healthy and hygienic living environment.

Black Water Tank

The black water tank is where your RV or camper collects and stores waste and wastewater from the toilet. The size of your black water tank is primarily dependent on the size of your RV or camper, the number of occupants, and the duration of your trips.

Smaller RVs or campers may have black water tanks around 20-25 gallons (75-100 liters), while larger RVs can feature tanks of 40-60 (150-225 liters) gallons or more. A family of four, for instance, might need to empty a 40-gallon (150 liter) black water tank every 5-7 days under normal use. Your mileage may vary, of course, depending on usage and conservation habits.

Toilet Options

RV and camper toilets come in several varieties, each with its own pros and cons:

Gravity Flush Toilets: These are the most common type of RV toilet. They function much like your toilet at home, using gravity to drop waste into the black water tank situated directly below.

Macerating Flush Toilets: These toilets use a blade to liquefy waste before it's sent to the black water tank, which can help reduce clogs and make the tank easier to empty.

Portable Toilets: These are standalone units that can be moved in and out of the RV or camper. They are suitable for smaller campers and have a separate waste container that can be detached for easy disposal.

Composting Toilets: These eco-friendly toilets separate liquid and solid waste. The solid waste is mixed with a composting material, reducing its volume and odor. Composting toilets are a good option for those looking to boondock or stay off-grid for extended periods.

Piping

The black water system also needs a dedicated set of pipes to transport waste from the toilet to the black water tank. Similar to the other systems, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is commonly used due to its durability and resistance to leaks. RVs usually use 3" diameter pipes for the black water system to prevent clogs and allow smooth flow of waste into the tank.

Disposal of Black Water

Disposing of black water is a crucial process and must be done properly to ensure sanitation and environmental protection:

Use Designated Dump Stations: Always empty your black water tank at a designated dump station. After connecting a sewer hose from your RV's drain outlet to the dump station's sewage inlet, you'll open the valve to the black water tank to begin the draining process.

Black Tank Flush System: Many RVs have a built-in system for rinsing the black water tank, which uses a water connection separate from the fresh water system. If your RV doesn't have a built-in flush system, you can use a wand designed for this purpose or a sewer hose rinser.

Tank Treatments: After each dump, use a black tank treatment. These products help break down waste and toilet paper, reduce odors, and clean the tank sensors.

Empty in Order: When dumping, always empty the black water tank before the grey water tank. This ensures that the soapy water from the grey tank helps rinse out the sewer hose.

Understanding and taking care of your black water system is not the most glamorous part of RV or camper ownership, but it is a vital one. Armed with this knowledge, you're ready

Maintaining Your RV and Camper Plumbing Systems

A well-maintained plumbing system will prolong the life of your RV or camper, allowing for many more happy trips down the road. Here are some quick tips:

  • Regularly Check for Leaks: Regular inspections can help catch leaks early before they cause serious damage. Keep an eye on your water pump. If it cycles on and off frequently when not in use, you might have a leak.
  • Winterize Your Plumbing: If you're not using your RV or camper during winter, ensure to drain all the water from the system and use an RV antifreeze to prevent freezing and cracking of pipes.
  • Use Biodegradable, RV-Safe Products: Whether it's toilet paper, cleaning products, or tank treatments, ensure they're safe for use in RVs and campers.
  • Regular Tank Maintenance: Regularly empty and clean out your grey and black water tanks. Use appropriate tank treatments to break down waste and prevent odors.

Do you need to be a plumber to fix camper plumbing

While being a plumber certainly would be beneficial when it comes to fixing plumbing issues in your RV or camper, it's not strictly necessary. Many RV and camper owners learn to deal with minor plumbing repairs themselves over time.

Basic plumbing tasks, such as replacing a faulty faucet, fixing a leak, or unclogging a drain, often don't require professional expertise, and there are plenty of resources available, both online and in print, that can guide you through these procedures. Regular maintenance and inspections of your RV's plumbing system can help prevent many issues before they become serious problems.

However, for more complex issues, such as replacing or repairing the water pump, dealing with persistent leaks that could cause water damage, or problems with the black water tank, it may be best to enlist the help of a professional. This could be a certified RV technician or a plumber familiar with RV systems.

Safety is paramount when dealing with plumbing issues. If you're unsure about a repair, don't hesitate to consult with a professional. Even if you do some of the minor repairs yourself, having your RV's plumbing system inspected regularly by a professional is a good practice to ensure its longevity and prevent major issues down the road.

Wrapping Up

Plumbing in an RV or camper may seem complex at first, but with a basic understanding and regular maintenance, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. The open road awaits you and your well-plumbed home-on-wheels! Remember, the freedom and flexibility of RVing and camper life is a joy in itself, and with a little knowledge, you can tackle any plumbing concern that comes your way.