Understanding Your Rockwood Pop-Up Camper's Sink Functionality

Rockwood pop-up campers are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of features that enhance the camping experience. One essential component of these campers is the sink, which plays a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene during outdoor adventures. However, understanding how the sink functions and how to deal with potential issues, such as slow drainage, is vital for a pleasant trip. This discussion will delve into the intricacies of the sink system in Rockwood pop-up campers, exploring drainage methods, troubleshooting common problems, and highlighting the importance of proper maintenance to ensure a seamless camping experience.

Draining the sink into a portable tank

One method is to use a "T" PVC setup to connect the sink drain to a portable tank. This involves using a "T" PVC fitting to connect the sink drain to a 3/4" hose, which can then be directed into a 5-gallon portable tank. This type of setup can be purchased at a hardware store like Lowe's.

Another option is to use a garden hose to connect the sink drain to a portable tank. You can purchase an adapter that reduces the sink outlet to 3/4", allowing you to attach a garden hose. The hose can then be run under the camper and into a blue tote or other portable tank.

Some owners choose to combine the sink and shower drains into one larger portable tank, such as a 12-gallon tank with wheels. This can be done using a "Y" connector. However, this setup can be more cumbersome and may require additional modifications.

When selecting a portable tank, it's important to consider the size and weight. While larger tanks mean less frequent trips to the dump station, they can also be heavy and difficult to manoeuvre when full. Clear or blue tanks can be a good option, as they allow you to see the water level and determine when it's time to empty the tank.

It's also worth noting that the height of your camper may impact the type of portable tank you can use. Some campers may not have enough clearance to accommodate taller tanks, so it's important to measure and select a tank that will fit under your camper when levelled.

Using a PVC drain pipe

If you're looking to set up a sink in your Rockwood pop-up camper, you'll need to consider how the sink will drain and where the wastewater will go. One option is to use a PVC drain pipe to collect and dispose of the grey water. Here's a step-by-step guide to using a PVC drain pipe for your sink in a Rockwood pop-up camper:

Step 1: Choosing the Right PVC Pipe and Fittings

When selecting the PVC pipe and fittings for your sink drain, it's important to choose the right size and type. The standard size for sink drain pipes is typically 1 1/4 inches or 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You can find these pipes and fittings at most hardware stores, such as Lowe's or Home Depot. Make sure to measure the diameter of your sink drain before purchasing the pipe to ensure a proper fit.

Step 2: Installing the PVC Pipe

To install the PVC drain pipe for your sink, follow these steps:

• Measure and cut the PVC pipe to the appropriate length, allowing for some flexibility when raising and lowering the galley.
• Attach one end of the PVC pipe to the sink drain using a PVC connector or adapter. You may need to use an adapter to reduce the sink outlet to 3/4 inches to fit a standard garden hose.
• Secure the connection with a hose clamp to prevent leaks.
• Run the PVC pipe down from the sink and out through the drain pipe opening in your camper.
• If desired, you can connect a garden hose to the end of the PVC pipe to extend the drainage away from the camper.

Step 3: Collecting Grey Water

Since the sink in a pop-up camper typically drains grey water (wastewater from the sink), you'll need a way to collect and dispose of it. Here are a few options:

• Portable Tanks: You can purchase portable tanks, such as the blue Aqua-Tainer water containers, to collect the grey water. These tanks typically have a capacity of 5-7 gallons and can be placed under the sink or outside the camper.
• Permanent Tanks: If you plan to use your camper frequently, you may consider installing a permanent grey water tank. These tanks are larger and can be mounted outside the camper for easy access.
• Direct Drainage: In some campgrounds with sewer hookups, you may be able to run the PVC pipe or a garden hose directly into the sewer drain. However, be cautious as this can sometimes result in sewage smells backing up into your camper.

Step 4: Maintaining Your PVC Drain Pipe

To ensure your PVC drain pipe functions properly and lasts a long time, perform regular maintenance:

• Inspect the pipe for any holes or tears, especially if you notice water leaking onto the floor.
• Check for sharp objects, such as zip tie ends, that may be cutting the pipe and file them down or cover them.
• Consider using reinforced vinyl tubing or a thicker, more flexible metal hose to prevent tears and increase durability.
• Clean the pipe periodically to prevent clogs and build-up.

By following these steps and maintaining your PVC drain pipe, you can ensure that your sink in the Rockwood pop-up camper functions properly and drains grey water effectively.

Using a blue tote

The blue tote, or blue 7-gallon container, is a popular choice for collecting greywater from the sink of a Rockwood pop-up camper. To set this up, you will need to purchase some additional parts and perform some simple plumbing.

Firstly, head to a hardware store, such as Lowe's, and purchase some PVC drain pipe. You will need enough to attach to your sink drain and run a hose from that to the blue tote. The PVC pipe should be attached to the sink drain with an adapter that reduces the sink outlet to 3/4". You can find these adapters on Amazon.

Next, run a standard garden hose from the PVC pipe under the camper and into the blue tote. The sink drain hose should go into the big open end of the tote. If your camper also has a shower, you can direct that greywater into the air release hole of the blue tote. You may need to purchase a pressure release cap for this purpose.

This setup will allow you to collect and dispose of your sink greywater in a simple and effective manner. Be sure to empty the blue tote regularly to avoid it becoming too heavy to lift!

Rockwood safety switch for the sink

The Rockwood pop-up camper is equipped with a safety switch for the sink, which is designed to prevent accidents and ensure the safe use of the camper's features. This safety switch is typically located in the sink area and is designed to cut off power to the overhead lights when the sink is not in use. This feature is important as it helps to conserve energy and prevent potential fire hazards.

The safety switch for the sink in the Rockwood pop-up camper is usually a plunger-type switch, similar to a momentary switch, which is depressed by the bottom of the sink assembly when it is in the "use" position. This type of switch is commonly found in other pop-up campers as well, such as the Coleman Cheyenne. The switch is connected to the initial 12V feed to the camper lights, and when activated, it cuts power to the lights, keeping them off when the sink is not in use.

In some cases, the Rockwood pop-up camper may not have the safety switch installed. This can be a concern, as it may lead to accidents or damage, such as melted vinyl tent material. If the safety switch is missing or malfunctioning, it is important to install or replace it as soon as possible. The switch can be purchased directly from the manufacturer or authorised dealers, and the installation process may involve splicing into the existing wiring behind the sink to connect the switch inline with the power feed to the lights.

It is worth noting that there may be variations in the setup of the safety switch between different models of Rockwood pop-up campers. Some campers may have the switch located in a different position or integrated into the sink assembly in a different way. Additionally, there may be multiple switches under the sink, controlling different functions such as the water pump and overhead power. Therefore, it is always recommended to refer to the specific model's manual or seek assistance from a qualified technician for accurate information regarding the safety switch installation and functionality.

Rockwood popup setup

Setting up a Rockwood popup camper involves a number of steps to ensure a functional and safe camping experience. Here is a detailed guide to help you with the process:

Step 1: Understanding the Sink and Shower Drain System

Before setting up your Rockwood popup camper, it's important to understand how the sink and shower drain system works. The sink and shower in a Rockwood popup camper are connected to a grey water drainage system. This system collects the used water from the sink and shower and stores it in tanks or containers for proper disposal.

Step 2: Choosing a Drainage Method

There are a few options for collecting and disposing of grey water. One method is to use portable tanks with wheels, which can be convenient but may be expensive. Another approach is to use blue or clear tanks and run hoses from the sink and shower drains directly into them. These tanks typically have a capacity of around 5 to 12 gallons. Alternatively, you can set up a permanent drainage system using PVC pipes and hoses to direct the grey water to a dump station.

Step 3: Assembling the Drainage System

When setting up the drainage system, you may need to purchase adapters, connectors, and hoses to connect the sink and shower drains to your chosen tanks or containers. Ensure that you have the correct fittings and hoses to prevent leaks. It's recommended to consult a professional or refer to a detailed guide specific to your Rockwood popup camper model if you're unsure about the setup process.

Step 4: Safety Considerations

One important safety feature to consider when setting up your Rockwood popup camper is the safety switch for the overhead lights. Most Rockwood popups have a switch that turns off the lights when the sink is folded down. This switch is usually located under the sink or near the wiring for the lights. If your camper didn't come with this switch, you may need to purchase it separately and install it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 5: Testing and Maintenance

Once you've set up the drainage system and safety switch, it's important to test all the components to ensure they are functioning properly. Test the lights, water pump, and drainage system before heading out on your camping trip. Regular maintenance of your Rockwood popup camper, including checking for leaks, cleaning the tanks, and inspecting the hoses and connections, will help ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

Frequently asked questions