Hooking Your Camper To City Water: A Step-By-Step Guide

Hooking up your camper to city water is a straightforward process that will allow you to shower, wash dishes, and flush your toilet with ease. To get started, you'll need to find a drinking water hose, which is typically white or blue, and should only be used for drinking water. You'll also want to install a pressure regulator and a water filter to ensure the water pressure is safe for your RV's plumbing and to reduce the number of chemicals and contaminants entering your system. Once you've got your equipment ready, simply attach the hose to the city water source and your RV's city water inlet, turn on the water, and check the water pressure at your sinks and shower. Now you're all set to enjoy the comforts of running water during your camping trip!

Finding a hose that is safe for drinking water

When hooking up a camper to city water, it is important to find a hose that is safe for drinking water. This is often referred to as a potable water hose. The hose length will determine how close your camper needs to be parked to the water source. Most campsite spigots are located next to electric and sewer connections, so a 50-foot water hose is a good starting point.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a drinking water hose. Firstly, check that the hose meets the required safety standards for drinking water. Many hoses, especially those made before 2014, do not meet these standards and can contain lead or be made from materials that leach chemicals into the water, particularly when exposed to heat from the sun. Look for hoses that are NSF/ANSI 61 or NSF/ANSI 372 certified, which means they have been independently tested and meet the safety standards for lead-free potable water. These hoses will usually carry the NSF logo and applicable certification numbers on the product and packaging.

Secondly, consider the environmental conditions the hose will be used in. Hoses that are left lying on the ground outside are susceptible to bacteria and insects. It is recommended to store your hose away when not in use and to run water through it before drinking.

Finally, choose a hose that is compatible with your camper's water connection. The city water connection on your camper is typically located on the driver's side exterior wall and is a threaded connection that requires a potable water hose with the correct fittings.

By selecting a hose that meets safety standards, taking into account environmental factors, and ensuring compatibility with your camper's water connection, you can ensure a safe and reliable water supply for your camping trip.

Installing a pressure regulator

Water pressure regulators are essential for maintaining the integrity of your RV's internal plumbing. They reduce water pressure to a safe level, preventing damage to hose fittings and pipes, and minimising the risk of expensive leaks.

The best place to install a pressure regulator is between your water source and your hose. This will ensure that the water pressure entering your RV remains at a safe level, typically around 40 to 60 psi.

To install a pressure regulator, simply screw the female end of the regulator onto the water spigot or tap, and then attach your hose to the male end. The regulator will have a threaded connection, and you should be able to screw it on by hand. Make sure that the regulator is tight and secure before turning on the water supply.

If you are using a filter as well as a pressure regulator, you can attach the regulator to the male end of the filter before connecting it to the water source. This will ensure that the water entering your RV is not only at a safe pressure but also free of contaminants and sediment.

Once you have installed the pressure regulator and connected the hose, go inside and partially open one of the faucets in your kitchen sink. This will help to reduce any issues with excessive water pressure in case the pressure regulator malfunctions.

Installing an inline filter

Installing an inline water filter to your camper's city water inlet is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

First, purchase an inline water filter designed for RV use. These filters are available at RV stores or online and typically come with the necessary fittings for installation. Make sure to get a filter with a male and female end, so it can be easily screwed onto your water hose and the city water connection.

Next, locate your city water inlet on the driver's side exterior wall of your RV. This is usually a threaded connection. Before screwing in the filter, ensure that the water source is turned off to prevent any accidental leaks or spills.

Now, take the inline filter and screw the male end onto the city water connection. You may need to use a wrench or pliers to tighten it securely, but be careful not to overtighten and damage the threads.

Once the filter is attached to the city water connection, screw the female end of the filter onto your potable water hose. Again, ensure that the connection is tight and secure to prevent leaks.

After the filter is installed, turn on the water source and check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, your inline filter is now ready to use and will provide clean and safe drinking water for your RV.

It is recommended to flush the filter extensively before using it for the first time to get rid of any loose charcoal inside. Additionally, regular maintenance and replacement of the filter cartridge are crucial to ensure optimal performance and water quality. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for guidance on filter replacement intervals.

Connecting the hose to the camper

Now that you have the right water hose, it's time to connect it to your camper. This process is fairly straightforward and will ensure you have access to clean water during your trip.

First, attach a water pressure regulator to one end of the hose to protect your water line from too much pressure. The water pressure from city sources can vary dramatically, and without a regulator, you risk damaged hose fittings or cracked pipes. You can also install an inline water filter at this stage to reduce the number of chemicals and contaminants that enter your RV's plumbing.

Next, connect the other side of the pressure regulator to the campground water supply hookup, so the hose is attached to the spigot. Be sure to check that the water source is compatible with your RV's internal electrical system.

Now, connect the other end of the water hose to the RV city water hookup. This is usually located on the driver's side exterior wall and will be labelled. You can use a 90-degree connector or a flexible hose fitting to prevent the weight of the hose from damaging the inlet and causing leaks.

Finally, turn on the water. Go inside and check all your faucets for adequate water pressure, and make sure water isn't dripping from the connection points at either end of your water hose outside. If it is, shut the water off and check the O-rings on your hose and water pressure regulator.

Turning on the water

• Find a hose that is drinking water-safe, often referred to as a potable water hose. The length of the hose will tell you how close you need to park to the water source. Most campsite spigots are next to the electric and sewer connections. A 50-foot water hose is a good starting point because it's better to have a little extra hose than to come up short.
• Install a pressure regulator to reduce water pressure to a safe level for your RV's internal plumbing. The best place to install one is between your water source and your hose.
• Install an inline filter to your city water inlet to filter your drinking water.
• Connect one end of the hose to the campground's water supply hookup.
• Connect the other end of the hose to your RV's city water inlet.

Once you have completed these steps, you are ready to turn on the water.

To turn on the water, simply lift the lever or turn the knob at the spigot. Once the water is on, check the water pressure at the sinks and shower and adjust as needed. If you want hot water, turn on your RV water heater.

It is important to note that if you are connecting to a well, you should not fill your RV tank directly from the well, as this can damage the well pump. Instead, fill your RV tank every few days or set up a proper well system. Additionally, if you are in an area with hard water, you may need to do periodic flushes to decalcify your system.

If you notice any leaks after turning on the water, shut off the water and check the O-rings on your hose and water pressure regulator. Ensure that they are present and in good condition to prevent leaks.

Frequently asked questions