Increasing Water Capacity: Tips For Campers And Rvs

Increasing the water capacity of your camper or RV is essential if you want to extend your time spent boondocking or camping in remote locations without running out of water. Here are some ways to increase your water capacity and ensure a more enjoyable camping experience.

Install a water pressure regulator

Increasing the water capacity of your camper is a great way to ensure you have a steady and reliable water supply during your camping trips. One of the most effective ways to do this is by installing a water pressure regulator. This device helps control and stabilise water flow, preventing damage to your plumbing system from high water pressure. Here is a comprehensive guide on installing a water pressure regulator in your camper.

Water pressure in campgrounds can vary, and while low pressure may be inconvenient, high pressure can cause significant damage to your RV's plumbing system. A water pressure regulator is an essential tool that helps regulate the water pressure going into your camper, keeping it at a safe level. This small but important device acts as a barrier, reducing the water pressure to a safe level before it enters your RV, thereby protecting your pipes, fittings, and appliances.

Types of Water Pressure Regulators

There are three main types of water pressure regulators suitable for RVs:

• Single-stage: These are the most common type, featuring one pressure reduction stage, typically adjustable, and sufficient for most RVs.
• Preset: Preset regulators come set to a specific output pressure, usually 40-45 psi, offering simplicity but less flexibility.
• Dual-stage: Dual-stage regulators offer finer control and greater stability with two stages of pressure reduction but are heavier, more expensive, and less common in RVs.

Installing the Water Pressure Regulator

The first step is to fasten the regulator directly to the city water supply spigot. Then, attach a water filter to the regulator. Some regulators have a built-in pressure gauge and filter, so you may not need an external filter. After the filter is in place, connect the city water hose (designed for potable water) to the filter, and then attach the other end of the hose to the RV's city water inlet. This setup ensures that the water pressure is regulated and filtered before entering your RV's plumbing system.

Tips and Best Practices

• Use plumber's tape on the threads for a better seal and to prevent leaks.
• If the regulator strains the hose or connections, use a hose protector or an L-shaped elbow to relieve stress and prevent damage.
• Inspect the regulator and connections regularly for any signs of damage or wear.
• Always carry a spare regulator as a precaution.
• Drain the regulator and hoses before freezing temperatures to prevent damage.
• If you have a water pressure gauge, ensure the regulator is fully open and correctly adjusted.
• If you experience low water pressure, check the regulator for debris or sediment, and clean it if necessary.
• If you notice leaks at the connection points, ensure the regulator is properly attached, and check and replace any damaged washers or O-rings.
• If you experience intermittent water pressure, clean the regulator by removing it and flushing it with water.

Use a water filtration system

Water filtration systems are a great way to ensure you have access to clean water when camping. They are particularly useful if you are camping far from civilisation, or if you are unsure of the water quality at your campground.

Camping water filters are designed to eliminate immediate threats that can quickly make you sick, such as microorganisms like protozoa and bacteria. Some filters also remove viruses, heavy metals, chlorine, herbicides, and pesticides.

There are several types of water filtration systems available for campers:

• Hand pump purifiers and filters: These can be compact and handheld, or countertop size. Most are purifiers. Hand pump purifiers are particularly useful for backpackers and those travelling abroad.
• Electric pump purifiers: Rechargeable purifiers draw water from a stream or lake through a hose to your vehicle basecamp with the push of a button.
• Gravity filters and purifiers: Gravity filters look like hanging plastic bags, where water exits the bottom through a filter. They are compact and lightweight, making them great for group camping as they can store and treat lots of water.
• Squeeze systems: These are small filters that attach to a compact bag. They are great for trips where weight and speed are a priority. However, they cannot remove viruses.
• UV purifiers: Treating water with UV light is known as water purification, as it kills off harmful contaminants rather than removing them. UV purifiers are often placed at the point of use (e.g. the faucet).
• Chemical purification: Chemicals like iodine and chlorine dioxide can be used to kill microorganisms, but they usually leave water tasting unpleasant and can be toxic if dosed incorrectly.
• Boiling: Boiling water does not require any special equipment, but it uses a lot of stove fuel and leaves you with hot, dirty water.

When choosing a water filtration system for your camper, consider the following:

• Filter vs purifier: Filters are generally adequate for most camping situations in North America, but if you are concerned about viruses, you may want to opt for a purifier.
• Water source: If you are getting water from a stream or lake, look for a filter with a pre-filter to remove large particulates.
• Capacity: How many people do you need to filter water for?
• Weight and size: Consider how you will be travelling (e.g. car camping, plane, backpacking) and choose a system that fits your space and weight constraints.
• Budget: Filter/purifier systems can range from $10 to $400 or more.
• Speed: How long can you wait for drinkable water?
• Lifespan: Consider how long the unit will last and how much replacement filters will cost.
• Taste: Some filters use secondary activated carbon filters to improve the taste of the water.

Get quality, adequately-sized pipes

The quality and size of the pipes in your camper van's plumbing system are crucial factors in determining the water pressure and flow rate. Undersized or low-quality pipes can lead to low water pressure and frustration during your camping trips. Here are some tips to ensure you get the right pipes for your system:

Understand Pipe Sizing:

Start by calculating your daily water usage and the number of days you want to go between fill-ups. This will help you determine the size of your fresh water tank and, consequently, the pipes you need. Consider activities such as cooking, drinking, washing dishes, and personal hygiene when estimating your water usage.

Choose the Right Pipe Material:

The two most common types of pipes used in camper van plumbing are PEX-A and PEX-B. Both are flexible and suitable for the tight spaces in a van, but there are some key differences:

• PEX-A: PEX-A is more flexible and has a higher burst pressure rating (500 PSI), making it less susceptible to bursting in cold temperatures. It utilizes Uponor (expanding) fittings, which are cheaper than PEX-B fittings. However, the piping and installation tool are more expensive.
• PEX-B: PEX-B is a more rigid material and uses Push-to-Connect fittings, which are pricier than PEX-A fittings. It is more susceptible to bursting in cold temperatures due to its joining method, which causes a downsizing of pipe diameter. PEX-B is generally cheaper and easier to find than PEX-A.

Ensure Proper Installation:

When installing your pipes, pay attention to the type of threads on each component to avoid leaks. Use Teflon tape on all threaded connections to ensure watertight seals. Consider using PEX expansion rings and fittings for secure and leak-free connections. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the expansion tool to ensure proper pipe expansion.

Optimize Pipe Routing:

Try to route your plumbing lines on one side of the camper van. Crossing pipes over the ceiling or across the van can be challenging to hide and may require more effort from the water pump. If you have a fixed bed, you can route the pipes underneath, but this will reduce storage space.

Include Shut-Off Valves:

Install shut-off ball valves at various points in your plumbing system. At a minimum, have a main system shut-off valve before the pump. Additional shut-off valves before and after potential points of failure will make it easier to isolate and repair leaks without dumping all your water.

By following these tips and choosing quality, adequately-sized pipes, you can ensure a reliable and efficient water system in your camper van, making your camping experiences more enjoyable and comfortable.

Monitor tank levels

Monitoring your tank levels is crucial when it comes to increasing camper water capacity and ensuring you don't run out of water. Here are some detailed tips to help you effectively monitor your tank levels:

Firstly, it's important to understand the rate at which water is being consumed. This will help you estimate how long your water supply will last. The average RV showerhead, for example, uses approximately 2.5 gallons of water per minute, while an RV sink uses around 2.2 gallons per minute. By calculating the water usage per activity, you can get a sense of how long your water will last.

Next, be diligent about checking your tank levels regularly. Before taking a shower or filling your sink, for instance, check the levels to ensure you have enough water. This proactive approach will help you avoid unexpected shortages. Additionally, pay attention to any built-in tank monitoring systems your camper may have, although these may not always be entirely accurate.

Another way to monitor your water usage is to keep track of how much fresh water you've used. This will give you a good indication of how much water is left in your tank and when it's time to empty the greywater tank. The greywater tank, which collects water from the kitchen sink and shower, tends to fill up faster than the freshwater tank, so regular monitoring is essential.

Furthermore, consider creating a water usage guide specifically for your camper. This guide can outline the number of days your current water capacity can last based on the number of people on board and their water conservation efforts. Such a guide will help you plan your trips more effectively and ensure you don't run out of water.

Lastly, always be mindful of water conservation. Simple actions like turning off the water while brushing your teeth or washing your hands can make a significant difference. Additionally, consider using buckets to collect shower water or greywater from the sink, which can then be reused to flush the toilet, helping to conserve your freshwater supply.

Use a collapsible water bladder

If you're camping in a remote location or a primitive campground without a water connection, a collapsible water bladder can be a convenient and effective way to ensure you don't run out of water. Water bladders are collapsible bags that come in varying sizes and materials and are great for RVers who frequently find themselves without a water connection at their campsite.

Water bladders can be compact when stored but take up a generous amount of space when in use. You'll need ample room in the bed of your truck to hold the bladder as you transport it from the water source to your RV.

Choose the Right Size and Material

Water bladders come in a variety of sizes, from one-gallon personal water bladders to 300-gallon bladders for RVs. Consider how much water you need and how much weight you and your RV can carry. Water bladders are typically made of durable materials such as food-grade plastic, nylon, or polyurethane. Look for a bladder with a food-grade inner liner if you intend to drink or cook with the water.

Filling Up Your Water Bladder

You can fill your water bladder from a water source, such as a lake or river, or from a water supply at a campground. Some water bladders have standard garden hose connections for easy filling, while others have wide openings that can be filled from a faucet or hose. If you're filling your bladder from a natural water source, be sure to follow local guidelines for collecting and treating water.

Transferring Water to Your RV

Once your water bladder is full, you can transfer the water to your RV in several ways:

• Gravity: If your water bladder is higher than your RV's water intake, you can use gravity to feed the water into your RV. You'll need a drinking-water-safe hose to connect the bladder to your RV's water intake.
• Drill Pump: If gravity is not an option, you can use a small drill pump with a cordless drill to transfer the water. This method is best for smaller bladders, as it may be slow and have limited battery power.
• Transfer Pump: For larger volumes of water, you can use a transfer pump with a high flow rate and the appropriate fittings.
• Spare Fresh Water Pump: For the DIY crowd, you can use a spare RV fresh water pump with adapted hoses or fittings.

Storing and Transporting Your Water Bladder

When not in use, water bladders are collapsible, lightweight, and easy to store. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for securing and transporting your water bladder. Some bladders may need to be secured tightly to prevent the weight from shifting during transport and to avoid punctures from sharp objects.

Frequently asked questions