Fresh Water Hookups - The Basics
We at RV Supply Canada like things easy, as the sooner you're up and running, the sooner you can enjoy life. Today, we're going to keep things simple and just talk about RV Fresh Water Hookups.
What you actually need
The Basics are pretty simple, but let's be extra clear here. While you need a hose to connect to city water (what we call a pressurized water faucet, whether at home or a campground), you do need a very specific type of hose, a garden hose will not do.
Fresh drinking water hoses are special, in that they do not have carcinogenic chemical compounds that will break down from the materials in typical garden hoses. Typically you will find these special fresh water hoses in white or blue, and they will always be labeled as drinking water hoses.
A pressure regulator is required to prevent excess water pressure from damaging your RV plumbing, in the event of consistent or sudden high water pressure from the city water connection. Most basic models are perfectly fine and are pre set between 30 and 45 PSI depending on the model. Simply connect your pressure regulator to the city water faucet, and then connect your drinking water hose between your pressure regulator and your RV city water port.
Upgrades to Consider
Additional fresh water hoses are great to have, as campgrounds place their services an all kinds of random places. I personally have three 25' fresh water hoses, and I've used all three many times! You really don't want to pay for a hose at the campground with campground prices when you find yourself short.
Adjustable pressure regulators allow you to dial in the exact water pressure you want. We all know that RV shower pressure can be an issue (Sure you can go with Oxygenics for low water pressure), but we're usually safe to use up to 50 PSI of water pressure. Adjustable regulators give you the best of both worlds, and include a gauge to help you see exactly what pressure you get.
In-line water filters allow you keep contaminates, chlorine, and solids from entering your water system. Replacement filters are generally very cost effective, and do ensure you have the best possible drinking water while protecting your plumbing from debris which get caught at the filter instead. In my personal experience, a water filter means I don't have to haul and use 5 Gallon water jugs to avoid sometimes terrible tasting (and smelling) rural water sources that may have high sulphur content. Nobody likes coffee that smells like rotten eggs!
Pro Tips From Experience
- Always leave your pressure regulator on the end of your drinking water hose, as this will ensure it's always attached and able to protect your system.
- When packing up camp, simply wind up each fresh water hose, and screw one end into the other (or into the attached pressure regulator!). This will ensure your water lines remain clean and sealed until you need to use it next.
That's it, and I hope it better helped you understand what you actually need, what to consider, and some bonus helpful advice from us at the RV Supply Canada team!