Introduction
Filling the water tank in an RV is an essential task for any RV owner or traveler. Having a sufficient water supply is crucial for various activities such as cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene while on the road. In this article, we will explore the different methods and steps involved in filling a water tank in an RV.
1. Determine the Water Source
Before filling your RV’s water tank, it is important to identify the water source you will be using. There are typically three options for filling an RV water tank:
1. Campground Water Hookup: Many campgrounds provide water hookups where you can directly connect your RV to a water source using a hose. This is the most convenient and straightforward method for filling your water tank.
2. Portable Water Container: If you are camping in a location without a water hookup, you can fill a portable water container and transfer the water to your RV’s tank using a water pump or gravity feed system.
3. Water Delivery Service: In some cases, you may opt for a water delivery service that can fill your RV’s water tank directly. This is particularly useful if you are staying in a remote area without access to a water source.
2. Prepare the RV
Before filling your RV’s water tank, it is important to ensure that your RV is properly prepared. Follow these steps:
1. Turn Off Water Heater: If your RV has a water heater, make sure to turn it off before filling the tank. This will prevent any damage to the heater element.
2. Check Tank Capacity: Determine the capacity of your RV’s water tank. This information can usually be found in your RV’s owner’s manual. Knowing the tank capacity will help you estimate the amount of water you need to fill.
3. Check Tank Level: Check the current level of water in your RV’s tank. This will help you determine how much water you need to add.
3. Filling the Water Tank
Once you have determined the water source and prepared your RV, you can proceed with filling the water tank. Follow these steps:
1. Connect the Hose: If you are using a campground water hookup, connect a hose to the water source and the other end to your RV’s water inlet. Ensure that the connections are secure.
2. Open the Water Valve: Open the water valve at the campground hookup or turn on the water pump if you are using a portable water container. This will allow water to flow into your RV’s water tank.
3. Monitor the Tank Level: Keep an eye on the tank level as you fill it. Most RVs have a gauge or indicator that shows the tank level. Stop filling once the tank is full or reaches your desired level.
4. Sanitizing the Water System
Regularly sanitizing your RV’s water system is important to ensure the water remains clean and safe for use. Here’s a simple method to sanitize your RV’s water system:
1. Empty the Tank: Start by emptying the water tank completely.
2. Prepare a Sanitizing Solution: Mix a sanitizing solution using a quarter cup of household bleach for every 15 gallons of water your tank holds. For example, if your tank holds 60 gallons, you would mix one cup of bleach with water.
3. Fill the Tank: Fill the tank with the sanitizing solution, ensuring it reaches all parts of the system.
4. Run the Faucets: Turn on all the faucets in your RV, including both hot and cold water, until you smell the bleach. This will ensure the solution reaches all the plumbing lines.
5. Let it Sit: Let the solution sit in the system for at least 12 hours to kill any bacteria or contaminants.
6. Flush the System: After the designated time, drain the tank and flush the entire system with fresh water until the bleach smell disappears.
Conclusion
Filling the water tank in an RV is a straightforward process once you understand the different methods and steps involved. Whether you are using a campground water hookup, a portable water container, or a water delivery service, it is important to ensure your RV is properly prepared and the tank is filled to the desired level. Additionally, regular sanitization of your RV’s water system is crucial for maintaining clean and safe water.
References
– rvshare.com
– camco.net
– rvlife.com
