There are two standard water supply line sizes used in most RVs. One size is 3/8ths and the other is 1/2 inch. Both work well and you may see both sizes in one RV. Or you may be told you need 3/8ths but the line you are replacing is 1/2 inch size.
Are there water lines in an RV?
There are a series of waterlines in an RV and ensuring quality tubing is recommended. Photo courtesy TG Twinkie, airforums.com member In many cases, a break or leak in an RV water supply line is often a literal snap to repair.
What kind of pipe do you use for RV water lines?
RV Plastic Water Lines Modern RVs use PEX pipe or PEX tubing. It is cheaper and easier to install than metal tubing. PEX tubing comes in all colors, but red tubes are normally used for hot water, and blue ones for cold water.
Does an RV park need a 6 inch sewer line?
RV parks are not standard plumbing systems. Some one told them they need a 6" sewer. I just want some helpful advice. I cruised some of the posts here. Many of the answers were just plain wrong. Amateurs should not give advice if they don't know what they are talking about.
How many water tanks are in an RV?
There are three tanks in an RV; four if you count the water heater. One is for fresh water. The other two tanks store contaminated waters until you can release them into the city sewer system. The dirty water tanks are called grey water and black water, and we will talk about those further below.
What size is the water supply line in an RV?
Most water pipes in your RV are going to be 1/2 inch diameter, but hoses come in a variety of sizes including 7/16ths, 1/2 inch, and 5/8ths. The most common hose diameter is 5/8″ and this should be plenty for your RVs.
What type of water lines are used in RVs?
There are two types of water lines: RV copper line, these are usually found in older model vehicles. RV plastic line, which is the material of choice for modern vehicles. (PEX as discussed above)
What is the standard size for water lines?
The most common pipe diameter for water mains is 6 to 16 inches, with 8, 10, and 12 inches also being used. Branch lines providing service to individual homes, offices, buildings, and businesses vary in size from as small as half an inch in diameter up to 6 inches.
Is RV PEX the same as house PEX?
Is RV PEX the Same as House PEX? Yes, it is. The PEX used in an RV is “basic” PEX.
Can you use PEX in a camper?
Pex tubing is lightweight, but durable to withstand the pressurized water coming into the RV unit. If you have an older RV with the old water line system, you can easily replace the water lines using Pex tubing.
How do you replace RV water lines?
0:5312:15RV Water Line Repair Procedure - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOkay you can cut that out and add new pex line to it using connectors and uh or couplers. And coupleMoreOkay you can cut that out and add new pex line to it using connectors and uh or couplers. And couple the two pieces.
How do I know what size pipe I have?
How to Check the Diameter of a Metal PipeDirect Diameter measurement is the easiest. Measure at the end of the pipe. ... Direct Diameter measurement with a caliper (useful if the end is not accessible) 1 1/2″ pipe.Measure circumference using a flexible tape and divide the outside circumference by 3.1415.
What size is faucet supply line?
A standard residential faucet supply line has a 3/8-inch compression fitting on one end and a 1/2-inch female NPT fitting on the other.
What size is cold water pipe?
If you also check commercial kitchen sink product data, you will also find that the typical connection size is 1/2” for both cold and hot water. For the individual fixture piping, you should use a 1/2” pipe but for the H-I, you should use a 3/4” pipe.
What size PEX tubing is used in RVs?
In RVs, manufacturers typically use translucent non-colored PEX for all plumbing runs. Further, two sizes are used, 3/8-inch and ½-inch. These are the standard size because the outside diameter of the tubing is about 1/8-inch greater than the called-for size. Also, PEX is inexpensive.
What size is RV drain pipe?
3 inchesThe standard drainpipe size for most RVs is 3 inches. However, older RVs sometimes have different drainpipe sizes. Since sewer hoses are designed to fit 3-inch drainpipes, an adapter may be needed for the hose to work with an older RV with a drain size other than 3 inches.
What is the most common PEX size?
For indoor plumbing, the most common PEX tubing is one half-inch, which boasts a higher flow rate than copper pipe of the same size. For outdoor applications, “sleeved” versions of non-oxygen barrier PEX are readily available.
What is PEX in RV water supply?
They are not buried inside walls and are usually accessible for easy repair. PEX stands for cross-linked polyethylene. Typically, this pipe is connected using a special tool ...
What color PEX tubing is used in RVs?
PEX tubing in homes is color-coded for hot and cold. In RVs, manufacturers typically use translucent non-colored PEX for all plumbing runs.
How much does a 3/8 inch coupler cost?
Quick-Connect fittings: Made by Watts, these are a little more costly. A 3/8-inch coupler for joining two pieces of tubing is around $4.00. Using these fittings in a cramped area is much easier.
What material can Watts plumbing be attached to?
Additionally, the Watts fittings allow you to attach to a host of other plumbing materials, including copper and CPVC. What’s more is the quick-connect fittings and the plastic compression fittings will connect directly to polybutylene tubing.
Is PEX tubing safe for hot water?
Additionally, PEX is ideal for both cold and hot water (some up to 200 degrees) plumbing. Typically, the rating is on the tubing itself. Chlorinated water is not an issue in terms of tubing or health safety.
What are RV water lines?
RV water lines have changed over the years. Older style RV water lines used to be a hard plastic with a lot of metal elbows and crimp ends. These lines were very susceptible to freezing and would have leaks caused by vibrations from driving on the highway. Newer generations are starting to use plastic pipes with a more user-friendly style featuring ...
Can you cut off plastic water lines in RV?
Newer plastic RV water lines are easy to work with. You can easily select the lengths of tubing you need and cut off with the proper tool. The flared system makes it easy to slide pipe in using a compression fitting over it. Your new water lines can also be upgraded with different features, such as elbows, Ts and shut off valves.
Can you use Pex tubing in RV water?
With these new Pex tubing you will have the ability to add things to bigger pipes and relocate items throughout your RV’s water system. There are definitely more options available using the newer tubing systems than the older metal and less durable water pipes.
What is the name of the hose used in RV water lines?
The material used for the water supply line is as important as the dimensions. Most RV makers have turned to what is called PEX hoses. This hose is not expensive and it can be used for both cold water and hot water supply.
What size drain pipe do RVs use?
When it comes to sewer and toilet drain pipes in RVs, there is a one size fits all measurement. The standard diameter across the board will be 3 inches. However, this size may not always be the case as RV makers do make alterations for different models of RVs.
What Kind Of Pipe Is Used In RV Plumbing?
Many RV makers used to use ABS piping to conduct the water from the city water line to your toilet. However, over the past 10 years or so, technology has improved on the RV water line and created a better product.
Why do RVs use PEX tubing?
Now, most RV makers use what is called a PEX line because it is lighter than ABS and more flexible. Some RVs may still have the old ABS style of tubing even though they were made in the last 10 years.
How to find compatible hoses?
One of the best ways to find a compatible part would be to take a piece of the old hose with you to a home improvement store and match hoses. Or you can contact Dometic to see which parts they have available or go to a Dometic dealer to get the right part.
Why use a hose line for RV water?
Most RV makers are going to this type of hose line because it cuts down on the overall weight of the RV. You can use any material for your water supply line but watch the weight of that material.
How big should RV toilets be?
Most RV toilets should have 3 to 4-inch toilet fitting sizes. It is hard to be accurate as different RV makers use different-sized fittings. While there are some standard sizes, the size of your RV may alter the size of the fitting.
How many holding tanks are needed for RV water?
If your water pump doesn’t sense a lack of pressure in the pipes, it won’t try to pump the water. An RV isn’t tied directly into the city plumbing, so a few holding tanks are required. There are three tanks in an RV; four if you count the water heater. One is for fresh water. The other two tanks store contaminated waters ...
What is the grey tank on a RV?
When you clean the dishes, wash your hands, or take a shower, the grey tank is where the dirty water goes. The black tank holds all of the toilet water and its accompanying human waste. The grey and black tanks come equipped with vents that extend out of the roof of the RV. These vents prevent the unpleasant smells from building up and eventually entering back into the RV.
How long does it take for a water heater to warm up in an RV?
An RV’s water heater tank is only 6 to 10 gallons, so it only takes about 5 to 10 minutes for the heating element to warm up the water. For this reason, most recommend that you turn off the water heater when it isn’t needed. It’ll save your battery power and potentially extend a boondocking trip.
What happens if you overfill a water tank?
Fresh Water Overflow: If you overfill the tank, the water will pour out of the overflow pipe at the top of the tank. Water Drains: When you need to winterize the pipes, you will use these to drain the water from the tanks. The fresh, grey, and black tanks are all shaped to funnel the water to their lowest points.
What to do if your RV doesn't have a black tank flush?
They are an inexpensive purchase, easy to install, and they can make a day at the dump station a bit easier. While you’re at it, you might want to consider purchasing a Camco product called a Swivel Stik.
How many ways to fill a fresh water tank?
As the name implies, the fresh water tank holds the drinkable (potable) water. There are typically two ways to fill it and three ways to drain it.
How does water get into a water heater?
As water is pushed through the water lines, some of that water is forced into the water heater’s tank. As the water warms, it rises to the top of the tank. When a faucet or shower needs hot water, that water is pulled from the top of that tank and into the hot water lines.
Why do you need extra tubing for RV water lines?
Because it is so easy to replace these water lines, it is recommended to have extra tubing with when traveling. That way, should the line get cracked or damaged you are prepared to replace the damaged section. Pex tubing is lightweight, but durable to withstand the pressurized water coming into the RV unit. If you have an older RV ...
What color is Pex tubing?
Pex tubes come in different colors – red and blue – making it possible to color code different RV water lines. The blue tubes are used for cold water systems and the red is used for hot water systems. Because the Pex tubing is easily installed, you should be able to add additional features to your RV, including extra faucets, a refrigerator with an ice maker, exterior shower and/or a winterizing kit.
Can you replace water lines in an RV?
Pex tubing is lightweight, but durable to withstand the pressurized water coming into the RV unit. If you have an older RV with the old water line system, you can easily replace the water lines using Pex tubing. This will give you better water flow and leave you plenty of opportunities to expand your current water system.
