Water is essential for comfort and convenience when travelling in your caravan, campervan, or motorhome. Whether you need fresh water for cooking, cleaning, or showering, having a reliable onboard water system transforms your vehicle into a true home away from home. In this guide, you’ll learn how water systems work in leisure vehicles, how to select components, how to maintain them, and tips to keep your set-up efficient and hygienic.
Understanding Water Systems in Leisure Vehicles
A typical campervan or motorhome water system consists of a fresh water tank, a water pump, piping, various taps or outlets, and a waste water (grey water) tank. The fresh water tank stores clean water, the pump delivers it to taps or showers, and the grey water tank collects wastewater from sinks and showers.
There are two main types of water systems: pressure systems (where the pump activates when you open a tap) and manual systems (using a hand or foot pump). Electrical pumps are the most common and provide ease of use, consistent flow, and support for multiple outlets.
How Campervan Water Systems Work
When you turn on a tap, the pump draws water from the fresh tank and delivers it through the pipework. Most systems use 12V submersible pumps or diaphragm pumps. Submersible pumps sit inside the tank and are efficient for smaller systems. Diaphragm pumps are mounted externally and offer reliable pressure control for larger setups. After usage, wastewater is directed to the grey water tank.
Many vehicles use specialised water pumps like the popular truma water pump, which ensures steady pressure and flow. These pumps switch on and off automatically, depending on demand, reducing wear and conserving power.
Choosing the Right Water Pump Size
Selecting the correct water pump size depends on your water usage and vehicle’s capacity. Small vans with a single tap may only need a basic pump delivering around 7-10 litres per minute. Larger motorhomes with showers and multiple taps often require a stronger unit, around 11-15 litres per minute, to maintain adequate flow.
Always check your water system’s maximum pressure rating, as exceeding this can damage pipes or fittings. Compatibility with your tank and outlets is key, so consult your vehicle’s specifications or reach out to your trusted supplier for advice before purchasing.
Signs Your Camper Water Pump Needs Replacing
A faulty water pump can quickly disrupt your travels. Look for these symptoms:
Unusual noise or vibration when operating the pump
Reduced water pressure or inconsistent flow
Frequent cycling (the pump starts and stops rapidly)
Water leaks near the pump or fittings
The pump fails to turn on despite power being present
If you notice any of these issues, inspect filters and wiring first. If problems persist, a replacement may be necessary. Choosing reliable caravan water pumps ensures longevity and less hassle on the road.
Water Tank Capacity: Getting It Right
Water tank size will dictate how self-sufficient you can be. For solo travellers or couples, a tank holding 20-30 litres is often sufficient for brief trips. Families or extended travel may require 60 litres or more. Remember, fresh and waste water tanks should be similar in capacity to avoid overflow.
Consider your intended usage: Do you plan on wild camping away from facilities, or staying at serviced pitches? More remote trips necessitate larger tanks and efficient use.
To find your ideal setup, factor in daily water use per person (typically 10-15 litres for essential needs). Don’t forget the weight; filling a large tank significantly adds to your payload.
How to Fill Your Campervan with Water
There are several ways to get fresh water onboard:
Use a hose at campsites with potable water points, taking care to use clean, food-grade hoses.
Refill using portable water containers to transfer water into the tank.
Some vans use removable tank canisters for fuss-free carrying and refilling.
Before use, always flush and sanitise your tanks according to manufacturer guidelines to ensure drinking water remains safe. It’s a good practice to periodically clean the system with approved solutions to remove any biological build-up.
The Importance of Grey Water Tanks
Grey water tanks collect wastewater from sinks and showers, separating it from your fresh water supply. This prevents dirty water from being dumped on the ground, supporting environmental responsibility and adhering to campsite regulations. Always dispose of grey water only at designated points.
Caravans and motorhomes are typically fitted with grey water tanks as standard. If your vehicle doesn’t have one, portable or retrofitted waste tanks are widely available.
Maintaining and Improving Your Water System
Regular inspection and cleaning aid in the prevention of odours, blockages, or system malfunction. A thorough flush at the beginning and end of each season helps keep the system hygienic. Check for leaks, especially around connections, pumps, and tanks, and tighten or replace fittings as needed.
Replace filters and check pump operation before each trip. If your water system shares plumbing with a hot water heater, ensure it’s maintained according to the appliance’s requirements.
To find compatible parts, taps, tanks, and accessories for your water system, browse dedicated suppliers offering a wide range of caravan accessories.
Tips to Enhance Your Caravan’s Appearance
A tidy, well-designed water system contributes to your caravan’s overall style. Concealing pipework where possible, fitting coordinated fixtures, or updating sinks and taps enhances aesthetics and usability.
Beyond the water system, consider adding awnings, lighting, and purposeful storage. Products such as caravan awnings make outdoor spaces more inviting and practical, helping your vehicle look modern and welcoming.
Key Takeaways
Understanding your caravan or motorhome’s water system helps you travel in comfort and confidence. Select the right components for your needs, maintain your tanks and pumps, and practise good hygiene for safe, enjoyable journeys. If you need parts or expert advice on caravan water pumps, choosing the correct water tank, or upgrading any accessories, reliable suppliers like UK RV Parts can support your adventure.
Safe travels and happy touring!