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How Long Should I Keep Fresh Water In My RV Tank?

How Long Should I Keep Fresh Water In My RV Tank

Key Takeaways
● Keeping fresh water in your RV tank can give you various benefits, such as minimizing waste, saving money, and ensuring a safe and healthy living space.
● Regularly check and maintain the RV’s fresh water system to ensure a continuous supply of safe drinking water.
● Purifying or filtering the RV’s fresh water supply will help keep it clean and safe to drink during extended stays.

Owning an RV is a great way to travel and see the country. However, following proper maintenance procedures is essential to keep your RV in good condition. But how long should you keep fresh water in your RV tank?

The answer to this question varies depending on your RV’s water tank size. Generally, you should keep fresh water in the tank for no more than 2 weeks. 

You may be able to stretch it out longer if the temperature is cooler and you aren’t using as much water.

This blog post will provide additional information and helpful tips on answering that question, so keep reading!

Understanding The Need To Keep Fresh Water In Your RV

Understanding The Need To Keep Fresh Water In Your RV

Keeping fresh water in your RV tank is essential for maintaining a safe and clean environment. To better understand why it is important to keep fresh water in the tank, let’s look at some of its benefits.

Health Benefits

Having clean and fresh water in your RV fresh water tank is essential for maintaining a healthy environment

Having adequate fresh water will help ensure proper sanitation, minimize disease risk, and reduce the chances of contamination.

Additionally, regular water supply maintenance will help PREVENT bacteria from growing and spreading in the tank.

Cost Savings

Keeping fresh water in your RV fresh water tank can also save money by reducing waste.

Regularly replacing old water with new prevents contaminants from building up and reduces the need for EXPENSIVE repairs or replacements. Additionally, not purchasing bottled drinking water can significantly reduce expenses over time.

Convenience

Having a clean and fresh water supply will also help provide greater convenience. 

Not having to worry about the safety of your drinking water will make it easier to enjoy your RVing adventures and not have to STOCK up on bottled water constantly.

Minimizes Waste

Regularly replacing the water in your RV freshwater tank will also help minimize waste. Not regularly replacing water bottles eliminates the need for additional packaging and containers, thereby REDUCING your carbon footprint [1].

Additionally, you’ll be able to use less energy to heat up or cool down freshwater tanks, resulting in fewer resources being used overall.

Pro Tip: Use an inline water filter to ensure your freshwater tank is clean and free of contaminants.

What To Look Out For When Storing Water In Your Rv Tank

What To Look Out For When Storing Water In Your Rv Tank

When storing fresh water in your RV fresh water tank, you must watch out for potential problems. These issues could include the following:

Bacterial Growth

Bacteria can easily GROW in standing water, so it’s important to keep the freshwater levels low and regularly replace the water. If you notice any changes in the color or smell of the water, it’s best to replace it with a new supply.

Contamination From Outside Sources

It’s also essential to ensure that your fresh water in RV is connected to a clean and safe source of drinking water. Cross-contamination from outside sources can occur if connections are NOT properly maintained or inspected regularly.

Algae And Sediment Buildup

Storing water in your RV tank for an extended period can lead to the buildup of algae and sediment. They can come from the natural environment or from the storage tank itself.

These elements can cause CONTAMINANTS to enter the drinking water, making it unsafe for consumption.

Corrosion Of The Tank Itself

Storing water in your RV tank for an extended period can also lead to corrosion. Corrosion occurs when the metal components of the tank start to rust due to oxidation.

This process can weaken the structure and integrity of the tank, leading to LEAKS and other damage.

Stagnation

Stagnation can occur when water is stored in your RV’s fresh water tank for an extended period. This happens because NO constant flow of fresh water enters and leaves the freshwater tank, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the water.

As a result, bacteria and other microorganisms can start to grow and spread, resulting in unpleasant odors or even contamination.

How Long Can You Store Fresh Water In An Rv?

How Long Can You Store Fresh Water In An Rv

Generally speaking, you should aim to keep the water in your RV fresh water tank for no longer than 2 weeks at a time. After this point, replacing it with a NEW drinking water supply is best.

However, if you are using bottled or filtered water, it can be kept in your RV’s tank for up to 8 weeks before needing to be replaced.

It’s important to regularly inspect the water and ensure that it remains fresh and clean throughout this time. This can be done by smelling, tasting or testing the water on a regular basis.

Factors That Affect How Long Water Can Be Stored In An Rv

Factors That Affect How Long Water Can Be Stored In An Rv

The amount of time you can store fresh water in your RV tank depends on several FACTORS, such as the size of the fresh water tank, where it’s located, and how often you use it.

Take a look at each of these factors and how they affect how long water can be stored in an RV:

Tank Size

The size of the fresh water tank plays a vital role in determining how long water can be stored. Smaller tanks will require more FREQUENT replacements, while larger tanks have a higher capacity and can store water for extended periods.

Location Of The Tank

The fresh water tank‘s location also determines how long water can be stored. The grey water tank located outside is at a GREATER risk of contamination from natural elements like dirt, leaves, or even wild animals.

For this reason, RV owners should ensure that their tanks are positioned in an area PROTECTED from potential contaminants if they want to store fresh water for extended periods.

Usage Frequency

The frequency of usage also affects how long water can be stored in an RV fresh water tank. If the tank is used more OFTEN, it must be cleaned and replaced more often.

Water Source Quality

The quality of the water source from which you draw your drinking water is also IMPORTANT in determining how long it can be stored.

If you draw your water from an unreliable or contaminated source, it’s best to REPLACE it more regularly than using a reliable and safe source.

External Temperature

Finally, the external temperature can also affect how long water can be stored in a fresh water tank. In hot climates, the water can evaporate more QUICKLY and become contaminated faster than in cooler climates [2].

It’s best to replace the water in your RV’s fresh water tank more frequently if you live in a hotter climate.

Pro Tip: Check your local weather forecast before filling your RV freshwater tank to plan for potential temperature changes.

Tips For Keeping Your RV’s Water Supply Clean And Safe

Tips For Keeping Your RV’s Water Supply Clean And Safe

Keeping your RV’s water supply clean and safe is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. Here are some tips to help you keep your water clean and secure:

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Regularly inspect your RV’s freshwater tanks and pipes to ensure that there are no SIGNS of contamination or signs of wear and tear. If any damage is detected, it’s best to contact a professional for repair services.

Use Purification Systems

Installing purification systems that use ultraviolet light or filtration can help REDUCE contaminants in the water supply. This will ensure clean, safe drinking water while living in your RV.

Replace Water Regularly

Storing fresh water in a freshwater tank should be limited to 2 weeks maximum, as mentioned above. Make sure to replace the water REGULARLY so you can always have a safe source of drinking water.

Store Water Away From Contaminants

Make sure to store your RV water tank in an area AWAY from contaminants like dirt, leaves, and other debris. This will help keep the water supply clean and safe for extended periods.

Monitor Temperature

In hot climates, it’s important to MONITOR the external temperature regularly, as this can affect how quickly the water evaporates or becomes contaminated. 

If necessary, replace the water more often to maintain a clean and safe environment inside your RV.

Pro Tip: Try to find a water source regularly tested and monitored for contaminants, such as a municipal water supply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Can I Find The Best Water Source For My RV?

The best water source for your RV will depend on your location and the quality of available sources. It’s best to research and find a reliable, safe, and tested source near you.

Generally, it’s recommended to use municipal water sources for RV tanks, as these are regularly tested and monitored for contaminants.

Do I Need To Clean The Tank Before Refilling It?

Yes, clean your water in RV tank before refilling it with a new water supply. This will help reduce contaminants and ensure that your RV has a safe and healthy drinking water source.

What Signs Should I Look For When Checking For Contamination?

When checking for contamination in your RV tank, you should look for signs of discoloration or an odor. 

Additionally, if the water tastes different from what it usually does, it may indicate contamination, and you should replace it immediately.

Are There Any Health Risks Associated With Drinking Contaminated Water?

Yes, there are several potential health risks associated with drinking contaminated water. These include gastrointestinal illnesses, skin rashes, and other infections. 

Therefore, it’s essential to regularly check for contamination and replace the water in your RV tank as necessary.

Conclusion

Conclusion

Proper maintenance of your RV’s water supply is essential for maintaining a safe and clean environment. Knowing how long to keep fresh water in the RV’s tank will help minimize waste, save money, and ensure a safe and healthy living space.

If you are unsure about the quality of your RV’s water supply, you can always contact a professional for advice and assistance. And remember to inspect regularly, clean, and replace the water in your RV’s tank so you can always have a safe source of drinking water.

It’s easy to keep your water fresh and safe with a few simple steps. Following these tips can ensure a healthy and clean environment while living in your RV.

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Picture of Lisa Hayden-Matthews

Lisa Hayden-Matthews

An avid Skier, bike rider, triathlon enthusiast, amateurish beach volleyball player and nature lover who has never lost a dare! I manage the overall Editorial section for the magazine here and occasionally chip in with my own nature photographs, when required.
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