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the2sharps's avatar
the2sharps
Explorer
Jul 17, 2017

Control city water supply with 12v water valve

When we leave our RV at a FHU campground to go sightseeing, shopping, etc., I try to remember to turn off the city water supply at the pedestal. To make this process a little simpler, I am considering plumbing a normally closed 12v solenoid water valve in the wet bay to turn on and off the city water supply controlled by an illuminated toggle switch located by the entrance door. I found one mention of installing a 12v water valve on another RV forum but can't find if anyone has done this. Any thoughts on the up-side or down-side of this idea.

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  • GordonThree's avatar
    GordonThree
    Explorer
    Jul 17, 2017
    Hows about this idea? Use a garden sprinkler timer. They're already setup to attach with garden hose type fittings and already contain the right kind of valve. Time for a shower or washing dishes or laundry set the timer for a few hours and done. No need to remember to turn it off, or work with any wiring.

    Other than that, lawn sprinkler diaphragm valves are rated for 24 volts AC but work just fine with 12 volts DC. Get a 3/4" valve and some NPT to garden hose fittings and then wire the switch up wherever. Although not specifically advertised as drinking water safe, I don't see anything inside a sprinkler valve that would be toxic. The body is PVC and the diaphragm is neoprene.

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