Forum Discussion

Explorer

Nov 13, 2019

Water line burst

We never use those little brass water pressure regulators. They cut to water flow too much. Been RVing for 20 years and never had a problem. This week when I hooked up, I noticed that we had "really good pressure", but I didn't give it a second thought.

When we got back to the RV today, there was no water. Checked the valve and found that (a) someone had turned off our water, and (b) water was pouring out of the RV's water bay once we turned the water back on. So...no water.

The upside is that the break appears to be in the water bay, so with any luck there is no water damage. But, finding and fixing the break could be a challenge. We can still get "emergency water" by running the pump, but half the water dumps out into the water bay while the pump is running. We will be home in a few days and can do the repairs then.

Going forward, what is the best option:

a) Continue without the regulator and pay more attention when pressure is high. After all, it worked for 20 years.

b) Fill the tank with campground water and then only use the water pump. I hate putting "strange" water into the fresh water tank.

c) Use the regulator/campground water for most things and then boost the pressure with the pump when taking showers.

What are your thoughts on this?

Paul

DFord
Explorer
Nov 13, 2019
I've been RVing for almost 50 years. ALWAYS USED A REGULATOR (unless the campground's water trickled out of the hose). Never had any problems with my pipes. I use a "whole house" Watts regulator adapted for garden hose (male/female) set at 50-60psi. I never had any luck with the cheapo regulators that screw on your hose although others I know seem to have no problem with them. I know the larger regulator like I use work 100% of the time and allow full flow - no problem taking showers.

Available at Home Depot and Lowes.
otrfun
Explorer II
Nov 13, 2019
You've been very lucky. Many of the RV parks we visit have extremely high water pressure. We never hook-up without a water regulator.

I'd suggest always using a water regulator. You should consider shopping for a better showerhead. There are a number of aftermarket showerheads that work well with low water pressure.
Dick_B
Explorer
Nov 13, 2019
We pump filtered water into the tank and only use the pump.
Another good reason to always shut off the campground water when leaving the rig for any length of time.
rk911
Explorer
Nov 13, 2019
b works but if that makes you uncomfortable then suggest you look at a Watt's adjustable pressure regulator. we have model 263A built-in in our wet bay. spring for the oil filled stainless model.