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Uwanar's avatar
Uwanar
Explorer
Jun 05, 2020

Experience replacing RV fridge drain hose?

Reaching out to see if any other RV DIY types have needed to replace their fridge drain hose multiple times and how long to expect them to last? I read article on the refrigerator faq. Mine is a stock (2015 Keystone w/ Dometic) standard plastic corrugated hose that extends out through the fridge exterior baffle panel like a lot of others. I had to replace my hose 2 seasons ago due to it becoming brittle and cracked and it is already cracking again. Thought it was sunlight UV breakdown but I’ve read online that it is caused by the acidity or pH of the dripping condensate from the fridge. Thinking of using a different material, rubber automotive heater hose next time? Anyone have similar experience or advice?
  • 2oldman's avatar
    2oldman
    Explorer II
    Jun 05, 2020
    It's caused by its being thin and cheap. I bypassed it by turning around the drip tray and putting a small container to catch the water. Dump it now and then.
  • LJAZ's avatar
    LJAZ
    Explorer
    Jun 05, 2020
    I used vinyl tubing from the local big box hardware store. It was half inch ID IIRC - and cheap.
  • Lynnmor's avatar
    Lynnmor
    Explorer
    Jun 05, 2020
    That water is basically distilled, about as inert as it gets. The cheap remark is correct.
  • CFerguson's avatar
    CFerguson
    Explorer
    Jun 06, 2020
    You only have to replace it once. Just use heavier quality tubing.
  • A1RVTraveler's avatar
    A1RVTraveler
    Explorer
    Jun 06, 2020
    LJAZ wrote:
    I used vinyl tubing from the local big box hardware store. It was half inch ID IIRC - and cheap.


    This is what I recommend. The clear vinyl tubing will last forever.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Jun 06, 2020
    2oldman wrote:
    It's caused by its being thin and cheap. I bypassed it by turning around the drip tray and putting a small container to catch the water. Dump it now and then.


    That (cheap thin plastic) is a fact and there are other things aging it fast. Mine is 15 years old and last I checked ok.

    I'd replace with a thicker plastic tube if I were replacing mine.
  • Allworth's avatar
    Allworth
    Explorer II
    Jun 07, 2020
    Lowes has a clear plastic hose with a fiber reinforcement in the plastic.

    If your fridge is in a slideout, the drain fitting can be reached by removing one of the fans.

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