How to Clean & Maintain Your RV’s Water System

Q: How do I safely use bleach to clean my RV’s water tank?

Using unscented household bleach is a safe and effective way to sanitize your RV’s freshwater tank, as long as you use the correct ratio and method. First, calculate the amount based on your tank size—use 1/4 cup (60 mL) of bleach per 100 litres of water capacity. Always dilute the bleach in a bucket of water before pouring it into the tank to avoid damage. After adding the bleach solution, fill the tank with water and run it through all taps—including hot and cold, internal and external—until you smell chlorine. Let the system sit for 8–12 hours to allow full sanitisation, then drain and rinse thoroughly. Flush the system with fresh water multiple times until there’s no bleach smell or taste. Add baking soda during the final rinse to neutralise residual chlorine if needed. Never mix bleach with vinegar or other chemicals—always use bleach alone for sanitising.

Q: How often should I change my RV water filter while travelling?

As a general guideline, change your RV’s water filter every 3–6 months during regular travel. However, filter lifespan depends on water quality and usage. If you frequently fill from bore water, unfiltered park taps, or unknown sources, you may need to replace your filter sooner—especially if you notice reduced water flow, cloudy water, or unusual tastes. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, and mark the installation date on the filter itself for easy tracking. If your filter is used seasonally (e.g., for a few weeks at a time), store it in a dry, clean place between trips to extend its life. Never attempt to clean and reuse disposable inline filters. For under-sink systems with carbon or ceramic filters, some components may be cleanable, but periodic replacement is still necessary to ensure safe drinking water. A fresh filter not only protects your health—it also keeps your pump, pipes, and appliances running smoothly.

Q: Is it safe to drink water from campground taps in Australia?

Most caravan parks and powered sites in Australia supply potable (drinking-quality) water from town sources, but not all taps are safe to drink from. In regional or outback locations, water may come from bore holes, rainwater tanks, or untreated creek supplies, which could carry bacteria, heavy metals, or sediment. To stay safe: Always ask park staff whether the tap water is potable. Use a portable inline water filter when filling your tanks. Flush taps for 10–15 seconds before connecting hoses. Boil or purify any water from unknown or unlabelled taps. Consider filling from marked potable water stations in towns along your route. Even in well-developed areas, pipes and fittings can introduce contaminants, especially if they’re old or exposed. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and filter or treat your water before consumption. Safe drinking habits on the road help prevent stomach bugs and other travel disruptions.

Q: Can I use rainwater or bore water in my RV?

Yes, you can use rainwater or bore water in your RV—many travellers in rural and outback Australia do—but it requires caution. Rainwater, while generally clean, can be contaminated by dust, bird droppings, or debris from roof catchments. Bore water may contain high mineral content, sulphur, or bacteria, depending on the area. Here’s how to use them safely: Always filter or boil rainwater before drinking Test bore water with a portable water test kit (pH, bacteria, minerals) Use rainwater primarily for showering, flushing, or washing, unless treated Clean your tank regularly if collecting rainwater directly into it Avoid long-term use of hard bore water—it can cause scale buildup in pipes and water heaters If you travel full-time, consider installing a multi-stage water filter system in your RV, including a sediment pre-filter and a carbon block or UV purifier for added protection.

Q: Should I clean the RV water system before or after storage?

Ideally, you should clean your RV water system both before and after long-term storage. Here’s why: Before storage: Drain and sanitize the freshwater tank to prevent algae and bacteria growth Empty grey and black water tanks completely Leave taps open to air out the system and prevent pressure build-up Remove or replace water filters to prevent mould After storage: Flush the entire system with fresh water Sanitize using a mild bleach solution (especially if the RV was stored in warm or humid conditions) Run water through all taps and shower heads to clean out old residue Check hoses, seals, and fittings for leaks or wear Cleaning before storage prevents contamination while sitting idle, and cleaning after ensures that any stagnant water or mould hasn’t affected the system. This two-step approach gives you peace of mind—and a clean, fresh start for your next trip.

Clean water is one of the most important—and often overlooked—essentials when travelling Australia by RV. Whether you’re topping up from a caravan park tap in Queensland or collecting bore water in the Outback, your onboard water system is your lifeline for drinking, cooking, showering, and hygiene on the road.

But over time, even treated water can leave behind sediment, bacteria, or biofilm inside your RV’s tanks, hoses, and plumbing. Left unchecked, this build-up can lead to foul odours, strange tastes, clogged filters, and even serious health risks. That’s why regular cleaning and maintenance of your RV’s water system is non-negotiable for safe, comfortable, and hassle-free travel.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean, sanitize, and care for your freshwater, greywater, and (if installed) blackwater systems. We’ll cover step-by-step cleaning methods, recommended products, filter tips, hose care, and long-term maintenance strategies—all tailored for Australian conditions. Whether you’re a full-time vanlifer or a weekend traveller, this guide will help you keep your water system fresh, functional, and safe.

Table of Contents

Overview of a Typical RV Water System

To properly clean and maintain your RV’s water system, it’s essential to first understand how it works. Most Australian motorhomes, caravans, and campervans are equipped with three core water tanks—each serving a distinct purpose—and a network of hoses, filters, and pumps that keep water flowing through the system.

1. Freshwater Tank

This is your main water supply. It stores clean water collected from taps, rainwater, or other sources. Water from this tank is used for drinking, cooking, showering, and washing. The tank connects to a water pump and is often linked to your filtration system (if installed).

2. Grey Water Tank

The grey tank collects used water from your sinks and showers. While it doesn’t contain sewage, it may still carry food scraps, soap, or oils, making it prone to odours and bacterial growth. Grey tanks should be emptied regularly at designated dump points.

3. Black Water Tank (If Applicable)

Found in RVs with cassette or flush toilets, this tank holds human waste and toilet water. It requires careful dumping and regular treatment with chemicals or enzymes to break down waste and control smell.

4. Hot Water System

Many RVs include a gas or electric water heater that delivers warm water to your taps and showers. Some models also allow you to bypass this system when sanitizing to prevent damage.

5. Water Inlets and Outlets

Your system will include:

City Water Inlet: Connects directly to a pressurised tap at campgrounds (bypassing the freshwater tank).
Tank Fill Inlet: Where you fill your onboard freshwater tank.
Drain Outlets: For emptying each tank (usually marked clearly).

6. Pumps, Filters & Hoses

12V Water Pump: Moves water from your tank to taps when off-grid.
Inline & Under-sink Filters: Remove sediment, chlorine, or bacteria depending on the type.
Drinking Water Hoses: Food-grade hoses that connect to tap sources.
Drainage Hoses: Used for grey or black water discharge.

Understanding each part of your system helps you clean it thoroughly and troubleshoot issues before they become costly.

How Often Should You Clean Your RV Water System?

Just like your engine or tyres, your RV’s water system needs regular maintenance to stay clean, safe, and functional. But how often should you actually clean it? The answer depends on your travel style, where you source your water, and how long your RV sits unused between trips.

General Cleaning Frequency

Freshwater Tank: Every 1–2 months if in regular use, and before & after long storage periods
Drinking Water System (full sanitisation): Every 3–6 months, or after filling from questionable sources
Grey Water Tank: Monthly, or every 1–2 weeks during continuous travel
Black Water Tank: After every dump (chemical top-up) + deep clean monthly if used often
Water Filters: Replace every 3–6 months, or sooner if water flow reduces or taste changes

Key Factors That Influence Cleaning Schedule

Water Quality: If you’re filling up from bore water, rainwater, or untreated taps, you’ll need to clean and sanitize more often than if using town water.
Climate: Heat accelerates algae and bacteria growth. In warm or tropical areas, increase your cleaning frequency.
Trip Length & Usage: More water usage means faster build-up in tanks and filters—especially grey water.
RV Storage: If your RV sits unused for more than 2–4 weeks, clean the water tanks before and after storing to avoid biofilm or mould growth.

Signs Your System Needs Cleaning

Unpleasant odours coming from taps or drains
Cloudy or discoloured water when filling or pouring
Strange tastes, especially metallic or “plastic” notes
Reduced water pressure, which may indicate a blocked filter or algae growth
Visible slime or residue around tank openings or inside clear hoses

A good rule of thumb? If in doubt, clean it out. Preventative cleaning is always easier and safer than trying to fix contamination after it happens.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning Your Freshwater Tank

Your RV’s freshwater tank is the heart of your clean water system—and keeping it fresh is essential for health and hygiene. Over time, even safe water sources can leave behind biofilm, sediment, and bacteria. A regular deep clean helps prevent odours, slime, and waterborne illness.

Here’s how to clean it properly:

Step 1: Drain the Existing Water

Park on level ground and open the freshwater drain valve to empty the tank completely.
Open all taps, including the shower and outdoor spouts, to flush the lines.
If your system includes a hot water tank, bypass or drain it separately if needed.

Step 2: Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Use one of the following (per 100L of tank capacity):

Commercial RV tank cleaner (follow label instructions)
Bleach solution:
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) unscented household bleach per 100L of tank capacity
- Mix bleach with a few litres of water first—never pour bleach directly into the tank

Alternative: Use white vinegar (1L per 100L tank) or bicarb soda + vinegar combo for a natural clean (less sanitising, more deodorising).

Step 3: Fill and Soak

Add your cleaning solution to the empty tank
Fill the tank completely with fresh water
Turn on the water pump and run water through every tap (cold and hot) until you smell the solution
Shut off taps and let the solution sit for 12–24 hours

This soak kills bacteria and loosens any internal build-up.

Step 4: Drain and Rinse Thoroughly

Empty the tank again via the drain valve
Refill with clean water and flush every tap until all smell and residue is gone
You may need to repeat the rinse cycle 2–3 times to remove bleach odour or taste

Tip: Add 1/2 cup baking soda per 100L during the final rinse to neutralise any bleach traces.

Step 5: Flush Filters (If Installed)

If your RV has inline or under-sink filters, remove them before flushing and replace or clean them afterward to avoid clogging or damage from bleach.

How to Sanitize Your RV Drinking Water System Safely

Cleaning your freshwater tank removes physical build-up and odours—but sanitizing kills bacteria, viruses, and biofilm throughout your pipes, taps, and pump system. This is a critical step, especially if:

You’ve filled up from an unknown or non-potable source
The RV has been in storage for more than 2 weeks
You notice strange tastes, odours, or visible contamination in your water

Here’s a safe and effective method to sanitize your RV’s drinking water system using diluted bleach, the most reliable and affordable option available across Australia.

Step-by-Step Sanitization with Bleach

What You’ll Need:

Unscented household bleach (standard 4%–6% sodium hypochlorite)
Measuring cup or jug
Clean bucket
Funnel
Potable (drinking-grade) hose

Step 1: Calculate the Correct Bleach Ratio

Use 1/4 cup (60 mL) of bleach per 100L of tank capacity. For example:

100L tank = 1/4 cup (60 mL) bleach
200L tank = 1/2 cup (120 mL) bleach

Never exceed this amount—stronger solutions can damage plumbing and seals.

Step 2: Add Bleach to the Tank

Dilute the bleach in a bucket of clean water
Pour the solution into the freshwater tank using a funnel
Fill the tank completely with fresh water after adding bleach

Step 3: Run Bleach Through All Water Lines

Turn on the pump
Open each cold tap, one at a time, until you smell chlorine
Repeat with hot taps to sanitize the water heater (if not bypassed)
Include showers and outside taps

Once all lines carry the solution, turn off the pump and let everything sit for at least 8 hours (overnight is ideal).

Step 4: Drain and Rinse

Drain the tank and open all taps to flush out the bleach
Refill the tank with clean water and flush again
Repeat until the chlorine smell is gone and the water tastes normal
Add a little baking soda to help neutralise remaining taste if needed

Optional: Alternative Sanitizing Methods

If you prefer a bleach-free approach, consider:

Hydrogen peroxide-based RV sanitisers (non-toxic, less odour, more expensive)
Commercial tank sanitizers like Camec’s Tank Clean or Bi-Carb Clean
UV filtration systems (for permanent purification, not cleaning)

Final Safety Tips

Do not drink water during or immediately after sanitising until fully flushed
Don’t reuse bleach mix from previous cleans—make it fresh every time
Always sanitise before first trip of the season or after water contamination

Caring for Grey and Black Water Tanks

While your freshwater tank needs to stay clean and safe for consumption, your grey and black water tanks need to be kept odour-free, unclogged, and hygienically emptied. Neglecting these tanks can quickly lead to nasty smells, bacterial growth, and plumbing issues—especially in the heat of the Australian outback.

Let’s explore how to maintain both systems properly.

Grey Water Tank Maintenance

Your grey water tank collects runoff from sinks and showers. Though it doesn’t contain human waste, it does carry:

Soap residue
Food scraps
Oils and grease
Hair and organic material

These can ferment and cause strong odours if left untreated.

How to Clean and Maintain Your Grey Tank:

Flush with hot soapy water once a week if travelling full-time
Add white vinegar or baking soda monthly to break down build-up
Use a biodegradable grey tank deodoriser (found at camping stores like BCF or Caravan RV Camping)
Install a grease trap in your kitchen sink if cooking often
Empty the tank at official dump points—never in nature or at rest areas

Tip: Leave a small amount of water in the tank after emptying and add a cup of vinegar to help keep it fresh between dumps.

Black Water Tank (Toilet Waste)

Only applicable if your RV is fitted with a cassette or flush toilet, the black water tank holds human waste and toilet paper. This tank requires more intensive care and specific chemical treatments.

Key Black Tank Care Tips:

Use RV-safe toilet chemicals (enzyme or formaldehyde-free options are best for the environment)
Empty the tank every 2–3 days or when 3/4 full—don’t let it overflow
After dumping, rinse the tank thoroughly with fresh water
Add a few litres of water and treatment chemical back into the tank to stop smells from forming
If you experience sensor misreads (e.g. always showing full), try a sensor cleaner or drop in a few ice cubes before driving to help dislodge buildup

Important: Always wear gloves and sanitise your hands after handling dump hoses or valves.

Both tanks are essential parts of your RV’s plumbing system. With regular maintenance and correct dumping, you’ll avoid foul smells, blockages, and the dreaded “grey water stench” that many RVers complain about.

Maintaining RV Water Filters and Hoses

Even with a clean tank and sanitized plumbing, your RV’s water quality depends heavily on filters and hoses. These often-overlooked components play a vital role in keeping contaminants out and preventing bacteria or mould buildup. Without proper care, even potable water from a clean tap can become compromised.

RV Water Filters: Types and Maintenance

Most RVs use inline water filters attached to the hose or under the sink to remove sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, or bacteria.

Common Filter Types:

Sediment Filters: Trap dirt, rust, sand—ideal for bore or outback water
Carbon Filters: Improve taste and remove chlorine
Inline Disposable Filters: Easy to install between hose and tank
Under-Sink Purifiers: Provide the cleanest drinking water—often with UV or carbon layers

When to Replace:

Every 3–6 months during frequent use
Immediately if water pressure drops or taste changes
After filling from muddy, discoloured, or untreated sources

Always follow manufacturer guidelines and mark your calendar to track replacement dates.

Keeping Your Hoses Clean and Safe

Your RV water hoses can harbour mould, bacteria, and slime—especially when stored wet or dragged through dirt.

Best Practices for Hose Hygiene:

Use only food-grade drinking water hoses (typically blue or white in Australia)
Label and separate hoses:
- Blue for drinking water
- Grey for waste or flushing
After use, drain hoses completely and coil them neatly
Store hoses in ventilated, dry areas, preferably in hose bags or tubs
Every month, flush hoses with a vinegar-water mix (1:4 ratio) to disinfect

Never allow your hose ends to touch the ground at fill stations, and always run water for 10 seconds before connecting to flush debris or insects.

Pressure Regulation and Backflow Prevention

High water pressure from town or park taps can damage RV plumbing.

Use a water pressure regulator (preset to 40–50 PSI) when hooking up to city water
Consider a non-return/backflow prevention valve to stop contaminated water from re-entering your clean lines

These small, inexpensive devices can prevent major leaks, burst pipes, and insurance nightmares.

Maintaining your filters and hoses is a quick task that pays off in better water quality, safer drinking, and fewer plumbing issues.

Tips for Safe Water Use on the Road

No matter how clean your RV’s water system is, your safety depends on how you source, store, and handle water during your trip. From bush camps to national parks and caravan parks, water quality can vary dramatically across Australia.

Here are some essential tips to help you keep your water safe and hygienic while travelling:

Always Assume Remote Water May Be Contaminated

In rural or remote areas, bore water, creek water, or rainwater may contain bacteria, heavy metals, or parasites.
Never drink untreated creek or dam water unless it’s been boiled, filtered, or chemically treated.
If unsure, use water for washing or flushing only, not consumption.

Boil, Filter, or Treat Non-Potable Water

Boil water for at least one minute before drinking or cooking
Use a portable water filter (like a Lifestraw or pump filter) for creek or tank water
Add water purification tablets (e.g. Aquatabs) as a backup for suspected contamination
Keep a gravity-fed water purifier (like a Berkey or Sawyer system) in your RV for off-grid use

Use the Right Containers and Hoses

Store water in BPA-free, food-grade containers
Only use dedicated drinking water hoses—never fill with garden or grey hoses
Clean containers and jerry cans with vinegar or mild bleach solution monthly
Let hoses and containers dry fully between uses to prevent mould growth

Take Water Safety Seriously at Caravan Parks

While most Australian caravan parks offer town water connections, not all taps are safe for drinking. Before filling your tank:

Ask staff whether the water is potable or non-potable
Flush taps for 10 seconds before connecting
Use an inline filter or fill via external filter jug if uncertain

Monitor Water Levels and Use Efficiently

Keep a water gauge or flow meter to avoid running out unexpectedly
Install low-flow taps and shower heads to extend water supply
Fill up at every opportunity in rural areas—never rely on a “next town” top-up

Carry a Water Test Kit

A portable water testing kit (like Aquasana, Simplex, or JNW) lets you quickly check for:

pH balance
Chlorine levels
Bacteria presence
Nitrate/nitrite contamination

Great for peace of mind when filling from questionable sources.

In short: treat every fill-up as a potential risk, and develop habits that keep your water clean and your body healthy. Safe water = safe travel.

Long-Term Water System Maintenance

If you travel long-term, live in your RV full-time, or store your vehicle between adventures, maintaining your water system is just as important as cleaning it. Over time, even trace amounts of residue, scale, or bacteria can affect your tank’s longevity, the taste of your water, and the reliability of your plumbing.

Here’s how to extend the life of your RV water system through regular maintenance and smart storage practices:

Deep Clean Every 3–6 Months

In addition to routine sanitising and flushing, do a comprehensive system clean at least twice a year:

Remove and soak filters or strainers
Descale the hot water system (especially in hard water areas)
Clean water lines with a tank cleaner or vinegar flush
Check all hose connections for leaks, wear, or build-up

This is especially important if you’ve travelled through remote areas or used bore or creek water.

Prevent Scale Build-Up in Hot Water Systems

Australia’s hard water can leave behind mineral scale, reducing efficiency and damaging heating elements.

Every 6–12 months, flush your hot water system using vinegar or descaling solution
Follow your hot water system’s manual (e.g. Truma, Suburban, Dometic) for safe cleaning
Avoid running empty tanks through the hot water system—it can burn out the element

Winterisation or Long-Term Storage Preparation

If you’re not using your RV for weeks or months:

Drain all tanks completely—fresh, grey, and black
Leave taps open and run pump briefly to clear lines
Remove filters and let them dry (or replace them after storage)
Use tank bungs or mesh screens to block insects and debris
Consider adding a small amount of RV antifreeze in cold regions (rare in Australia but necessary in alpine areas)

Moisture trapped in plumbing can lead to mould, corrosion, or pipe damage during storage.

Inspect Seals, Vents, and Caps

Every few months, do a quick inspection of:

Tank vent hoses: Ensure they’re free from dust or insect blockages
Inlet/outlet seals: Replace rubber washers if cracked or leaking
Screw-on caps and O-rings: Check for water-tightness
Pump operation: Listen for unusual noises or delayed flow

Catch small issues before they become major repairs on the road.

Regular long-term care ensures your RV water system stays reliable, hygienic, and efficient for years to come—whether you travel monthly or just once a season.

Summary Tips for RV Water Hygiene

Caring for your RV’s water system doesn’t need to be complicated—but it does require consistency. A clean, well-maintained water setup not only improves taste and comfort but also protects your health, your equipment, and your entire road trip experience.

Here’s a quick summary of essential hygiene and maintenance practices:

Clean your freshwater tank every 1–2 months, or before/after storage
Sanitize your entire water system every 3–6 months using diluted bleach
Flush grey water tanks regularly with hot soapy water or vinegar
Treat and rinse black water tanks after every dump to prevent odours and buildup
Use only food-grade hoses and keep them clean, dry, and separate by purpose
Replace water filters every 3–6 months, or sooner if flow or taste changes
Avoid drinking untreated water from creeks, dams, or unknown sources
Carry backup water purification tools like tablets or portable filters
Deep clean and inspect all components before and after long-term storage
Monitor tank levels and avoid running dry, especially when using a water heater

By building these simple habits into your routine, you’ll enjoy cleaner water, better system performance, and greater peace of mind while travelling across Australia—whether you’re off-grid in the bush or hooked up at a coastal caravan park.

FAQs about ydney's RV travel guide

How do I safely use bleach to clean my RV’s water tank?

Using unscented household bleach is a safe and effective way to sanitize your RV’s freshwater tank, as long as you use the correct ratio and method. First, calculate the amount based on your tank size—use 1/4 cup (60 mL) of bleach per 100 litres of water capacity. Always dilute the bleach in a bucket of water before pouring it into the tank to avoid damage.

After adding the bleach solution, fill the tank with water and run it through all taps—including hot and cold, internal and external—until you smell chlorine. Let the system sit for 8–12 hours to allow full sanitisation, then drain and rinse thoroughly. Flush the system with fresh water multiple times until there’s no bleach smell or taste. Add baking soda during the final rinse to neutralise residual chlorine if needed. Never mix bleach with vinegar or other chemicals—always use bleach alone for sanitising.

What’s the best way to clean a grey water tank without harsh chemicals?

Cleaning your grey water tank naturally is not only effective—it’s also better for the environment and your plumbing. Start by draining the tank completely at a designated dump point. Then, flush the system by filling it about halfway with hot water mixed with dish soap or white vinegar. Let it sit for a few hours, then drive your RV for 20–30 minutes if possible—the movement helps break down buildup. Drain again, then repeat if necessary.

To control odours between cleanings, regularly pour a mix of baking soda and lemon juice down your sinks. Avoid putting grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps into the grey tank—these are common causes of bad smells and clogs. Also, run clean water through the system after each trip. Commercial biodegradable grey tank treatments are available if you want a ready-to-use solution, but DIY options work just as well when used consistently.

How often should I change my RV water filter while travelling?

As a general guideline, change your RV’s water filter every 3–6 months during regular travel. However, filter lifespan depends on water quality and usage. If you frequently fill from bore water, unfiltered park taps, or unknown sources, you may need to replace your filter sooner—especially if you notice reduced water flow, cloudy water, or unusual tastes.

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, and mark the installation date on the filter itself for easy tracking. If your filter is used seasonally (e.g., for a few weeks at a time), store it in a dry, clean place between trips to extend its life. Never attempt to clean and reuse disposable inline filters. For under-sink systems with carbon or ceramic filters, some components may be cleanable, but periodic replacement is still necessary to ensure safe drinking water.

A fresh filter not only protects your health—it also keeps your pump, pipes, and appliances running smoothly.

Is it safe to drink water from campground taps in Australia?

Most caravan parks and powered sites in Australia supply potable (drinking-quality) water from town sources, but not all taps are safe to drink from. In regional or outback locations, water may come from bore holes, rainwater tanks, or untreated creek supplies, which could carry bacteria, heavy metals, or sediment.

To stay safe:

Always ask park staff whether the tap water is potable.
Use a portable inline water filter when filling your tanks.
Flush taps for 10–15 seconds before connecting hoses.
Boil or purify any water from unknown or unlabelled taps.
Consider filling from marked potable water stations in towns along your route.

Even in well-developed areas, pipes and fittings can introduce contaminants, especially if they’re old or exposed. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and filter or treat your water before consumption. Safe drinking habits on the road help prevent stomach bugs and other travel disruptions.

Can I use rainwater or bore water in my RV?

Yes, you can use rainwater or bore water in your RV—many travellers in rural and outback Australia do—but it requires caution. Rainwater, while generally clean, can be contaminated by dust, bird droppings, or debris from roof catchments. Bore water may contain high mineral content, sulphur, or bacteria, depending on the area.

Here’s how to use them safely:

Always filter or boil rainwater before drinking
Test bore water with a portable water test kit (pH, bacteria, minerals)
Use rainwater primarily for showering, flushing, or washing, unless treated
Clean your tank regularly if collecting rainwater directly into it
Avoid long-term use of hard bore water—it can cause scale buildup in pipes and water heaters

If you travel full-time, consider installing a multi-stage water filter system in your RV, including a sediment pre-filter and a carbon block or UV purifier for added protection.

What if my RV water smells or tastes bad even after cleaning?

If your RV’s water still smells or tastes unpleasant after cleaning, several factors could be at play:

Residual chlorine from bleach sanitising can linger; flush the system with clean water multiple times and add baking soda to neutralise.
Biofilm inside hoses or filters can cause musty, plastic, or mildew-like smells. Replace filters and soak hoses in a vinegar-water solution.
Rubber or plastic tank linings in older RVs can leach chemicals into the water—upgrading to a food-grade tank or liner may be necessary.
Contaminated water source may have introduced bacteria or sulfur compounds; test your water for clarity, pH, and contamination.
Stagnant water in unused tanks can become stale—always empty tanks before long-term storage and flush before reuse.

For ongoing issues, install a high-quality under-sink water purification system or consider using portable filtration pitchers for drinking water only. Regular sanitising and cautious sourcing can solve most taste and odour problems.

Should I clean the RV water system before or after storage?

Ideally, you should clean your RV water system both before and after long-term storage. Here’s why:

Before storage:
- Drain and sanitize the freshwater tank to prevent algae and bacteria growth
- Empty grey and black water tanks completely
- Leave taps open to air out the system and prevent pressure build-up
- Remove or replace water filters to prevent mould
After storage:
- Flush the entire system with fresh water
- Sanitize using a mild bleach solution (especially if the RV was stored in warm or humid conditions)
- Run water through all taps and shower heads to clean out old residue
- Check hoses, seals, and fittings for leaks or wear

Cleaning before storage prevents contamination while sitting idle, and cleaning after ensures that any stagnant water or mould hasn’t affected the system. This two-step approach gives you peace of mind—and a clean, fresh start for your next trip.

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