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In this guide, I will break down the complete RV water system and go over some frequently asked RV water pressure regulator questions. Then, I will compare the top three products. And finally, I will teach you how to install one.
Embarking on the RV lifestyle is an exciting journey! Are you a full-time RVer or a weekend/seasonal enthusiast? Either way, there are important considerations to make. Attention to every detail is a vital part of a successful RV life. It is crucial to ensure your RV water system is safe.
There are many essential components in your RV water system. Among these components is an RV water pressure regulator. The regulator has the vital job of maintaining a safe water supply pressure.
An RV water pressure regulator helps you protect your investment from excessive pressure. Damage to your RV’s plumbing system can be expensive and inconvenient. A regulator is the first step toward safe and joyful travels.
Which RV Water Pressure Regulator Is The Best?
The best RV water pressure regulator is the Maxflow. This regulator is the only product on the market that addresses flowrate in addition to water pressure. If you ever have been in an RV shower when someone else flushed a toilet, you’ve been a victim of low flow rate. The Maxflow safely reduces the water pressure coming into the RV water system, while simultaneously maintaining great flow. You can pick up the Maxflow on Amazon for just over $50.
If the Maxflow is out of your price range, the basic Camco Water Pressure Regulator is a great choice that is trusted by many. This regulator is a no-fuss regulator that gets the job done. This product does not allow monitoring or address flowrate. The Camco Regulator can be purchased on Amazon for around $10.
The RV Water System for New RV Owners
This section will give an overview of the RV water system. I will break each part down so you can start building a foundation of knowledge. You must understand the working parts of your RV so that you can spot problems.
The water system in an RV is compact and more straightforward than the system in a traditional home. This means that there are fewer things to learn. So, there is no need for intimidation!
Just so you know, each RV/Travel Trailer/Camper is different. Your rig’s water system may have more or less.
City Water supply (municipal water system)
The city water supply is the source of your RV’s water. This is the average water that goes into a traditional house. The city connection is usually a water spigot near your campsite’s utilities. You can connect to this for your water source.
RV Drinking Water Hose
A hose connects the city water supply to your RV’s “City Water Connection” inlet. This inlet is usually located near your other utility hookups. The utilities are usually toward the rear quarter on your unit.
Remember, choose a dedicated drinking water hose over a regular garden hose. Garden hoses can leak chemicals into the drinking water. When selecting a hose, choose one that is BPA and Lead-Free.
In-line RV Water Filter
An in-line water filter lets you control the water quality in your RV. Many people avoid drinking water straight from the faucet. Using a filter allows for clean water whenever you turn a tap on.
These in-line filters are easy to install, and their maintenance is easy. Each filter has a manufacturer’s recommendation for how long you should use it. Usually, the recommendation is to replace the filter every 3-6 months.
Water Regulator
A water regulator is a device that controls the water pressure coming from the city water supply to the RV. This device ensures a safe level of water pressure for your RV. The regulators create a friction point that decreases water pressure.
These devices are easy to install. After installation, there is very little you need to do. Many RV enthusiasts recommend these devices every time you hook up to a water supply
Interior Pipes
Interior pipes allow the water to reach each fixture in your RV. RV design allows for hidden space to run these lines. You will find these areas hidden behind access panels.
Manufacturers construct RVs to be lightweight, meaning most lines are lightweight PEX tubing. PEX is durable tubing that is also sometimes used in traditional homes. Regardless of PEX durability, following your manufacturer’s recommendations is essential.
Water Heater
Many RVs have a built-in water heater. RV water heaters can be both electric and propane. The water heater has a tank usually holding 6-10 gallons of heated water.
Most RVs have a water heater access panel on the exterior of their rig. This is a metal door with exhaust grates. This is where you can access the power switch and drain your water heater.
Fresh Water Tank
Many RVs also have a freshwater tank. This tank allows the RVer to have water without a City Water Connection. When you rely on the freshwater tank, you must track your water usage.
Your freshwater tank has a separate inlet to fill the tank. This tank should only have fresh, potable water. This tank has a drain tube located nearby. Look for labels that the manufacturer affixed to your unit.
Water Pump
Most RVs with freshwater tanks also have a water pump. When using a City Water Connect, you also have water pressure. When using the freshwater tank, you do not. A built-in water pump allows you to apply water pressure to the water in your freshwater tank.
Your water pump will be behind an access panel in your RV. There will be a power switch on your control module. It is good to know where your pump is.
What is a Water Pressure Regulator?
An RV Water Pressure Regulator reduces pressure as water flows through the valve. There are two main types of water psi regulators. There are “non-adjustable regulators” and “adjustable pressure regulators.” These devices are usually lead-free brass regulators. But, there are some plastic fittings.
The Importance of RV Water Pressure Regulators:
Peace of mind
Regulators ensure that you don’t have to worry about fluctuating water. When water pressure is too high, it can damage your RV and lead to costly repairs. When you have a regulator, you worry about one less thing.
Proper Water Pressure
Water pressure regulators ensure your RV stays within a safe water pressure range. Some of these devices are adjustable and can meet your needs better. Other pre-set devices remain within the same psi no matter what.
Large Campgrounds
Campgrounds can use municipal water systems or wells with pumps. When there are a lot of RVs using water in a park, it can cause the pressure to fluctuate. When a campground uses a pump, it is possible to have higher pressure when located closer to the pump.
RV water pressure regulator questions
What are the recommended water pressure levels?
Best water pressure:
The usual recommendation is 40-50 psi of water pressure. The maximum water pressure should not exceed 60 psi. Always keep your water pressure at a safe level. Always refer to your RV Owner’s Manual for the recommended PSI.
What happens when there is too much water pressure?
When the pressure of the water is too high, it can cause problems with the RV plumbing. Higher pressure can result in flooding and/or costly repairs to water lines, fixtures, and fittings.
Water pressure issues are only sometimes obvious. Other times, water pressure can create damage over time. Let’s address how high water pressure can wreak havoc on your RV’s plumbing and why it’s a concern:
Problems with water lines
Construction of RVs requires lightweight materials for the water system. Some newer RV models feature durable PEX piping. High water pressure can lead to leaks or burst pipes.
Fixture Wear and Tear
RV fixtures should operate within the recommended RV water pressure range. Exceeding this accelerates wear and tear, resulting in leaks and premature replacements. High pressure in toilets will cause water to spray toilet contents out when flushed.
Fitting Degradation
Excessive water pressure can lead to gradual or sudden failure of fittings. Frequent movement of your RV can cause parts to loosen over time. Loosened fittings can result in leaks when subjected to high water pressure.
Water Hammer
A water hammer occurs when a pressurized valve closes abruptly. The water can slam into fixtures, creating a hammer noise. A water hammer can show a problem that can create damage down the road.
Where Does A Water Pressure Reducer Go?
The water pressure regulator attaches to the city water source. Many RVers choose to install an in-line water filter after the regulator. Then, an RV drinking water hose connects the water supply to the City Water Connection Inlet on the RV.
What type of regulator do I need?
If you don’t want to adjust your device, get a non-adjustable water pressure regulator. Get an adjustable regulator if you want more control over your water pressure. Both options will protect your RV from dangerous water pressure.
How Can I Increase Water Pressure?
You have connected to the residential water system. So, why do you have low water pressure? There are a few ways you can troubleshoot low flow:
- Check your water hose for kinks.
- Attach a water pressure gauge to the incoming city water spigot. Increase your PSI if it shows that there is low pressure.
- Check different fixtures to see if the water pressure problem is everywhere. Look throughout the entire water system. Does your toilet AND kitchen sink have low pressure?
- Check to see if the in-line water filter has a clog. Try flushing out the clog. If flushing does not work, it may be time to replace the filter.
- Check to see if the low pressure is coming from the city water outlet. If so, you may have to fill your RV’s fresh water tank and use your onboard water pump.
The 3 Best RV Water Pressure Regulators
I have tested and reviewed three different products. I assessed three things.
- Ease of installation
- Ease of use
- Effects on water flow
Out of these three products, there was one clear winner.
Things to note. I intentionally chose regulators from companies based in the United States. Of the three, Only one of these products has a manufacturing location in the United States.
Best Overall RV Water Pressure Regulator: Max Flow RV Water Pressure Regulator
The Max Flow RV Water Pressure Regulator brings a unique innovation to the market. The Max Flow is the BEST RV Water Pressure Regulator on the market. Hands down.
Photo Courtesy of Amazon
Traditional regulators reduce PSI and flow (Gallons Per Minute). The Max Flow device lowers PSI while maintaining up to 18 GPM flow rate. You can use more than one fixture without experiencing a significant drop in water. This is the best solution on the market.
NO MORE PRESSURE LOSS DURING A SHOWER WHEN SOMEONE FLUSHES!
Pros:
- No need to readjust when connecting to different water sources
- Hassle-free accessory
- Provides up to 18 gallons per minute
- Made in the USA
- Lead-free brass fittings
Cons:
- None
Camco Camper/RV Water Pressure Regulator
The Camco Camper/RV Water Pressure Regulator is an excellent choice for RVers. It is a fuss-free approach to water pressure regulation. This device automatically reduces PSI to the recommended 40-50 PSI.
Photo Courtesy of Amazon
This device is a guardrail for your water supply, needing no further adjustment. Once you have installed your device, it will safeguard your pressure.
Pros:
- No constant adjustments needed
- Easy to install
- Lead-free brass
Cons:
- Manufactured in Vietnam
- No ability to adjust pressure
Camco Adjustable RV Water Pressure Regulator
Photo Courtesy of Amazon
Are you an RVer who prefers a more hands-on approach to water pressure management? If so, the Camco Adjustable RV Water Pressure Regulator is a great option. This device allows you to monitor your water supply with the gauge. Use a screwdriver to make any adjustments to the water pressure.
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Gauge allows for continuous monitoring
- Lead-free brass regulator
- Adjustable
Cons:
- Manufactured in China
- Always must recheck and readjust when reconnecting
How to Install Your RV Water Pressure Regulator: Easy 7-Step Guide
Now that you’ve invested in a water pressure regulator, what is next? Here is a step-by-step guide for a hassle-free installation:
1. Locate and turn off your external source of water:
The city water hookup should have a valve by the spigot. If there isn’t one, check to see if there is a water shut-off valve nearby.
2. Gather Your Tools.
You’ll need the following:
- RV pressure regulator
- an adjustable wrench (usually hand tightening is good enough)
- a flathead screwdriver
- Teflon tape.
3. Disconnect the Water Hose.
Remove any hoses or attachments connected to the water spigot.
4. Apply Teflon Tape.
Worn threads can be on used water supply hookups at RV parks. Wrap layers of Teflon clockwise around the threads of the water hookup. This will create a secure, watertight seal.
5. Attach the RV Pressure Regulator.
Screw the Female end of the RV pressure regulator onto the water hookup. Ensure it is snug but not excessively tight. If you need it, you can use an adjustable wrench.
6. Make the hose connections.
Female end: pipe threads on the inside
Male end: pipe threads on the outside.
Attach the freshwater hose’s female end to the pressure regulator’s male end.
7. Turn On the Water Supply.
Turn on the water supply to pressurize the system. Do this slowly to avoid introducing a water hammer. Inspect the regulator and connections for leaks. Tighten any loose connections as necessary.
– For adjustable water pressure regulators: Turn on the water pressure and read the gauge. Increase the psi regulator by using a flathead screwdriver. Stop once you have good flow, making sure not to exceed max pressure. Refer to the product instructions and RV Owner’s manual for the recommended settings.
What Additional Tools Will I need for my Water System?
Your water pressure regulator is one of many essential parts of the RV water system. Finding an adequate RV Drinking Water Hose is just as important.
This post may contain affiliate links. Check out our disclosure for more information.
