Keeping your RV water system sanitized is essential for clean, safe water while camping. Whether you’re prepping for the season or performing routine maintenance, this guide shows you exactly how to sanitize your RV’s fresh water tank, hoses, and plumbing — the right way.
📋 Table of Contents
💧 Why Sanitize Your RV Water System?
Over time, bacteria, mold, and algae can build up in your RV’s water lines and tank — especially if the system sits unused. Regular sanitizing ensures your drinking water is clean and safe, and helps prevent illness, bad odors, and clogged filters.
🔧 Tools & Products You’ll Need
- Camco TastePURE Drinking Water Freshener: Check on Amazon
- RV water hose (dedicated): Check on Amazon
- Measuring cup & funnel: Helps add sanitizer accurately
- Bleach or RV-safe sanitizer: (Follow safety guidelines)
- Clean bucket and gloves: For safety and mixing
🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions
- Turn off the water heater and pump. Open all faucets to drain the system completely.
- Prepare your sanitizer: use 1/4 cup bleach per 15 gallons of tank capacity (or follow RV-specific product instructions).
- Use a funnel to pour the mixture into the freshwater tank.
- Fill the tank fully with potable water.
- Turn on the water pump and open faucets one at a time until you smell bleach.
- Let the system sit for 8–12 hours.
- Drain the system completely, then refill and flush with fresh water until the bleach smell is gone.
✔️ Pro Tips for Clean Water
- Sanitize every 6 months or after long storage.
- Always use dedicated drinking water hoses (not garden hoses).
- Store hoses and equipment in a clean, dry container.
- Test your water quality occasionally with test strips.
🙋 FAQ: RV Water System Sanitizing
Can I use vinegar instead of bleach?
While vinegar may help with odors, it’s not as effective at killing bacteria. Stick to bleach or commercial RV sanitizers for full disinfection.
How do I get rid of the bleach smell?
Flush thoroughly with fresh water. You can also add a tablespoon of baking soda to help neutralize any remaining odor.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Sanitizing your RV water system is one of the most important (and easy) things you can do to stay healthy and enjoy the road. Now that you know how, make it a regular habit — your tastebuds (and belly) will thank you!