How to Fix Plumbing Issues in your Caravan while on the road

From comfort levels to preventing critical issues, plumbing plays an incredibly important role in every Australian caravan trip. Especially in those far-flung places where freshwater is scarce, reliable plumbing can quite literally be a life-and-death situation.

Caravans have a range of plumbing arrangements and add-ons. Things that are standard at home – like hot water systems, flushing toilets, kitchen taps and washing machines – work a little differently on the road.

Common caravan plumbing problems (and how to fix them)

Most caravans for sale in Victoria have at least one freshwater tanks and potentially a greywater tank and toilet cassette. Some models also feature a separate drinking water tank or water filter system.

Before your next road trip, take the time to check over your caravan’s water tanks and taps. Do it early enough to book in servicing and repairs without delaying your travel.

Caravan plumbing maintenance tips:

• Service hot water systems regularly
• Flush out freshwater tanks before and after every trip, if the caravan is not being used regularly
• Check pumps and connections
• Test 12 volt power source
• Check the water pressure at each tap
• Look for leaks and damp spots
  
  

Fixing caravan plumbing on the road

Get rid of mould

Mould can range from uncomfortable to unhealthy: built-up mould spores can cause illness and exacerbate underlying respiratory problems.

• Check for mould in showers and under sinks regularly
• Clean up spilled water immediately 
• Keep the caravan well ventilated
• Use sealant to re-seal showers and sinks on the road, if required

Troubleshoot pressure problems

Hand and foot pumps are uncommon nowadays. Instead, most caravans for sale in Victoria have 12V pumps as standard. So, if your pump falters on the road, there are logical steps to diagnose (and hopefully fix) the issue:

• Check the motor is running properly
• Test the power source with a 12 volt tester
• Look for air bubbles in the pump
• Move or release trapped air by utilising the tap on the A-frame

Treat toilets and tanks

It’s an unpleasant task, we know, but keeping your toilet cassette clean and regularly offloading greywater makes for a much more comfortable road trip. Thankfully, it’s a hands-off job:

• Pick up the recommended Thetford Aqua Kem products from Gippsland RV & Marine
• If encouraged by local authorities, use greywater to nourish nature
• Dispose of grey and blackwater in allocated dump points at caravan parks
• Use Thetford Duo Tank Cleaner to flush out nasty smells and bacteria

Find a ready-to-roll caravan for sale in Victoria

The only way to guarantee you are getting a fault-free caravan is to buy through a reputable dealer like Gippsland RV & Marine. Every one of our new caravans for sale in Victoria carries a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty, and our used caravans are professionally serviced to ensure roadworthiness and come with a 3 month mechanical warranty and the ability to add additional warranty cover through Aspire.

Discover your sense of adventure at Gippsland RV & Marine or book a caravan service before your next trip.