The Top 9 DIY RV Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Waking up to a new view every day is the best part of traveling in an RV. But nothing ruins that freedom faster than a plumbing problem. A leaky pipe or clogged tank can quickly turn your dream adventure into a wet, stressful nightmare.

Luckily, you don’t need to be an expert to avoid most issues. With a bit of regular upkeep, you can keep your water systems running smoothly. This guide offers 9 DIY RV plumbing maintenance tips to help prevent messes and keep you focused on the road ahead.

1. Inspect Your Hoses Regularly

Your RV’s hoses don't last forever. Constant exposure to the elements, pressure changes, and vibrations from travel can wear them out. A cracked or bulging hose is a leak waiting to happen.

Set a reminder to check your hoses every few months. Look for any signs of wear, like cracks, brittleness, or soft spots. Run your hand along the length of each hose to feel for bulges, which indicate a weak spot in the hose wall. If you find any issues, it’s best to replace the hose immediately.

2. Sanitize Your Freshwater System

Your freshwater tank and lines need regular cleaning to prevent bacteria and algae growth. This is especially true if your RV sits for extended periods or if you fill up from various water sources. A sanitized system means your drinking and bathing water stays clean and safe.

How To Sanitize

A popular method for sanitizing your RV's freshwater system is using a bleach solution. First, drain the system completely. Then, mix one-quarter cup of household bleach for every 15 gallons of water your tank holds. Pour this solution into the tank and fill it with fresh water.

Next, turn on every faucet (hot and cold) until you can smell bleach, ensuring the solution has circulated throughout the system. Let it sit for at least four hours, or overnight. Finally, drain the entire system and refill it with fresh water. Flush the lines by running all faucets until the bleach odor disappears.

3. Keep Your Gray and Black Tanks Clean

Your holding tanks handle all the wastewater. If they aren't maintained, you'll soon be dealing with unpleasant odors and potential clogs.

Black Tank Care

The black tank, which holds waste from your toilet, requires special attention. Always use RV-specific toilet paper that dissolves quickly to avoid clogs. Keep the black tank valve closed until the tank is at least two-thirds full. This allows enough liquid to build and drain the tank completely. After dumping, use a tank rinser or back-flushing device to clear any leftover debris.

Gray Tank Maintenance

The gray tank collects water from your sinks and shower. Grease, soap scum, and food particles can build up and cause odors. Periodically clean the tank with a specialized gray tank cleaner to break down any accumulation.

4. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

If you travel in cold climates, protecting your pipes from freezing is a priority. Water expands when it freezes, which can burst pipes and fittings, leading to expensive repairs.

To winterize your system, drain all the water from your pipes, tanks, and water heater. You can use an air compressor to remove any remaining water from the lines. Then, pump non-toxic RV antifreeze through the entire system. Make sure you open each faucet until you see the pink antifreeze flowing through.

5. Check and Maintain Water Pressure

High water pressure from campground hookups can damage your RV’s plumbing system. A sudden surge can cause leaks or even burst your lines.

A water pressure regulator is a simple, effective solution. This small device attaches to the campground spigot before your hose, limiting the water pressure that enters your RV. It’s an investment that protects your entire plumbing system from strain. Test your regulator periodically to confirm it's working as it should.

6. Inspect Seals and Caulking

Your RV has a few seals around sinks, showers, and toilets to prevent water from seeping into your walls and floors. Over time, this caulking can dry out, crack, and lose its effectiveness. Water damage can be sneaky and destructive, so this is a maintenance task you don't want to skip.

Once or twice a year, carefully inspect all the caulking in your kitchen and bathroom. Look for gaps, cracks, or areas where the seal is pulling away. If you find any damage, scrape the old caulk and apply a fresh bead of silicone sealant designed for RV use.

7. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

An RV's plumbing system is more delicate than a home's. To prevent clogs and odors, be careful about what you let go down your drains.

In the kitchen, wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing them. Use a quality sink strainer to catch food particles. In the bathroom, only RV-safe toilet paper should be flushed. Never flush wipes, paper towels, or other foreign objects, as they can easily cause a blockage.

8. Maintain Your Water Pump

Your RV water pump ensures steady water pressure when you’re off the grid and not hooked up to city water. If you notice unusual sounds or inconsistent pressure, it could be time to service the pump.

The filter screen is designed to catch sediment and debris from the freshwater tank. If this filter gets clogged, it can reduce water flow and strain the pump. Unscrew the filter cover, rinse the screen, and reinstall it. This quick check can extend your pump’s lifespan. Proper maintenance of smaller components, such as RV plumbing fittings and pump filters, can prevent larger system failures.

9. Tend to Your Water Heater

An RV water heater provides the comfort of hot showers on the road, but it needs regular maintenance to stay in top condition. Sediment can build up in the tank, reducing efficiency and causing corrosion.

At least once a year, you should flush your water heater tank. With the water heater turned off and cool, remove the drain plug and let all the water drain out. Use a tank-rinsing wand to spray water inside and flush out any sediment. Before you replace the plug, inspect the anode rod (if your heater has one). This rod protects the tank from corrosion and should be replaced when it’s about 75% depleted.

These top DIY RV plumbing maintenance tips are designed to empower you to handle the basics with confidence. At Accent My Ride, we’re here to support your journey with the parts and knowledge you need. Explore our collection today!