Everything You Need To Know About Caravan Water Tanks

When traveling in a caravan, having a reliable source of water is essential. A caravan water tank is a convenient and practical solution that allows you to store and transport water while on the road. 

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about caravan water tanks, including their types, features, installation, maintenance, and tips to choose the right one.

Types Of Caravan Water Tanks

Caravan water tanks come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. The three most common types are:

Freshwater Tanks

Freshwater tanks are designed to store and transport clean, potable water for drinking, cooking, and washing. They are usually made of food-grade plastic, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, which is safe, durable, and easy to clean. Freshwater tanks can range from small 10-litre jerry cans to large 200-litre tanks, depending on the caravan's size and water needs.

Greywater Tanks

Greywater tanks are used to collect and store wastewater from the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, and washing machine. They are typically made of the same material as freshwater tanks but may have different fittings and vents to prevent odor and contamination. Greywater tanks should be emptied and cleaned regularly to avoid blockages and bacteria buildup.

Blackwater Tanks

Blackwater tanks are specifically designed to hold human waste from the toilet. They are often larger and more complex than freshwater and greywater tanks and require specialised chemicals and treatments to break down the waste and control odor. Blackwater tanks should be emptied only at designated dump stations, and the waste must be disposed of properly to avoid environmental hazards.

Caravan Water Tank Capacity

Caravan water tank capacity can vary depending on the make and model, but here is the general estimate:

Watertank	Small caravan	Medium size caravan	Large size caravan
Fresh    water	Can hold 20 to 30  litres of water	Can hold 50-80 litres of water for basic needs such as drinking, cooking, and washing dishes for a small group of people for a few days.	Water tank capacity of over 100 litres, sometimes up to 300-400 litres
Grey      water	Can hold 20 to 30 litres of waste water	can hold around 50-80 liters of wastewater from sinks and showers.	Usually around 60-80% of fresh water tank capacity, it range from 60-320 litres
Black      water	Can hold 10 to 20 litres of toilet waste	Toilet waste is stored up to 20 to 40 litres	Smaller than the fresh water tank ranges from 20-50 litres

The water tank capacity of a caravan can vary depending on the make and model. It's always a good idea to check the specifications of your caravan before you determine its water tank capacity.

How To Properly Care And Maintain Caravan Water Tanks

Proper care and maintenance of caravan water tanks are essential to ensure the supply of clean and safe water for drinking, cooking, and other purposes. Here are some tips on how to properly care and maintain caravan water tanks:

• Regularly clean the water tanks: It's important to regularly clean the water tanks to prevent the buildup of dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants. Drain the tanks completely and flush them out with clean water. You can also add a water tank cleaner solution to eliminate any stubborn stains or odors.
• Use a water filter: Using a water filter can help remove impurities such as sediments, rust, and chlorine from the water supply. This can help prolong the life of your water tanks and ensure that the water is safe for consumption.
• Use food-grade water hoses: When filling the water tanks, use food-grade water hoses to avoid contamination of the water supply. Non-food-grade hoses may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the water.
• Regularly check for leaks: Check the water tanks and plumbing system for any signs of leaks or damage. Leaks can lead to water wastage and can also cause water damage to the caravan.
• Drain the water tanks when not in use: If you're not going to use the caravan for an extended period, drain the water tanks completely to prevent the growth of bacteria and mould.
• Park the caravan in a cool and dry place: Moisture can promote the growth of bacteria and mould, so it's important to park the caravan in a cool and dry place to prevent the water tanks from becoming contaminated.

Safety Precautions In Using Caravan Water Tanks

When using caravan water tanks, it is also important to take safety precautions to ensure that the water is safe for use:

• Only use potable water: Make sure that the water you add to the tank is safe for drinking and cooking. Avoid using water from unknown sources or sources that may be contaminated.
• Keep the tank clean: Regularly clean the tank to prevent the growth of bacteria or other contaminants that can cause illness. Use specialised tank cleaners or a solution of vinegar and water to clean the tank.
• Monitor the water quality: If you notice any changes in the taste or color of the water, or if anyone using the water experiences illness, stop using the water immediately and have the tank inspected.
• Use the appropriate hoses and connectors: When filling the tank, use hoses and connectors that are designed for potable water use to prevent contamination.
• Use water filters: Consider using a water filter to remove impurities from the water before it enters the tank. This can help to keep the water clean and reduce the need for frequent tank cleaning.
• Check for leaks: Inspect the tank regularly for leaks or cracks. Any damage to the tank can lead to water contamination or loss, so it's important to address any issues as soon as possible.

Tips For Conserving Water While Inside A Caravan

Conserving water while inside a caravan is important, especially when travelling in areas where water may be scarce. Here are some tips for conserving water while inside a caravan:

• Use a low-flow showerhead: Install a low-flow showerhead to reduce the amount of water used during showers.

• Take shorter showers: Try to limit your shower time to five minutes or less to conserve water.
• Turn off the water when not in use: Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving to save water.
• Use a dishpan: Fill a dishpan with soapy water for washing dishes instead of using running water.
• Use paper plates and cups: Consider using paper plates and cups to reduce the amount of dishwashing required.
• Reuse towels: Hang towels to dry after use and reuse them multiple times before washing.
• Fix leaks promptly: Check for leaks in faucets and pipes and repair them promptly to prevent water waste.
• Use greywater for flushing: Consider using greywater, which is water that has already been used for washing or cleaning, to flush the toilet.
• Use a water level indicator: Install a water level indicator in the caravan's water tank to monitor water usage and avoid overfilling the tank.

Best Way To Refill Caravan Water Tank While On The Road

Refilling your caravan water tank while on the road can be a bit challenging, but there are several ways to make the process easier. Here are some tips for refilling your caravan water tank while on the road:

• Use a water container: One of the easiest ways to refill your caravan water tank is to use a water container. You can fill the container at a nearby water source and then transfer the water to your caravan tank using a hose or funnel.
• Use a water pump: A water pump can make refilling your caravan water tank much easier. Simply submerge the pump in a nearby water source and use it to transfer the water to your caravan tank.
• Use a water bladder: A water bladder is a portable water storage device that you can use to refill your caravan water tank. Simply fill the bladder with water, place it near your caravan, and use a hose to transfer the water to your tank.
• Use a caravan park: If you're staying at a caravan park, you can usually refill your water tank using the park's water supply. Some parks may charge a small fee for water usage, so be sure to check before refilling.
• Plan ahead: Before embarking on your trip, research water sources along your route and plan your stops accordingly. This can help you avoid running out of water and ensure that you have enough to refill your tank when needed.

Additional Features And Accessories For Your Caravan Water Tank

There are several additional features and accessories that you can add to your caravan water tank to improve its functionality and convenience. Here are some examples:

• Water heater: A water heater can be added to your caravan's water system to provide hot water for showers and washing dishes.

• Water hose and fittings: Additional hoses and fittings can be added to your caravan water system to improve its flexibility and ease of use.
• Water level indicator: A water level indicator allows you to easily monitor the amount of water in your caravan tank, so you can avoid overfilling or running out of water.
• Black & Grey Water holding tank treatment: Are chemicals that help break down waste and control odors. The chemicals work to break down waste and prevent the buildup of solids, while also killing bacteria and reducing odors.
• Fresh Water holding tank treatment: A specialised chemical that helps to sanitise and deodorise the tank. The chemicals work to kill bacteria and other contaminants, while also breaking down any buildup that may have formed inside the tank.
• Pressure regulator: Often used to regulate the water pressure from an external water source, such as a campground hookup. This helps to protect the RV's plumbing system from damage and ensure that the water pressure is at a safe and consistent level for use inside the vehicle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, caravan water tanks are an essential component of any mobile vehicle, providing a source of fresh water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. It's important to choose the right size and type of water tank for your specific needs, along with proper maintenance and care for the tanks to ensure they remain clean and functional.

By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can better understand the different types of caravan water tanks available, learn how to properly care for and maintain your tanks, and discover additional features and accessories that can enhance the functionality of your water system.

Whether you're a seasoned RV owner or a first-time caravan traveler, understanding caravan water tanks is crucial to enjoying a safe and comfortable journey on the road. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can ensure that your water system is reliable, efficient, and ready for any adventure that comes your way.

And if you're looking for quality accessories and additional features for your caravan water tank, make sure you visit the RV online shop and choose from our selection of caravan water tank accessories that suits your needs.