If you're a caravan owner, it's important to know how to maintain your water tanks. Not doing so can lead to all sorts of problems, from leaks and corrosion to blockages and bad smells.
In this blog post, we'll take a look at the different types of caravan water tanks, and discuss how to properly care for them. We'll also provide some tips on what to do if something goes wrong. So read on for all the information you need on caravan water tanks and maintenance!
Caravan water tanks: The basics
Anyone who has gone caravanning knows that water storage is one of the most important aspects of having a successful trip. Especially when you venture off the beaten track and find yourself in remote areas, it's crucial to have a reliable supply of water.
That's where caravan water tanks come in. At a basic level, caravan water tanks can serve two functions:
- storing fresh water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning
- holding waste water from the caravan's sinks, shower, and toilet.
In the first instance, you are reliant upon your clean water tank for access to running water. And in the second, you need to be able to store wastewater until it can be disposed of properly.
There are two main types of caravan water tanks: freshwater tanks and waste water tanks or grey water tanks they may also be called.
Fresh water tanks are typically made from either polyethylene or polypropylene, while waste water tanks are usually made from PVC. Poly tanks are generally considered to be more durable, but they're also more expensive.
The size of caravan water tanks can vary quite significantly, from small 20-litre models that are only really suitable for very short trips, to larger 100-litre+ tanks that will last a family for several days.
Grey water tanks
As the name suggests, a grey water tank is used to store water that is neither fresh nor waste. This includes water from your caravan's sinks, shower, and washing up. While it's not suitable for drinking, grey water can be used for other purposes such as watering plants.
Another advantage of grey water tanks is that they are often smaller than fresh or waste water tanks, so they take up less space in your caravan. However, there are also some disadvantages to using greywater tanks. If not maintained properly, they can quickly become smelly and full of harmful bacteria. So it's important to clean them out regularly and make sure that any water that goes into them is free from as much food waste as possible.
Caravan water tank maintenance: A how-to
Now that we've covered the basics, let's take a look at some caravan water tank maintenance tips. By following these simple steps, you can help to ensure that your caravan's water tanks stay in good condition for years to come.
- Inspect your caravan's water tanks and all fitting to ensure they work correctly. Look for signs of leaks, cracks, or other damage. If you spot any problems, get them fixed as soon as possible.
- When filling up your caravan's water tanks, take care not to let dirt or other contaminants into the tanks. If possible, use a water filter to remove any impurities from the water before it goes into the tank.
- Every so often, give your caravan's water tanks a good clean with a product designed specifically for cleaning caravan water tanks. This will help to prevent build-ups of dirt and grime, which can lead to bad smells and blockages.
- If you're not using your caravan for a while, it's a good idea to empty the water tanks and give them a thorough clean. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria, which can be dangerous if left unchecked.
What to do if something goes wrong with your caravan's water tanks
If you do find yourself with a problem with your caravan's water tanks, there are a few things you can do to try and fix it.
- If you start to notice leaks, the first thing to do is check the seals around the tank for cracks or damage. If the seals are damaged, they will need to be replaced. Following this, inspect your hosing and pipes for any leaks or holes.
- If your caravan's water tanks are starting to smell, it's likely that there is a build-up of dirt and grime inside the tank. The best way to deal with this is to give the tank a good clean Tank Cleen.
- If your waste water tanks become blocked, you'll need to clear the blockage as soon as possible. The best way to do this is to use a plunger or an auger (a plumbers' snake). If this doesn't work, you may need to call in a professional.
How to check your water tank levels quickly and easily
As we've already said, your water tanks really are a lifeline when you're caravanning, so it's important to make sure that they're always topped up. One way to do this is to invest in water tank accessories such as a water level gauge.
A water level gauge is a simple device that consists of typically an LCD/LED screen mounted inside the caravan and a water tank sender probe which is easily installed inside the water tank. This means you don't have to worry about running out of water.
If you're looking for a quality set of gauges to monitor the vital statistics of your caravan, then you'll want to check out the range of gauges from R.V Electronics. These units feature innovative technology such as a coloured LCD display with LED backlighting for crystal clear viewing, and only draw 50 mA so they won't flatten your battery. They also feature an on/off switch to power down your gauge when you're not using the caravan, making it ideal for storage. Plus, they're easy to match up with sender probes for a complete monitoring solution. So if you're looking for a top-of-the-line set of caravan gauges, be sure to give these a try.
Final thoughts
We hope that this article has been helpful in giving you some basic information about caravan water tanks. Remember, if you take care of your tanks and give them a bit of regular maintenance, they should last you for many years to come. At CaravanMods, we know that your caravan is more than just a vehicle- it's your home away from home. That's why we're dedicated to finding innovative solutions to meet the unique needs of caravan and camper-trailer owners. Whether it's water tank accessories or storage and organisational solutions, we have everything you need to make your travels more enjoyable. And because we're an authorised retailer of leading brands in the space, you can be confident that you're getting the best products at the most competitive prices. So whether you're looking for a few small upgrades or a complete overhaul, we're here to help. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you.