DIY RV Water Filling: Hack Your Way to Hydration on the Road

Running out of water while RVing is a major buzzkill, especially when you're boondocking or trying to avoid campground fees. In this video, Mortons on the Move showcases a brilliant, budget-friendly water filling hack that allows you to source water from virtually anywhere. Forget expensive water hauling services – with a few simple tools and a little ingenuity, you can stay hydrated without breaking the bank. Let's dive into how you can replicate this setup for your own RV adventures!

The Gravity-Fed Water Hack Explained

The core of this hack involves utilizing gravity and a portable water pump to transfer water from various sources into your RV's fresh water tank. Mortons on the Move ingeniously crafted a system using a cut container, a hose, and their existing on-demand water pump. This setup allows them to tap into Reverse Osmosis (RO) water fill stations, which are commonly found in areas like Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. These stations often provide high-quality water at a fraction of the cost of buying bottled water, making them a perfect resource for budget-conscious RVers.

The beauty of this system lies in its simplicity and adaptability. By using a container to collect the water, you can overcome the height difference between the water source and your RV's fill port. The portable water pump then provides the necessary pressure to transfer the water into your tank. This eliminates the need for cumbersome lifting or awkward positioning of your RV.

Essential Components and Setup

To replicate this water filling hack, you'll need a few key components. First, you'll need a container to collect the water. A durable plastic bin or even a repurposed tote will work perfectly. Next, you'll need a length of hose that's compatible with potable water. Make sure to choose a hose that's long enough to reach from your container to your RV's fill port. The final essential component is a portable water pump. Mortons on the Move uses a pump that they already carry for filling from their auxiliary tank, demonstrating the versatility of this setup.

According to Mortons on the Move, a 1-inch hose adapter is very common in bulk fill stations. You will also need to get a 1-inch adapter to a hose so you can fill at any of these bulk water stations. Having different adapters allows you to connect to a wide range of water sources, increasing your flexibility on the road. Be sure to use Teflon tape on any threaded connections to prevent leaks and ensure a tight seal.

Expanding Your Water Sourcing Options

Beyond RO water fill stations, this hack can be adapted to a variety of other water sources. With the right adapters and a little creativity, you can tap into gravity-fed systems like springs or streams. Just be sure to thoroughly filter any water from natural sources before pumping it into your RV's tank. A multi-stage filtration system, including a sediment filter and a carbon filter, will help remove impurities and ensure that your water is safe to drink.

Having multiple options for sourcing water is crucial for extended off-grid adventures. The ability to adapt to different situations and utilize available resources is a key skill for any RVer. By embracing a DIY approach and carrying the necessary tools and adapters, you can confidently explore remote destinations without worrying about running out of water. Consider a collapsible water bladder as an alternative container. These are lightweight and easy to store when not in use.

The Importance of Water Conservation

While having a reliable water filling solution is essential, it's equally important to practice water conservation while RVing. Simple habits like taking shorter showers, using water-saving fixtures, and collecting grey water for non-potable uses can significantly extend your water supply. "As RVers who love to spend so much time off grid, it's so imperative that you're able to hook up to so many different water and electrical sources, carry all the adapters, think about all the situations that you could possibly run into, and you can make it work pretty much anywhere you go." Monitor your water tank levels regularly to avoid running dry, and always have a backup plan in case your primary water source becomes unavailable.

Properly sanitize your fresh water tank regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and algae. A simple solution of bleach and water can effectively disinfect your tank, ensuring that your water remains clean and safe. Remember to flush the tank thoroughly after sanitizing to remove any residual bleach. Consider using a water softener to reduce mineral buildup and improve the taste of your water. Hard water can damage your RV's plumbing system and reduce the effectiveness of soaps and detergents.

Key Takeaways

Embrace DIY Solutions: Don't be afraid to get creative and adapt existing tools to solve common RVing challenges.
Carry Multiple Adapters: Having a variety of hose and electrical adapters will allow you to connect to a wider range of water and power sources.
Prioritize Water Conservation: Implement water-saving habits to extend your supply and reduce the frequency of refills.
Explore Alternative Water Sources: Investigate RO water fill stations, gravity-fed systems, and other unconventional water sources.
Sanitize Regularly: Keep your fresh water tank clean and disinfected to prevent contamination.
Plan Ahead: Always have a backup plan in case your primary water source becomes unavailable.

Conclusion

Mortons on the Move have provided a simple yet effective solution for filling your RV's water tank from virtually anywhere. By combining a container, a hose, and a portable water pump, you can tap into RO water fill stations and other gravity-fed sources, saving money and increasing your self-sufficiency on the road. Be sure to check out the full video by Mortons on the Move for a more detailed look at this innovative water filling hack and start planning your next off-grid adventure!