Protecting Your RV’s Water Supply

Nearly every RV comes equipped with a fresh water tank. You fill it to use for drinking, showers, and food prep. However, there’s a potential hidden risk associated with these tanks. If they’re not cleaned regularly, they can become breeding grounds for serious illnesses—some even fatal. So, how can you ensure your safety?

Concerns over the hygiene of RV freshwater tanks have come to light, particularly after a tragic incident reported on May 29 by the CDC. An RV owner who used tap water from their vehicle for nasal irrigation developed a fatal brain infection. The CDC’s conclusions from the investigation were alarming.

Self-contained RVs have been around for a long time, capable of operating away from traditional resources. These units rely on batteries or generators for power, contain holding tanks for waste, and have a potable water tank. Some of the earliest models featured self-contained capabilities, like the 1958 Airstream International, often seen as a pioneer in this field.

For those like me who often attend large events like EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, these features are essential. I rely on my family’s travel trailer’s water supplies and power systems to stay comfortable while camping.

My partner and I have a strict policy: we don’t use our RV’s water tank for drinking. Our experience boondocking at AirVenture in 2023 revealed something troubling. After filling the tank, it emitted a bad odor and the water contained tiny black particles.

My family has owned this trailer since 2016, and when I asked my parents about the last cleaning, they didn’t even realize that was necessary. This suggests it might not have been cleaned in a decade. If they didn’t know, I wonder how many others might be in the same situation.

A Chilling Report

The CDC report included a nightmare scenario:

Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare, often fatal brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba. While infections are generally linked to recreational water activities, using tap water for nasal irrigation poses a significant risk. Poorly maintained RV water systems can harbor diseases; the CDC advises using distilled, sterile, or boiled water for nasal irrigation. The report details a fatal case of PAM linked to contaminated RV water.

A previously healthy 71-year-old woman developed severe neurological symptoms after using tap water from her RV for nasal irrigation. Despite medical intervention, she died eight days later, and tests confirmed the presence of N. fowleri in her cerebrospinal fluid.

The CDC investigation indicated that while water samples from the campground and RV’s tank showed no N. fowleri, issues lingered. The campground’s water quality fell below the recommended standards, potentially allowing for pathogen proliferation.

Conversely, the RV’s water proved worse—below the standards for drinking. The CDC could not definitively pinpoint the source of the infection, partially due to the delay in sampling, but their findings were serious. Public health officials urged maintenance of RV water systems and ensured municipal supply cleanliness.

So, what can you do about your RV’s water safety?

First, consider the source of your water. Many campgrounds, particularly remote ones, draw from wells, which can be risky. As the CDC points out, you might not be aware of what’s in that water.

Some campgrounds offer city water, which is generally safer, provided their plumbing systems are up to standard. However, campsite systems can lack regulation, so caution is key.

Filtration Systems

Your primary defense is a water filtration system. Numerous options exist, including simple inline filters that connect directly to your RV’s plumbing. While some may use less expensive filters for occasional trips, others may opt for more robust systems from reputable brands.

Many RV owners recommend combining different filtration methods—like an inline filter and a mounted version—to ensure cleaner water. Some filters remove larger particles while others focus on smaller contaminants using carbon or UV methods.

A popular choice among RV enthusiasts is the gravity filter, which utilizes gravity for effective filtration—best for drinking water rather than for showering. Some even resort to reverse osmosis systems for countertop installation.

Ultimately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for filtration. Joining a community forum tailored to your RV model might shed light on what options work best for others.

Cleaning Your Tank

While a filtration system is essential, regular cleaning of your tank and plumbing is equally important. Clean water serves little purpose if it’s tainted by dirty tanks.

A common method is to fill your tank with a mixture of water and bleach—typically a quarter cup of bleach for 15 gallons of water. Begin by draining your existing water supply, then mix the solution in the tank. Activate all faucets until a bleach smell is evident and let it sit for several hours.

Afterward, reverse the process by draining the contaminated mixture into waste tanks. Refill your fresh tank with clean water and repeat until the bleach scent dissipates. If bleach makes you uncomfortable, consider alternatives like vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, though commercial cleaning products are available as well.

Most experts suggest cleaning your tank every three to six months to avoid mold or bacteria. If you’re storing your RV, it’s advisable to empty the tanks to prevent issues from water sitting stagnant.

Many, myself included, often resort to buying bottled water, using the RV’s supply strictly for cleaning or showers. However, some will go through the effort of developing extensive filtration systems for drinking water. Regardless of your choice, prioritize routine cleaning of your RV’s water tank. Ensure your family’s safety by taking the time to maintain this essential component of RV living.