You need water pressure to project the water to specific locations. On the other hand, you do not want so much water that it overflows and damages the pipes. That is where a water pressure regulator comes in. It regulates the water pressure so that just the right amount comes out.
Water is an essential part of life, and the same is true inside your RV, which is why most RVs connect to city water systems.
Still, there is more to worry about than simply connecting the water to your RV, though. Most notably, water pressure is a serious concern for accessing water while traveling in your RV
To find out more about water pressure regulators, keep reading.
In this article, we give you a comprehensive rundown about this necessary RV part. Just about any question you could have about water pressure regulators will be answered here.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
How Does It Work?
Water pressure regulators are actually pretty simple devices. As the name suggests, a water pressure regulator is simply a device that regulates how much water is coming from the water source.
It ensures that neither too little nor too much water comes out of the source at one time.
It essentially reduces the water pressure before it ever reaches the hose. How it works is that you attach the regulator to the water spigot where you will receive the water.
The valve includes a spring-loaded diaphragm. This diaphragm either widens or narrows, depending on how much water pressure is entering at a time.
Whenever too much water pressure is detected, the diaphragm constricts, which narrows the flow of the water.
This will then reduce the water flow as it enters your RV. On the other end of the spectrum, the diaphragm will expand if the water pressure is very low, leading to more pressure.
Pressure Regulating Valve Type 582/586 – GF Piping Systems >> Check out the video below:
Adjustable vs. Non-Adjustable Water Pressure Regulators
Although all water pressure regulators work generally the same, there are two different types to be aware of: adjustable and non-adjustable regulators. Adjustable water pressure regulators allow you to control how much pressure is allowed.
Adjust the pressure to your preference. Typically, you do this by turning a screw. This allows you to control how much flow is allowed in.
Non-adjustable water pressure regulators, on the other hand, work through a diaphragm on their own. This is a cost-efficient option, but it is not always as effective as the adjustable option.
You will simply twist this option on and let it do its work.
Adjustable RV Water Regulators >> Check out the video below:
Is A Water Pressure Regulator Necessary For RV?
If you are on a tight budget or simply do not like carrying around a lot of tools, you are probably wondering whether a water pressure regulator is actually necessary for an RV.
To put it bluntly, yes. You need a water pressure regulator whenever you supply your RV with water.
Read also: This Is Why You Need A Water Pressure Regulator For Your RV
It Regulates Water Pressure
Even if the water pressure is just right as it comes out of the supplier, there is no way to guarantee this fact. A water pressure regulator is a simple way to protect your RV at any campground you go to.
If you opt to forego a water pressure regulator, you run the risk of damaging your RV’s plumbing systems.
This can lead to leaking pipes or busted pipes. This can happen because campground water supplies flow through city hookups. Most campground owners do not know the pressure and do not control it either.
“Not to mention, the pressure from city systems changes throughout the day. In other words, there really is no way to give an exact answer for a campground’s water supply pressure.”
The water pressure regulator helps to ensure nothing goes wrong when you are hooked up to it.
It is important to use a water pressure regulator, not just a gauge, to thoroughly protect your RV. Gauges are not exact, and the pressure changes throughout the day.
This would force you to use the gauge constantly, which is completely unrealistic. Using a gauge and regulator together ensures that your RV is protected at all times.
Read also: Low Water Pressure In RV Kitchen? (Here´s How To Solve)
It Filters The Water
Water pressure regulators do more than just regulate the water pressure, though. Most water pressure regulators come with a filtration system, which allows the water to be cleaner and purer.
The filter will remove obstructions and sediment, resulting in a safer experience.
Because water pressure regulators both regulate water pressure and lead to cleaner water, all RVs need to have a water pressure regulator.
Especially considering how easy these devices are to use and affordable they are to buy, there is no reason not to have one.
What Is The Correct Water Pressure For An RV?
The correct water pressure depends entirely on your RV’s make and model. Additionally, your RV’s plumbing system condition can affect how much pressure it can handle or requires.
Most modern RVs are equipped to handle around 100 PSI of water pressure.
Still, almost all RV experts agree that you should not intentionally allow a water pressure of over 60 PSI to enter your RV.
In most scenarios, shoot for a PSI of 40 to 50 for safe and effective water supplying experience.
For a more exact answer, consult your RV’s owner manual. There will be guidelines about how much water pressure your RV is best with.
If your RV’s owner manual is different from this advice, go with your manual recommendations.
As we already said, the correct water pressure depends entirely on your RV. The manual gives more exact info for your RV than we do (simply because we don’t know what RV you have).
How Do I Increase Water Pressure In My RV?
Water pressure regulators are especially great whenever the water pressure is too high for your vehicle.
Although it can help if the water pressure is too low, some water pressures will be so low that even a regulator can’t increase the water pressure as high as you may like it.
Because of this fact, many people assume that low water pressure is simply a fact of RV life. Luckily, there are things you can do about it so that you can more comfortably live in your RV.
Read also: This Is Why Your RV Toilet Has No Water Pressure (Solved!)
Check For Any Issues
If you notice that your RV’s water pressure has suddenly gone down, the first thing you should do is check for any issues.
This may be kinks in the lines, blockage, a dirty filter, an empty storage tank, or a faulty water pump.
Looking for these issues can help increase the pressure without spending a fortune.
Keep The Filter Clean
As you are looking for any issues, clean out the filter. Filters are absolutely necessary for your RV’s water system.
Filters help keep the water clean, but they can lead to clogs and other issues that decrease the water pressure.
It is recommended to change out the water filter every six months. This will keep the water pressure at an accurate level.
Plus, it will improve the quality of your water.
Change The Pump
One way you can increase the water pressure in your RV is to upgrade your RV water pump entirely. If your water pump is old, this would be an especially good idea.
Select a strong water pump that can lead to a stronger PSI that you would like.
In order to replace your water pump, you will need to empty your storage tank and turn off the RV water pump power.
Remove the fasteners and disconnect the water line hose clamps and electric lines.
Remove the water pump and follow the installation instructions for the new pump. Reconnect the pump and secure the hose clamps. Turn the power and water back on.
Change Your Hoses
While you are changing the pump, you might want to change your hoses as well. You always want your RV water system to be paired with high-power hoses.
New hoses will not be backed up with debris, and they will not have any kinks.
Read also: What Size PVC Pipe For RV Sewer /Are RV Sewer Hoses Universal?
RV Water Pressure Regulator Installation
Water pressure regulators are easy to install. They will be placed between the water source and your freshwater hose.
Using the regulator at this location will ensure the pressure is correct before it enters the hose where it can cause damage to your RV and pipes.
To install the water pressure regulator, all you need to do is twist it onto the spigot. Then, connect the water hose to the other side of the regulator.
If you have an adjustable option, you will also need to set the PSI level.
Removal is just as easy. Simply untwist it whenever you are ready to pack up and leave. If you are having trouble removing the regulator, you can use pliers for more traction.
How To Install a Pressure Reducing Valve >> Check out the video below:
RV Water Pressure Regulator Location
The proper location for the water pressure regulator in the RV is between the water source and the freshwater hose.
This ensures that the pressure is correct before it even enters the hose. Simply turn the regulator onto the tap and connect the other side to the water hose.
RV water pressure regulator and its correct location >> Check out the video below:
RV Water Pressure Regulator Setting
If you have a nonadjustable RV water pressure regulator, you do not have to worry about its settings. If you have an adjustable option, though, you will need to set the water pressure setting yourself.
Luckily, selecting the water pressure PSI is normally very simple.
Most of the time, adjustable RV water pressure regulators are controlled using a screw.
Whenever you turn this crew, the gauge will either increase or decrease, depending on the direction you spin it. You will simply use a flathead screwdriver to control the water pressure strength.
When controlling the water pressure yourself, it is important to be mindful of how much pressure you are allowing in.
Most RVs are suited for water pressure of 40 to 50 PSI, but you may be able to go up as high as 60. If your RV is over 10 years old, never go over 55 PSI.
RV Fresh Water Setup! Don’t Make This Mistake! >> Check out the video below:
RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve
RV water pressure regulator valves are designed to regulate the water pressure while also coming with an inlet screened filter.
This allows you to ensure safe water pressure and safe drinking water. RV water pressure regulator valves often come with gauges too.
“If you are interested in the best RV water pressure regulators, water pressure regulator valves are typically the best option.”
Most are designed to connect to standard hoses and come with easy-to-read dials. Additionally, most valves are adjustable, allowing you to adjust the pressure to whichever PSI you would like.
Because RV water pressure regulator valves provide the best safety, they are a bit expensive. Beginners may find it a bit more difficult to use too, though it still is a rather intuitive device.
Despite these drawbacks, RV water pressure regulator valves are the best way to go because they help to protect your pipes and your drinking water.
RV Water Pressure Regulator With Gauge
Above, we mentioned that you can use a water pressure regulator with a gauge. A water pressure regulator with a gauge is the most effective way to control how much water pressure is going into your RV at a time.
On the one hand, the water pressure regulator simply regulates the amount of pressure that is going into the hose.
On the other hand, the gauge tells you how much pressure is going into the hose. This can allow you to understand what is happening to your RV.
This can be extremely advantageous because it can help you increase or decrease the pressure if you have an adjustable option.
RV Water Pressure Regulator And Filter
Here’s an option for a drinking water hose that does not kink easily and will last longer than the white ones out there, what I found my secondary water filter is capturing, where to hook up your pressure regulator so your hose won’t fail from high pressures.
I hope this is helpful to you I forgot to mention in the video and you might have caught this…..I cut the 25-foot hose in half to make two 12 1/2 foot hoses.
We’ve found that several times when we hook up we can use less length than 25 feet also it makes rolling up the hose easier.
3 Best RV Water Pressure Regulator You Can Buy (Pro ; Cons)
Water pressure regulators are a great way to protect your RV and yourself. It is best to go with superior water pressure regulator models to ensure you are doing what you can to protect from every perspective.
Let’s take a look at the three best RV water pressure regulators today.
1. Renator M11-0660R Water Pressure Regulator Valve – Best Overall
The best overall water pressure regulator is the Renator M11-0660R Water Pressure Regulator Valve.
This model is affordable, but it still offers every must-have feature of an effective water pressure regulator. This allows you to get a lot of usage for a low price.
This water pressure regulator includes a valve with the ability to measure up to 160 PSI. It also features an internal filter, helping to filter out any rocks and debris that may be within the water supply. Both these features are absolutely necessary for an effective water pressure regulator.
The Renator M11-0660R Water Pressure Regulator Valve is made from lead-free material. Plus, it contains an oil that minimizes any friction within the internal components.
The great materials are matched with a one year guarantee, helping you to have peace of mind with this product.
Although this is our best overall option, there are a few drawbacks. A few users have noted that the Renator M11-0660R Water Pressure Regulator Valve stops working after a few months.
More specifically, most people note that the gauge can fail, leading to inaccurate readings. Most users do not have this experience, but it is important to keep this in mind.
All around, the Renator M11-0660R Water Pressure Regulator Valve is the best overall RV water pressure regulator.
It is affordable, comes with all the necessary features, and is made from great materials. Just make sure to keep an eye on the gauge.
Pros
- Affordable
- Up to 160 PSI readings
- Filter
- One year guarantee
- Lead-free
Cons
- Gauge may fail after minimal use
2. Camco Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge – Best Budget Pick
If you are on a tight budget, you can still find great water pressure regulators that do not cost a fortune.
Our favorite budget pick is the Camco Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge. This water pressure regulator is highly affordable, but it is highly effective and will help lead to a safer water experience.
The Camco Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge comes with a gauge, helping you to see the PSI level.
It does not give exact PSI measurements, but it is color-coded based on zones. Low water pressure is in a yellow zone, whereas high water pressure is in the red zone. The ideal pressure is green.
To make the Camco Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge easier to use, it is factory preset between 40 to 50 PSI. This makes it safe for both old and new RV models.
You do not actually have to control it yourself, which has both benefits and drawbacks.
As with our best overall pick, the Camco Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge has some drawbacks.
Most notably, the color-coding design is not exact. This can make it difficult to know how much water pressure is present.
This water pressure regulator is not adjustable either, meaning you cannot change the pressure if you need to.
Despite these drawbacks, the Camco Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge is the best budget pick on our list. It is highly affordable and reliable, though you cannot adjust the water pressure.
This is a great choice if you are on a tight budget but still need a reliable pick.
Pros
- Affordable
- Gauge
- Easy to use
Cons
- Does not give exact measurements
- Not adjustable
3. Kohree RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve – High Performance Pick
Finally, the last water pressure regulator we recommend is the Kohree RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve. This water pressure regulator should be your go-to choice if money is not an issue and you want the most effective option.
This regulator is high-performing and incredibly versatile.
To start, the Kohree RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve comes with a gauge that can read up to 160 PSI. The design is also adjustable, allowing you to alter the pressure to your exact preferences.
This creates a much more controlled and safe experience.
The materials are completely lead-free, and it comes with a filter. Plus, the design is explosion-proof. This allows the valve to withstand much more shock and pressure than any other water pressure regulator on this list.
This is a great choice if you go to places with high water pressure frequently.
One drawback of the Kohree RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve is that it is more expensive than the other options.
It is not the most expensive water pressure regulator on the market, but it is more expensive than the other options on this list.
Another drawback is that it can potentially leak. There are a few users who claim their Kohree RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve leaked whenever they first used it, but these complaints are few in number.
With this in mind, the Kohree RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve is the best choice if you are willing to spend a bit more on a highly effective water pressure regulator.
It has a great gauge, adjustable features, and an explosion-proof design, making it our high performance pick.
Pros
- Up to 160 PSI readings
- Filter
- Lead-free
- Explosion-proof
Cons
- Expensive
- Complaints of it leaking
DIY RV Water Pressure Regulator
For the last few months the water pressure in our coach has been fluctuating, going down and down. We had been attributing this to the pressure in the Park we are staying in. But the pressure at the faucet was always in the 50 to 60 PSI range.
The Valterra water pressure regulator we have been using for the past year and a half was putting out 39 psi but the water in our shower was getting to the point that we needed to use the fresh water tank and water pump.
I found an old CAMCO regulator in our wet bay that the previous owners had left. I originally didn’t want to use it because it had been left in a box with some of the sewer pieces.
So I put it through some boiling water and some hot vinegar to clean it and remove any calcium deposits.
RV Do It Yourself – Water Pressure Regulator >> Check out the video below:
FAQs
When to replace my water pressure regulator?
Knowing when to replace an RV water pressure regulator can be a bit difficult. The easiest way to tell is if the pressure within the faucets and showerhead is too low, too high, or inconsistent.
Any one of these cases indicates that there is something wrong with your regulator.
If you find that the water pressure in your RV is spotty, check with your owner’s manual. The owner’s manual may have tips for preventing this or point out things you are doing incorrectly leading to the faulty water pressure regulator.
Obviously, replace the water pressure regulator if there is any physical damage. Any cracks or broken features are signs that the regulator needs to be replaced.
See if the water pressure regulator is still in warranty from its manufacturer.
How can I adjust the water pressure on an adjustable water pressure regulator?
Most of the time, adjusting the water pressure on a regulator is rather easy. Most models use a screw. Turn the screw right to increase the pressure or turn it left to decrease it.
Flathead screwdrivers will make the task easy. Make sure to read your instruction manual to ensure you are turning the screw in the right direction.
If your water pressure regulator does not have a screw, consult the manual. It will be unlikely to find a different adjustable feature, but it is possible.
The owner’s manual will tell you exactly what to do in order to adjust the water pressure with ease.
How much do RV water pressure regulators cost?
Water pressure regulators are not very expensive.
You can find really cheap options between $5 and $15. At this price point, the regulator will most likely not include the gauge and it will be made from plastic. The regulator will not be adjustable either. This may be a great auction if you are on a really tight budget or need a quick fix until you find a better choice. It is not ideal for long-term use, however.
The majority of water pressure regulators cost between $15 and $40. This price range typically features pressure gauges, brass materials, and a lead-free design.
Most include a filter and are adjustable as well. This is a great choice for most RV owners because these are dependable, easy to use, and not super expensive.
You can find water pressure regulators that cost as much as $100. These regulators are very sturdy and provide the safest water pressure regulation.
With that being said, the benefits are not that much more noticeable than water pressure regulators that cost between $15 and $40. We recommend opting for the median price.
What features should I look for in an RV water pressure regulator?
Selecting a water pressure regulator can be a bit difficult because they are not devices we are frequently familiar with.
There are four main factors you need to consider: PSI capacity, additional features, materials, and lead.
Let’s take a look at each of these factors in more detail.
The first factor we recommend considering is the PSI capacity. The PSI capacity tells you how much pressure per square inch the regulator can handle.
The PSI capacity should match your RV’s PSI rating. Most factory preset options can handle 45 PSI, but newer models can handle as much as 100.
Additional features are another factor you might want to think about. As we learned, some water pressure regulators come with gauges and adjustability.
These additional features make the water pressure regulator more useful. They are not necessary, but they are certainly recommended.
“You also need to consider the materials. It is always advised to select an RV water pressure regulator made from brass.
Brass is highly sturdy, designed for long-term use, and will not contaminate the water supply.”
Plastic is another material you may find, but it is not sturdy and will break quickly. Opt for brass when you can.
Finally, the last feature you need to look at is the lead content. As you probably know, you do not want lead inside your water supply.
For this reason, select a water pressure regulator with a lead-free design. This will keep the water supply safe from lead contamination.
References
https://www.freshwatersystems.com/blogs/blog/how-to-find-and-fix-rv-water-pressure-problems
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