RV’ing In Southern Oregon Fall 2024
By Paul Wesner, Vintage Trailer Land
Walt Disney World’s “Carousel Of Progress” made an impact on me as a young teen. Watching the animated depiction of technology’s progress, it was hard to imagine a home without these common conveniences: electricity, appliances, etc. Another luxury that has completely transformed the routines of daily life is indoor plumbing. Think what life would be like without on-demand tap water, flushing toilets, kitchen faucets, or hot showers. Not all Recreational Vehicles have been in step with the modern conveniences that we enjoy in our homes, including the freshwater systems. So let’s take a look at a few plumbing upgrades you might consider for your house on wheels.
Water Heater
Undersized and maintenance-neglected, tank-style water heaters were the standard in the RV industry for decades. But maybe it’s time to consider an endless supply of hot water with an on-demand water heater. They are available in electric or propane, and are surprisingly affordable. Grandpa would have never imagined never running out of hot water!
Water Pump
The early travel trailers used suction pumps that required drawing water with a hand-pumping action. Now, water is effortlessly sent to the faucet with on-demand, low-voltage pumps. If yours is not supplying high-volume water with low-mechanical noise, it’s time to install a new water pump.
Toilet
Technology hasn’t left toilets behind (sorry about that one). Low-rise, plastic units can be replaced with options such as high-profile, porcelain, sprayers, low-water, composting, incinerating, cartridges, and more.
Kitchen Faucet
Why struggle with washing your dishes under your original, straight-neck faucet, when you can replace it with a high-quality, chef-style faucet? This will give you both the flexibility and lots of clearance under the spout.
Shower
Slogging through campground showers can be a troublesome and uncomfortable experience. One of the benefits to owning an RV is having your own, private bath. But if your shower walls are cracking or warping, replace them with new Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) panels. Or, if possible, install a prefab, compact unit. If space is limited, consider turning the entire bathroom into a shower (“wet-bath”).
Shower Head
Once you replace your outdated showerhead with a high-efficiency model, you will kick yourself for not doing it sooner. This is usually as easy as a single threaded connection, but you may consider replacing the shower valve while you’re at it. Tip for RV fixture buying: some plumbing fixtures can be very inexpensive, but spend a little more for quality, all-metal fixtures.
Water Pipes
Various types of plumbing tanks and pipes have been installed in RVs including copper, steel, white plastic, grey plastic, PVC, PEX, and more. Inspect your tank and lines to determine which type and whether you need an upgrade. Also, check for any leaks.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing systems in our RV bring warmth, hygiene, and ease, allowing us more time enjoying the great outdoors. When you update with these suggestions, you will hit the road and sing, “There’s a great big beautiful tomorrow!” Happy Camping!
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