RV plumbing pipes are exposed to a variety of water sources and may also be stored to sit unused for long periods of time.  Outlined below are some maintenance tips to keep the pipes in good working order.

City water hookups vary in pressure.  A water pressure regulator is used to protect the RV plumbing system against high pressures.  In some campgrounds, use of a water pressure regulator is required.  Certain model RV’s are shipped from the factory with a water pressure regulator attached to the fresh water spout in the service center.  Water pressure regulators can also be obtained at most RV supply outlets.  Attach the water pressure regulator at the city water outlet to prevent pressure from building in the hose and bursting.  Water pressure regulators do wear over time and will stick.  When this occurs, replace the water pressure regulator.

Air will usually build up in the plumbing lines of a new RV, or one that has been in storage for a time.  Open all faucets, one at a time, to release air.

Remove residue before washing dishes to keep food and grease out of the pipes.  Slow drainage is generally a sign of build-up in the pipes.  Occasionally clean the drains with a baking soda and vinegar solution to remove sludge.  Start by pouring ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar.  Use caution and provide ample ventilation for foaming and fumes.  Let the solution stand for three hours and rinse by running water down the drain.  More stubborn build up may be removed using ½ cup salt, ½ cup of baking soda and a teakettle of boiling water.  Shower drain clogging is usually the result of hair build up and can be resolved by removing hair from the drain with a wire hanger.

If a drain appears clogged, first confirm there is adequate room in the wastewater tank for the water to drain.  A full gray or black tank can result in overflow at the sink or toilet.  If there is ample room in the holding tanks and the drain will not operate, fill the sink or shower tray with water and use a plunger to loosen the clog.   Fill with enough water to cover the head of the plunger.  For a better seal, coat the plunger lip with petroleum jelly.  To achieve maximum suction, cover the overflow opening in the sink with a wet cloth.  When using a plunger to unplug a side-by-side kitchen sink, cover the drain opening in the opposite sink with a wet cloth.

Chemical drain openers may contain corrosive agents that can damage fixtures.  For stubborn clogs consult the services of a qualified plumber who can remove build up using a flexible wire augur.  If faulty valves on the black tank require repair, a sewage pump tank can manually drain the black tank via a hose routed through the bathroom window.

Winterize the plumbing system to guard against freezing temperatures using air pressure to remove all water from the lines, or by flushing the lines with RV approved antifreeze.  If you choose to treat the plumbing system with antifreeze, be sure to thoroughly flush the lines with clear water prior to putting the RV back in use.

Turn off the water at the source when you plan on being away from the RV.