Motorhomes are some of the recreational vehicles in the market that have gained popularity over the years, thanks to their comfortable and convenient design. Motorhomes offer the best of travel experience both on and off the road. There are different types of motorhomes- classified into four classes; Class A, B, B+ and C. They differ in size, design, and functionalities. Regardless of the size or class; a typical motorhome will serve all the accommodation needs with a touch of luxury- just like your small apartment would do.
Pipework in a Motorhome
The fact that a motorhome is a self-contained, self-propelled RV means that the water system and plumbing are part of the indoor design. To ensure the best efficiency and comfort while staying in a motorhome, proper plumbing design is necessary. Picking a model with the perfect plan, sinks and a minimalist pipework design guarantee a brilliant freshwater system and reliable drainage.
In the recent past, caravans and recreational vehicles were fitted with clear pipes which allowed light to go through causing discoloration and even algae growth. Years later, RV manufacturers realized the need to shift from clear pipes to colored pipes so as to stop the light from getting through.
Flexible Hoses
Flexible hoses can be used anywhere on the motorhome to make a piping connection. The perk with these pipes is that they are effective in sharp corners without risking breakage. To ensure the best of experience, hose clips are used when bending the flexible hoses. Hose clips are placed on to the position where there’s a bent so as to straighten and reform their hollow cylindrical form. The hose clip is tightened carefully to ensure seamless water flow in corners and bents. This comes as a quick fix cure for flexible pipes that can kink hence restricting water flow.
Push-fit Pipes
Plastic pipes are way more popular than copper pipes when it comes to motorhome plumbing. Push-fit cabling is used to make a connection with flexible hoses and semi-flexible pipes. Push-fit plumbing uses a simple technology where pipes are connected using the push fit connectors. These connectors have been designed to ensure that the pipes wouldn’t disintegrate unless an intentional push-pull force is exerted around a component on the rear end of the connector. According to easymerchant.co.uk, push fit pipes are found in a variety of materials for different sorts of applications. These pipes can be made to negotiate a bend with the use of a 90-degree channeling bracket. The curvatures protect the sides of the pipe and stop it from kinking that would outset the flow of water.
Motorhome Water Heaters
A water heater is an essential part of a functional motorhome. While an RV water heater will be smaller in size compared to your home water heater, it works in a similar way. Whether you’re cooking, showering or cleaning, you might need warm to hot water especially during the cold traveling seasons.
To get the best performance of your motorhome water heater, there are some important tips to keep in mind. Water heaters have safety devices on them to protect you and your motorhome. Some of the reputable RV water heaters manufactures include Atwood and Suburban. Both make the manuals and automatics. Having reliable piping all the way from the freshwater inlet valve to the hot water pipes will get the work done with little to no challenges.
Toilet Plumbing
Motorhome toilet installation is pretty straightforward. It’s similar to the ordinary home toilet only that the waste drains into the black water tank. With proper plumbing techniques and wise choice of the toilet seat, some clean water will always remain on the toilet sink after the flushing. The water serves two purposes; it lubricates the gasket which seals the valve and keeps away any unpleasant smell from the black tank.
Plumbing Fixtures
Things like faucets, sinks, and showers are considered essentials for a motorhome. Choosing a motorhome with high-quality materials from high-end manufacturers minimizes the chances of failure and poor functionality. The installations are always specific to their respective uses.
The piping system would have two major outlets; the black water tank and the gray water tank. The latter collects waste water from the showers, kitchen sink, and the bathroom sink. Both the black and gray water tanks will each have an RV plumbing vent. The vent has a pipe that runs upward from the top of the gray and black water tanks, to vent out the roof of your motorhome. Venting the horrible smell from the two tanks out in the air is way better than having it back into your luxury motorhome.
Plumbing Repairs
Motorhome plumbing systems have been designed to last a lifetime, however, one or two repairs might be required after years of continuous use. When and where you’ll have to repair the pipes in your motorhome is subject to the tear and wear factors. This makes it necessary to be always prepared to handle any type of plumbing repairs; be it leaks, low pressure, disjointed connectors or failing water pump.
There are different types of plumbing tubing that may come handy while doing the repairs. One is the PEX tubing that’s more lightweight and flexible than the ABS and metal pipe options. They use metal plumbing fittings to connect two separate lengths of tubing. The installation is simple, each fitting is pushed into the end of the hose, and then a crimp ring is used to tighten the connection.
Whether it’s the over-pressurized system or a broken pipe; getting ready to handle all repair work is the key to managing any plumbing failure. It’s always a good idea to carry with you a set of different-sized lengths of the various pipes and tubing. Also, have a few types of the commonly used RV plumbing fittings, so you don’t end up getting stuck in the middle of your adventure or camping.
Although motorhomes come installed with nearly everything you’ll need, it’s still necessary to stay aware of its plumbing, pipework and water system. Unlike a camper van that can be modified to suit your taste and preferences, a motorhome will have limited options for customization.