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Answers to Top 10 RV Water Pressure Regulator Questions

| Updated Jul 17, 2023

RV water pressure regulator questions come up quite a bit. So, here are the answers to the most FAQs…

Are you wondering whether you need an RV water pressure regulator? Are you unsure of what the proper water pressure should be for your RV water system?

This article will answer these and many other common questions about RV water pressure regulators.

Plus, we include a list of helpful RV water-related resources. Be sure to check those out, too!

If you buy something through our links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep our lights on so we can continue to provide helpful resources for RVers. Read our full affiliate disclosure here.

1. What is an RV Water Pressure Regulator?

An RV water pressure regulator is a device that is installed in your RV's plumbing system to regulate the pressure of the water coming from the campground's water source. It ensures that the water pressure stays at a safe level to prevent damage to your RV's plumbing system, such as bursting water lines or water heaters.

2. Do You Need an RV Water Pressure Regulator?

Yes, you do. The water pressure coming from the campground's water source or city water connection can be too high for your RV's plumbing system to handle, leading to costly damages. A water pressure regulator is a great thing to have to ensure that the water pressure stays within a safe level.

3. What Should Your Water Pressure Regulator Be Set At?

The recommended water pressure for your RV's plumbing system is 40-50 psi (pounds per square inch). However, some RVs may require different pressure levels, so checking your RV's manual for the manufacturer's recommendations is best.
An adjustable RV water pressure regulator is the best solution since it allows you to set the pressure to the required level.

4. When Should You Use Your Water Pressure Regulator on Your RV?

You should use your RV water pressure regulator anytime you're connected to a campground's water source or a municipal water system. It's a good idea to use it even when filling your freshwater tank with a garden hose.
Always ensure that your RV water pressure regulator works correctly to prevent damage to your RV's plumbing system.

5. What Happens When Your Water Pressure Regulator Fails?

When a water pressure regulator fails, it can result in high water pressure, leading to damage to your RV's plumbing system. It can also result in low water pressure, which can affect the water flow rate in your RV's water system.

6. How Do You Know If Your Pressure Regulator Is Bad?

One of the signs that your RV pressure regulator is bad is if the water pressure coming into your RV is higher than the recommended safe level. Another sign is if the water flow rate is significantly lower than usual.
If you suspect that your water pressure regulator is bad, replacing it as soon as possible is essential to prevent damage to your RV's water system.

7. How Often Do Pressure Regulators Fail?

The frequency of pressure regulator failure depends on the regulator's quality and how much water pressure it has to regulate. If you use your RV frequently and connect it to a high-pressure water source, your water pressure regulator may wear out over time. It's essential to check it regularly and replace it when necessary.

8. What Are the Best RV Water Pressure Regulators?

There are many options when it comes to RV water pressure regulators. Some of the best ones include:

Camco 40055 Brass Water Pressure Regulator

The Camco brand is well-known and well-respected in the RV world. So, it's no surprise this Camco regulator is a go-to for RVers. This regulator is made of lead-free, drinking-water-safe brass and has an adjustable pressure range of 40-50 psi.

Renator M11-0660R Water Pressure Regulator

This Renator regulator is made of lead-free brass and has an adjustable pressure range of 0-160 psi. Unlike the Camco, this regulator has a gauge showing you the water pressure level and a filter.

RVGUARD RV Water Pressure Regulator

This RVGUARD regulator is also highly rated. Like the Renator, it has a pressure gauge and an inlet screen to help filter out impurities.

Valterra A 01-1122VP Water Pressure Regulator

This Valterra regulator is also made of lead-free brass and has a pressure range of 0-75 psi. Like the Camco, this is a no-frills regulator that gets the job done.

9. Where Is the Best Place to Install an RV Water Pressure Regulator?

There is controversy here. Some say the best place to install your RV water pressure regulator is right before the main water line enters your RV. Others say right at the water spigot. Both work.

10. How Do You Install an RV Water Pressure Regulator?

Installing an RV water pressure regulator is easy and can be done in a few simple steps:

  1. Turn off the water pump and disconnect any freshwater hose from the RV.
  2. Find the main water line that enters the RV and locate the connection point for the city water supply.
  3. Determine where you want the regulator to go – at the spigot or at the intake point. Again, either location is fine.
  4. Connect the fresh water hose to the other end of the regulator
  5. Turn on the water supply and check that the water pressure is within the recommended safe level.

Do You Have More RV Water Pressure Regulator Questions?

Ask your RV water pressure regulator questions in the comments below, and we will try to address them in our next blog update.

Don't Drink That Dirty Campground Water!

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The problem of dirty campground water is growing as so many campgrounds, state and local parks, and long-established RV resorts grow older. With so many campgrounds relying on aging wells and plumbing systems, it’s more important than ever that campers filter the water they bring into their RVs. Details, links, and more here: https://rvlifestyle.com/rv-water-filter/

Other Helpful Water-Related Articles:

Answers to Top 10 RV Water Pressure Regulator Questions 1

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Mike Wendland

Published on 2023-03-13

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

2 Responses to “Answers to Top 10 RV Water Pressure Regulator Questions”

January 27, 2024at9:10 am, Matt Ross said:

I’m about to get my first RV. I know to always have a pressure regulator on the fresh water supply. Should I also have the water going to the black tank wash regulated?

Reply

March 13, 2023at2:56 pm, John Sutjak said:

How can you test your water regulator to make sure it is working?

Reply

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