Can I Use a Garden Hose for My RV: 5 Best Water Hoses Reviewed!
Are you planning a camping trip in your RV and are wondering if “can I use a garden hose for my RV?” The answer is yes! Garden hoses are one of the best options for providing water to your RV because not only are these hoses affordable and easy to find, but they are also easy to use.
Garden hoses come in many types. So, it’s important to consider the type of hose material that will work best in your specific RV environment, the length of the hose needed, and the fittings necessary to connect the hose to your RV. In this article, we will talk about all these things for your information.
Here you will also read about:
- The 5 best-reviewed water hoses
- The different types of an RV water hose
- The different benefits and features of RV water hoses
- The difference between a garden hose and an RV drinking water hose
- The 4 best accessories for RV drinking water hoses
Table of Contents
Best Drinking Water Hose for Your RV: Our Top-5
Whether you are a full-time RV dweller or just a weekend warrior, having a reliable and safe potable water hose is essential to keeping your family hydrated. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know which hose is right for you.
Here we’ll review the top 5 drinking water hoses for your RV, so you can make an informed decision on which one will suit your needs.
1. Camco Premium Drinking Water Hose
Camco’s premium drinking water hose is a great choice for RV owners looking for reliable and durable water hoses. The hose is designed to be heavy-duty yet lightweight and flexible, making it ideal for maneuvering around tight spaces in your RV.
The drinking water hose is made with FDA-approved materials, so it is safe for drinking purposes. It also has a reinforced 500 PSI burst strength and is lead and BPA-free.
2. Teknor Apex Neverkink
The Teknor apex never kink hose is made of FDA-approved materials, so you can rest assured that your drinking water is safe. The hose is also lead and BPA-free, so you won’t have to worry about any dangerous chemicals leaching into your potable water.
This hose is also designed with anti-kink technology, which means you can move it around without worrying about kinking or tangling. The brass couplings are also crush-resistant and feature an E-Z grip for easy connection and disconnection.
Finally, this hose comes equipped with self-straightening capabilities, ensuring it will never kink or coil. Overall, the Teknor Apex Neverkink hose is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a long-lasting and durable drinking water hose for your RV.
3. Camco Heated Drinking Water Hose
When winter hits, it can be a challenge to keep your RV’s water supply running smoothly. The Camco Heated Drinking Water Hose is designed to keep your RV’s water flowing even in cold temperatures, making it perfect for winter use.
The 25-foot Camco Heated Drinking Water Hose is made of high-quality, lead-free materials, ensuring safe and reliable operation. It also comes equipped with a machined brass end and a durable outer jacket that is UV-stabilized to resist the sun’s rays.
The swivel fittings allow for easy connection and disconnection, and the unique thermal heating system ensures that your water stays warm, no matter how cold it gets outside.
4. Aqua Joe
The Aqua Joe is great because it’s lightweight, so it’s easy to transport and store in your RV. Plus, it has an anti-kink sleeve and lead-free construction, making it one of the best hoses for RVs on the market. It also has a fitting on each end, making it easy to hook up to your RV’s water supply and your RV’s water tanks.
With a 50-foot length, it’s perfect for those long trips, too. You can easily pull it out when you need it and roll it back up when you’re done. It’s also UV resistant and can withstand temperatures from -30°F to 125°F (-34°C to 51°C). And if that’s not enough, this hose comes with a lifetime warranty!
That’s right – if you ever experience any problems with this hose, Aqua Joe will send you a replacement free of charge!
5. Camco Evoflex
The Camco Evoflex is made from durable and flexible PVC material, making it capable of handling extreme temperatures. It is also designed to resist kinks and tangles, so you don’t have to worry about it becoming damaged or unusable.
The Camco Evoflex comes with a reinforced coil that ensures that your hose stays firmly attached and prevents it from slipping or stretching. It is lead-free and safe for drinking, making it perfect for Rvers who are looking for the best drinking water hose.
With its strong construction, long length, and safety features, the Camco Evoflex is the best drinking water hose for your RV.
Different Types of RV Water Hoses
Let’s take a look at the different types of RV water hoses.
RV Potable Water Hose
When it comes to camping and driving, having a reliable and safe water supply is essential. An RV potable water hose is the ideal solution for ensuring your family can access clean, drinkable water while on the road.
When choosing an RV potable water hose, it is important to make sure that:
- The fittings are compatible with the RV’s water system.
- The length of the hose is long enough to reach your RV’s water tank at your desired location.
When storing an RV Potable Water Hose, make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight, as this can cause it to degrade over time. To prevent kinks and tangles, store the hose loosely coiled and avoid any sharp bends or twists in the hose.
Heated RV Water Hose
A heated RV water hose is made from a special material that is designed to withstand freezing temperatures without cracking or splitting. It is important to note that a heated water hose should not be used when the temperature drops below freezing.
The most important feature of a heated RV water hose is its thermostat. This device helps to regulate the temperature of the water flowing through the hose so that it stays within a certain range.
When purchasing a heated RV water hose, it is important to make sure that:
- You purchase one with a thermostat.
- You should also check to see if it is compatible with your RV’s electrical system, as some models require a specific type of outlet to work properly.
- You read all instructions before use to ensure that you are using them safely and correctly.
Benefits & Features of RV Water Hoses
Benefits
- Easy to transport: RV water hoses are incredibly lightweight and compact, making them easy to move around and transport from place to place.
- Don’t kink or tangle: They are designed with a special kink-resistant material that prevents the hose from tangling and knotting, making it difficult to use.
- Durable: The material of an RV water hose is often made from high-quality rubber or PVC, ensuring that it is strong and durable enough to withstand regular use.
- Lightweight: RV water hoses are typically much lighter than standard water hoses, making them easy to carry and use without causing strain on your body.
- Easy to store: When not in use, an RV water hose can be easily coiled and stored away without taking up too much space.
- Leak-proof: A quality RV water hose is designed with anti-leak technology, meaning it will not allow any water to escape.
- Affordable: Compared to other types of hoses, RV water hoses are relatively inexpensive, making them a great choice for those who are on a budget.
- Variety of colors: Lastly, these hoses are available in a variety of colors and lengths, giving you plenty of options when it comes to choosing the right one for your RV.
Features
- They’re Durable: RV water hoses are designed to be long-lasting and durable, which means you won’t need to replace them frequently.
- They Have Flexible End Connections: These hoses come with flexible end connections, which allow you to easily connect and disconnect the hose from any water source without having to fiddle with multiple pieces.
- They Come in Different Lengths: They come in different lengths, meaning you can choose the right length for your needs. Whether you need a short hose for a nearby water source or a longer hose for more remote sites, there’s an RV water hose that’s just right for you.
- They Have Multiple Fittings: Many RV hoses have multiple fittings, allowing you to connect the hose to various water sources such as faucets, showers, and outdoor hydrants.
- They Have a High Burst Pressure Rating: Most RV water hoses are rated for a burst pressure rating of over 200 psi, which is much higher than a typical garden hose.
- Shutoff valves: Furthermore, many RV water hoses come with shutoff valves at both ends, making it easy to control the flow of water without having to disconnect the hose from its source.
- UV protection: Another great feature is their UV protection, which prevents cracking and fading due to long exposure to sunlight.
What is the Difference Between a Garden Hose and an RV Drinking Water Hose?
Garden Hose | RV Drinking Water Hose |
Made from PVC or other non-toxic materials | Made from reinforced, non-toxic materials like FDA-approved polyethylene |
Can contain toxins that can leach into water | Does not contain toxins and will not leach into drinking water |
Not designed for drinking water | Designed specifically for drinking water |
Garden hoses may not be safe for drinking water | Certified safe for drinking water by the NSF |
May contain lead and other contaminants | Lead and contaminants are not present |
Not designed to handle higher pressures | Made to handle higher pressure than a garden hose |
Are Expandable Hoses Safe for Drinking?
When providing clean and safe drinking water, choosing a reliable and quality hose free from contaminants is essential. Unfortunately, many people are unaware that expandable hoses are unsuitable for water.
Here we will discuss why these hoses are not safe for drinking water.
- They’re made of plastic
- They can harbor bacteria
- They can leach chemicals into your freshwater tank
- They can break down over time
- They’re more likely to kink
- They’re not regulated by the FDA
4 Best Accessories for RV Drinking Water Hoses
Water Filters for RV Fresh Water Tank
For those of you who have an RV, you may already know that having a reliable drinking water hose is essential to keeping your water supply safe and clean. Investing in a water filter is a must to ensure the best quality of water for your drinking and cleaning needs.
Water filters are designed to remove chlorine, lead, sediment, and other contaminants from your water supply. When choosing a water filter for your RV, ensure that it is NSF/ANSI certified and rated for the type of water you plan to use in your RV. It is also important to change the filter regularly to keep your water supply clean and safe.
Water Pressure Regulators
If you own an RV and want to ensure that your drinking water remains safe and potable, then a water pressure regulator is a must-have accessory. A water pressure regulator reduces the flow rate of the water entering your RV.
When it comes to choosing a water pressure regulator for your RV, there are several things to consider. It is important to choose one designed for outdoor use and rated for high pressure and temperatures. You should also look for a regulator that features an adjustable relief valve, so you can easily adjust the pressure depending on your needs.
90 Degree Elbow
A 90-degree elbow is a great accessory to have for your best drinking water hose as it provides a secure connection between two pipes at an angle of 90 degrees. It can also connect two sections of pipe that are not the same size. This is especially useful if you must go around a corner or run the hose through a tight space.
Installing a 90-degree elbow in your RV’s drinking water hose will ensure a strong, secure connection that won’t leak and will help keep the water pressure from getting too high. It is also very easy to install and can be done with basic tools.
In addition, make sure to check all connections before use and again after each use to ensure they remain securely fastened and there are no leaks.
Quick Connects
If you’re looking to make the job of connecting and disconnecting your RV drinking water hose even easier, then look no further than Quick Connects. These handy accessories are designed to attach quickly and securely to the end of your hose, allowing for easy connection and disconnection from the water source.
Once attached, simply press the two sides of the Quick Connect together to connect, and pull the release buttons apart to disconnect. This makes for quick and easy connections and disconnections, saving you time and hassle.
Plus, the connection is secure so you can rest assured that it won’t come undone while in use.
What is the Best Way to Store an RV Fresh Water Hose?
If you’re looking for the most convenient and effective way to store your RV fresh water hose, look no further than hose storage bags. These storage bags are specifically designed to protect and store hoses without tangles or kinks and ensure they stay out of harm’s way when not in use.
Plus, they provide easy portability so you can easily move them from one location to another. These storage bags are typically made from durable materials like nylon or canvas and feature carrying handles so you can take them with you when you go camping or boating.
They also come in a variety of sizes so you can find the right bag that fits your specific RV water hose.
What to Look for in a Water Hose for Your RV?
When it comes to selecting a water hose for your RV, there are a few factors that should be taken into consideration:
Durability
When choosing a water hose for your RV, it is important to consider its durability. Not only does a more durable hose last longer and save you money in the long run, but it also ensures that your hose won’t fail on you when you need it most.
When shopping for an RV water hose, look for hoses that are made of materials such as reinforced rubber, PVC, or polyurethane. These materials are designed to be more resistant to wear and tear, so they will last longer than hoses made of other materials.
Safety and Consumption Rating
When searching for a water hose for your RV, safety and your RV’s consumption should be one of your most paramount concerns. You want to ensure that the hose you purchase is certified safe for drinking water, meaning it’s free from lead, BPA, phthalates, and other contaminants.
Additionally, some water hoses come with NSF or FDA certification, which means they meet higher standards of safety and quality. Make sure you check the label on the hose to ensure it meets all safety requirements before making your purchase.
Length and Diameter
When selecting a water hose for your RV, it’s important to consider the length and diameter of the hose. The length of the hose is a major factor to consider as you’ll want one that can reach where you want to use it. For example, if you’re camping in a spot with limited access to the water source, you’ll need a longer hose.
The diameter of the hose will also have an impact on the flow rate. Generally speaking, the larger the diameter of the hose, the higher the flow rate.
However, larger hoses take up more space and can be harder to store. Consider your needs when selecting a diameter size and weigh up the pros and cons.
Storage Space
When you’re looking for an RV drinking hose, you should consider how much storage space you have available. If you’re running low on storage space, it may be a good idea to look for a hose that is more compact and won’t take up too much room when not in use.
Look for a hose that is designed to be lightweight and can be folded or coiled up easily. Some hoses even come with their carrying cases and spring coil hose protector, making them even easier to store.
Kink-Free Design and Flexibility
For water hoses for your RV, be sure to select a design without any kinks and with maximum flexibility. You need to be sure the hose is designed to resist kinking or twisting when in use so that your water pressure isn’t affected.
A kink-free design also means that you don’t have to worry about kinks occurring as you move the hose around your RV site. Flexibility is also key. Make sure the RV water hose you choose is flexible enough to maneuver and reach where you need it to, whether it’s around tight corners or on uneven surfaces.
Cost
Water RV hoses for are always expensive. In general, you get what you pay for in terms of quality and durability. Cheaper hoses may seem like an attractive option, but often they don’t last as long and can be more prone to leakage.
You may find that investing in a higher-end RV drinking hose will save you money in the long run since it will last longer. Ultimately, finding the best RV water hose should come down to which one offers the most value for your money.
Can I Use a Garden Hose for My RV – FAQs
Can you use any hose for RV water?
Yes, you can use any hose for RV water, but it is best to use a white or reinforced hose to ensure the highest quality and longest-lasting connection.
Do you have to use a white hose for RV?
No, it is not mandatory to use the white RV drinking hose. You can use any color hose, as long as it is rated safe for drinking water. However, white hose does have the advantage of blocking UV rays, so it will last longer than other colors.
Can you use a flex hose on an RV?
Yes, you can use a flex hose on an RV. Flexible hoses are perfect for RVs because they offer greater maneuverability when connecting to a water source.
Can you use any hose for RV water?
Yes, you can use any hose for RV water, but it is best to use a white or reinforced hose to ensure the highest quality and longest-lasting connection.
Do you have to use a white hose for RV?
No, it is not mandatory to use the white RV drinking hose. You can use any color hose, as long as it is rated safe for drinking water. However, white hose does have the advantage of blocking UV rays, so it will last longer than other colors.
Can you use a flex hose on an RV?
Yes, you can use a flex hose on an RV. Flexible hoses are perfect for RVs because they offer greater maneuverability when connecting to a water source.
Can you use a regular garden hose for drinking water?
No, it is not safe to use a regular garden hose for drinking water. Regular hoses are made of materials that are not meant to be used with water and can contain toxins that can leach into the water supply.
Are flexible hoses safe for drinking water?
Yes, flexible hoses are safe for potable water as long as they are made from approved materials such as polyethylene or vinyl. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s label for any warnings before using the hose.
Conclusion
Using a garden hose for your RV is a great option for ensuring you have access to clean water and other fluids. When selecting the right hose for your RV, there are several important considerations to make. It is important to consider the size and type of hose you need based on your RV’s needs.
When selecting a hose for your RV, consider factors such as the length, material, connection type, and other features that can make the process easier and more convenient. With a bit of research and the right hose, you can enjoy a reliable and efficient water supply for your RV!
Which one would you like to choose for your RV? Please tell us in the comment section with some solid reasons.
Asen is the owner and main contributor of Camper Life. He is a full-time RV traveler since 2018. He loves camping in nature, fishing, and spending time with his family.
Striving to provide the most valuable information about campers and RVs, he shares everything he learned over the years.
That’s why Camper Life is one of the best sources to find information about RV traveling and living.