/ / How Many Gallons Per Minute Does an RV Shower Use: 6 Key Features

How Many Gallons Per Minute Does an RV Shower Use: 6 Key Features

Running out of water while taking a shower in your RV is no fun. Not being aware of how many gallons per minute does an RV shower use could lead to not knowing when it’s time to refill the water tank.

In this article, we’ll cover the 6 features of our easy-to-use Shower Guide. Find out exactly when your shower needs to be refilled, the common problems of using showerheads, and the best replacement you can get.

Let’s dive in and find the perfect solution to your RV shower water-saving woes.

How Many Gallons of Water Does an RV Shower Use – Quick Overview

Type of RV Shower

Gallons per Shower

 Water Pressure

 Features

Low-Flow

2-3 gallons

Low to Medium

Eco-friendly, conserves water and tank space

Standard

4-5 gallons

Medium

Most common, balanced flow and pressure

High-Flow

6+ gallons

High

Powerful flow may require larger water tank and pumps

The amount of water your RV shower uses depends on a number of factors, including the size of the RV’s water tank and how often you use it.

  • If you’re using a Camper shower with a standard 5-gallon water tank, then you’ll need to fill up that tank every two days.
  • If you’re using a shower with an extended-life tank capacity, then it may only need to be filled up every three or four days.
How-Many-Gallons-of-Water-Does

The amount of water used by a Camper shower is based on a combination of factors, including:

  • How long it takes to fill the water tank
  • The number of occupants in the RV
  • How many gallons are allowed for each shower per day

The average shower uses about 3 gallons per minute, but this number can range from 1-3 gallons per minute. A smaller shower might use less than 2 gallons per minute, while larger models may use more than 5 gallons per minute.

Dry Camping

When dry camping, or camping without a hookup, your shower will use around 2 gallons of water for a full shower. This is because most RV showers are designed to save water, and come equipped with a pressure regulator to reduce the amount of water used.

Hookups

When using a hookup, your shower can use up to 6 gallons of water per minute. This is because the shower head is able to operate with full pressure, so more water is used. It’s important to be mindful of how much water you are using, to ensure you don’t run out.

Feature

 Dry Camping

 Hookups

Water source

Limited water supply from tanks

Unlimited supply from hookups

Water usage

Approximately 2-5 gallons per shower

Approximately 2-5 gallons per shower

Water conservation

More mindful and limited use

Less mindful use

Cost

Higher due to limited supply and need to refill tanks

Lower due to unlimited supply and lower cost for hookups

Convenience

Shower time may need to be limited, need to monitor water levels

No limitations on shower time or need to monitor water levels

Taking a Shower in an RV

When taking shower in an RV, it is important to remember to save water. There are several ways to conserve water while showering, such as taking shorter showers, turning the water shut-off valve when soaping up, and using a shower timer.

Taking-a-Shower-in-an-RV
Source: www.pinterest.com @MorganGreenwald

Shower timers are designed to help you track how long you have been in the shower, and can help you keep your shower time under control.

Length of Showers in an RV

How long you take a shower in an RV is entirely up to you, but it is important to remember that most RV showers are designed to conserve water.

Length-of-Showers-in-an-RV
Source: www.pinterest.com @HofmannArchitecture

Therefore, it is important to limit your shower length to preserve water, especially when dry camping. Generally, a typical shower in an RV should be around 5 minutes or less.

What Uses More Water – Bath or Shower?

When it comes to water conservation, showers are typically more efficient than baths. This is because showers use significantly less water than baths, and are more efficient at washing away dirt and grime. For this reason, showers are generally preferred over baths when dry camping.

Pros and Cons Taking a Bath

Pros-and-Cons-Taking-a-Bath
Source: www.pinterest.com @ChrystelSaillard
Pros
  • Relaxing
  • Stress Relieving
  • Full Body Soak
Cons
  • Uses more water
  • Takes more time to fill up and heat

Pros and Cons Taking a Shower

Pros-and-Cons-Taking-a-Shower
Source: www.pinterest.com @ArchitectureArtDesigns
Pros
  • Less usage of hot water
  • Quicker and more efficient
Cons
  • Less Relaxing
  • Limited to only standing position

Key Factors To Consider In An RV Shower Head

When it comes to selecting a shower head, there are several factors you should consider. From the water flow rate to the type of shower head, and the durability of the product, it’s important to find the right balance for your needs.

To help you make the best decision, here are the key factors to consider when buying a showerhead:

Key-Factors-To-Consider-In-An-RV-Shower-Head

Low GPM (gallons per minute)

Gallons per minute (GPM) is the measurement used to determine how much water a shower head uses.

  • When you are looking for a showerhead to use in your RV, you should look for a low GPM showerhead.
  • Generally, shower heads with a GPM lower than 2.5 are considered low flow and will be more efficient with the limited water supply in your RV.
  • So the answer to the question of how many gallons per minute a shower use is: it depends on the shower head, but it should be lower than 2.5 GPM.
Low-GPM
Source: www.amazon.com

Hand-Held Shower Head

A hand-held showerhead is a great choice for RV owners.

  • It allows you to easily adjust the water pressure and direct the water where you need it.
  • This type of shower head is also great for those who have limited mobility, as it can be easily adjusted to the desired height and angle.
  • Hand-held shower heads typically have a GPM of 2.0 or lower, making them a great choice for RV owners.
Hand-Held-Shower-Head

Durability/Reliability

When selecting a shower head, it’s important to look for one that is reliable and durable.

  • Look for shower heads that are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last.
  • This will ensure that your shower head will be able to withstand the rigors of RV life and will last for years to come.

Water Pressure

The water pressure of the shower head is also an important factor to consider. Showerheads typically have a lower water pressure than home showers, so look for one that has a higher water pressure rating. This will ensure that you get a satisfying shower, even with the limited water supply in your RV.

Shut-Off or Low-Flow Valve

Another great feature to look for in a shower head is a shut-off or low-flow valve.

  • This valve is designed to reduce the water flow to a trickle when the shower is not in use, reducing the amount of water used and saving you money.
  • This is a great feature to have if you are looking to save water while using your shower head.
Shut-Off-or-Low-Flow-Valve
Source: www.amazon.com

A Better RV Shower Hose

If you have an RV, chances are that you have noticed the problem with your shower hose.

  • It’s not very long, and it tends to kink easily.
  • When it kinks, it doesn’t allow water to flow freely from the shower head to where it needs to go.
  • This can lead to a lot of wasted time and effort because you have to keep twisting the hose back into shape after each use.
A-Better-RV-Shower-Hose
Source: www.pinterest.com @CommanderCody

Fortunately for those who have this issue, there is now a better way!

1. Dura Faucet Shower Hose

The Dura Faucet shower hose is a great option for those who want to save water. This shower hose is designed with a flow restrictor, so it can provide up to 1.5 gallons of water per minute.

It also features corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction, so it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.

2. KES Shower Hose

The KES shower hose is designed to provide up to 2 gallons of water per minute. It features a PVC construction, so it is resistant to rust and corrosion. And its flexibility makes it easy to install and maintain.

Does A Water-Saving Shower Head Save You Money?

Do you want to save money by reducing water usage in your RV shower? You can do so by installing a water-saving shower head. A water-saving shower head can reduce water flow from 3.5 to 2.5 gallons per minute, saving you up to 26% of your water bill each month.

Does-A-Water-Saving-Shower-Head-Save-You-Money
Source: www.pinterest.com @ChelseaColeman

Read on to find out more about the benefits of a water-saving shower head:

  1. A shower head can help you cut down on your monthly utility bills and conserve water at the same time.
  2. By using less water, households can expect to see a reduction in their monthly water and energy bills.
  3. Lower water usage can help to conserve valuable resources and reduce the strain on local water systems.
  4. Improved pressure also means fewer headaches when washing clothes or dishes!
  5. Most water-saving shower heads are easy to install and can be done without the need for a plumber, making them an affordable and accessible option for households looking to save water.
  6. They come in a variety of styles, including fixed, handheld, and rain shower options–there’s one for everyone!

Tips For Conserving Water Use In An RV Shower

If you’re looking to conserve water while showering in your RV, here are some tips that can help.

Tips-For-Conserving-Water-Use-In-An-RV-Shower
Source: www.pinterest.com @dawnkstong

1. Install A Low-Flow Shower Head

Installing a low-flow shower head is an easy and affordable way to reduce your water consumption while showering. Low-flow shower heads typically reduce water flow to 1.5 gallons per minute, helping you save up to 50% of your water bill each month.

2. Use The Campground Showers

When available, using the campground showers can be a great way to conserve water. Most campground showers are equipped with low-flow shower heads that limit water flow to 1.5 gallons per minute or less. They also come with hot and cold valves.

3. Set Up A Solar Shower

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to shower, then setting up a solar shower is a great option. The solar hot shower uses the sun’s energy to heat the water, so you can enjoy a hot shower without using any electricity or gas.

Plus, you can also save up to 5 gallons of water per shower compared to a conventional shower head.

How To Shower In An RV Without Wasting Water

Showers in RVs use very little water compared to the average home shower. RV showers typically use only 2.5 gallons of water per minute. This is significantly less than most home showers, which use up to 5 gallons per minute.

How-To-Shower-In-An-RV-Without-Wasting-Water

To make sure your RV shower is as water-efficient as possible, you should consider:

Installing a low-flow showerhead

These RV shower heads will limit the amount of water used to around 1 gallon per minute.

It’s also important to note that the amount of water used by a shower can vary based on the type of shower head used. For example, some showerheads are designed to use only 2 gallons per minute, while others may use up to 3 gallons per minute.

Portable Shower System

When it comes to saving water, there are a lot of ways to do it. One of the easiest ways is by setting up a portable shower in your RV.

When you’re not using your shower, simply set it aside and use it to rinse off after working outside or playing sports with your family. This will save you water and keep the tank from filling up with dirty water that’s not needed.

Setting up a Grey Tankless water heater

Third, set up a grey water tank so that when you do use regular water for washing dishes or flushing toilets, it can be collected and used again later on. This will save you money on freshwater costs while also reducing waste from using up so much fresh water during each trip!

You can get one that has its own tank or just uses reclaimed water from a grey water system. Either way, it’s worth the investment–and it will help you save water while still being able to enjoy an awesome shower!

Step-by-Step Guide

You’re in an RV, so you know that showering is a necessity. But did you know that it’s also a great way to save water?

Here’s how:

  1. Turn on the gray water tank and pump to the desired pressure.
  2. Collect necessary items: towel, soap, shampoo, etc.
  3. Close all water-using appliances, such as sinks and toilets.
  4. Turn on the shower head, adjusting the temperature as needed–this will help you get warm quickly!
  5. Wet down your body quickly and turn off the water–don’t let it run down your back!
  6. Lather up with soap or shampoo as needed (we recommend soap because it won’t dry out as easily). Note: keep lathering until all of your soap has been used up!
  7. Turn off the water again to conserve the remaining water (if necessary).
  8. Dry off using the towel

Common Problems With RV Showers

Following are some of the common problems related to RV showers:

1. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common problem with RV showers. This can be solved by installing a shower booster pump, which will increase the water pressure and thus improve your RV shower experience.

2. Shower Cleaning

Another common problem with RV showers is the build-up of dirt and grime. To prevent this, ensure that you clean your shower regularly with non-abrasive cleaners. This will keep your shower looking and feeling like new.

3. RV Showers Longevity

Finally, it is important to maintain your RV shower to ensure its longevity. Regular maintenance such as replacing seals and hoses can help prolong the life of your RV shower.

Common-Problems-With-RV-Showers
Source: www.pinterest.com @bearfoottheory

What to Know When Replacing Your RV Shower

There are certain things you should be aware of before replacing the shower. Let’s explore these:

1. RV Shower Cost

The cost of a new shower with RV water heaters can range from around $30 to over $200 depending on the features, quality, and brand.

However, it is important to note that the more expensive shower jets may use less water per minute, so you may end up saving money on your water bills in the long run.

2. RV Shower Improvements

There are several ways to improve the performance of your RV shower. Installing a low-flow shower head, adding a water pressure regulator, and making sure your water heater is clean and free of debris are all great ways to make sure your RV shower is working at an optimal level.

3. Swapping Out the Shower Head

When swapping out your RV shower jet, it is important to make sure that the new shower head has the same flow as the old one. Many RV shower jets have a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute, but it is best to double-check to make sure you are getting the right one for your RV.

What-to-Know-When-Replacing-Your-RV-Shower
Source: www.pinterest.com @PartonPosse

The Best Showerhead Replacements for RVs

If you’re looking for the best showerhead replacements for your RV, then look no further. The three showerheads we’ve highlighted here offer different specifications for RV enthusiasts looking to upgrade their showers.

1. Plastic Body Spa Oxygenics Showerhead with 60” Hose

If you’re looking for a new showerhead, you might be interested in this Plastic Body Spa Oxygenics Showerhead with 60″ Hose.

  • This showerhead is made from plastic and comes with a 60-inch hose, making it perfect for those looking for extra reach in their showers.
  • The showerhead provides a spa-like experience with its oxygen-infused technology, creating a powerful and invigorating spray water heater.
1-Plastic-Body-Spa

Style

Handheld shower jet

Shape

Round

Material

Plastic

Dimension

5 inches x 5 inches

Weight

0.6 pounds

Installation method

Screw-on

Color

Chrome

Special features:

  • Conserves water using patented Oxygenics technology
  • Easy to install, no special tools required with the tankless water heater
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty
Pros
  • The extra hose length provides increased accessibility
  • The oxygen-infused technology enhances the shower experience
  • The plastic body is lightweight and easy to handle
Cons
  • Plastic materials may not be as durable as metal water heater
  • Some users may find the water pressure too low

2. Fury RV Handheld Showerhead

The Fury RV Handheld Showerhead is a great solution for those who need to shower in the RV.

  • The white kit is easy to install, and comes with a handy on/off switch so you can use it right away!
  • This handheld showerhead provides convenience and versatility, making it perfect for RVs with limited space.
  • The white kit is easy to install and comes with a handy on/off switch.
2-Fury-RV-Handheld-Showerhead

Style

Standard showerhead

Shape

Round

Material

Plastic

Dimension

5.25 x 5.25 x 2.75 inches

Weight

11.2 ounces

Installation method

Easy to install, no tools required

Color

White

Special features

  • Oxygen-enriched mist technology
  • Easy flow control and water-saving settings
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • The optimal water flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute.
Pros
  • The handheld design provides increased maneuverability
  • The on/off switch makes it easy to conserve hot water
  • The compact design saves space in the RV
Cons
  • The handheld design may not be suitable for everyone
  • Some users may find the water pressure too low

3. HANLIAN High-Pressure ShowerHead with Pause Function

The High-Pressure Showerhead with Pause Function is a high-quality showerhead with a modern design, and it’s ideal for anyone who wants to get a powerful, refreshing shower with a water heater.

The showerhead has a pause function that lets you pause the hot water flow without adjusting the temperature, so you won’t have to wait while your cold water heats up in the tankless water heater.

3-HANLIAN-High-Pressure
Source: www.amazon.com

Style

Sleek and modern

Shape

Round

Material

High-quality stainless steel with premiums ABS Bracket and Hose

Dimension

9.4 x 3.1 x 5 inches

Weight

1.21 pounds

Installation method

Comes with Teflon tape and instructions for easy installation for wall mount

Color

Stainless Steel

Special Features

  • Detachable design for easy cleaning and maintenance.
  • Water saving function to conserve hot water
  • Adjustable spray settings for a customized shower experience.
Pros
  • The pause function conserves hot water
  • High-pressure technology provides a powerful and invigorating shower experience
  • Sleek and modern design adds a touch of style to your RV bathroom
Cons
  • The pause function may not be suitable for all users

FAQ

What is the flow rate of an RV shower?

The rate of an RV shower is typically 1–2 gallons per minute. Most RVs come with a low-flow showerhead to reduce water consumption, which can limit the flow to as low as 0.5 gallons per minute.

How long can you take a shower in an RV?

A 20-gallon gray water tank can provide a five-minute shower at a flow rate of 1 gallon per minute. With a low-flow showerhead, a 20-gallon tank can provide a seven-minute shower at a flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute.

How many Litres is a 7-minute shower?

A seven-minute shower would use 3.5 litres of water at a flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute.

How long does 100 gallons of water last in an RV?

At a flow rate of 1 gallon per minute, 100 gallons of water in an RV would last for 100 minutes, or 1 hour and 40 minutes.

How long will hot water last in an RV shower?

This depends on the size of your RV’s water tank and the flow rate of your showerhead. With a 20-gallon cold water tank and a flow rate of 1 gallon per minute, you would have enough hot water for a five-minute shower. With a low-flow showerhead, a 20-gallon tank would provide enough hot water for a seven-minute shower.

Is a 1-hour shower too long?

Showering for an hour is not recommended, as this would use up to 60 gallons of water. This is far more water than the average person needs to get clean, and it is not a sustainable practice. We recommend taking shorter showers to conserve hot water and save money on your water bill.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this article delved into the topic of RV shower water usage and highlights 6 key features to consider. These include the showerhead flow rate, water pressure, tank capacity, plumbing efficiency, and water conservation efforts.

We hope this article has informed you about RV shower water usage and will guide you to make smart decisions regarding your own investment in an RV shower.

Do you have any tips on how to save water while showering in your RV?

We value your thoughts and experiences on this topic. Please leave a comment below and share your insights with our community.

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