Setting up fresh water at the campground might seem like a no-brainer—but even seasoned RVers sometimes get it wrong. That’s why Go RVing teamed up with the RV Technical Institute (RVTI) to break down the basics of hooking up your RV’s fresh water supply. Whether you're brand new to RVing or just looking to reinforce your fundamentals, this guide is here to help.
Let’s review the steps for safely and effectively connecting your RV to campground water and how to avoid common mistakes.
Seven Essential Steps
Step 1: Confirm You Have a Fresh Water Hookup
When you arrive at your campsite, the first thing to do is locate the fresh water spigot. Most developed campgrounds provide one at each site, especially if you're in a site with full hookups. If not, you may need to fill your fresh water holding tank manually at a shared fill station before parking.
Step 2: Always Use a Water Pressure Regulator
One of the most common mistakes new RVers make is hooking up their rig directly to the campground water spigot—without a pressure regulator.
Why does this matter? Because campground water pressure can be unpredictable. In some places, it may exceed 100 psi, which could damage your RV’s plumbing system.
A water pressure regulator is an inexpensive and essential tool that brings the pressure down to a safe level—typically between 30–50 psi, depending on the model.
RVTI Tip: Use a brass, adjustable pressure regulator with a gauge for even more control.
Step 3: Use a Water Filter for Cleaner, Safer Water
After the regulator, the next item in the chain should be a water filter. Many RVers install an inline canister filter between the spigot and hose, which helps remove sediment, chlorine, and impurities that may affect taste or health.
Even if you think the campground has clean water, filters are a smart layer of protection—especially for drinking and cooking.
Look for models that clearly show the flow direction on the side (just follow the arrow when installing).
Step 4: Use a Drinking Water-Safe Hose
That green garden hose you’ve been using for years? It’s not safe for RV drinking water.
Instead, invest in a white or blue freshwater RV hose, which is made from food-grade materials and certified safe for potable water. These hoses are resistant to bacterial buildup and won’t add any plastic taste to your drinking water.
Choose a hose length that works for your setup—25 feet is a good starting point—and always keep it clean and coiled in a separate storage bin from your sewer supplies.
Step 5: Connect to the City Water Inlet—Not the Black Tank Flush!
Most RVs have two hose connections on the exterior:
- City Water Connection (this is where your freshwater hose goes)
- Black Tank Flush Inlet (used to rinse out your black tank)
They may look similar, especially at night, but mixing them up can have unpleasant consequences. Plugging your drinking water hose into the black tank flush port could allow backflow into your water line if the internal valve malfunctions.
RVTI Tip: Color-code your hoses. Use a white (or blue) hose for fresh water and a green or black hose for the black tank flush.
Step 6: Turn on the Water—Slowly
Once everything is securely connected:
- Make sure your RV water pump is OFF (you won’t need it when connected to city water).
- Turn on the campground spigot slowly to pressurize the line.
- Go inside the RV and check for leaks or drips at the kitchen and bathroom sinks.
- If all is well, you’re ready to enjoy running water in your rig!
Step 7: Know How to Disconnect and Store Properly
When it’s time to break camp:
- Turn off the spigot.
- Open a faucet inside to release pressure.
- Disconnect the hose, empty it completely, and store it in a clean bin.
- If you use a filter, let it drain and dry before storing.
Staying organized with your water gear will make the next setup quicker, cleaner, and more efficient.
Bonus Tips for New RVers
- Practice at home: Try hooking up your water system in the driveway or at a local dump station before your first trip.
- Carry spares: Bring along a second hose, rubber washers, and quick-connect adapters.
- Protect in freezing temps: If you’re RVing in cold weather, use a heated hose or fill your fresh tank and disconnect to avoid frozen lines.
Common Water Setup Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the water pressure regulator
- Connecting the hose to the wrong inlet
- Using a non-drinking-safe hose
- Forgetting to open the black tank valve when flushing
- Not checking for leaks after hookup
Avoid these pitfalls and your camping experience will be smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
Learn More With the RV Technical Institute
Hooking up water is just the beginning. If you want to become more confident with your RV systems—from power to propane to tank management—the RV Technical Institute is a trusted educational resource for RV owners of all levels. Their training is the gold standard in the industry and offers easy-to-understand, beginner-friendly videos and articles.
Visit RVTI.org to explore their resources and learn more about how your RV works.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the basics of your RV water system is a big step toward becoming a confident, capable camper. With a few simple tools, a clear setup process, and expert advice from the RV Technical Institute, you’ll be setting up at camp like a pro in no time.
