Your caravan’s water system plays an essential role in your comfort and health during your adventures.
Not only does it supply water for vital functions like drinking, cooking, and washing, but the cleanliness of the system directly impacts your overall well-being.
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Why Clean Your Caravan’s Water System?
You still need a clean water system even if you don’t drink directly from your caravan’s tap water.
The presence of biofilm, a slimy substance composed of microorganisms, can pose health risks if left unmanaged.
This biofilm can develop within your pipes and be in the water used for showering or washing dishes. Regular cleaning prevents the formation of this substance, ensuring a safe water supply.
The Consequences of Not Cleaning Your Caravan’s Water System
Not sterilising your caravan’s water system could lead to a buildup of biofilm within the pipes.
This might not only affect the taste of the water but also pose potential health risks.
Unattended systems might lead to bacterial growth, which could result in illness if the water is consumed or used for washing.
Steps to Clean and Sterilise Your Caravan’s Water System
Understanding the importance of cleanliness is one thing; taking action is another.
Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning and sterilising your caravan’s water system.
What You’ll Need
You’ll need a specific cleaning and sterilising agent.
One recommendation is Puriclean, which is designed for use in caravan and motorhome water systems.
However, alternatives such as citric can also be used.
Frequency and Timing of Cleaning
Start with a once-season sterilisation, leaving Puriclean in the system for up to 12 hours before setting off on your trip.
Then, every couple of months, perform a quick clean for just 1 or 2 hours. This sterilisation process can be conducted while you level the caravan or motorhome.
The Cleaning Process
The cleaning process begins with allowing a short burst of water to flow through the taps, then closing them and waiting for an hour minimum to let Puriclean thoroughly sterilise the system.
After this, flush the system by turning on all taps and the shower.
For a static caravan, it’s important to disconnect the water supply and remove all remaining water from the system at the end of the season.
This is known as draining down and helps reduce bacterial growth while protecting the pipes from potential freezing and cracking in cold weather.
Continued Maintenance and Cleaning
Maintaining a clean water system isn’t a one-time event; it’s a continual process that’s a crucial part of owning and operating a caravan.
Regular Sterilisation
Make sterilising your caravan’s water system a regular part of your routine.
Not only will this provide peace of mind regarding your health and safety, but it also prevents issues like foul-tasting water and bacterial illnesses.
Post-Cleaning Actions
After cleaning the water system, ensure that all the sterilising agent has been flushed out.
The Aquaroll should be refilled and drained via the taps and shower until no traces of chemicals are detectable.
Considerations for Non-Drinking Water
Even if you don’t use your caravan’s taps for drinking water, regular sterilisation is still essential. Bacteria can still build up in the pipes and contaminate the water used for washing hands or showering.
This bacteria can then be transmitted onto your skin or cookware.
Cleaning and maintaining your caravan’s water system is an essential practice for anyone wanting to enjoy their time on the road.
Doing so regularly and effectively ensures you and your family remain safe and healthy, allowing you to focus on creating memorable experiences during your travels.
The Importance of Filter Replacement
While sterilising and cleaning the water system, don’t forget the importance of replacing the water filters.
Over time, these filters can accumulate sediments and impurities that might affect the water quality and the overall functioning of the water system.
Seasonal Considerations
The frequency and intensity of cleaning may also depend on the season.
For instance, if the caravan is used more frequently during the summer, it might require more frequent cleaning during these months.
Conversely, before storing your caravan for the winter, a thorough cleaning and draining down process should be conducted to prevent any issues from arising during this period of inactivity.
Specific Considerations for Static Caravans
Static caravans, which remain in one location, might require slightly different maintenance.
Due to the constant water connection, it’s important to regularly check for leaks and ensure the water system is functioning correctly.
Also, as these caravans aren’t moved regularly, it’s crucial to perform a complete drain down at the end of the season to prevent potential damage from freezing temperatures.
Bottom Line
In the realm of caravanning, water system maintenance is not a glamorous task, but it is undeniably crucial. The health and comfort it ensures far outweigh the time and effort it demands.
From the periodic use of sterilising agents such as Puriclean or its alternatives, to the regular flushing and filter replacement, each step in this process plays an integral role in keeping your caravan’s water system pristine and safe.
Even if you don’t use the caravan’s tap water for drinking, it’s essential to keep the system clean, as biofilm and bacteria can affect other aspects of your caravan life, from showering to washing dishes.
Cleaning your caravan’s water system regularly ensures a healthier and more enjoyable caravanning experience.
Moreover, caring for your caravan’s water system will also contribute to the longevity of the vehicle itself, safeguarding your investment.
Remember, a well-maintained caravan is a joy to own and use. Here’s to many more happy and healthy caravanning adventures!
