Common Caravan Water Problems and How to Fix Them​ 2025

Section 2: How to Fix Common Caravan Water Problems

1. Low Water Pressure

Problem: Low water pressure is a common issue in caravans, especially when using water from external sources like tanks or bore water. This can make showering, washing dishes, or even just getting water to your taps frustrating.

Solution:

• Check the water pump: Ensure your water pump is working correctly. If it’s not running or is malfunctioning, it might need repair or replacement.

• Inspect hoses for kinks: Sometimes, the problem could be as simple as a kinked hose restricting the water flow.

• Use a pressure booster: Installing a pressure booster can help maintain steady water pressure when the pump’s output is insufficient.

Tip: Ensure your caravan pump is at least 55psi. Lower psi may not provide adequate water pressure for proper functioning of your system.

2. Water Contamination

Problem: Water contamination can happen when using untreated water from natural sources like rivers, lakes, or bore water. Contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and sediment can make your water unsafe to drink.

Solution:

• Install an inline water filter: A high-quality inline water filter, such as the Thirsty Nomad 5 in 1 Purifying Filter, can remove contaminants and ensure that your water is safe for drinking and cooking.

• Use a UV purifier: For extra protection, a UV purifier can disinfect the water by killing harmful microorganisms.

• Boil water before consumption: In emergencies, you can boil water to eliminate bacteria and viruses, but this isn’t a long-term solution.

Tip: Regularly change the filters in your water purification system to maintain its effectiveness and avoid contamination.

3. Clogged Water Filters

Problem: Over time, sediment, minerals, and other particles can clog water filters, reducing their efficiency and water flow.

Solution:

• Regular maintenance: Clean and replace water filters regularly, especially if you’re using untreated or bore water. Consider upgrading to a multi-stage water treatment system that provides long-lasting filtration.

• Use pre-filters: Installing a pre-filter before the main filter can prevent large particles from clogging your system.

Tip: A Thirsty Nomad Bore Water & Sediment Filter is perfect for caravans that rely on bore water. It helps filter out large particles before they reach the main purifier.

4. Leaking Pipes

Problem: Leaking pipes are a common problem, often caused by wear and tear, poor installation, or a sudden freeze during colder weather.

Solution:

• Tighten connections: If the leak is at a connection, tighten the fittings. You can also replace old or cracked seals that may be causing leaks.

• Inspect pipes for cracks: Look for any visible cracks in your pipes, especially around joints. Replace damaged pipes as needed.

• Use waterproof tape: In the short term, waterproof tape can be used to seal minor leaks, but don’t rely on it as a permanent fix.

Tip: Check your pipes and fittings regularly, especially before you head off on long trips. Preventative maintenance can save you from larger, more costly repairs down the road.

5. Unpleasant Water Taste or Odour

Problem: An unpleasant taste or odour in your caravan water can be caused by a variety of factors, such as bacterial growth, algae, or old pipes.

Solution:

• Use a water purifier: Install a purifier like the Thirsty Nomad 5 in 1 to remove contaminants that cause bad taste and odour. This purifier not only removes bacteria but also improves the taste of the water.

• Clean your water tanks: Regularly clean your water tanks and pipes to remove any algae or bacteria that may be growing inside.

• Store water properly: Ensure that water is stored in a cool, dark place to prevent the growth of bacteria or algae.

Tip: You can also add a few drops of food-grade hydrogen peroxide to your water tank to kill any bacteria or algae without affecting the taste.