Traveling in an RV inevitably comes with unexpected hurdles, but a burst pipe doesn’t have to be one if you use an RV water pressure regulator.
This small device is one of the most basic precautionary steps to keeping your RV safe when connecting to different water sources.
It ensures that the water flowing through your RV’s plumbing is at a pressure level that the system can handle to save your vehicle and possessions from potential leaks and damage.
RV water pressure regulators play a crucial role in keeping your camper’s plumbing system safe.
They connect to a water source and the hose that feeds water into the RV to keep the water pressure at a safe level.
Some pressure regulators can be manually adjusted, while others are preset to a pressure level that is safe for all RVs.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about RV water pressure regulators as well as the top 5 water pressure regulators on the market.
In a hurry? Here’s an overview of our top picks.
Material | Adjustable/Inline | Certification | Additional Features | Price | |
Brass | Inline | CSA | Stainless steel filter screen Pressure Gauge | $15.99 | |
Brass | Inline | California AB1953 Vermont Act 193 Maryland HB 372 Louisiana HB 471 | - | $9.87 | |
Brass Stainless steel | Adjustable | 2014 US Safe Drinking Water Act California AB 1953 | 2” Pressure gauge Adjustable handwheel Teflon tape Canvas bag | $31.97 | |
Brass | Adjustable | Lead-free | Pressure gauge | $58.96 | |
Brass | Inline | CSA California AB1953 Vermont Act 193 Maryland HB 372 Louisiana HB 471 | Color-coded pressure gauge | $17.98 |
What is an RV Water Pressure Regulator?
An RV water pressure regulator is a valve that is used to throttle the water flowing into an RV from a city water connection.
They are small devices with two standard connectors. One side connects to the hose leading water into your RV, and the other connects to a spigot.
Water regulators come in two styles—inline regulators are factory pre-set to a safe pressure level for all RVs, while adjustable regulators can be set manually and come with a pressure gauge.
What exactly does an RV water pressure regulator do?
A water pressure regulator works as a safeguard against damage by reducing the incoming water pressure level to one that is safe for RV plumbing.
It does this by monitoring the pressure of the incoming water and adjusting the outlet opening accordingly.
There is a spring-loaded diaphragm inside each pressure regulator that widens or narrows the passage that the water flows through based on the inlet pressure.
If the pressure hitting the diaphragm is high, then the diaphragm narrows the outlet opening so that the pressure of the water flowing into the RV is reduced.
Inversely, the diaphragm would open to create a larger outlet in cases of low water pressure.
When Do You Need an RV Water Pressure Regulator?
Anyone who ever travels in their RV and connects to city water sources that they are not familiar with should use an RV water pressure regulator.
The water pressure coming from spigots is not consistent, and it only takes one high-pressure situation to make you wish you had used one.
RV plumbing is not designed to handle as much water pressure as traditional plumbing.
Regardless of how new or decked out your RV is, a safe water pressure level is below 60 psi.
In comparison, municipal water systems made to feed brick-and-mortar buildings can deliver water pressure as high as 150-200 psi.
Connecting to a water source with high water pressure can lead to leaky connections and burst pipes.
In turn, this can cause water damage on cabinets and floors, can ruin your possessions, and can even damage the electrical system.
Water damage is often permanent, and drying out a flooded RV is also a lengthy and meticulous process.
By using an RV water pressure every time you connect to a water source, you’ll save yourself time and money, keep your RV in its best shape, and be able to focus your energy on your travels instead.
RV water pressure regulators are small, lightweight, and relatively cheap, and there is no excuse not to take this simple precaution.
Choosing the Right Water Pressure Regulator for Your RV
There are two types of RV water pressure regulators to choose from – inline regulators and adjustable regulators.
While both can work for any RV, each comes with its own unique features.
To choose the right water pressure regulator for your camper, you should begin by finding your RV’s ideal water pressure in the owner’s manual.
If you aren’t able to locate your RV’s ideal water pressure, then the following rule of thumb can be used as a guide.
Older RVs work best at around 40 psi and should not exceed 50 psi. Many newer RVs, on the other hand, can handle a psi of up to 100, although it is still recommended to keep your water pressure below 60 psi. When in doubt, keep the pressure below 50 psi.
Inline Water Pressure Regulators
Inline water pressure regulators are easy to use and require nothing to be done after they are initially connected.
Inline regulators are preset to a pressure level that is safe for all RVs and cannot be adjusted.
The preset level is usually 40-50 psi, though some go as high as 55 psi. Inline regulators will keep the plumbing in any RV safe, though they are especially well suited for older vehicles that may have a weaker set up than newer models.
Since inline regulators can’t be adjusted, they often don’t come with a pressure gauge.
While some may not find this ideal, less parts tends to make inline regulators are cheaper than other models.
Adjustable Water Pressure Regulators
Adjustable water pressure regulators allow you to set the water pressure to your desired level by turning the screw that controls the internal diaphragm.
Though regulators have varying capacities, they can commonly be adjusted between 0 and 160 psi.
Newer RVs that can handle a higher level of water pressure may choose an adjustable regulator to allow the maximum water pressure.
This is not necessary for the plumbing to work, but may be desirable on an individual basis.
An adjustable regulator also allows you to decrease the psi on the occasion that you want low water pressure.
In addition to lending control over the water pressure, adjustable regulators also come with a pressure gauge that allows you to see exactly where the pressure level is at all times.
Not only is this necessary while adjusting the regulator, but it is a good way to become aware of the variation in incoming pressure between different sources.
This is true for high-pressure and low-pressure situations, and it’s a great way to become more familiar with every aspect of the RV lifestyle.
How to Install an RV Water Pressure Regulator
Installing an RV water pressure regulator is quick and easy. They are a two-pronged design with NH (National Hose) threads on either side.
Installing an RV water pressure regulator is as easy as the following steps:
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Begin with the water turned off and the water hose detached from the spigot and the RV.
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The regulator sits between the water source and the water hose. Connect the female fitting to the water source’s hose bib and the male fitting to the female fitting on the water hose.
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Once the regulator is securely connected to the spigot and hose, you can turn the water supply back on. Let it run for a minute to flush the water regulator and hose, then turn the water off again.
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Connect the hose to your RV’s water inlet before turning the water supply back on. Then turn on all sinks and showers and flush any toilets to release any air that may be caught in the plumbing. Then turn all faucets off again before moving to the next step.
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Pre-set inline water regulators are now ready to use, whereas adjustable water regulators will have to be set to the desired pressure level. Tighten or loosen the screw using a screwdriver or a handwheel until the pressure gauge indicates the desired pressure level.
How to Tell When Your Water Pressure Regulator Goes Bad
Water pressure regulators can go bad and suddenly stop functioning properly, usually resulting in little to no water pressure.
If this happens, the first thing to do is to ensure that the regulator is at fault. Low water pressure can also occur from things like a kinked hose or a closed water spigot.
If you determine that the regulator is at fault, then it’s time for a new one.
If your pressure regulator goes bad while camping, you might not always be able to get a new one right away.
Instead of taking a risk by connecting directly to the water source, it is best to fill your fresh water tank and use the water pump instead.
Alternately, someone else at the campsite with a pressure regulator may be able to read the incoming water pressure for you to determine if it is safe to connect to directly.
The 5 Best Water Pressure Regulators for RVs
Water pressure regulators can vary in their design, the features they offer, and the degree of pressure they can handle. The following are our top 5 water pressure regulators for RVs.
1: Best Inline: Hourleey B0912N1JQD RV Water Pressure Regulator
The Hourleey Brass RV Water Pressure Regulator has everything you need in a simple, yet sturdy design.
This inline pressure gauge is not adjustable, but rather preset to approximately 40 psi.
It also features a pressure gauge that can be moved to either side of the regulator so that it can easily be seen.
This water pressure regulator is made of brass and is resistant to high pressure.
It is certified lead-free and safe for drinking water by CSA standards, it also comes with a stainless-steel filter screen to keep your freshwater safe.
This water pressure regulator has an NPT connector on one end and a GHT on the other, and it is suitable for ¾” threads.
2: Best Budget: Camco Brass Inline Water Pressure Regulator
The Camco RV Brass Inline Water Pressure Regulator is a no-fuss device that will protect your RV from high water pressure.
It is made of brass and reduces water pressure to a consistent 40-50 psi.
This regulator is CSA certified and is safe for drinking water. It also complies with the California AB1953, the Vermont Act 193, the Maryland HB 372, and the Louisiana HB 471 low lead content laws.
This water pressure regulator is suitable for ¾” hose threads.
3: Best Adjustable: MEASUREMAN RV Pressure Regulator With Pressure Gauge
The Measureman Handle Adjustable Brass Lead-Free RV Pressure Regulator offers quality and quantity.
It has everything you need in a water pressure regulator and even comes with accessories.
Measureman has also been in business for 20 years selling products that are designed by engineers.
This adjustable water pressure regulator features a stainless-steel pressure gauge with a 2-inch dial.
The gauge can read from 0-160 psi and is filled with glycerin to counter vibration and pulsation.
This regulator is unique in that it also has a handwheel that turns to change the pressure.
A handwheel makes it easy to change the pressure at any moment, whereas many other adjustable regulators require a screwdriver to adjust.
This pressure regulator is made of lead-free brass. It conforms to the 2014 US Safe Drinking Water Act as well as the California AB 1953 standard, both of which deem it suitable for fresh water.
There are also two filters to ensure clean water. One is fixed within the regulator while a second exterior filter is removable for cleaning.
The following accessories are included with this water pressure regulator:
- Teflon tape
- Portable canvas bag
- Manual
This water pressure is compatible with ¾” hose threads and fits any US water source.
4: Most Durable: Valterra A011117VP Adjustable RV Water Pressure Regulator
The Valterra Adjustable Water Regulator with Pressure Gauge is simple, but sturdy.
Valterra has been making plumbing and RV products since 1981, and this device successfully delivers maximum water flow while protecting your RV.
This adjustable water pressure regulator gives users the choice to increase the pressure as much as the capabilities of the RV and the water hose allow.
A brass screw at the top of the device can be turned with a flathead screwdriver, while the explosion-proof pressure gauge easily lets you see the pressure level.
The Valterra Water Regulator is made of lead-free brass that conforms with federal and state laws regarding safe drinking water.
It comes with a filter to prevent blockage and damage to the valve, and the entire device is durable and resistant to rust.
This water pressure is compatible with ¾” NH threads and fits any US water source.
5: Best Overall: Camco 40064 RV Water Pressure Regulator With Gauge
The Camco Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge is an inline regulator with a color-coded gauge that makes it easy to determine whether the water pressure is at a safe level.
This water regulator is factory pre-set at 40-50 psi so that you never have to fuss with it or adjust it.
Rather than giving a precise psi reading, the gauge indicates by color whether the pressure is too low, too high, or in an adequate range.
The brass used in this Camco water regulator is CSA certified for low lead content and is safe for drinking water.
It also complies with the California AB1953, the Vermont act 193, the Maryland HB 372, and the Louisiana HB 471 low lead content laws.
This water pressure is suitable for ¾” hose threads and fits any US water source.
Tips for Maintaining Your RV Water Pressure Regulator
Although water pressure regulators can go bad due to normal wear and tear, it is often accelerated due to a lack of regular maintenance.
By following these tips, you can keep your water pressure gauge in its best shape to last for years of use.
Keep the Regulator Clean
One of the best ways to maintain your RV water pressure regulator is to keep it clean. This can be done by regularly washing it with hot water and soap.
This can be done every few weeks or with every new campground. Be sure to rinse the regulator well after cleaning to keep suds from reaching your fresh water supply and to prevent soap scum from forming.
Check the Regulator for Leaks
Checking for leaks is as simple as looking for dripping water. Small leaks that occur when connecting to old or rusted spigots and hoses can temporarily be mended with Teflon tape.
Larger leaks, however, may be due to more serious damage to the regulator.
A leaking water pressure regulator can lead to water damage and should be replaced as soon as possible.
Keep the RV Water Pressure Within Safe Limits
When using an adjustable water pressure regulator, it is important to keep the water pressure within the limits that your RV can handle.
Your RV’s ideal pressure limit can be found in the owner’s manual. When in doubt, it is recommended to keep the pressure between 40 and 50 psi.
Store the Regulator in a Cool, Dry Place
When not in use, wipe and dry off the RV water pressure regulator to prevent mold, mildew, and buildup. Then, store it in a cool, dry place until the next use.
Final Thoughts
RV water pressure regulators are important devices that help to maintain the correct water pressure in your RV.
Without a regulator, you run the risk of damaging your RV’s plumbing, which can be costly to repair.
Water pressure regulators are easy to use, come in a variety of designs to suit your preference, and they are a low-cost accessory that every RV traveler and dweller should be using to protect their RV.
