Use a hose labeled safe for drinking water, add a pressure regulator at the spigot to protect your RV's plumbing from high campground pressure, and consider an inline filter for taste and sediment. Keep the fresh water hose separate from anything used for sewer flushing, store it capped, and drain it before freezing weather.
Your fresh water connection feeds the kitchen, shower and drinking water, so use gear made for it.
The hookup, in order
- Spigot
- Pressure regulator
- Inline filter (optional)
- Drinking-water-safe hose
- RV city water inlet
Hose
Choose a hose labeled for drinking water, long enough for most sites. Cap the ends in storage.
Pressure regulator
A regulator protects fittings and lines. Adjustable regulators with a gauge show you the actual pressure.
Filters
Inline filters reduce sediment and improve taste. Replace cartridges on the maker’s schedule.
Keep it separate
Never use your fresh water hose to flush tanks. Store sewer gear in a separate bin.
Winter
Disconnect and drain the hose before freezing nights, or use a heated hose rated for drinking water.
Before storing the RV, follow the RV winterizing checklist and your model-specific plumbing instructions.
Related: RV leveling guide.
Common questions
Why do I need a water pressure regulator for my RV?
Campground water pressure can be higher than RV plumbing is built for. A regulator limits the pressure entering the RV. Check your RV manual for its limit.
Can I use a garden hose for RV drinking water?
Use a hose labeled safe for drinking water. Standard garden hoses are not made for potable water.
What color hose is for RV fresh water?
Fresh water hoses are often white or blue. Use a different color for flushing the black tank so they never get mixed up.