Best Fresh Water Washdown Tank Solutions for RVs and Outdoor Use
Looking for a reliable fresh water washdown tank for camping, RV life, or off-grid use? This guide highlights five top options that balance capacity, durability, and ease of installation. Each choice is best suited for different buyers: large RVs and frequent travelers may want bigger tanks, while compact setups benefit from cube-shaped designs. Use the buying guide and FAQs to compare capacities, fittings, and installation considerations before you buy.
Product Comparison Snapshot
| Product | Capacity (gallons) | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ameri-Kart 19 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank (WT-5450) | 19 | Mid-size RVs and campers | Multiple built-in fittings for flexible installation |
| Ameri-Kart 20 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank (WT-5546) | 20 | Compact RVs and trailers | Potable water with durable, leak-proof design |
| Ameri-Kart 29 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank (WT-5077) | 29 | Mid-to-large RVs and motorhomes | Higher capacity without oversized footprint |
| 30 Gallon RV Fresh/Gray Water Tank (A.A) | 30 | Combine fresh and gray water needs | Seamless construction; vented for non-pressurized use |
| SEAFLO 33 Series Washdown Deck Pump Kit | N/A (pump, 3.0 GPM) | Quick deck wash and spray cleaning | Self-priming and built-in pressure switch for control |
Ameri-Kart 19 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank
Capacity: 19 gallons. This BPA-Free tank is designed for potable water used in drinking, cooking, cleaning, and showering in RVs, trailers, campers, and tiny houses. It includes multiple installation options with two 1.5″ balloon-style NPT fittings and two 0.5″ NPT fittings. Best for medium RV setups with flexible mounting. Caution: check compatibility with existing fittings in tight spaces.
Ameri-Kart 20 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank
Capacity: 20 gallons. This BPA-Free tank supports potable water for drinking, cooking, showering, and dishwashing in RVs, motor homes, trailers, and tiny houses. Built-in fittings include two 1.5″ NPT and two 0.5″ NPT connections, enabling versatile installation. Best for smaller RV layouts or as a second tank. Limitation: ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed compartments.
Ameri-Kart 29 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank
Capacity: 29 gallons. This cube-shaped tank provides ample supply for longer trips while maintaining a compact footprint. Fittings include two 1.5″ balloon-style NPT connections and two 0.5″ NPT connections. Best for mid-to-large RVs needing more water without sprawling storage. Caution: ensure the tank’s weight remains manageable during movement, especially when full.
30 Gallon RV Fresh/Gray Water Tank
Capacity: 30 gallons. A non-pressurized tank designed for vented operation with one-piece seamless construction to resist leaks. Includes a 1.25″ water fill inlet and three 3/8″ NPT connections. Best for RVs that need a larger single-tank solution without complex plumbing. Limitation: venting is required for proper operation; ensure the vent is unobstructed.
SEAFLO 33 Series Washdown Pump Kit
This washdown pump kit delivers 3.0 GPM at 70 PSI. Includes a self-priming capability up to 6 feet, an EPDM/Santoprene system, and a built-in pressure switch for automatic operation when the spray handle is squeezed. Best for deck wash and exterior cleaning on RVs, boats, or campsites. Caution: ensure battery capacity can support up to 18 A draw during operation.
Buying Guide
What size water tank should I choose?
Consider your typical trips and the space available. Smaller tanks (5–20 gallons) work well for tight RV spaces or short trips. Medium tanks (19–29 gallons) balance capacity with mounting flexibility. Larger tanks (30+ gallons) reduce refills on long trips but need more storage space and weight considerations.
What fittings and installation options are important?
Look for tanks with multiple NPT fittings (1.5″ and 0.5″ are common) to support various configurations. Variable mounting options help fit into irregular compartments. Sanitary, leak-proof construction and IAPMO standards indicate durable, safe water storage.
Do I need a separate washdown pump?
A washdown pump kit enables targeted cleaning with consistent pressure. Choose a high-flow model (3.0 GPM) at a practical PSI (around 70) for deck washes without excessive draw on electrical systems. A self-priming feature simplifies setup in remote locations.
What about material safety and drinking water?
Opt for BPA-free, FDA-compliant plastics for potable water. Sanitary designs with leak-proof seals help ensure water remains uncontaminated during storage and use. Verify compliance with local health and safety guidelines if you plan to store drinking water for extended periods.
Where will this tank fit in my RV or campsite setup?
Measure available space in compartments and ensure weight is within the vehicle’s load limits when full. Consider venting needs for non-pressurized tanks and plan for easy access to fill and drain ports.
Maintenance and longevity considerations
Regularly inspect fittings and seals for signs of wear. Clean the tank periodically to prevent stagnation, especially if stored water sits unused for extended periods. Choose tanks designed for outdoor exposure to resist weather and impact stress.
Buying tips summary
- Match capacity to trip length and water usage.
- Prioritize multiple fittings for installation flexibility.
- Prefer BPA-free materials and IAPMO-compliant tanks for safety.
- For cleaning tasks, pair a tank with a capable washdown pump kit.
FAQ
- What is the best tank size for a weekend RV trip? Answer: A 19–20 gallon tank often provides a good balance between capacity and space for weekend trips.
- Can I use a potable water tank for gray water? Answer: No. A dedicated fresh water tank is intended for drinking and cleaning water; gray water tanks handle used wastewater.
- Do all tanks require venting? Answer: Non-pressurized tanks require venting to prevent negative pressure and ensure proper flow.
- Is it safe to mix different brands of fittings? Answer: Mixing fittings can cause leaks or incompatibilities. Use compatible fittings recommended by the tank manufacturer.
- How do I know if a tank meets safety standards? Answer: Look for IAPMO/ANSI compliance and BPA-free construction; check the product’s specification details.