RV plumbing materials include flexible or rigid water lines and wastewater tanks. Temperature fluctuations or the improper use of plumbing materials could result in needing to call a plumber. Review some common RV plumbing issues and some repair processes.

Plumbing Issues

The plumbing that is found in an RV may be constructed of PEX tubing or PVC pipe sections. An RV that is not well-insulated could eventually cause plumbing materials to crack. Temperature fluctuations are commonly incurred when driving an RV.

A slow leak is the first sign of a damaged water line. When an RV is hooked up to a public water supply at an RV camp, the pressurized water that enters a damaged inlet line could cause a small crack in the line to become larger.

Flushing a lot of toilet tissue down the commode, or excessive flushing could lead to a wastewater tank becoming clogged. If the commode becomes backed up when it is flushed, the line that leads to the wastewater tank may need to be cleaned out. There is also the possibility that the wastewater tank is at its capacity, which will require the tank to be emptied.

A Plumber's Services

A qualified plumber can assist with inspecting your RV's plumbing system, detecting damage, winterizing the plumbing, and replacing worn-out parts. During a service appointment, a plumber will need to access all of the plumbing that is located within the recreational vehicle and along the exterior of the vehicle.

First, the plumber will ensure that all of the fittings that are attached to the plumbing materials are secured. Then, they will hook up the plumbing to a water source. This step will help the plumber pinpoint if any of the plumbing materials are leaking.

If any of the inlet or outlet water lines are clogged, a vacuum machine may be used to flush the lines out. The line to the sewage wastewater tank will run separately from the lines that are connected to a water source. The plumber will need to assess the wastewater line independently. 

Winterizing The Plumbing

If you drive your RV during the winter, the plumber may advise you to have your plumbing winterized. Winterizing the plumbing involves having insulation secured around plumbing that is exposed. The plumber will determine which plumbing materials are susceptible to damage caused by frigid temperatures. Insulating sheets or sleeves will be secured around the plumbing materials that the plumber has identified.  

For more info, contact a local plumber.