Campervan Plumbing System Guide: Install Your Van Water Setup Like a Pro

A well-planned campervan plumbing system is a game-changer for van life. Whether you’re washing dishes after a campfire meal, taking a refreshing shower off-grid, or filling your water bottle before a long drive, a reliable plumbing setup ensures convenience, efficiency, and self-sufficiency.

But where do you start? DIY campervan plumbing can seem intimidating, especially with so many components to consider—from freshwater storage to 12V water pumps, filters, and drainage. The good news? With the right planning and step-by-step guidance, anyone can install a functional van water system.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire van water system installation process, covering:

• How to install a water system in a van, from tank placement to plumbing connections
• Choosing the best water tanks for campervans to match your needs
• Understanding the difference between fresh and grey water systems
• The benefits of an off-grid water setup for van life
• Essential components like a 12V water pump, water filter, and optional accumulator tank

By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to build a self-sufficient van life water system tailored to your travel lifestyle.

1. Planning Your Campervan Plumbing System

A well-designed campervan plumbing system is the foundation of a comfortable and self-sufficient van life setup. Before starting your van water system installation, take time to plan based on your travel needs, available space, and power setup.

Water Consumption Needs

Most van lifers use between 50–150 litres (13–40 gallons) of freshwater, depending on daily habits and whether they have a campervan shower setup.

• Minimalist setup (50L) – Best for weekend trips with limited water use.
• Standard setup (80–100L) – Suitable for full-time van life, covering cooking, cleaning, and drinking.
• Luxury setup (100L+) – Ideal for off-grid setups with a hot shower and kitchen sink.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re planning an off-grid water setup for van life, choose a larger freshwater tank to reduce refill stops.

Component Placement

Strategically position your water tanks, pump, and pipes for:

• Optimized weight distribution – Keep heavy tanks over the axle for better handling.
• Space efficiency – Store tanks under benches or inside cabinets.
• Accessibility – Ensure you can easily reach connections for maintenance.

System Layout

Your DIY campervan plumbing system should allow smooth water flow and easy maintenance. Consider:

• Keeping hoses short and direct to reduce pressure loss.
• Installing an accumulator tank (optional) before the water splits into hot and cold lines.
• Ensuring the grey water system drains properly to prevent standing water.

Power Requirements

If using a 12V water pump for your campervan, ensure:

• Your electrical system can handle the pump’s power draw.
• The pump is wired with a fuse and switch for safety.
• You install an accumulator tank (optional) to reduce pump cycling and extend its lifespan.

📌 Related Reading: Best 12v Water Pumps for Caravans

Pre-Installation Checklist

-Sketch a rough diagram of your plumbing layout.
-Measure your available space before purchasing tanks.
-Decide if you need a hot water system for showers and washing dishes.
-Choose food-grade hoses and durable fittings to prevent leaks.

2. Gathering Essential Materials

Before starting your van water system installation, ensure you have the right materials. A well-planned DIY campervan plumbing system reduces leaks, improves efficiency, and ensures long-term reliability.

Freshwater Tank

The best water tanks for campervans vary in size and material. Consider:

• Capacity – Choose between 50L–150L based on your water usage.
• Material – BPA-free plastic is lightweight and safe for drinking water.
• Placement – Undermount tanks save space, while internal tanks prevent freezing in winter.

Grey Water Tank

A campervan water system must include a grey water tank for collecting wastewater from sinks and showers.

• Size & Placement – A 30-80L tank mounted under the van is ideal.
• Drainage System – Use a manual valve or electric drain switch for easy disposal.
• Ventilation – Prevent odours with a breather valve or charcoal filter.

12V Water Pump

A 12V water pump for campervan setups ensures steady water flow. Look for:

• Flow rate – 4.5–12L per minute for sinks and showers.
• Automatic pressure switch – Turns the pump off when taps are closed.
• Compatibility – Ensure it works with your battery system.

💡 Pro Tip: Adding an accumulator tank before the water splits into hot and cold lines reduces pump cycling and noise.

Water Pipes & Fittings

Use food-grade, reinforced PVC hoses to prevent contamination.

• Pipe size – 10mm–12mm for standard water flow.
• Connections – Quick-connect push fittings for easy installation.
• Clamps – Use stainless steel hose clamps to prevent leaks.

Water Filter

A water filtration system removes contaminants from your drinking water. Options include:

• Inline carbon filters – Remove chlorine and improve taste.
• UV purifiers – Kill bacteria and viruses (great for off-grid setups).

Hot Water System (Optional)

For a campervan shower setup, you’ll need a hot water heater. Popular options:

• Propane water heaters – Efficient and ideal for off-grid use.
• 12V electric heaters – Work well with large battery banks.
• Heat exchanger systems – Use engine heat to warm water while driving.

3. Installing the Freshwater Tank

The freshwater tank is the backbone of your campervan plumbing system, supplying clean water for drinking, cooking, and washing. Proper installation ensures a reliable water supply and helps with weight distribution in your van.

Installation Steps

1. Choose the Location – Secure the tank inside the van (under a bench seat) or underneath the chassis if space allows.
2. Secure the Tank with a Support Frame – We used an aluminium angle frame, screwed into the van floor, to keep the tank stable and prevent shifting while driving. Once positioned, drill necessary holes in the supports and fasten the tank using brackets or heavy-duty straps for additional support.
3. Install the Vent – Our vent setup is a simple entry point at the top of the tank with a hose connected above. This can be combined with an overflow leading outside the van or a vent valve to prevent airlocks.
4. Prepare Connections in Advance – While the fill point and pump are not yet mounted, the necessary connection pieces can be inserted to streamline the installation process later. This is also the moment to install a water level meter if desired.
5. Attach the Outlet Hose – Connect a hose from the tank outlet to the future water pump location, securing all fittings with hose clamps to prevent leaks.

Best Practices

• Position the tank low for better stability.
• Use food-grade plastic to ensure clean, safe water.
• Add insulation if travelling in cold climates to prevent freezing.

Pro Tip: Installing a tank level sensor makes it easy to monitor water levels without opening the tank.

4. Routing Hoses, Pipes & Connectors

Properly routing your hoses and pipes is essential for maintaining steady water pressure, preventing leaks, and ensuring your campervan water system functions smoothly. Careful planning at this stage will save time and effort when making future adjustments or repairs.

Installation Steps

1. Plan Your Hose Routes – Avoid sharp bends and keep hose lengths as short as possible to maintain water pressure and reduce strain on the pump.
2. Secure the Hoses – Use hose clamps at all connections to prevent leaks and saddle brackets to secure hoses to walls or flooring, preventing movement while driving.
3. Split Hot & Cold Water Lines After the Pump – The main water line runs from the freshwater tank to the pump. After the pump—or the optional accumulator tank—install a T-connector to split the flow into separate cold and hot water lines. The cold line runs directly to the filter and then to the taps, while the hot line connects to the water boiler before reaching the fixtures.
4. Grey Water Drainage – Plan a clear drainage route from your sink and shower to your grey water tank, ensuring the hose slopes downward to prevent standing water.
5. Future-Proof the System – Leave extra length in key areas for adjustments and ensure all connections are easily accessible in case repairs are needed.

Best Practices

• Use food-grade hoses for drinking water lines to prevent contamination.
• Keep hoses away from heat sources to avoid damage.
• Insulate hot water pipes to reduce heat loss and improve efficiency.
• Label connections to simplify troubleshooting in the future.

Pro Tip: Running a test flow before securing everything permanently helps detect leaks and ensure the system works as expected.

5. Installing the Water Fill Point

A well-placed water fill point makes refilling your freshwater tank quick and hassle-free. Choosing the right location and securing all connections properly ensures a leak-free, efficient system that’s easy to maintain.

Installation Steps

1. Choose the Location – The fill point is typically installed on an exterior panel of the van for easy access. Alternatively, it can be installed inside a cabinet that is concealed by one of the exterior doors, keeping it hidden while still allowing convenient refilling.
2. Install the Fill Cap – We recommend using a Nuova Rade water fill cap or a similar locking fill inlet. Securely mount it using a hole saw to cut an opening in the panel and attach it with screws and a waterproof sealant.
3. Connect to the Freshwater Tank – Run a reinforced hose from the fill cap to the freshwater tank inlet, securing it with hose clamps to prevent leaks.
4. Secure All Connections – Use clamps and brackets to keep hoses firmly in place and avoid movement while driving.

Best Practices

• Use a non-kinking, food-grade fill hose to prevent blockages.
• Position the vent line higher than the fill point to avoid water spillage.
• Ensure a watertight seal around the fill cap to prevent leaks inside the van.

Pro Tip: If installing the fill point on the van’s exterior, consider adding a locking cap for security and to prevent contamination.

6. Installing the Water Pump & Filter

A 12V water pump ensures consistent water pressure throughout your campervan plumbing system, while a water filter improves the quality of your drinking water. A properly installed system prevents leaks, reduces pump strain, and guarantees smooth operation.

Installation Steps

1. Choose the Mounting Location – Secure the pump near the freshwater tank, keeping it as close as possible to minimize suction strain. Ensure the area is easily accessible for maintenance.
2. Install the Filter – Place an inline water filter (such as the Waterdrop or similar) on the cold water line after the pump. Installing it here reduces unnecessary usage, and helps maintain steady pressure throughout the system.
3. Optional: Install an Accumulator Tank – If using an accumulator tank, install it after the pump but before the water lines split into hot and cold. This helps regulate pressure, reduces pump cycling, and ensures a smoother water flow.
4. Connect the Pump to the System – Use reinforced water hoses to connect the pump inlet to the freshwater tank and the pump outlet to the main water line. Secure all connections with hose clamps to prevent leaks.
5. Secure the Pump – Mount the pump using anti-vibration brackets or rubber padding to reduce noise.
6. Wire the Pump – Connect the 12V power supply, ensuring it is properly fused and switched for safety.

Best Practices

• Use flexible, reinforced hoses to minimize vibrations and potential leaks.
• Install the pump on rubber mounts to reduce noise.
• Regularly clean or replace the water filter to maintain water quality.

Pro Tip: Ensuring the switch is easy to reach can save a mess in the event of a leak.

7. Installing the Water Boiler

A water boiler provides hot water for cooking, cleaning, and showering, adding extra comfort to your campervan setup. Proper installation ensures efficient heating, safe operation, and easy access to hot water whenever needed.

Installation Steps

1. Choose the Location – Mount the boiler in a ventilated area, ensuring it is securely positioned and accessible for maintenance. If using a gas-powered boiler, proper venting to the outside is essential for safety.
2. Connect the Water Lines – Attach the cold water inlet from the T-connector after the pump and route the hot water outlet toward your taps and shower. Secure all hose connections with clamps to prevent leaks.
3. Wire the Boiler – If using an electric water heater, connect it to your 12V or 230V power system, ensuring it is properly fused and switched. For gas boilers, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe gas line connections.
4. Insulate Hot Water Pipes – Wrap hot water lines in pipe insulation to minimize heat loss and improve energy efficiency.
5. Test the System – Once all connections are secure, fill the system with water, turn on the boiler, and check for leaks or pressure issues.

Best Practices

• For off-grid setups, consider a propane or diesel water heater to save battery power.
• Install a pressure relief valve for safety, especially with pressurized water heaters.
• Use a temperature control valve to prevent scalding and conserve hot water.

Pro Tip: If you have limited power, a heat exchanger system can use engine heat to warm your water while driving.

8. Installing the Grey Water Tank

A grey water tank collects wastewater from your sink and shower, preventing spills and allowing for responsible disposal. A properly installed tank ensures hygiene, convenience, and compliance with environmental regulations.

Installation Steps

1. Choose the Location – The grey water tank is typically mounted underneath the van, close to the drain outlets for efficient water flow. If installing inside the van, ensure it is secure and easily accessible for emptying.
2. Connect the Drain Hoses – Route flexible drain hoses from the sink and shower to the grey water tank, ensuring a slight downward slope for proper drainage. Use hose clamps for leak-proof connections.
3. Install a Vent System – Our vent setup consists of a simple entry point at the top of the tank with a hose connected above. This can be combined with an overflow leading to the outside of the van or a vent valve to prevent airlocks.
4. Install a Drain Valve – Attach a manual or electric valve to the lowest point of the tank, allowing for easy controlled emptying at designated disposal sites.
5. Secure the Tank – Use metal straps or brackets to mount the tank securely, preventing movement during travel.

Best Practices

• Use a waterless trap or one-way valve to prevent odors from escaping into the van.
• Ensure the drain valve is easily accessible for quick emptying.
• Rinse the grey water tank regularly to prevent buildup and odors.

Pro Tip: Adding biodegradable cleaning agents or denture cleaning tablets to your grey water tank can help break down food particles and reduce odors.

9. Installing the Kitchen Sink and Tap

Installing the kitchen sink and tap in your campervan is an essential step before moving on to the shower setup. A well-installed sink ensures smooth water flow, easy dishwashing, and overall kitchen convenience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing your sink and tap efficiently.

Installation Steps

1. Choose the Sink Location – Position the sink in a space-efficient area, preferably near the side door or a window for ventilation. Ensure enough clearance for the tap and plumbing connections underneath.
2. Cut the Countertop Opening – Measure the sink dimensions and mark the cutout on your countertop. Carefully cut out the sink opening using a jigsaw. Be sure to sand the edges to smooth them out and prevent splintering.
3. Secure the Sink in Place – Start by applying a bead of waterproof sealant around the cutout. Insert the sink into the opening and press it down firmly. Secure the sink using brackets or clips if provided by the manufacturer.
4. Install the Tap – Drill a hole in the countertop (if necessary) for the tap installation. Insert the tap and tighten it using the included washers and nuts. Finally, connect the water lines from the tap to the main water system.
5. Connect the Water Supply – Attach flexible food-grade water hoses from the sink tap to the cold and hot water lines. Secure the connections with hose clamps to prevent leaks. If using a foot pump or manual pump, connect the supply line accordingly.
6. Set Up the Drainage System – Attach the sink drain to a P-trap or direct hose leading to the grey water tank. Ensure the drain hose has a slight downward slope for efficient water flow.
7. Test for Leaks – Turn on the water supply and run water through the system. Be sure to check all connections for leaks and tighten them if needed. Its now a good time to verify that the water drains properly into the grey water tank.

Best Practices

• Use food-safe silicone sealant to prevent water leaks around the sink.
• Install a mesh strainer in the drain to prevent food particles from clogging the grey water system.
• If space allows, consider a pull-out tap for added flexibility in the kitchen.

Pro Tip:  If using a pressurized water system, an accumulator tank can help maintain steady water pressure and reduce pump cycling.

10. Setting Up the Shower Connections

A detachable shower setup saves space while providing flexibility for indoor and outdoor use. Proper installation ensures ease of use, good water pressure, and efficient drainage.

Installation Steps

1. Choose the Shower Location – Decide whether the shower will be inside the van in a dedicated shower cubicle or outside, using a rear-door or portable setup.
2. Install the Shower Mixer or Faucet – If using a mixer tap, connect it to both hot and cold water lines after the boiler and cold water split. Secure all fittings with clamps to prevent leaks.
3. Attach the Shower Hose – If using a detachable hose, connect it via a quick-connect adapter to the mixer tap or a dedicated outlet. This allows for easy storage when not in use.
4. Set Up the Drainage System – Ensure the shower drains efficiently into the grey water tank. Use a shower tray with a built-in drain and a water trap to prevent odors from rising into the van.
5. Test for Leaks & Adjust Water Pressure – Run water through the system and check all connections, pressure, and drainage flow before sealing any fixtures permanently.

Best Practices

• For outdoor showers, install a lockable water outlet at the back of the van for easy access.
• Use a compact or foldable shower tray to save space in smaller van builds.
• Install a shower curtain or waterproof panels to protect your van’s interior from moisture.

Pro Tip: A 12V electric shower pump can be used for portable outdoor setups, drawing water from a separate container if a permanent installation is not desired.

Final Thoughts

Installing a campervan plumbing system may seem overwhelming at first, but by breaking it down step by step, it becomes an achievable and rewarding DIY project. A well-designed water system will provide reliable access to fresh water, efficient drainage, and enhanced comfort for life on the road.

Key Takeaways

• Plan ahead – Sketch your plumbing layout and choose the right components for your needs.
• Invest in quality materials – Durable hoses, connectors, and pumps will prevent leaks and costly repairs.
• Optimize space and weight distribution – Proper placement of tanks and fixtures ensures better performance and stability.
• Consider an accumulator tank – This optional addition helps reduce pump cycling and provides smoother water pressure.
• Maintain your system – Regularly clean filters, check for leaks, and empty the grey water tank responsibly.

By following these guidelines, you’ll create a self-sufficient water system that supports your travels, whether you’re off-grid or at a campsite.

Share Your Experience!

Have you installed your own campervan water system? What worked well for you, and what challenges did you face? We’d love to hear about your build!