Modifying fresh water drain

[SteveE]

Our previous van (a Chausson) had a tap fitted underneath the fresh water tank to drain the tank. I got into the habit of fully draining the tank after every trip and this made it really easy.

Our new van (Pilote) has a plug in the bottom of the tank, like a small bath/sink plug, which can only be reached by removing the access hatch on top of the tank and putting your arm into the water to pull the plug out. This seems like a bit of an odd design and not very convenient, so I’m think of removing the plug (keeping it in a safe place) and fitting a tap/valve on to the drain hose with a jubilee clip, using something like this:

Has anyone else done this? Any tips, suggestions, other ideas?

 

[Chipster]

We have similar and just put a chain on the plug. Tank access is relatively easy mind.

 

[Solwaybuggier]

We have a Pilote and agree about the awkward arrangement for the drain - although ours does already have a chain on the plug. It doesn’t have a drain hose, just a hole; given that said hole is in the centre of the van, even if we could fit a tap of the sort OP plans, it would be pretty inconvenient to clamber under the van to open it.
My wife does the plug (smaller hands than me) and she reckons it’s refitting the plug that’s the real pain.

 

[BouncyBoatFolk]

Our previous van (a Chausson) had a tap fitted underneath the fresh water tank to drain the tank. I got into the habit of fully draining the tank after every trip and this made it really easy.

Our new van (Pilote) has a plug in the bottom of the tank, like a small bath/sink plug, which can only be reached by removing the access hatch on top of the tank and putting your arm into the water to pull the plug out. This seems like a bit of an odd design and not very convenient, so I’m think of removing the plug (keeping it in a safe place) and fitting a tap/valve on to the drain hose with a jubilee clip, using something like this:

View attachment 981575

Has anyone else done this? Any tips, suggestions, other ideas?

Routed conveniently to either nearside or offside that should work.You might need an "aid memoir" at the beginning of the season maybe, but waiting for a tank to fill for 30 mins will quickly help that.
Mike.

 

[Gromett]

There are a couple of issues with this in my opinion.

1. If you use the van during the winter, that outside section of pipe could freeze, break and dump your entire tank.
2. Health issue. It would leave a section of pipe not in the run that gets taken from when in use. This bit of water could harbour bugs/nasties and wouldn't get flushed and allowed to build up.

In a fresh water system I never have any dead ends at all. I always use one of these. I know it is a bit pricey but it avoids the two above issues.

Truma Boiler Safety Water Drain Valve for Ultrastore Water Heater Caravan & Motorhome

Jacksons Leisure Supplies for van conversion kits, equipment for caravans, motor homes, swimming pool supplies and accessories Wirral

www.jacksonsleisure.com

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[rb62]

There are a couple of issues with this in my opinion.

1. If you use the van during the winter, that outside section of pipe could freeze, break and dump your entire tank.
2. Health issue. It would leave a section of pipe not in the run that gets taken from when in use. This bit of water could harbour bugs/nasties and wouldn't get flushed and allowed to build up.

In a fresh water system I never have any dead ends at all. I always use one of these. I know it is a bit pricey but it avoids the two above issues.

Truma Boiler Safety Water Drain Valve for Ultrastore Water Heater Caravan & Motorhome

Jacksons Leisure Supplies for van conversion kits, equipment for caravans, motor homes, swimming pool supplies and accessories Wirral

www.jacksonsleisure.com

You also run the risk of knocking the assembly off and ending up with no water.
We used to leave draining down to the first threat of frost.

 

[Gromett]

You also run the risk of knocking the assembly off and ending up with no water.
We used to leave draining down to the first threat of frost.

The problem would be if you are using the van during the winter. Even draining down between uses would still leave you at risk if you went away and had a frost?

It is such a small quantity of water that it would freeze pretty easily.

 

[SteveE]

Thanks for all the comments, I’ll have a re-think. I was concerned that leaving water in the tank could be a health risk so thought a drain tap would improve not worsen things! We use the van year round, so always cautious about frozen water causing damage in the winter. Thanks