Why Sanitise – To keep your water clean, your trip stress-free, and your health protected
There’s nothing better than hitting the road in your caravan and knowing you have everything you need onboard—including a reliable supply of fresh water. But if your water system isn’t clean, what seems like a simple convenience can quickly become a health risk.
Sanitising your caravan’s water system is an essential part of maintenance, especially if your van has been in storage or hasn’t been used in a while. Even with clean tanks, bacteria and algae can develop over time—so regular sanitisation ensures you’re not unknowingly drinking, cooking, or showering with contaminated water.
Why Sanitising Matters
Caravan water tanks are enclosed, often exposed to heat, and can retain moisture—all conditions that support the growth of bacteria, mould, and biofilm. Contaminated water can cause unpleasant smells, taste issues, and more seriously, illness.
Even if the tank looks clean, bacteria are microscopic. Simply rinsing the system won’t remove harmful contaminants. Proper sanitisation is the only way to ensure your water supply is safe for use.
When to Sanitise Your System
Sanitisation isn’t something you need to do every week, but it’s good practice to clean your water system under a few specific conditions:
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After long periods of storage
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Before a major trip
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If the water smells, tastes odd, or appears discoloured
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If you’ve filled your tank from an unfamiliar or untreated source
Regular flushing with clean water helps keep the system fresh between deeper cleans.
How to Sanitise the Right Way
The most commonly used method involves food-grade chlorine bleach diluted in water. The ratio depends on the tank size, but it should be strong enough to disinfect without damaging your pipes or leaving an aftertaste.
After draining the tank, fill it with the bleach solution, then run the taps (hot and cold) until the smell of bleach is noticeable. This ensures the sanitising solution has reached all parts of the system. Let it sit for several hours—overnight if possible.
Then, drain the system completely and flush it with clean water until the smell of chlorine disappears. This might take several refills, but it’s important not to rush.
Always check your owner’s manual for specific guidelines, as not all systems are the same.
Additional Tips for Clean Water on the Road
While sanitising is essential, a few extra habits can help maintain water quality between cleans. Always use clean hoses specifically designed for drinking water when filling your tanks, and let them dry fully between uses to avoid mould build-up. Consider carrying an inline water filter, which can reduce sediment and improve taste if you’re unsure of the water source.
Finally, avoid leaving water sitting in the tank for weeks at a time—emptying and refilling regularly is one of the simplest ways to keep it fresh.
Keep It Safe, Keep It Simple
Maintaining your water system doesn’t have to be complicated. Regular sanitisation extends the life of your plumbing, helps your appliances perform better, and keeps you and your passengers safe. It’s a small effort that pays off every time you turn on the tap.
Need help servicing your caravan’s water system or not sure where to start? AllBrand Caravan Services can inspect, clean, and maintain your entire setup to ensure everything runs smoothly.
📞 Call: 3869 2969
📍 Visit: 101 Connaught Street, Sandgate QLD 4017
📧 Email: info@allbrandcs.com.au
Book your next caravan service with confidence—your water system (and your health) will thank you.
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