Water Tank Problems: 7 Common Issues & Fixes

Oct 04, 2025

Van life offers freedom, but water tank problems can quickly derail your journey. Common issues include leaks, clogs, freezing, odours, pump failures, and choosing the wrong tank size. These challenges are amplified by Canada's harsh winters and remote travel conditions. The good news? Most problems can be fixed with basic tools and preparation. Here's what you need to know:

Leaks: Often caused by worn seals, damaged seams, or loose connections. Fixes include replacing seals, using Teflon tape, or applying epoxy for small cracks.
Clogs: Prevent by using strainers and regular hot water flushes. Clear blockages with baking soda, vinegar, or simple tools like wire hangers.
Freezing: Protect tanks with insulation, heating pads, or RV-safe antifreeze. Drain systems during extreme cold.
Odours: Caused by stagnant water, poor venting, or biofilm. Regular cleaning, activated carbon filters, and proper ventilation help.
Pump Issues: Address airlocks, short cycling, and pressure inconsistencies by tightening connections, checking for leaks, and using an accumulator tank.
Installation Mistakes: Ensure secure mounting, proper filler port placement, and insulation to avoid future problems.
Wrong Tank Size: Calculate daily water use and choose a tank that balances capacity with space and weight.

Regular maintenance, quality components, and winter-proofing can keep your water system running smoothly, ensuring a hassle-free van life experience.

CARAVAN and CAMPER Water Pump Problems FIXED Easy DIY!

1. Leaks and Seal Failures

Leaks and seal failures are among the most common issues with water tanks in vans. They can disrupt your entire water system, but the good news is that most leaks follow predictable patterns and can often be fixed with basic tools and materials.

What Causes Leaks

The main culprits behind water tank leaks are worn seals and gaskets, damaged seams and fittings, and plumbing connection failures.

Worn seals and gaskets: Over time, rubber components like seals and gaskets naturally degrade. Cracks form, and they lose their flexibility, making them ineffective.
Damaged seams and fittings: Seams can deteriorate, especially if the tank is over-pressurized, weakening the joints between tank sections and eventually leading to leaks.
Plumbing connection failures: Leaks can occur where pipes connect to outlets, pumps, or fixtures. These connections depend on tightly threaded joints and proper sealing. Corrosion in metal parts can make matters worse, creating small gaps that lead to leaks.

How to Fix Leaks

To locate and fix a leak, start by emptying and drying the tank. Refill and pressurize it to identify the problem area.

Seal and gasket replacement: Turn off the water pump and relieve pressure by opening a faucet. Use an adjustable wrench to remove the faulty seal or gasket. Bring the old part with you to ensure you get the correct size and material for the replacement. Once you have the new seal, carefully position it in the groove and reassemble the connection.
Threaded connection leaks: Disconnect the joint and thoroughly clean the male and female threads. Wrap the male threads with white Teflon tape (make sure it’s food-grade for potable water systems) in the direction of tightening. Reconnect the joint securely.
Tank wall damage: For small holes or cracks, marine-grade epoxy putty can serve as a temporary fix. However, if the damage is more severe, you’ll need to consider professional repairs or even replacing the tank.

Tools for Leak Repairs

Having the right tools and materials on hand can save you a lot of trouble. Here’s what you should keep in your repair kit:

Adjustable wrenches
Needle-nose pliers
A small wire brush
White Teflon tape (food-grade)
Food-grade pipe thread compound
A variety of O-rings
Marine-grade epoxy putty for emergency patches
Food-grade silicone sealant for minor gaps

Additionally, keep spare parts like standard O-rings, hose clamps, and short sections of flexible water line. Many of these items are available at local stores like Canadian Tire, so you can stock up before hitting the road.

For those looking to minimize future issues, Curious Campervans offers water tank kits with high-quality fittings and seals designed to last. They also provide technical support to help you find the right replacement parts if leaks persist.

Next, we’ll dive into how to deal with clogs that can affect your water system's performance.

2. Clogs and Blockages

Clogs and blockages can quickly turn your van's water system from a handy feature into a major headache. Sediment, debris, and inadequate filtration are common culprits that restrict water flow. Vans face unique challenges like limited space, shorter pipes, and constant movement, which can dislodge debris. Over time, hair, soap residue, food particles, and mineral deposits build up, creating blockages.

How to Prevent Clogs

It's much easier to prevent clogs than to deal with them, especially if you're parked somewhere remote. Adding inline strainers at key points in your system can trap debris before it clogs your pipes. Simple mesh strainers in your sink and shower drains are also effective for catching hair and larger particles.

Regular flushing is another smart habit. Running hot water through your system weekly - particularly after heavy use - helps dissolve soap and prevents oils from hardening in your pipes. A small squirt of washing-up liquid in the hot water can break down grease even more effectively.

If you're travelling to areas with variable water quality, use high-quality inline filters to protect against sediment. While many Canadian campgrounds have excellent water, some remote spots or older facilities may have water with higher mineral content, which can lead to buildup. Also, make sure your van is parked level to avoid stagnant water pooling in low areas.

Clearing Blockages

If a clog does occur, it's important to clear it safely without causing damage to your plumbing. Avoid chemical drain cleaners - they can harm rubber gaskets and connections, leading to expensive repairs.

Start with a simple wire hanger. Straighten it out, bend one end into a small hook, and use it to fish out hair and debris from the drain. Once you've removed the blockage, flush the drain with hot water to clear any remaining residue.

For tougher clogs, the baking soda and vinegar method works well. Combine 1/3 cup of baking soda with 1/3 cup of vinegar, pour it down the drain immediately, and let the fizzy reaction do its thing. Leave it for at least an hour - or overnight for stubborn blockages - then rinse thoroughly with hot water.

Boiling water is another effective option for grease clogs. Pour boiling water from a kettle in stages, pausing between pours. The heat melts solidified oils and helps flush them out of the system.

If your grey water system is clogged, pinpoint the issue. Blockages often occur in the p-trap, beyond the trap, or in the pipe leading to the holding tank. P-traps are particularly prone to collecting debris because of their curved shape, while waterless traps can easily clog with hair and other materials. Also, if your van isn't level, clogs may form where the downward slope of the pipes is disrupted.

Maintenance Tips

A little maintenance goes a long way in avoiding clogs. Each month, flush your drains with 4–5 litres of hot water, followed by a baking soda treatment to keep things flowing smoothly.

Clean your strainers weekly, especially in shower drains where hair and debris can build up quickly. A clean strainer is far more effective than one that's already clogged.

Inspect your p-traps every few months. Open access panels to check for buildup, and clean them thoroughly if you notice any significant accumulation. Staying ahead of blockages can save you a lot of trouble down the road.

Pay attention to your water pressure. A noticeable drop can be an early sign of a developing restriction in your lines. Addressing it early can prevent a full blockage.

For those planning extended van trips, Curious Campervans offers water system kits with high-quality strainers and easy-access fittings that make maintenance simpler. They also provide technical support to help you choose the best filtration options for your travel plans and water sources.

Finally, it’s a good idea to keep a basic clog-clearing kit in your van. Include items like wire hangers, baking soda, white vinegar, and rubber gloves. These inexpensive tools are easy to find at grocery stores across Canada and can handle most blockages you'll encounter on the road.

Next, let's dive into common installation mistakes...

3. Installation Mistakes

Getting the installation right is critical when adding water tanks to van conversions. Unlike stationary RVs, vans are constantly exposed to vibrations, temperature swings, and movement. These factors can quickly reveal weaknesses in how the tanks are mounted or positioned.

Common Installation Errors

One of the most frequent mistakes is inadequate mounting. It’s easy to underestimate the forces acting on a water tank while driving. A full 100-litre tank weighs over 100 kilograms, and that weight shifts dramatically during braking, cornering, or accelerating. Without sturdy brackets and reinforcements, the tank can break loose, damaging plumbing connections and creating serious safety risks.

Another issue is poor filler port placement. If the filler is mounted too low, it becomes difficult to fill from low spigots. Mount it too high, and you’ll struggle to reach it with a hose. Ideally, the filler should be at waist height on the driver’s side, where most campground hookups are conveniently located.

Improper breather tube installation is another common error. A missing or poorly placed breather tube can lead to debris buildup or freezing, which blocks airflow. Without proper venting, tanks can collapse under vacuum pressure or overflow unexpectedly. In Canada’s cold climate, breather tubes need protection from freezing moisture to avoid blockages.

Insufficient insulation is a mistake that can lead to freezing and condensation issues. Metal brackets and straps can act as thermal bridges, transferring cold directly to the tank. This can cause ice buildup, cracked fittings, or blocked valves. This problem is especially common in Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter vans, where tanks are often mounted directly to the metal floor.

Lastly, poor access planning can make maintenance a nightmare. Tanks buried behind panels or crammed into tight spaces might save room but become a huge problem when you need to check fittings, replace sensors, or fix leaks. This is especially frustrating for Canadian van lifers during winter camping when immediate repairs are often necessary.

Correct Installation Methods

Secure mounting is the foundation of a reliable setup. For undermount installations, use a plywood or aluminium backing plate to distribute the tank’s weight evenly across multiple floor ribs. Secure the tank with marine-grade stainless steel bolts and backing washers, and apply thread-locking compound to prevent loosening from vibrations. Rubber-padded straps are ideal as they prevent chafing and allow for thermal expansion.

Strategic placement is also key. Fresh water tanks should be mounted as low as possible to improve the van’s stability while driving. At the same time, they need protection from road debris and freezing temperatures. Wheel well tanks work well in Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter vans, though they sacrifice some water capacity. For larger tanks, the space between the rear axle and bumper offers good protection and reasonable access.

Filler ports should be installed with care. Mount them at around 1.2 m on the driver’s side and ensure there’s a consistent downward slope to avoid air pockets. Opt for a marine-grade filler with a locking cap to prevent contamination or theft.

Breather tubes need thoughtful routing to avoid freezing and debris. Run the breather line to a sheltered location under the van, away from the exhaust and road spray. Adding a small loop or trap can prevent water intrusion, and an inline filter will keep debris out. For extreme cold, consider installing a small heating element near the breather exit.

Insulation is crucial to prevent freezing and condensation. Wrap tanks in closed-cell foam and insulate plumbing lines with foam pipe covers. Use vapour barriers where tanks touch metal surfaces. For winter camping in Canada, 12V heating pads controlled by a thermostat set to activate at 2°C are a smart addition.

Product Options

Curious Campervans offers mounting systems designed for Canadian conditions. For Ford Transit vans, they provide wheel well tanks with custom brackets that bolt directly to factory mounting points, avoiding the need for floor modifications. These brackets include vibration-dampening bushings and integrated insulation channels.

For Mercedes Sprinter conversions, they offer undermount tank systems with reinforced mounting plates that align with the Sprinter’s floor structure. These kits come with pre-cut access panels and detailed installation guides tailored to different wheelbase configurations.

RAM Promaster owners can benefit from Curious Campervans’ custom tank shapes, which maximize capacity while fitting around the Promaster’s unique floor contours. Their mounting systems take into account the front-wheel-drive layout and its impact on weight distribution.

Their complete conversion bundles include everything you need for proper installation. For example, the Transit "The Works" Bundle costs $5,493 and includes a tank, professional-grade mounting brackets, insulation materials, and heating elements. The Sprinter bundle, priced at $4,967, offers similar components optimized for Mercedes vans. These kits simplify the process and come with technical support to help you avoid common pitfalls.

For DIY builders, Curious Campervans also sells individual components, such as marine-grade mounting straps, vibration-dampening pads, and insulation kits. Their technical team is available to provide guidance on installation challenges specific to Canadian winters, helping you avoid costly mistakes.

Proper installation isn’t just about safety - it’s also about avoiding winter failures. In the next section, we’ll explore how freezing temperatures affect water tanks.

4. Freezing and Winter Problems

After tackling installation challenges, dealing with freezing conditions is a major hurdle in Canada's harsh winters. When water freezes, it expands by about 9%, which can crack tanks, burst pipes, and damage fittings. Even a minor issue in your water system can leave you without drinking water or basic hygiene facilities - something no one wants to face in freezing temperatures.

Freezing Damage Risks

Tank Cracking
Polyethylene tanks are prone to developing hairline cracks near fittings. These small cracks can lead to sudden, costly water loss.

Fitting Failures
Brass fittings and PEX connections often fail due to ice expansion. These failures tend to happen at the worst times, especially in remote areas where repairs are hard to arrange.

Pump Damage
Water pumps contain delicate parts like chambers and valves that are highly vulnerable to freezing. Diaphragm pumps are particularly at risk since their flexible membranes can become brittle in extreme cold. Replacing a pump can be expensive, so preventing ice buildup is key.

Sensor Malfunctions
Ice formation can interfere with tank level sensors that rely on electrical conductivity, causing them to give false readings. In some cases, sensors can be permanently damaged by ice accumulation, requiring full replacement.

Timing of Freeze Damage
Pipes and fittings tend to freeze before the main tank does, cutting off water access even if the tank itself remains unfrozen.

Winter Protection Methods

Tank Heating Systems
Heating systems are a dependable way to prevent freezing. Silicone heating pads designed for RV tanks, powered by 12V, can keep water above freezing even in temperatures as low as -20°C. These pads typically use 60 to 100 watts of power and work best with a thermostat set to activate around 2°C. This setup prevents unnecessary battery drain while keeping your water system functional.

Glycol Antifreeze
Adding RV-safe propylene glycol (at a 30% concentration) lowers the freezing point to -15°C. However, you’ll need to flush the system thoroughly before using it again to avoid any lingering taste issues.

Strategic Draining
When temperatures are expected to drop below -10°C for an extended period, draining your system is crucial. Turn off the pump, open all faucets, and remove the drain plug to empty the tank. Use compressed air to clear any remaining water from low points where it might pool and freeze.

Heated Hose Systems
Heated hoses, which typically cost between $150 and $250, can prevent fill lines from freezing in extreme cold.

Battery Management
Heating systems can put a strain on your battery. For instance, a 100-watt tank heater running for 12 hours will consume approximately 100 amp-hours of battery capacity. To manage this, ensure you have sufficient solar charging or access to shore power to keep your electrical system running smoothly during winter.

Insulation Materials

3M Thinsulate Insulation
3M Thinsulate provides excellent thermal protection without adding bulk. Curious Campervans offers Thinsulate products tailored for van use, including pre-cut pieces for common tank shapes. This material retains its insulating properties even when compressed, making it ideal for tight spaces like wheel wells and under floors.

Reflective Barriers
Reflective barriers, such as Reflectix, help reduce heat loss by creating an air gap that interrupts radiant heat transfer. When paired with Thinsulate, these barriers can boost thermal efficiency. The key is to create sealed air spaces that limit heat loss through convection.

Foam Pipe Insulation
Foam pipe insulation is an effective way to protect plumbing lines from freezing. Split-tube foam covers are an affordable and easy-to-install option for moderate conditions. For harsher climates, consider wrapping pipes in self-regulating heat trace cables before adding foam insulation. These cables adjust their heat output based on the surrounding temperature.

Vapour Barriers
Vapour barriers prevent moisture from seeping into insulation, which can reduce its effectiveness or even freeze and form ice dams. Installing plastic sheeting or specialized vapour barrier materials on the warm side of your insulation helps maintain its performance.

Tank Skirts
Tank skirts create a layer of dead air around undermount tanks, trapping warmer air from your van’s interior. Adding a small fan to circulate air within the skirt can help maintain temperatures slightly above ambient levels. Curious Campervans offers conversion bundles that include custom-fitted tank skirts for various van models.

Insulation Thickness
Proper insulation thickness is critical for winter camping in Canada. A minimum of 5 cm of high-quality insulation is recommended, while areas exposed to direct airflow, like wheel wells, may need 7 to 10 cm. Keep in mind that compressed insulation loses some of its effectiveness, so ensure it’s installed with enough space to perform properly.

Combining active heating with effective insulation creates a reliable system for winter conditions. Next, we’ll dive into odour and backflow issues.

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5. Odours and Backflow Problems

Dealing with unpleasant odours in your water system is more than just a nuisance - it’s often a sign of deeper issues that need attention. After installation, addressing odours and backflow is essential for maintaining a reliable system. These problems tend to worsen in warmer conditions, as heat accelerates bacterial growth.

What Causes Odours and Backflow

Stagnant Water Buildup
When water sits in tanks for long periods, bacteria thrive, creating musty or sulphur-like smells. Organic debris, such as food particles or soap residue, can make the problem even worse.

Poor Venting
Without proper venting, pressure imbalances can occur, pulling foul-smelling gases from waste or grey water lines into your living space. These gases, often produced by anaerobic bacteria, carry a distinct rotten-egg odour.

Ineffective Water Traps
P-traps rely on water seals to block odours, but in moving vehicles, these seals can be disrupted, allowing smells to escape.

Cross-Contamination
Pressure imbalances can also push contaminated water from grey tanks into fresh water lines, leading to unpleasant tastes and odours through backflow.

Biofilm Formation
Bacteria can form slimy biofilms on the surfaces of tanks and plumbing, continuously releasing odour-causing compounds. Keeping the system clean is key to preventing this.

Recognizing these causes is the first step to resolving the problem effectively.

Fixing Odour Problems

Install waterless traps and air admittance valves to improve system ventilation and prevent backflow. Place these valves at the highest points in your plumbing system for optimal performance.
Sanitize your water system regularly with a diluted bleach solution or an approved sanitizer to keep bacterial growth under control.
Use inline activated carbon filters to remove odour-causing compounds and improve water taste. Be sure to replace filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Add a UV sterilization system for extra protection against bacteria and viruses. Pair this with sediment pre-filters to ensure the system works effectively.
Apply tank cleaning additives designed to break down biofilms and reduce organic buildup. Always follow the product’s instructions carefully for safe and effective use.

Routine inspections and maintenance are essential to keeping your water system fresh and odour-free. Up next, we’ll dive into pump and pressure issues that can affect water flow.

6. Pump and Pressure Issues

Water pump issues can throw off your daily routine in a van, often creeping up slowly until they become hard to ignore. Spotting early signs and addressing them quickly is key to keeping your water system running smoothly. By understanding common problems, you can ensure a steady and reliable water flow.

Identifying Pump Problems

Short Cycling
Short cycling happens when the pump repeatedly turns on and off, even when no water is being used. This not only wastes energy but also puts extra wear and tear on the pump.

Airlock Symptoms
Airlocks occur when air gets trapped in the pump, preventing water from flowing properly. Symptoms include weak suction, inconsistent flow, or the pump sounding like it’s running dry. Left unchecked, this can halt water flow entirely.

Pressure Inconsistencies
If your water pressure fluctuates - strong one moment and weak the next - it could point to air leaking into the system, a faulty pressure switch, or blockages in the water lines.

Continuous Running
A pump that doesn’t stop running but fails to build pressure is often a sign of leaks or mechanical failure. This constant operation not only drains your battery quickly but also signals that immediate repairs are needed.

Solving Pressure Problems

Addressing Airlocks
Start by inspecting hoses for cracks, loose seals, or other damage that might let air into the system. Replace any faulty parts and make sure all connections are tight and waterproof. To clear an airlock, prime the pump by connecting the suction hose to a container of water and running it for a few minutes to flush out trapped air. Also, check the threaded connections between the pump and hose, tightening them with a wrench if necessary. Damaged valves should be cleaned or replaced to restore proper function.

Fixing Short Cycling
Check for leaks in plumbing joints, faucets, and shower connections while the system is pressurized, as even minor leaks can cause the pump to cycle unnecessarily. Confirm that the air pressure in your accumulator tank matches the manufacturer’s guidelines - incorrect pressure can lead to cycling problems. Installing a pressure relief valve can also help manage sudden spikes in pressure.

Adding System Upgrades
If short cycling continues despite fixing leaks and adjusting pressure, consider installing an accumulator tank. These tanks store pressurized water, helping to maintain steady pressure during small water draws and reducing the pump’s workload.

Routine Maintenance
Regularly clean system components and inspect hoses to catch problems early. Replace worn seals and gaskets before they fail, and keep spare parts like pressure switches and pump seals in your van for quick fixes. Consistent maintenance is just as important as addressing leaks to keep your system in top shape.

Compatible Parts

Curious Campervans offers electrical kits designed to simplify pump installations and reduce pressure problems. Their DIY Electrical Kit, priced at CA$3,316, includes plug-and-play components that make setup easier and more efficient.

For dependable power, pair your pump with SOK lithium batteries. The SOK 280Ah Lithium Battery, available for CA$1,299, features a 7-year warranty and low-temperature cutoff protection, ensuring your pump works reliably even in harsh conditions.

When replacing a pump, opt for high-quality models with easily accessible spare parts. This not only helps prevent future airlock issues but also makes maintenance more straightforward.

7. Wrong Tank Size and Capacity

Choosing the wrong tank size can make van travel unnecessarily complicated. Just like leaks or clogs, a poorly chosen tank can disrupt your plans. A tank that's too small means constant refills, cutting into your travel time and flexibility. On the other hand, a tank that's too large takes up precious interior space and adds extra weight, which can affect your van's handling and payload capacity.

Calculating Daily Water Use

To pick the right tank, start by figuring out how much water you use daily. Here's a quick breakdown:

Drinking water: Around 2–3 litres per person.
Cooking needs: About 3–5 litres per day.
Hygiene: Between 5–10 litres for basic washing.

Your travel style also plays a big role. If you're boondocking (camping off-grid), you'll need a larger tank compared to staying at campgrounds with regular water hookups. Multiply your daily usage by the number of days you plan to be off-grid, and add a 20% buffer for unexpected situations. This will give you a practical minimum capacity for your tank.

Selecting Tank Size

The Downsides of Undersized Tanks
A small tank means you'll constantly need to refill, which can be a hassle and interrupt your travel plans.

The Problems with Oversized Tanks
A tank that's too big wastes interior space and adds weight, which can affect how your van handles and reduce its payload capacity.

Striking the Right Balance
The goal is to find a tank size that offers enough water autonomy without taking up too much space or adding unnecessary weight. Many van lifers find that opting for a slightly larger fresh water tank is a smart move to reduce the need for frequent refills.

"It is always best to go with a larger rather than too small."
– Engineers Who Van Life

Grey Water Tank Considerations
For grey water (used water from sinks and showers), a tank with about half the capacity of your fresh water tank is usually sufficient, as not all fresh water ends up as grey water.

Once you’ve figured out the ideal capacity, look for van-specific tank solutions that align with your space, weight, and functionality needs.

Tank Options

Van-Specific Solutions
Companies like Curious Campervans offer tailored water tank solutions for various van models. For example:

Transit "The Works" Bundle: CA$5,493, includes properly sized tanks and a complete plumbing system.
Promaster "The Works" Bundle: CA$5,537, designed to fit the unique dimensions of the Promaster.

Placement Flexibility
Where you place your tank matters. Interior tanks are great for winter travel since they won’t freeze (even in temperatures as low as –31°C or –24°F). However, they take up living space. Exterior tanks free up room inside and can improve your van's handling by lowering the centre of gravity.

Seasonal Setups
Some van builders choose a combination of interior and exterior tanks. An inside tank keeps water from freezing during winter trips, while an exterior tank offers extra capacity for summer adventures or extended off-grid stays.

Why Professional Installation Helps
Getting a professional to handle the installation can save you headaches. They’ll ensure the tank is the right size, optimize weight distribution, and add winter protection. Curious Campervans in Penticton, BC, offers conversion services to help you avoid costly mistakes and get the most out of your setup.

Conclusion: Fixing Water Tank Problems for Better Van Life

When you're diving into a DIY van conversion, tackling water tank issues early on is a must. These challenges, whether it's a pesky leak, a clog in the lines, or realizing your tank isn't quite the right size, don't have to put a damper on your van life dreams. The good news? Most of these problems can be resolved with some basic tools and a little know-how.

To keep everything running smoothly, make regular inspections part of your routine. Check your fittings, ensure you've winterized your system when temperatures dip below freezing, and start off with quality components. Spending a bit more on reliable parts upfront can save you both time and money down the road. And for more complex systems, calling in a professional for the installation can help you avoid costly repairs later. Remember, catching small issues early can prevent larger problems like water damage.

Investing in dependable components is worth it. Marine-grade fittings, food-safe hoses, and thoughtfully designed tanks can make a world of difference. For example, Curious Campervans offers complete water system bundles tailored for popular van models. Their packages, priced at CA$4,967 for Sprinter setups and CA$5,537 for Promaster configurations, include tanks and components that are designed to work seamlessly together. This ensures not just reliability but also optimal performance, even in tough conditions.

For Canadian van lifers, winter-proofing is especially critical. Focus on placing tanks inside the van, adding proper insulation, and using reliable heating solutions to keep your system safe from freezing temperatures. A little preparation goes a long way in making your van life experience hassle-free!

FAQs

How can I stop my water tank from freezing during cold Canadian winters?

To prevent your water tank from freezing during Canada’s tough winters, start by insulating both the tank and pipes to help retain heat. Wrap exposed pipes and hoses with heat tape to stop them from freezing. Adding a tank warmer or even a small, mounted 40-watt bulb can provide extra warmth to keep the water from freezing. It's also crucial to keep the water connection area inside your van warm. These measures will help ensure your water system stays operational even when temperatures drop below zero.

What are the warning signs of a failing water pump, and how can I fix it?

A water pump that's on its way out often gives itself away with a few telltale signs. You might notice strange noises like whining or grinding, leaks forming around the pump, or even fluctuating water pressure in your system. These symptoms can mess with your water flow and, if ignored, could snowball into more serious issues.

To figure out what's going on, start by looking for visible leaks or any loose or damaged parts on the pump. Pay attention to any odd sounds when it's running, as these can be a big clue. If you spot these warning signs, it could mean the pump needs repairs or even a full replacement. And for trickier problems? It’s always a good idea to bring in a professional to make sure everything gets sorted out properly.

How can I choose the right size water tank for my van setup?

Choosing the right water tank size comes down to understanding your daily water needs for essential activities like drinking, cooking, washing, and showering. For most van lifers, daily usage typically falls between 4–8 litres (1–2 gallons) per person. If you're planning a week-long adventure, a tank with a capacity of 50–70 litres (14–18 gallons) should cover your needs. However, if you're heading out on a longer journey or just want the convenience of extra water, a larger tank - up to 130 litres (35 gallons) - might be a better fit.

When selecting a tank, think about how many people will be travelling, what activities you'll be doing, and how much space you have in your van. Take precise measurements of your storage area, and remember to check both metric (litres) and imperial (gallons) units, as both are commonly used in Canada.