Water hose and fittings form the circulatory system of your caravan or motorhome, carrying fresh water from tanks to taps, showers, and appliances through a network of food-grade tubing and precision connectors. The standard UK caravan setup uses 12mm semi-rigid polyethylene tubing for cold water and 15mm for hot water systems, connected via push-fit John Guest fittings that require no tools and create watertight seals rated to 10 bar pressure. Key components include straight connectors, elbow joints, tees, reducers, and BSP threaded adaptors that interface with pumps, tanks, and appliances from manufacturers like Truma, Whale, and Reich.
Professional installers and DIY converters rely on these systems because push-fit technology eliminates the complexity of traditional plumbing - simply cut the hose square, push into the fitting until it stops, and the internal grab ring and O-seal create an instant connection. The blue colour-coding identifies cold water lines while red indicates hot water systems rated typically to 65°C. Whale and Truma dominate the market with their Speedfit-compatible ranges, offering everything from simple straight connectors to complex manifolds and shut-off valves that integrate seamlessly with onboard water heaters and pressure pumps.
Food-grade certification ensures all materials meet drinking water standards, with hoses manufactured from non-toxic polyethylene that won't impart taste or harbour bacteria when properly maintained. Standard 3/4" BSP threads connect to external water sources, pressure regulators, and filter systems, while smaller 1/2" BSP fittings interface with compact appliances and pumps. The main consideration is system pressure - while domestic systems operate around 3 bar, caravan pumps typically deliver 1.5-2 bar, requiring components rated appropriately. Installation requires proper support clips every 300-400mm to prevent stress on connections, and you'll need specific pipe cutters to achieve the clean, square cuts essential for reliable sealing in push-fit systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What size water hose do I need for my caravan plumbing system?Standard UK caravans use 12mm outside diameter semi-rigid tubing for cold water lines and 15mm for hot water systems. These sizes work with John Guest push-fit fittings and are compatible with Truma, Whale, and Reich components. The internal diameter is typically 8mm for 12mm tubing and 10mm for 15mm tubing, providing adequate flow rates for caravan appliances and taps.Are John Guest fittings compatible with all caravan water systems?Yes, John Guest push-fit fittings are the industry standard for UK caravan plumbing and work with virtually all modern water systems. They're compatible with Speedfit technology used by major manufacturers and create secure connections rated to 10 bar pressure. The acetal plastic construction resists corrosion and provides long-term reliability with food-grade EPDM seals for drinking water safety.How do I install push-fit fittings without leaking?Cut the hose perfectly square using proper pipe cutters - never use a knife as this creates uneven edges that leak. Push the tube firmly into the fitting until it stops against the internal shoulder, then gently tug to confirm it's secure. The grab ring prevents withdrawal while the O-ring seals against pressure. Use tube supports every 300-400mm to prevent stress on connections.What's the difference between BSP and other thread types in caravan fittings?BSP (British Standard Pipe) threads are used throughout UK caravan systems, with 3/4" BSP being standard for external connections and 1/2" BSP for smaller components. BSP threads have parallel sides (BSPP) rather than tapered like NPT threads used in North America. This ensures proper sealing with washers or O-rings and compatibility with British-made pumps, regulators, and water system components.Are caravan water hoses safe for drinking water?Quality caravan hoses are manufactured from food-grade polyethylene that meets drinking water standards and won't leach chemicals or impart taste. Look for hoses marked as non-toxic and compliant with relevant safety standards. Blue tubing indicates cold water systems while red is used for hot water rated typically to 65°C. Avoid cheap alternatives that lack proper certification for potable water use.How often should I replace caravan water hoses and fittings?Quality hoses and fittings should last 10-15 years with proper installation and maintenance. Replace hoses if they become hard, cracked, or discoloured, or if you notice reduced water flow. Fittings rarely fail but should be inspected annually for cracks or damage. Always replace components if you detect leaks, taste changes, or pressure drops, as compromised seals affect both performance and water safety.Can I mix different brands of push-fit fittings in my system?While most push-fit systems follow similar standards, it's best to stick with one manufacturer's range for guaranteed compatibility. John Guest, Speedfit, and similar systems generally work together, but subtle differences in tolerances or seal materials could cause issues. For critical connections like pump outlets or tank fittings, use the manufacturer's recommended components to maintain warranties and ensure reliable operation.What tools do I need for caravan water system installation?The main requirement is a proper pipe cutter designed for plastic tubing to achieve clean, square cuts. You'll also need a deburring tool or fine sandpaper to smooth cut edges, though many cutters include this feature. Push-fit systems require no additional tools, but keep spare collet clips and O-rings for maintenance. A tube insertion gauge helps verify correct insertion depth on critical connections.
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