I have a 2021 13' with bath. I've been out 5 times but haven't used the water. Earlier it was below freezing at night here in NM mountains. Later I had good facilities and just brought bottled water for drinking and cooking. I don't really have to use it on a trip coming up next week, but thought I'd try it out.
I get the idea of the sanitizing and have read several threads about doing it. My question is about the periods between trips. How long can it sit before I need to sanitize again before a trip? I saw one older post about leaving it filled with a weak solution of bleach between trips. Is anyone doing that or something similar?
I understand there's no absolute answer to this, but am wondering what others are doing.
Thanks!
Tom
Most people sanitize once a year in the spring.. but IMHO the Scamp water system is really not appropriate for potable water... so I sanitize once a year and use bottled water or water from home for consumption.
Thanks for the input. Why do you say that?
Other than the toilet, I'd be hesitant to use non-potable water for anything. What do you use it for?
Washing me, dishes, commode, showering.. but if I consume it I dont want it coming from the onboard tank and piping which is hard to keep clean and has stagnant water for long periods of time.
I think I'd be hesitant to wash dishes in water I wouldn't drink. I know when camping I've washed dishes and me in lakes and streams but that feels different than having it in my sink in my camper. For one thing those are flowing. I wouldn't wash me or dishes in a stagnant pond.
Thanks again for your thoughts. Certainly something to ponder.
I know others are using the water system. what do you think of this?
I would clean the potable water tank at least once a year before storage but it wouldn't hurt to clean it a the start of camping season or more often. Many people recommend at least 1/4 cup of bleach per 15 gallons of water. You should mix the bleach in a gallon jug and pour it into the tank. Then, add water from a hose certified for potable water to mix the solution well. I would let it set for 24 hours. Then, drain the system for storage or sitting. I also think it is a good idea to drain the potable water system after each trip because we often do not know when the next trip will be and microbes could grow quickly in warm weather.
I carry a 2-gallon jug of water for drinking and brushing teeth. The potable water tank should be fine for washing dishes, washing your hands, and showering. The reason is that ordinary soap is a wonderful antimicrobial because it is a good surfactant that removes microbes that are attached to oils and dirt. Also, the municipal water that you put in the tank has been treated and should be low in microbes. If you have some residual microbes in the tank, they should be diluted by the fresh water and likely will not be a problem if you use the water quickly. Even though a lake or stream may be clear or flowing, it can still have microbes and parasites. The key is to use soap generously whether you use your potable water or another source.