Looking for reliable fresh water storage tanks for RVs, campers, and off-grid setups? This guide covers top 5 options and practical notes to help you choose the right size, fittings, and durability for washdown and everyday water needs. Ideal for travelers, full-time RVers, and outdoor enthusiasts who require clean potable water for cooking, cleaning, and showers, plus compatible washdown setups.
| Product | Tank Capacity | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ameri-Kart 19 Gallon WT-5450 | 19 gal | Compact RVs and small spaces | Includes dual 1.5″ and 0.5″ fittings |
| Ameri-Kart 20 Gallon WT-5546 | 20 gal | Moderate space RVs and trailers | Durable, IAPMO compliant |
| Ameri-Kart 29 Gallon WT-5077 | 29 gal | Larger storage without frequent refills | Similar fittings, larger capacity |
| Ameri-Kart 5 Gallon WT-5687 | 5 gal | Portable or auxiliary use | Small, versatile for quick washdowns |
| SEAFLO 33 Series Washdown Pump Kit | Pump kit, 3.0 GPM | Effective outdoor washdown and deck cleaning | 12V, auto shut-off with spray gun |
Ameri-Kart 19 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank
Best for compact RV layouts and tighter spaces, this cube-shaped 19-gallon tank is made in the USA from BPA-free materials. It is designed for potable water use—drinking, cooking, showering, and dishwashing. Built-in fittings include two 1.5″ balloon-style female NPT connections and two 0.5″ female NPT connections for versatile installation. The construction emphasizes weather and impact resistance, sanitary integrity, and leak-proof performance. Use this when you need reliable storage without excessive footprint. Consideration: installation options may require adaptable bracketing or mounting hardware beyond what’s included.
Best for: RV owners seeking a compact, sanitary potable water tank with flexible installation options and USA-made quality.
Limitations: Fittings are standard sizes; verify your plumb fittings align with the included options to avoid custom adapters.
Why it’s selected
- Compact cube shape fits under benches or in narrow cabinets.
- EPA-compliant BPA-free material supports safe drinking water.
- Dual 1.5″ and 0.5″ fittings enable multiple plumbing configurations.
MXQMKL 240 L/63.4 gal Water Bladder
Choose this option for flexible outdoor water storage with a foldable design. The MXQMKL bladder holds up to 63.4 gallons and uses a durable, weather-resistant material with a long service life when stored properly. It suits emergencies, camping trips, or extended off-grid stays where rigid tanks are impractical. Best for travelers needing a portable reservoir that can be deployed as needed. Caution: folding storage and occasional hose compatibility checks are important to prevent leaks or weak spots over time.
Best for: Campers and hikers who want a large-capacity, portable water solution for emergencies or extended trips.
Limitations: Requires proper sealing and clean-in-place routines to ensure potable water quality over long storage periods.
A.A 30 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank
This 30-gallon tank balances capacity with a manageable footprint, measuring 34″ x 18″ x 12″. It includes a single 1.25″ water fill inlet and three 3/8″ NPT connections. The tank is non-pressurized, requiring venting, and is designed as a seamless, one-piece construction to reduce the risk of seams bursting. It’s well-suited for medium-to-large RV setups where steady supply matters. Consideration: ensure proper venting and fitment with your RV’s plumbing layout.
Best for: RV owners needing a larger, durable non-pressurized tank with straightforward port access.
Limitations: Non-pressurized design means venting is essential to prevent vacuum issues during use.
Ameri-Kart 20 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank
For RVs requiring efficient water storage with ample capacity, the 20-gallon variant provides robust usability with a similar fit and finish to the 19-gallon model. It is designed for potable water use with BPA-free materials and includes dual 1.5″ and dual 0.5″ NPT fittings for installation versatility. This tank suits mid-sized RVs, trailers, and food trucks that want a reliable supply with straightforward maintenance. Better for those who want a slightly larger capacity without moving to 29 gallons. Caution: ensure your mounting space accommodates the taller profile compared to smaller tanks.
Best for: Mid-sized RVs and campers needing reliable potable water storage with flexible installation.
Limitation: Availability of matching fittings should be validated for your specific plumbing setup.
Ameri-Kart 29 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank
Designed for higher capacity needs, this 29-gallon tank provides longer intervals between refills, suitable for larger RVs or higher water usage scenarios. It uses BPA-free materials and has the same reliable fittings as other Ameri-Kart tanks, enabling flexible installation. This option is best for families or extended trips where more water storage reduces the need for frequent refills. Limitation: larger footprint may require more space in the vehicle layout.
Best for: Families or long trips requiring substantial potable water storage with dependable construction.
Buying Guide
What size is right for you?
- Small spaces and light usage: 5–20 gallons.
- Moderate usage with longer trips: 19–29 gallons.
- High usage or multiple occupants: 30+ gallons or combine with a portable bladder.
What fittings matter?
- Two 1.5″ balloon-style NPT and two 0.5″ NPT connections are common and versatile for installations.
- Ensure fittings match your existing plumbing and available mounting options.
Material and safety considerations
- Look for BPA-free materials for potable water safety.
- Materials should be weather- and impact-resistant for travel durability.
Storage and maintenance tips
- Install tanks in shaded areas to minimize algae growth and heat exposure.
- Periodically sanitize and thoroughly rinse before refilling with potable water.
- Inspect fittings and seals for leaks and replace worn gaskets as needed.
Installation approach considerations
- Consider mounting brackets, vibration isolation, and access for cleaning.
- Plan drainage and venting for non-pressurized tanks to prevent vacuum issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best tank size for a weekend RV trip? A: A 19–20 gallon tank often balances capacity and space for weekend trips.
- Do these tanks require special fittings to install in an RV? A: Yes, ensure matching NPT sizes and space for mounting hardware.
- Are these tanks suitable for drinking water? A: Yes, most Ameri-Kart tanks are BPA-free and designed for potable use.
- Can I use a bladder or portable tank with a washdown pump? A: Yes, a bladder provides portable water, while a pump kit enables effective washdown.
- What maintenance is recommended for RV water tanks? A: Sanitize periodically, check seals, and ensure venting for non-pressurized tanks.
- Is a higher capacity tank always better? A: Not always; consider space, weight, and water usage patterns along with refilling logistics.