This guide describes the Kiwi Self Contained fresh-water setup currently being prepared: a separate 25L tank, manual pump tap, 12mm opaque food-grade hose and a protected tank breather.
Products used
- 25L campervan water tank dedicated to fresh water.
- Manual pump tap with one metre of 12mm food-grade hose.
- 12mm fresh-water tank breather kit.
Before installation
- Use a tank intended for potable water and is opaque and keep it completely separate from the grey-water tank.
- Use only opaque, food-grade hose and water-safe fittings on the fresh-water side.
- Protect the tank from sunlight and contamination.
- Plan how the 12mm pickup hose will enter or connect to the tank before drilling.
Depending on the layout, the hose may pass through a dedicated sealed cap fitting or connect to a compatible tank pickup/outlet selected for the installation. Do not leave an open gap around a hose where dirt or insects can enter.
1. Secure the tank
Place the 25L tank where it can be filled, inspected and removed if required. Use durable straps or brackets or a cupboard so it cannot move while the vehicle is travelling. Do not rely on the cabinet doors alone to retain a full tank.
2. Install the manual pump tap
- Check the tap's mounting-hole requirement and the space below the sink or benchtop.
- Mark the centre and confirm there are no wires, pipes or structural obstructions below.
- Drill the correct hole for the tap and protect exposed cabinet edges from moisture.
- Fit the tap and tighten its retaining hardware without damaging the benchtop.
3. Route the 12mm fresh-water hose
- Measure the route from the tap to the tank and cut the hose squarely.
- Keep the hose as short and direct as practical, without sharp bends or kinks.
- Connect the hose fully to the tap and the chosen tank pickup or outlet fitting.
- Use the retaining method required by the fittings, such as a suitable hose clamp.
- Support the hose so vibration cannot pull it off or rub it against sharp edges.
4. Provide protected air entry
The tank must allow air to enter as water is pumped out. If the tank or cap does not already provide protected ventilation, fit the separate 12mm breather kit.
- Choose a flat point high on the tank. The supplied tank fitting commonly needs a hole of about 25mm, but measure it before drilling.
- Drill carefully with a hole saw or step drill and remove burrs.
- Fit the breather connector and seals without deforming the tank wall.
- Connect the 20cm length of 12mm opaque food-grade hose.
- Fit the connector and mesh end filter so air can move while insects and debris are kept out.
- Route the breather above the tank and where water cannot readily enter.
The breather shut-off must be open while pumping or filling. Close it only when the tank is disconnected or transported, then reopen it before use.
5. Fill, prime and leak-test
- Flush a clean potable-water hose before filling the tank.
- Secure the tank cap and confirm the breather is open.
- Operate the manual pump until it primes and water flows steadily.
- Inspect the tap, pickup connection, hose and breather for leaks.
- Check that the tank does not collapse inward while pumping or bulge while filling.
- Drain, clean and sanitise the fresh-water system before first use and at suitable intervals.
Capacity notes
Current inspection guidance recommends at least 12 litres of fresh-water storage for each certified occupant for the three-day containment period. A 25L tank provides the basic volume for two occupants, provided any flushing toilet or other water-using facilities do not require additional capacity.
Official references
Current rules require the water system to prevent contamination, use suitable materials, allow air to enter the tank as water leaves, and remain secure while travelling. See the Self-Contained Vehicles Regulations and the PGDB vehicle inspection guidance.
This guide is general information. Confirm the tank pickup arrangement and the complete vehicle installation with your certification authority or inspector.
