Installing new fresh water tanks in a houseboat

by Mo
(San Antonio, TX USA)

Installing new fresh water tanks in a houseboat can be an intimidating experience. This was definitely a scary moment. One of the two 58 gal water tanks I had ordered to go under the floor, looked like it wasn't going to fit through the floor hatch.

It turned out that I had a half inch to spare, and one inch to spare under the floor. Boy, that was close!

Question, how many gallons of fresh water does say a 40' houseboat normally carry? Thanks, Mo.


Reply - Answer
Well Mo, congratulations on your fresh new water tanks, and good thing that you measured twice. One inch to spare, now that's what I call an accurate measurement.

Again Mo, thank you for sending in such a good clear photo of your water tank installation. They say a picture is worth a 1000 words, and your photo reminds exactly of one of the water tank replacement projects that I had to do, and I also had to wiggle mine in :)

Are you going to use the new quick connect plastic fittings or the older "hose barb fittings - hose clamps" on the water lines. The reason I mention, is once I started using those new quick connect hose fittings, they are the best invention since "sliced bread".

I would never go back to using barb fittings and hose clamps on water lines. I got tired of all those leaking and dripping water lines.




Now back to your question as to how many gallons does a 40 foot houseboat carry on average in reference to fresh water?

Well from my experience, most of them have anywhere from 25-50 gallons of fresh water. From my measurements, on average, a small family will go through @ 10 gallons of water a day, if they are careful and not leaving the taps running for nothing.

For anyone contemplating changing or replacing their fresh, grey, or holding tanks, you will find the following articles on our site of interest.

Replacement Houseboat Water Tank

Water and Holding Tanks for Houseboats



Lastly, hopefully some of our readers will share and post comments about their houseboat tank replacing or installation experiences. Feel free to use the "Click here to post comments." link found near the bottom of this page.


Thanks again for sharing, IAN - from www.all-about-houseboats.com

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