The best 50 gallon water tank RV options provide reliable potable water storage for travel trailers, motorhomes, and tiny houses. This guide highlights five top choices, describing who they’re best for, key features, and practical limits. Use this overview to compare installation options, durability, and usable capacity for your RV setup.
| Product | Capacity | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| RomoTech 50 Gallon Horizontal | 50 gal | Outdoor setups; rugged environments | UV-stabilized; visible markings |
| Elkhart Plastics 50 Gallon Storage Tank | 50 gal | Truck/trailer installs; easy mounting | Translucent with gallon marks |
| 57 gal | Potable water for varied RV sizes | US-made; BPA-free | |
| T5000-TO RV Fresh Water Tank | 50 gal | OEM-like durability; DIY installs | Includes basic fittings |
| Class A Customs T-5500 55 Gallon | 55 gal | Higher capacity on mid-sized RVs | NSF materials; built-in fittings |
Note: Always verify dimensions fit your storage space and confirm overlapping fittings with your existing plumbing before purchasing. The table above provides a quick capacity and use-case snapshot to help with initial narrowing.
RomoTech 50 Gallon Horizontal Reservoir
50 gallon capacity with clear gallon marks for quick level checks. The natural translucent poly allows visibility of water level, ideal for potable storage. UV-stabilized and rustproof, it’s designed for outdoor use in farms, trailers, or RV setups. Built-in bulkhead fitting offers 3/4″ NPT outlet for easy refills, siphoning, and hoses. Best for RVs needing a rugged, outdoors-ready tank with visible level indicators.
Best for: RVs and remote setups where outdoor exposure is a concern. This tank stands out for straightforward mark readings and durable construction. Limitations: Capacity and dimensions should be checked against space constraints in small rigs.
Elkhart Plastics 50 Gallon Square Tank
Versatile 50 gallon square tank with large 6″ fill cap and 3/4″ NPT outlet. Translucent with molded gallon markings provides quick liquid level visibility. Rugged ribbed structure supports secure strapping, while UV inhibitors protect against sunlight damage. Suitable for trucks, trailers, and RV storage spaces where a flat bottom helps installation. Best for: installation in confined spaces with easy mounting; avoid if you need a round profile or higher flow fittings not listed.
Ameri-Kart 57 Gallon RV Fresh Water Tank
57 gallon capacity, BPA-free, designed for potable water including drinking, cooking, showering, and dishwashing. Multiple fitting locations support flexible installation options. Constructed from weather and impact-resistant plastics to maintain sanitize water storage. Best for: RVs needing a larger capacity with US-made credibility. Caution: Check specific gravity limits and ensure your environment doesn’t require specialized coatings or compatibility beyond standard potable use.
Class A Customs T5000-TO 50 Gallon Tank
Made in the USA from NSF-certified materials, this 50 gallon tank is suitable for potable water in RVs, motor homes, sprinters, and tiny houses. It includes multiple built-in fittings (two 1.5″ and two 0.5″ NPT). Tank thickness and weather resistance are emphasized for durability. Best for: RV owners seeking a thicker, robust tank with straightforward installation. Limitation: Some buyers may need to verify compatibility with existing plumbing or add-ons in their model year.
Class A Customs T-5500 55 Gallon Tank
55 gallon tank suitable for fresh or gray water storage, with NSF-approved materials. Dimensions allow rotation to accommodate space constraints. Built-in fittings include two 1.5″ and two 0.5″ NPT ports. Best for: RV owners who want slightly more capacity than 50 gallons while maintaining compatibility with standard fittings. Caution: Small measurement variances may occur due to manufacturing tolerances; verify actual dimensions before install.
Buying Guide
What size should I choose for my RV?
Choose capacity based on typical usage, space, and refill convenience. 50–57 gallons covers most family trips without frequent refills, while 55 gallons offers a modest increase in storage for longer trips.
What fittings should I expect?
Look for tanks with built-in 1.5″ balloon-style NPT fittings and 0.5″ NPT outlets. Confirm the availability of multiple installation options to match your current plumbing layout.
Material and durability considerations
NSF-certified and BPA-free plastics ensure potable water safety. UV stabilization helps outdoor exposure, while thicker walls provide durability for road travel and mounting on trailers.
Installation compatibility
Check dimensions, bottom shape, and mounting points. A flat or ribbed bottom can influence mounting method and strap location. Consider whether a tank includes a starter kit or requires separate plumbing components.
Maintenance and hygiene
Choose tanks with clear gallon markings for easy monitoring and avoid designs prone to staining or odor buildup. Regular cleaning intervals and compatible fittings help maintain water quality.
Durability in varied climates
In outdoor RV environments, UV inhibitors and UV-resistant poly improve longevity. Confirm that the tank’s material can withstand temperature swings and sun exposure common to your travel areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the typical usable capacity of a 50 gallon RV water tank?
Usable capacity usually approaches the listed gallons, but fittings and internal baffles can affect the exact usable volume. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for net usable capacity.
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Are these tanks safe for drinking water?
Most listed tanks are advertised as potable water tanks built with NSF-approved materials. Verify that the product clearly states potable water suitability and BPA-free materials.
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Can I install these tanks myself?
Many are designed for DIY installation with standard NPT fittings. Ensure you have the correct adapters and follow local plumbing guidelines during installation.
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Which tank offers the best durability for outdoor use?
Tanks with UV stabilization and thicker wall construction tend to perform well outdoors. Look for models that specify UV inhibitors and weather-resistant plastics.
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Do tanks come with plumbing kits?
Some options include starter kits with hoses and clamps, while others are tank-only. Check product descriptions to confirm included components.