Potable (pow·tuh·bl) water is fit or suitable for drinking and comes from surface and ground sources. After proper treatment, potable water meets state and federal standards for consumption.
Even though all potable water sources are labeled as so, we still recommend using an exterior inline water filter for your sake as well as the Airstream plumbing system.
While some may refer to potable water as "fresh" water, the source of the water is important to know in order to understand if it has been properly treated. Water that has been extracted from a river, stream, pond, lake, or similar location is not potable water.
What is a potable water hose?
A potable water hose is different from a standard garden hose because of the materials used to create it. A potable hose is constructed from tasteless, odorless, and non-toxic materials (doesn't include materials that could contaminate your water), making it safe to pass potable water through it.
We always recommend running water through the potable hose for a short period to flush it out first.
Can a garden hose be used for potable water?
No, not if you're intending to use the water for drinking, cooking, or washing dishes. Garden hoses may contain lead or other toxic chemicals that could contaminate potable (drinkable) water.
Where can potable water stations be found?
Potable water "filling stations" can be found at RV dealerships, campgrounds, public parks, national parks, gas stations/truck stops, some rest areas.
The best thing you can do is proactively plan on whether or not potable water will be available, if you're going to be using a city water connection at the campground, and also consider the additional weight of having your fresh water tank filled. It's also good to note that some locations will charge a fee to use the dump station or potable water fill stations.
Is the water spigot at my house potable water?
Yes, it is!
Risks of drinking water that is not potable.
Drinking raw, untreated water can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, vomiting or fever.